The city of Sumner is considered the "rhubarb pie capitol," but it also hosts quaint shops in its historic downtown area, especially antique shops. 

Alley on Main is three stores in one central location. The consignment store has fashion clothing, jewelry, accessories, refurbished and vintage furniture, and a huge selection of collector items and antiques including pillows, glassware, handbags, dolls, stuffed animals and delicate tea sets.

"This is our five year anniversary this month," said Randy Johnson, owner.

"We are a unique mix of cottage home decor and vintage and new items - a perfect combination of the old and new," said his wife, Kathy.

Other antique stores include the New England Saltbox, Folkart Gatherings, and Whistle Stop Antique Mall. You're sure to find quilts and throws, Rowe pottery, colonial rugs, rosehip wreathes, pewter, tinware, chests, fireplace mantels, diffuser oils, candles, votives, and Americiana folk-art.

Sorci's Italian Cafe and Enoteca is truly an authentic Italian restaurant - it makes its own homemade sauces and meatballs fresh daily, along with mouth-watering gnocchi and lasagna, unique panini creations, gluten free dishes, and old-style biscotti (in multiple flavors) and tiramisu, to name a few.

"We're an old-school Italian family owned and operated restaurant," said Rob Hill, night manager. "We want you to feel like you're at home in your own Italian kitchen."

Its extensive wine bar has worldwide appeal with wines from Spain, Columbia, and Italy; 90 percent of the wine selections are unique to Sorci's. If you do nothing else in Sumner, Sorci's alone, is worth the visit. 

Sugar Babies is a boutique and consignment store with great gift ideas for moms and tots. From outfits to accessories, you're sure to find that unique baby shower gift or presents for expectant moms and newborns (to age six). There's baby apparel, maternity wear, baby essentials, and a nursery design area filled with great idea for home decorating.

Berryland Cafe is a small eatery tucked in between several antique shops on Main Street. From juicy burgers to rich shakes and thick pancakes, the cafe is famous for its rhubarb pie (featured in Evening Magazine and Tacoma News Tribune). The American diner cuisine also has vegetarian options.

The Secret Garden Tea Room and Gift Shop is located in the historic Herbert Williams House. Enjoy a warm cup of tea any time of day, especially on rainy Pacific Northwest days. This cozy little place is a great find and perfect place to have brunch, chat, and shop for tea.

Van Lierop Garden Market has exotic floral arrangements and a large variety of flowers from European bulbs to mini rose-gay. There's greetings cards, home accent decor and seasonal decorating ideas, rustic and out-of-the-ordinary garden decor, unusual plants, and unique perennials perfect for our Northwest climate. With surprises in every inch of the gift-shop, there's much more with the extensive greenhouse at the rear of the store.

Upcoming events in Sumner includes its famous Daffodil Parade (April), Music off Main (July), Art Festival (Aug.) and more. Visit www.sumnerdowntown.com for details.