Grub gossip

Foodie news in the South Sound that everyone is talking about

By Jackie Fender on February 1, 2018

Shake Shake Shake's sister store, Fish Fish Fish has been one of the most highly anticipated South Sound restaurant openings for some time now. Luckily, for those salivating in excitement as they zip by the 6th Ave. locale, the establishment is expected to open in just a few weeks, seriously. If you weren't already stoked, it's been confirmed that Chef Hudson Slater of the Tacoma Yacht Club (you may remember his flavors best from his time as Executive Chef with Maxwell's Speakeasy and Restaurant) has been aiding in menu consultation and tells me, "We want to provide the best fast, casual experience with the freshest food." Fish ‘n Chips will be a menu staple prepared with a seasoned malt-battered cod accompanied by french fries made fresh from potatoes that have been brined. Sauce options will include a dill tartar, remoulade, cocktail sauce and a citrus ginger aioli. Diners can also look forward to fish tacos both breaded and grilled in the loving embrace of homemade tortillas then finished with pico de gallo, pickled purple cabbage, cider chipotle hot sauce and an avocado tartar. Other sides include a creamy Northeast clam chowder and a kick-ass Caesar salad. 3018 6th Ave., Tacoma

Tacoma's second tiki bar is now in action! What was once B Sharp Coffee House in Tacoma's charming Opera Alley, is now Devil's Reef. Last Wednesday, Jason Alexander and Robyn Murphy, owners of Tacoma Cabana, opened the doors of their second tiki bar to the public and began slinging drinks and serving up grub in their carefully cultivated, moody ambiance. Think dark wood accents with a nautical flair, crushed ice and rum. Lots of rum. Alexander tells me it's all about Eldritch lore, tidal beverages and oceanic fare. The renovation of the space is a sight to behold and includes many maritime-esque touches thanks to pieces curated from the old Schooner Pub in Lakewood, which closed last summer after 45 years of operation. Open 5 p.m. to midnight, Wednesday-Saturday; closed Sunday-Tuesday, 706 Opera Alley, Tacoma

Tacoma fine-dining establishment, Asado, has announced a big change in the kitchen. X Group Catering Chef Kyle Campisi is now working as Executive Chef, overseeing Asado. Open 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., Monday-Friday; 4 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., Saturday; 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., Sunday, 2810 6th Ave., Tacoma

South Sound sauerkraut lovers crave OlyKraut. This Olympia-based gem has been hand-crafting quality, delectable krauts since 2008 and slinging their wares at local farmers markets and select retail spaces. With flavors like Cumin Jalapeno, Spicy Garlic, Spring Nettle, it's no wonder they are such a hit, and for those who find it difficult to hunt down the splendor, they can fret no more. OlyKraut can now be delivered directly to your doorstep. Check out olykraut.com for more details.

Who doesn't love free burgers?! The Habit Burger Grill opens its first Pierce County locale in Tacoma Feb. 14, making it their 5th Western Washington location. To get the masses amped they will host Free Burger Days Saturday and Sunday (Feb. 10-11), where the first 200 guests will receive a free burger, fries and drink. Following the Free Burger Days event, the restaurant will host fundraising events for the USO Northwest and Nourish Pierce County where 100 percent of the proceeds will go back to their respective causes. It's like a sneak peek for a good cause!

The full line-up of events include:

Free Burger Days - Saturday, Feb. 10, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5:30-7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 11, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Fundraising Event with USO Northwest - Sunday, Feb. 11, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Westgate North Shopping Center, 2601 N. Pearl St., Tacoma