The South Sound dining scene is an ever-evolving beast. Restaurant news includes special dining opportunities, closures, grand openings and seasonal transitions equating to a continuous feed of foodie headlines, it can be hard to keep up. This week we cover a few of the stories that blipped across our radar in an effort to give you bite-sized snippets (pun intended) to keep you updated and informed

Maxwell's Speakeasy has sat vacant for over two years while whispers of a new restaurant began to buzz nearly a year ago. Now there is a bright red star of a beacon lying in wait. For those who haven't heard the news, Red Star Taco Bar will be celebrating their first Tacoma Taco Tuesday April 3. The space will mirror Red Star's Seattle location in both ambiance and menu offerings. Delectable foodie options include 15 taco varieties like sriracha honey tofu, catfish, tequila lime chicken and more, all served upon house-made corn tortillas prepared daily. Pair that with over 50 tequilas on shelf or compelling libations that go beyond the run of the mill margaritas. 454 St. Helens Ave., Tacoma, redstartacobar.com

In the same neighborhood, Stink Cheese and Meat long-time resident foodie and owner, Kris Blondin, has sold the space to Steve Ramsey and Jenny Smith. For now, the menu and ambiance are expected to remain the same, though the bar menu and beer selection are reported to be the first of minor changes to appear. 628 St. Helens Ave., Tacoma, stinktacoma.com

And while we are on the topic of Kris Blondin, the sale of Stink doesn't mean you've seen the last of her. Proctor's Peaks and Pints partners with Blondin for their Cheesy Flannel Fest March 31. From noon-9 p.m., indulge in one of nature's best pairings: cheese and beer of course. Sip a Flanders Blonde while nibbling on Idiazabal smoked manchego, a Russian Imperial Stout with Fourme d'Ambert Terre Des Volcans artisan organic cheese and more. Obviously, flannels are encouraged and lovers of all things cheese and brews will be delighted. Donations are also accepted and proceeds benefit Friends of the Columbia's Gorge. 3816 N. 26th, Tacoma, peaksandpints.com

Just a couple weeks ago, Terry's Office Tavern owners Mike and Lori Graham announced that they are retiring from the hospitality industry. This has led to the sale of their space to Jeff and Helen Fraychineaud, owner-operators of Hank's, Coles and the Parkway Tavern. Luckily, the Fraychineaud's have a reputation for maintaining approachable, fun atmospheres for neighbors looking for a bumping space with food and drink, so this Proctor gem is expected to remain as reliable as ever. 3410 N. Proctor, Tacoma, terrysofficetavern.com

Slow Food Olympia hosts the Tumwater HOP in the Warehouse District Wednesday, April 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. They invite attendees to enjoy local brews from Matchless and Triceratops Brewing, nosh on bites by Akashic Food Trailer or indulge in baked treats at 8 Arms Bakery. There's an opportunity to connect with local Helsing Junction Farmers and bakery and beer tours for those looking for a delectable journey. 8036-8108 River Dr. SE, Olympia, slowfoodolympia.org

Broadway Center for the Performing Arts presents Tacoma Wined Up April 7 from 5-9 p.m. Tickets are $40 and include 10 taster tokens and a commemorative wine glass that you can use as you peruse through the Tacoma Armory, teeming with over 20 Northwest wine, spirit and cider crafters. VIP admission is $60 and include early admission and bonus tokens plus a discount with vendors onsite. Festivities include food and artisan vendors onsite, and a silent auction with proceeds benefitting Broadway Center's Arts Education programs. Purchase tickets or find out more by calling 253.591.5894 or visit broadwaycenter.org. Tacoma Armory, 715 S. 11th St., Tacoma

March 2 marked the grand opening of BBQ2U in Gig Harbor. Texas natives Gary and Cindi Parker are boasting big flavor with traditional Texas BBQ for the masses including fried okra, brisket, pulled pork and spare ribs all house-smoked. We recommend you show up early, though. The hours are daily 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., but BBQ2U has been known to close their doors once the goods have all been devoured. 4814 Point Fosdick Dr. NW, Gig Harbor