The restaurant industry is a lot like life. We celebrate small victories, birthdays and gatherings and mourn the loss of loved ones. If you love to eat out like me, it can be an emotional rollercoaster. Especially lately, it feels as though we are in the midst of a movement. Restaurants are opening and closing their doors at a dizzying pace. Between that, and the volume of foodie-themed festivities, it's a wonder we ever cook at home still. Here are just a few good reasons to put on your stretchy pants and running shoes.
One pizza place closes and another opens. Two Tacoma pizza pie staples have closed their doors, Elemental Pizza and Paesan. This might leave you mourning the loss of wood-fired slices, as both were known for it. And while there's no news on what's to come in the Paesan space, Elemental Pizza is now a Zeeks Pizza. The transition of oven types equates to a delivery worthy option so Zeeks can be enjoyed from the comfort of your home or office without the woes of downtown parking. New addition to the Stadium District Salamone's Pizza is busting out New York-style pizza by the slice, which has caused quite a stir. With all of the tasty, dough-based options in the region, New York-style was sorely missing. Zeeks Pizza, 1702 Pacific Ave.; Salamone's Pizza 24, N. Tacoma Ave.
Hello Cupcake turns 11, Friday, Aug. 31. To celebrate they'll be giving out free confetti minis all day (while supplies last, of course). Because, what's a party without confetti cake!? It will also be the final day of their summer menu, so if your favorite flavors include Cookie Dough, S'mores, Raspberry Lemonade, Cookies & Cream and Pina Colada, get in now to get some! 1740 Pacific Ave., Tacoma
The Church Cantina is celebrating their official grand opening THIS weekend. The boozes will be a'flowin' and the kitchen is open! Check it. 5240 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma
The 10th Annual Stadium Art, Wine and Beer Walk occurs Saturday, Sept. 8 from 4-8 p.m. The Stadium District lends itself well to leisurely strolls rich with window-shopping and art. Add samples of vino varietals and seasonable brews and you have yourself a delightful afternoon. Tickets cost $25 and include live entertainment in the Wine Garden. Plus, proceeds benefit Historical Stadium District. stadiumwineandbeerwalk.com
Beloved tiki hot spot, Tacoma Cabana, will be serving its final drink Sept. 1. Owners Jason Alexander and Robyn Murphy are handing the keys over to staff member Brendan Dickerson, who is rebranding the space as The Dropout Bar, expected to open later in the month. In the meantime, you can get your nautical boozy fix with Alexander slinging drinks at their sister store, Devils Reef. 728 Pacific Ave. & 706 Opera Alley, Tacoma