Grub Gossip

All things beer this week and a few other things for good measure

By Jackie Fender on September 27, 2018

The sun is still blazing in quiet moments here and there but seriously though, it's fall. It's chilly, moist and my husband's just happy that he doesn't have to mow the lawn as often ... though I'm warming up my raking muscles. Festival season is over; it's time to cozy up. That means hot drinks, comfort foods and beer. Lots of it, it seems, because grub-fueled festivities this weekend are beer-centric. That's fine by me; a few beers is like eating a loaf of bread, and I love bread.

But first, Oct. 5-7 marks the 57th annual Tacoma Greek Festival. Hosted by the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, the Greek Festival is a celebration of culture that includes food, drink and live entertainment. Traditional dishes like Kotopoulo Riganato and Fish Plaki are on the menu accompanied by a Greek salad with feta cheese and olives. A side of braised string beans, rice pilaf and bread will leave you satiated. Sunday's menu includes a Roast Lamb dish with garlic and herbs. Other Greek treats will be in store. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday-Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, 1523 S. Yakima Ave., Tacoma

Forward Operating Brewing Company celebrates their one-year anniversary Oct. 4. They aren't making a big to do about it, but stopping by for a cold one seems like an appropriate way to celebrate. 3-9 p.m., 2750 Williamson Pl. NW, DuPont

Pacific Brewing and Malting Company is also celebrating this weekend Sept. 29, which marks their fourth anniversary. Live music, grab merchandise and a special beer release is among festivities. If you're a lover of craft brews and Tacoma history, this is not to be missed. 2-10 p.m., 610 Pacific Ave., Tacoma

October has nearly arrived, which means my favorite hop-filled festivities will be in full effect with Oktoberfest. Dystopian State Brewing Company kicks off their brew filled shenanigans Sept. 29. Grub includes Hess German Bakery Pretzels and Lloyd BBQ and Brats. The event is family friendly, though steins of beer are not recommended for the littles. The event is free to attend with half and full liter stein VIP experiences available for $15 to $25. Tickets include a commemorative Rastal stein, drink ticket and the obligatory pretzel necklace. 2-11:55 p.m., 611 S. Baker St., Tacoma

With the return of moist, grey days comes mushroom season. If you're not a seasoned forager, getting some 411 on what's edible, where it can be harvested, and how to prepare your shroom booty can be helpful. Luckily, Marlene's Market and Deli has you covered Saturday, Sept. 29. Founder of OlyCultures Julie and her daughter Telissa, a plant pathologist, will host an introduction to all things fungi with their Pacific Northwest Edible Mushrooms Identification class. Preregistration is required. Class is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Register at events.r20.constantcontact.com. 2951 S. 38th St., Tacoma