Grub Gossip

Refuel your weary spirit with a delectable journey

By Jackie Fender on December 3, 2018

Some folks are already near frantic with the holiday festivities underway. The awkward office Christmas party is looming, the mall looks like a special circle of Dante's Inferno, and there's still one more family gathering you have to endure your weird Aunt Sally and her reminding you she used to wipe your wee, little bum as a baby. All that said, it's important to push the pause button and treat yourself. Refuel that weary spirit of yours with a delectable journey. Here are a few happenings around town that give you a perfect excuse:

New Restaurants Alert! There are at least two newly opened restaurants that have had me salivating in wait for far two long. First off is Brimstone PNW. What once played home to Brix 25 in Gig Harbor has been transformed by owners Katie Doherty and Thad Lyman to a smokehouse of epic proportions. The vibe from what I can tell is casual, gritty, Roadhouse-style with smoked meats that will challenge the traditional expectations of what BBQ means. Happy hour will present cocktails that feel almost nostalgic with a modern twist on classics. I'm drooling just daydreaming about my first, second and third visit. 7707 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor

Secondly, Straight From Philly - The King of Cheesesteaks, has finally opened its doors as well! Presenting 25 Philly-style cheesesteak sammies, a variety of loaded fries, fried pickles, hoagies and burgers. I can tell your right now I'm gonna be packing on the pounds and getting ready to hibernate in the new year. 1126 Commerce St., Tacoma

Brewers Row is hosting a Brewers Night with Kulshan Brewing Company Dec. 4, 5-8 p.m. Festivities include a line-up of Kulshan brews on tap paired with food specials and swag for the occasion. 3205 N. 26th, Tacoma

As Tacoma's only Brandy bar, Matriarch Lounge at Alma Mater is eager to provide opportunities to talk all things brandy, cognac, armagnac and more. December 4, from 6-8 p.m., marks one such informative gathering with Spirits Knowledge: Intro to Calvados. Beverage trainer Joe Korbuszewski will guide attendees through the history of this apple brandy from Normandy. Regions, methods of production, and explanations of grades and labels will be discussed. Naturally, there will be a tasting and snacks are provided. Tickets are $35 and very limited. Visit eventbrite.com/e/spirits-knowledge-intro-to-calvados-tickets-52542075763 to snag your seats now. Must be 21 and older to indulge. 1322 Fawcett Ave., Tacoma

Now something for the kiddies, or at least the kids at heart. Hotel Murano is hosting a Magical Tea Party and Divination Breakfast -- a Harry Potter Fan Event Dec. 9 at 10 a.m. This is an event not to be missed for any witch, warlock or wizard! Tickets are $30 for ages 6 to 12 and $60 from then on. This includes a choice of apple-filled crépes or a delectable vegetable quiche, orange juice, coffee, tea plus pastries. Attendees will learn the art of Tasseomancy, divination through reading tea leaves, and there might just be a special guest appearance or two. Wizardry, a catered breakfast, tea and magical shenanigans are sure to ensue. 1320 Broadway Plaza, Tacoma