High ceilings, walls of windows and spread-out seating enhance a relaxing sensory experience that already rivals other dining and sipping establishments in the South Sound. Owned and operated by Pacific Lutheran University, 208 Garfield features beers and wines by PLU alumni. A rotating selection of Washington and Oregon wines are available on tap via a low-pressure delivery system that uses nitrogen and won't harm wine quality. It actually keeps wine super-fresh to the very last glass. Herbal spritzers, loose-leaf tea, Italian sodas and Stumptown coffee complete the beverage selection.

Little things equal big wow factor at 208 Garfield: white bean puree replaces mayonnaise; pork comes from Pure Country Farms in Ephrata, beef from the Meat Shop in Parkland; gluten-free bread options are readily available; and menus change seasonally with numerous locally produced items, and many made in-house.

Here's the kicker: 208's menu tops out at $12, averaging $5-$7. At those prices one can set their inner foodie free to try everything smorgasbord style, or eat very well on a student budget.

Favorites so far are open-faced tuna melt topped with Taleggio cheese on toasted brioche; slow-roasted pork belly with lightly crisp outer flesh that slips away to reveal ultra-tender, moist meat; and bread pudding bites with pools of milk chocolate from Trop's Chocolates (Gig Harbor) and caramel for dipping. - Jennifer Johnson

[208 Garfield, 208 Garfield St. S., Parkland, 253.538.5990, 208garfield.com]