There is no shortage of good seafood in the South Sound, but finding quality, fresh seafood at an affordable price is another story altogether.  Anthony's at Pt. Defiance in Tacoma offers a casual atmosphere with great seafood options next door to the ferry terminal and popular Owen's beach.  Complete with both a large number of view seating in addition to a summer deck, Anthony's is a fun spot for the whole family.

In addition to the expected fillets of Puget Sound salmon, halibut, and other fresh selections - shellfish and chowders - Anthony's offers seasonal summer options unique to Anthony's.  Beginning with the seasonal drink specials, it offers fresh fruit creations in both adult and family lemonade concoctions.  I enjoyed the fresh berry lemonade in both the virgin and vodka versions, with just the right balance of sweet and tart.  Likewise, Anthony's extends the fresh fruit offerings to the dessert menu.  And I'm sure I'm understating the satisfaction I gained from the berry cobbler. And this week's seasonal offering is peach ... peach lemonade ... peach cobbler ...

But I'm getting ahead of myself - before enjoying the desserts, you will certainly risk filling up on the main course.  One of the unique dishes offered at Anthony's is the seafood mac and cheese.  This is not your traditional mac and cheese as the flavor is driven by the fresh Dungeness crab and bay shrimp rather than the cheese.  The sauce is a rich and flavorful addition to the corkscrew pasta and seafood. So appealing in fact, that I recommend you save your bread until the end so that you have something to sop up every last drop.  That is, of course, if you still have the room, because Anthony's doesn't skimp on the portions.

Anthony's prices are reasonable with most dishes around $20, however, if you grab a bite during the lunch hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., you will save a little coin without sacrificing atmosphere, flavor, or even quantity.  Plus, if you've spent the day beach combing at Owen's beach, there is no better way to spend your afternoon than on a deck with a great plate of seafood, satisfying summer lemonade, and a 280-degree view of the Puget Sound.  

After just one visit to Anthony's at Pt. Defiance, you'll quickly discover why it has been a Tacoma favorite for years.

ANTHONY'S AT PT. DEFIANCE, 5910 North Waterfront Dr., Tacoma, 253.752.9700