ANNOUNCER: Jackie and Dutch caught wind of a new hot spot on the Ave and had to see what it was all about. Something about a patio, we all know a good one around these parts is hard to come by if you're not on the waterfront.

DUTCH: I really liked what they've done with the space here, an open front area is in eyeshot of the bar which serves several beers on tap, or plenty of well drinks if that's what you're craving. There is an intimate stage in the back for live music and a patio in the back which has the looks of a perfect hang out during the warm summer months.

JACKIE: By the sounds of it, they're looking to get some space heaters out there so it can be a year-long hangout. Which is rad, because the patio is pretty neat. Let's not forget the pool table and Atari Pong table tucked away in the back. This place is hopping, especially on the weekends.

DUTCH: I was surprised to see a variety of salads including a fresh cucumber salad that includes thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions with red pepper and wine vinaigrette before being topped with crumbled feta. Another tasty option is the grilled peach salad. A pile of arugula is topped with assorted nuts, blue cheese, grilled peaches and a mustard and red wine vinaigrette. Both are fresh, tasty options while inside during the gloomy winter weather.

JACKIE: I started off with the sautéed mushrooms. Baby button mushrooms are served up with a garlic, white wine au jus and topped with crispy prosciutto; the result is savory and salty and left me craving some bread to sop up the saucy remnants.

DUTCH: What I was really craving was a good tavern burger, and the Alleycat Burger and Fries hit the spot! A generous beef patty is grilled medium rare and topped with thick slices of portabella mushrooms, crispy fried prosciutto, Havarti and gouda cheeses, with fresh red onions, tomato, arugula on a brioche bun. This was a handful that required a lot of napkins and I wouldn't have it any other way. And the fries here are an absolute must-try ... crispy as heck, and the subtle Mediterranean spices set them apart from any other fries in town.

JACKIE: A Mediterranean flare threads throughout. I opted for the Chicken Gyro, which was simply perfection with grilled chicken, tomato and onion rolled into a grilled pita with the perfect amount of garlic sauce. Served up with a side of fries -- the battered sort that boast a nice crunch to them. If they ask if you'd like them "Greek style," say yes. Feta cheese and a drizzle of basil sauce makes the fries craveable.

THE ALLEYCAT PATIO AND LOUNGE, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., daily, 2708 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, 253.327.1956