Every week we swap out the Served banner art above, introducing you to the people who serve food and drinks in the South Sound. This week, meet Gillian Nordlund.
Server Banner Girl, Jan. 26-Feb.1, 2015
Ask Gillian Nordlund about her days serving at the Bourgeois Pig Cafe in the north side of Chicago and a smile will dominate her face. She fondly remembers those days. The smile remained at her first Tacoma restaurant industry job - The Antique Sandwich Co. - as well as the last three years serving gourmet mac and cheese, sandwiches and salads at STINK Cheese and Meat in Tacoma's Triangle District.
Why do you serve?
"I kind of fell into serving. I needed a job and I got one. I continue to serve because of my beloved regulars, my continuing connection to the community, and the time I have for art making. Serving isn't complex, but there is a new challenge everyday. Life is complicated; your job shouldn't be."
Who is your favorite server in the South Sound?
"Oh no! I couldn't choose one. I get such comfort from all the service I receive from everybody at 1111 and Broken Spoke to Corina Bakery and Puget Sound Pizza, not to mention Half Pint Pizza Pub. I guess I'm wishy-washy, but I truly care about these people. Thank you everybody."
What are you most proud to serve?
"Our food at STINK is so pretty and delicious. I continue to be proud to serve the Stinker and the Turkey, especially when I can convince a bleu cheese non-believer to try these sandwiches."
What's your current drink of choice?
"Dark coffee with cream and sugar in the morning, beer and whiskey at night."
Favorite movie?
"True Stories by David Byrne and the Talking Heads - excellent music, endearing characters and Spaulding Grey. Never ceases to be uplifting and poignant."
What don't you serve?
"Substitutions. When you come to STINK you should trust us. Though I'm willing to make some compromises people should stop being afraid of food. I kind of take it personally when people order off menu. Take your "no thank-you bites," sillies. Come on!"
What's on your radar at STINK?
"Looking to the future! Our new cook, Ben, and our fearless leader, Kris Blondin, are creating a new Spanish-inspired dinner menu. It is so exciting to see our restaurant grow and Ben is simply a cool dude."
STINK Cheese and Meat, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., 628 Saint Helens Ave., Tacoma, 253.426.1347