Highland Hill seems to be on the fast track to joining hands with lower Sixth Avenue in the realms of fresh new dining experiences, innovative retail outlets and funky apartments. Old standbys are taking their leave, as new businesses emerge in this north Tacoma neighborhood. The exact parameters of Highland Hill are debated locally, so for simplicity sake, the area I’ll be writing about is the stretch of Sixth Avenue between Pearl and Jackson. This slice of Tacoma accommodates affordable single family homes, apartment complexes, shopping, dining, boozing and even family entertainment options. 

Major renovations to the Highland Hills shopping complex last year were the first sign of impending growth. When the quintessential old-school Chinese restaurant, Monsing, closed its doors for good and a Money Tree took its place, we all knew what was going down. Shortly thereafter, Panda Express and Bigfoot Java chains opened in the parking lot, followed by the much anticipated arrival of the first and only Carl’s Jr. in the South Sound. Soon, Dinner’s Done Right will be joining in the fun, offering “cook and carry cuisine”; I hear nothing but rave reviews.

A stand-alone fixture in the lot where Lamont’s once stood is Gottschalk’s Department Store. But not for long. August 2007 will mark the end of the department store’s residence, making way for an LA Fitness Center. While Gottschalk’s will be missed, specifically the Lancome counter, a new gym is, indeed, a good thing.

Across Sixth Avenue, Super Supplements is building its Tacoma location, opening September 1. Sharing the space is styling salon Tight Cuts; a franchise whose slogan is “skilled scissors and slow massage,” ewww. Sounds like the Hooters of haircuts.

Just up the road, Bella Vita opened its doors July 27 to an invitation-only crowd. Billed as an Italian Ristorante and Ultra Lounge, this building had humble beginnings as a Shakey’s Pizza Parlor turned live music venue turned casino. Every seat in the house was spoken for at the Grand Opening, and folks generally looked pleased. The former chef for the Blue Olive has found a new home at Bella Vita, which is a definite plus for this establishment. The space is decked out with a dance floor, a DJ booth, and semi private booths; though I’m not sure if I should be expecting a chill, techno, hip-hop or jazz atmosphere, as during my visit I heard only the faint strains of Tom Petty. Of note, the proud owner of Bella Vita is the very man who brought you Area 151 on South Tacoma Way and the short lived Silhouettes Nightclub.

After checking out the new digs, we walked a few doors down to the other belle on the block, family owned Bella Nina’s Ristorante Italiano. We sat in the bar where bartender Mona served a killer vodka tonic and fascinating repartee. While I get the distinct feeling they are not thrilled with their new neighbor’s moniker, they exude confidence in their survival due to their fine food, reputation and longevity.

On the other side of Bella Vita will be the brand new, Opa! Greek Cuisine. Originally built as a Rib Eye Steakhouse in the 1960s, and more recently the never-quite-on-its-feet Break Room, hopes are high that a successful Opa! becomes a permanent fixture in this location. I’ve heard several stories surrounding the ownership of Opa! One being that this is an extension of the Seattle based, Costas Greek Opa, the other being that this venture is owned by the very entrepreneur that brought you Bella Vita. Busy guy!

Highland Hill still offers Tacoma dining classics, such as Ben Dew’s Clubhouse, where you can indulge in a mean corned beef hash breakfast with one of the finest bloody Mary’s in town. Cloverleaf Pizza isn’t going anywhere either. Their top secret sauce has made them famous throughout the South Sound, some say the world, and I must agree.

Dining isn’t all the Hill has to offer, if it’s entertainment you’re looking for, the options remain unchanged ― for now. Tower Inn and Lanes is always good for a rainy afternoon, whether it’s bowling or miniature golf you’re after. If you’re seeking something a little bit more refined, head west toward the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. The productions here never, ever disappoint, so get out there and support local theater.

Looking for new digs? The apartment complexes atop Highland Hill evoke nostalgia for the swinging 60s. The balconies looking down at the Narrows, with names like the Lanai, Miramar and Viewcrest Terrace, suggest the bachelor pad cool era of Doris Day and Rock Hudson. I imagine boss nova filling the courtyard each time I drive by.

The blending of contemporary lounges, seasoned classics, refurbished homes, retro apartments, shopping and the arts, creates an exhilarating vibe. I feel it every day, and speaking as a neighbor, I can hardly wait to see what happens next.