Lately I’ve been noticing a nightlife epidemic that’s starting to give me some wrinkles on my forehead because I’m worried.



Establishments that once carried just beer and wine have added hard alcohol to their lineup.



Don’t get me wrong, I have a complete understanding that hard alcohol secures egregious amounts of the almighty dollar, but at the same time, it also has the power to ruin what was once a laid-back, casual and comfortable environment.



With hard alcohol also comes crowds, and the individuals that follow have a higher probability of being loud, volatile, feisty or pushy.



It breaks my heart to opt out of a spot that I was in love with after this change has occurred.



I’m in no way trying to attack the previous tavern owners who have made the decision to go with hard alcohol because I’m glad they’re succeeding with it.



What I can suggest, though, is that tried and true taverns that really matter are diminishing, and I’m hoping that the two that I lust for will remain as they are because I count on them.



Dear Parkway and the Spar, please don’t ever add hard alcohol.



I’m not aware that either establishment is planning to do so, but I’d be willing to bet that the thought has crossed their mind before.



Sure, I love a good mixed drink just like anyone else, but I adore the comforts that the Parkway and the Spar provide.



I want a relaxed environment with light-hearted people who are just having a good time, which is what I can always count on at either place.



The bartenders at either spot sometimes have time for light talk while they’re filling our glasses (John from the Parkway spits me nothing but sarcasm, which I love) because they’re not overloaded with 10 drink orders in their heads and people shouting out demands and slamming down shot glasses while ruining their beautiful bars.



As a general rule, the people who frequent the Parkway and the Spar are jovial, and they’re the kind of people that I look forward to meeting or talking to.



I also feel that I can never get enough microbrew education from the staff of the establishments or those around me.



Even better, I love the comfort food that pumps from these kitchens.



In any nightlife scene anywhere, cozy taverns are always my favorite kind of places.

I’d never want to hold the Parkway or the Spar back from making money, but what I am trying to do is preserve the environment within each that I really appreciate.



I hope that the Parkway and the Spar know that those of us who pack into their establishments week in and week out love them just the way they are.



[Parkway Tavern, 313 N. I St., Tacoma, 253.383.8748]

[The Spar, 2121 N. 30th St., Tacoma, 253.627.8215]



Tell me where you like to party.