Yes, the Goldfish Tavern is a dive. I’ll cut right to the chase on this one. I think all dive bar fanatics are well aware of this. But the ambiance inside this local fish-themed tavern gives off a sensation of actually sipping cold brews on a beach. It’s not the décor, per se, and I can’t quite put my finger on it. Maybe the sunny windows? The fact that it’s by a large open park – away from the hustle and bustle of Tacoma’s thriving metropolis? Or maybe it’s the mindset that automatically occurs when you hear the word “goldfish”? Who the hell knows?

Comfy barstools held our butts as we assumed our standard belly-up position to the historical bar top that offers patrons a chance to leave their mark. With keys in hand, somehow Bandito found enough room to carve her initials while I just found a friend’s name and took a quick picture via Blackberry.

Locals talked shop, and the bartender knew everyone’s name as they walked in. Eyes were glued to some typical sports show on the TV.  I took it upon myself to test the bartender’s sense of humor by asking him if he could change it to “Ellen.” He scored points when he was able to laugh it off and not be an ass. Good man.

I had heard the 1933-built tavern was up for sale, so I asked our now awesome bartender what the F was up with that. He stated, “It all depends. The owner of the land is different from the owner of the Goldfish Tavern. Whenever the land sells, it sells.”

Bottom line: Stop in for a quick cold one next time you’re in the area. It could be your last chance to carve your illustrious signature in the famed wooden bar top.

Goldfish Tavern

5310 N. Pearl St., Ruston, 253.759.7474
Food: Burgers, Bagel Bites, and popcorn.
Beer: Typical domestics and domestic/micros on tap, lots of cans and bottles.
Service: Nice guy heading back to college in Alaska.

Bar Exam Dive Bar Grade: B+