It was during our liquid lunch at the newly opened Laura's Bayview Bar & Grill that Bandito Betty's sister-in-law asked restaurant owner, Laura Carlson, the mysterious question: "I've met you before.  How do we know each other?"  As they squinted at each other in deep contemplation, listing past cities of residence, old alma maters, and possible acquaintances, Laura noted her previous managerial experience at Anthony's in the SeaTac Airport. 

A-HA!  I knew her too!

True story: A while back, I was having breakfast at the SeaTac Airport Anthony's before catching a flight to Las Vegas.  I remember ordering an egg white omelet that sent the Anthony's chef into an extreme verbal tirade, shouting expletives throughout an open-air kitchen and right at my table.  I was appalled and mortified.  Someone that pissed off at me should not be making my food, nor should I be ingesting it.  It was Anthony's manager, Laura, who saved me.  She apologized profusely, moved my party to another table, and bought us our breakfast.

Laura is my hero.

Drink One: Bloody Mary (bartender's choice) - Uh, did I mention Laura was my hero?  How did she know I loved a good BM, and that it was a personal quest of mine to find the best BM on Earth?  (Not to be mistaken for BM - the bodily function.  Although, those can be good, too.) 

The drink came out huge, and the flavor was sized to match.  I'm a spicy gal, so next time I'll be asking for more horseradish.  Or whatever it is that gives a BM its kick.  Pepper? Tabasco?  (Insert hot-hole/BM joke here.)

Drink Two: Grey Goose Martini (most popular drink within last hour) - I'll admit it - I shared this one with my lunch buddies.  Don't worry; there was plenty to go around.  You could tell by the vodka trail left on the floor going from the bar to our table.  The glass was so full, we each had to get up out of our seats and come over to the martini for a sip, in fear we'd lose another drop of goodness if we attempted to slide the drink across the table.

Drink Three: B-52 (my choice) - Perfectly layered, and perfectly smooth.  There's no better ending to a liquid lunch than watching your hero bring you a beautiful glass of velvety, sugary hooch. - Steph DeRosa

[Laura's Bayview Bar & Grill, 229 St. Helens Ave., Tacoma, 253.327.1015]