Tacoma, Washington, is nestled between the looming Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound, a gateway to the Pacific Ocean. Tacoma’s food scene is not just about the restaurants; it is about the community. The city’s vibrant and diverse purveyors, chefs, farmers, and artisans foster a close-knit, supportive food culture.

A key component of Tacoma’s cuisine is its deep connection to the land and sea, which provide fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Pacific Northwest is known for fresh salmon, halibut, oysters, and clams, which shine from food trucks to sophisticated dishes at the city’s finest restaurants. Farm-to-table dining is not just a buzzword but a philosophy that emphasizes the area’s agricultural richness.

Tacoma is a melting pot of diversity, reflected in its array of international cuisine. Diners can enjoy Vietnamese pho, Filipino lumpia, Korean barbecue, Argentinian wood-fired steaks, German pretzels, Eastern European pierogi, Latin American pupusas, and so much more. Many restaurants offer fusion menus that are influenced by this rich heritage.

Historic eateries abound, from classic drive-in burger joints to iconic steak houses. New owners cherish this heritage and remain faithful to the original. A new generation of chefs is enriching Tacoma’s culinary scene. Kickstarter campaigns have helped fund the transition from food trucks to dining establishments with strong local community support. Join author Peggy Cleveland for a tour of Tacoma’s iconic food scene.