Monthly Feature
Natalie is always on the move, bringing us the very best in restaurant reviews. This month, she’s in Tacoma.

There is a reason why Engine House 9 is one of the area’s Top 10 Restaurants. Not only is this brew pub in the National Historical Register, but it is one of the liveliest and unique places around. The walls are littered with what the restaurant used to be – a firehouse. Names of firefighters line the walls, the original fireman’s pole stands strong in the front of the pub, and you can’t even use the restroom without passing framed photos of the good old days. There’s always something to look at, but if your lazy eyes get tired, there’s always a well placed tv around to ensure you don’t miss the latest sporting event.

Let’s cut to the chase – the beer. Our table got the sampler, nicely priced at a cool $5. Our particular sampler included Belgian White [light and fruity], Fire Engine Red [dark and a little too hoppy for the table’s taste], Tacoma Brew [pale ale], Irish Stout [strong, dark and heavy], Rowdy Dick Amber Ale, and India Pale Ale [hoppy but light]. By far, the Amber Ale was the winner of the group, and was ordered numerous times throughout the night – which helped when saying you wanted another “Rowdy Dick”… For those keeping track at home, this won the table over because it was light, airy and smooth but not too wimpy.

The beers did not disappoint, and we were all eager to get started on the food. Again, Engine House 9 delivered. Ordering the Texas straws [fried jalapenos and onions] and the Crab & Artichoke Dip, we thought we would be in over our heads. To say they were delicious would be an understatement, and while we were getting to the point of being full, we were looking forward to dinner even more.

Dinner was BEYOND any of our expectations. The rule is usually “don’t eat the food at the bar” – at Engine House 9, you MUST eat. Their menu pretty versatile, ranging from the Famous E9 Soft Taco, to Fish & Chips, as well as a London Broil and their signature E9 Chili. Our table had a smattering of different dishes; Chili burger, Smoked Turkey sandwich, Smoked Salmon Pasta, and a Cajun Chicken Sandwich. Judging by the silence at the table, everything was delicious and cooked to perfection.

If you are ever in the Tacoma area, and want a great meal surrounded by a comfortable atmosphere, check out Engine House 9.