Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Unique and interesting places in Tacoma

Finding something truly unique that breaks the routine without feeling like it is trying too hard to be different.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
GRANN image 1
GRANN image 2
GRANN image 3
View all
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant combines southern comfort and Indian cuisine in a hip, cozy space with meticulously designed decor and an open kitchen. The atmosphere is energetic and lively, with 90โ€™s R&B music and a welcoming vibe despite tight seating. Cocktails are inventive and well-balanced, complementing the vibrant dining experience.

Dishes combine southern and Indian flavors in a unique way. Textures vary, adding an unexpected twist to the flavors.

A unique blend of southern comfort and Indian cuisine shapes the menu. Dishes mix Indian, BBQ, and Italian flavors with subtle yet bold twists. Cocktails also stand out with their distinctive flavors.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the greens and cornbread, is amazing."

"The food here offers a unique blend of southern comfort and Indian flavors."

"The food's interesting fusion of southern and Indian flavors is phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy evenings.

2

Happy hour offers great food deals from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using public transport.

02
The Press Room image 1
Event venue

Event venue blends historic charm with eclectic decor featuring antiques and unique artwork. Space feels intimate and versatile, with areas for ceremonies, live bands, and presentations. Lighting suits moody photography, and separate suites support private preparations.

Charming venue offers interesting history and a variety of textures and backdrops that create great portraits.

Historic charm shapes the atmosphere with antiques and old-fashioned artwork decorating the space. The decor stands out as truly unique compared to ordinary event venues.

People are saying

"The staff here made our party amazing and worry-free."

"It's got this interesting historic charm that adds so much depth."

"It's got this unique historic charm with cool antiques and artwork."

Good to know

1

The Press Room is ideal for private parties and events.

2

Jonz Catering is the exclusive caterer for events at The Press Room.

3

The venue is located in downtown Tacoma, close to multiple hotels.

03
Zen Ramen & Sushi Burrito - Downtown Tacoma image 1

Private booths decorated with Naruto art and anime references create a cozy, intimate atmosphere with a K-pop soundtrack adding energy. Seating options include manga-themed booths that offer a warm, welcoming vibe. The space combines modern, whimsical Korean art with a lively, fun environment.

Japanese-fusion menu offers interesting flavor combinations. Sushi burritos and drinks provide unique options to try.

Anime-themed decor uses classy black and white colors creating a distinct atmosphere. Broth stands out with a creamier Tonkatsu style. Sushi burritos offer a fresh, unique texture and taste.

People are saying

"I loved the sushi burritos; they were big and tasty."

"The ramen broth here is uniquely creamy and delicious."

"The K-pop music playing on the TV is really interesting."

Good to know

1

Parking is scarce near the downtown location; consider public transport.

2

The downtown Tacoma location has limited seating, especially during lunch.

3

Takeout is popular due to limited seating options.

04
McMenamins Elks Temple image 1

Building showcases psychedelic atmosphere and eclectic decor with multiple levels and balconies offering vibrant city views. Venue hosts five bars, including a secret speakeasy and tiki bar, creating a lively and casual vibe. Rooms are spotless and comfortable, blending unique design with practical comfort.

Interesting history, art, and architectural details stand out here. The ceiling design and room layout add to the unique vibe. Many interesting shows come through, offering live music without a long drive.

Quirky, eclectic artwork and unique decor fill every corner, making each visit a visual adventure. Every floor offers distinct character with historical elements and chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.

People are saying

"The staff at the bar were so caring and helpful."

"It's so unique with all the eclectic art and chandeliers everywhere."

"The interior is gorgeous with lots of interesting things to look at."

Good to know

1

The Spanish Ballroom hosts live music events and tapas dining.

2

Concerts at Elks Temple often sell out, so arrive early.

3

Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during events.

05
Sumo Sushi & Grill AYCE - Tacoma image 1

Robot waiters shaped like cats deliver food in a large, modern dining area with booth seating and Japanese decor. Atmosphere feels fun and innovative but can be crowded and cold with some discomfort in seating. Alcohol options include a variety of sake, adding to the unique dining experience.

Robot cat servers deliver food, creating an interesting environment. The buffet uses an app for ordering and robots for delivery, making the concept quite unique.

Robot servers deliver food quickly, creating a very unique dining experience. Ordering happens through a QR code on their site, adding to the distinct atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and prepared fresh."

"The staff here are so attentive and friendly."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

It is an all-you-can-eat sushi buffet where leftover food incurs additional charges.

2

I paid $20 per person for lunch all-you-can-eat.

3

There was a Pierce County health sign indicating food safety 'needs improvement.'

06
Sanford & Son Antiques! image 1

Three-story cathedral of curiosities with marble staircase and stained glass windows creates a maze-like adventure. Atmosphere blends historical stories with a slight creep factor and a sense of community. Visitors explore vintage clothing boutiques, art galleries, and cultural artifacts across multiple levels.

The building offers a super interesting layout that makes exploring fun. Inside, many interesting artifacts and items catch the eye.

Three floors hold tons of unique pieces and several unique vendors on the lower floor. A grand staircase in the library adds to the distinct vibe.

People are saying

"You can explore this three-story maze for hours, finding vintage clothing and antiques."

"I found so many unique vintage clothes and antique pieces here."

"I found many interesting items and artifacts to explore here."

Good to know

1

There is no public restroom, so visitors should go before they visit.

2

Some shops have extremely limited hours, so check ahead.

3

The market has three floors to explore, with many unique vendors.

07
Corbeau image 1
Modern French restaurant

Modern French restaurant combines art gallery vibe with luxe dining room elegance. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting but can become loud when music plays at the bar. Decor features elegant yet comfortable elements with notable artwork and plants.

Menu offers interesting flavors like shallot and North African harissa in the Gnocchi. The overall vibe feels unique without pretension, though some combinations can be confusing.

Cocktails feature unique combinations that taste great. The atmosphere feels dark and moody, creating a pleasant and distinct vibe.

People are saying

"The French food, especially the onion soup and steak frites, was delicious."

"The cocktails here are lovely and not too sweet."

"The food here is so fresh, flavorful, and uniquely seasoned."

Good to know

1

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all bills.

2

The menu is limited, so check it beforehand to see if there's something you like.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on burgers and frites.

08
Waterfront Market at Ruston image 1

Market features beautiful patio overlooking water and a lively, fun atmosphere with diverse vendors offering fresh local produce and specialty foods. Hustle and bustle create a unique energy similar to a fair, attracting a variety of people. Walking trails and a children's area add to the experience.

Exploring reveals interesting knickknacks and gadgets along with unique little shops. Some vendors stand out as more interesting than others.

Shops and booths offer cute, unique gifts with lots of unique little shops to explore. Foods available stand out as unique and delicious.

People are saying

"The Grocery Store vendors are warm, friendly, and helpful."

"I found the market's hustle and bustle to be truly unique."

"I found the market interesting with unique little shops."

Good to know

1

Parking is paid, with fees reaching $6 per hour.

2

Expect parking to be challenging; plan extra time for it.

3

The best time to visit is on weekends or during events.

Discover more

Tacoma, Washington

Area guide
Loading Map...