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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in New Tacoma

American food bars

A classic American meal paired with a drink is the standard for a straightforward night out.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Valley image 1
The Valley image 2
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Dive bar with wobbly tables and mismatched chairs hosts live metal shows and offers a covered patio with a beer garden. Loud, crowded atmosphere features excellent sound quality and energetic music. Known for amazing vegan food and standout dishes like club sandwich and shrimp and grits.

Clam chowder stands out as a frequent highlight, served every Friday and noted for its rich flavor. The menu features a patty melt and shrimp and grits that receive consistent praise for taste and quality.

A casual dive tavern with live music and a great bartender. Offers delicious vegan pub food and maintains an acceptable noise level for a bar.

People are saying

"The food at this dive bar is top-notch and perfectly cooked."

"The bar food here is delicious, especially the burgers and fries."

"You have to try the shrimp and grits; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Open mic nights happen every Wednesday at 8pm with no cover charge.

2

Karaoke takes place every Thursday starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

Fish and chip Fridays offer a special dish that is highly recommended.

02
Devil's Reef image 1

Dark, pirate-themed bar with flickering lights, bamboo, and Pacific islander decor creates a Lovecraft-inspired vibe. The atmosphere feels fun and immersive, perfect for date nights or casual evenings. Drinks focus on tiki cocktails and grog, paired with distinctive food like bacon-wrapped pineapple and large, shareable nachos.

Nachos stand out with large portions and well-prepared toppings like pork and chicken. Other items like pork sliders and quesadillas also deliver solid American flavors.

Offers a superb pirate and Caribbean theme with a cozy tiki bar atmosphere. Features an extensive and creative cocktail menu that stands out among tiki bars on the west coast.

People are saying

"The drinks here are amazing, with fresh squeezed fruit and great rum."

"The place has a dark, moody, and mysterious atmosphere."

"The American Food nachos here are delicious and a good size for sharing."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes around 10pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect a limited menu with many items often out of stock.

3

Reservations are recommended as they will text you when a spot opens up.

03
Doyle's Public House image 1

Old building with weathered wood decor and football champion scarves creates a true pub atmosphere. Big screens show Premier League matches, drawing many locals who bring a lively, loud energy. Dog-friendly space includes an outdoor area and a private booth for groups.

Grilled cheese stands out with multiple cheeses and a Korean twist. Bourbon meatloaf and shepherd's pie offer rich, hearty flavors. Biscuits and gravy and brisket also feature prominently.

Offers good drinks and Irish pub food with exceptionally good quality for a pub. Serves as a Liverpool FC bar and a solid spot for sports fans.

People are saying

"It's a great spot to watch soccer games with other fans."

"The bar staff here are always super friendly."

"You have to try the American Food; the bourbon meatloaf is phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Dinner could be crowded during trivia and soccer evenings, so plan ahead.

3

Food is served until about 12:45 AM, sometimes until 1 AM.

04
E9 Brewing Co. & Taproom image 1

Small brewery space offers cozy interior with views of brewing equipment and heated outdoor patio that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively, drawing a friendly crowd that enjoys rotating beers and top-tier pizza.

Mac and Cheese comes out creamy and flavorful. Nachos feature a memorable sauce that stands out. Pizza and grilled cheese offer solid, classic American bites.

Small brewery offers seating near brewing equipment, at the bar, and outside with heaters. Open for lunch on weekdays, it feels more like a bar that serves pizza than a pizza place.

People are saying

"I thought the beer here was the best in Tacoma."

"I thought the American food, especially the pizza, was very good."

"The beer selection here is excellent, and they serve flights of any size."

Good to know

1

Breakfast pizza is available on Sundays, a popular choice among visitors.

2

Wild wood waffles are served on weekends at E9 Brewing Co. & Taproom.

3

The establishment is 21+ only, making it an adult-only venue.

05
Berliner Beerhall image 1
German restaurant

Large space with long communal tables and an industrial loft style creates a lively yet cozy atmosphere. German beers on tap and fireplace seating add authentic and unique touches. Community seating suits big groups while maintaining a fun, open vibe without excessive noise.

Freshly fried chicken and ground beef made daily from a mix of chuck, brisket, and short rib stand out. Real hand-dipped corn dogs with authentic German sausage and crispy fried pickle nickels with breading like fried chicken add unique touches.

Clean space with a wide variety of spirits and many options on tap. The bar serves as a community hub with a full selection of drinks and food.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The food and beer options here are great."

"You have to try the corn dogs; they're delicious and have authentic German sausage."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with half-liter pilsners for $6.50.

2

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday evening, starting at 8 PM.

3

Parking is limited, so consider using public transit.

06
The Camp Bar image 1

Camp-themed bar offers a divey vibe with friendly energy and a lodge-like atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio, and karaoke adds lively entertainment. Space fits small groups comfortably, blending laidback ambiance with bursts of loud activity.

Menu focuses on hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, and wings. S'mores Waffles stand out as a sweet option. Hot toddy and cheeseburger also appear on the menu.

A cozy, camping-themed vibe creates a laid-back atmosphere with a warm, friendly crowd. Staff offer great service in a chill, dive bar setting that feels like hanging out around a fire.

People are saying

"They host fun karaoke nights with lots of crowd participation."

"This bar has a fun, chill vibe and is a great place to hang out."

"The American Food here is fun, especially during trivia nights."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens almost every day, with lively crowd participation.

2

Trivia night is every Thursday, attracting a younger crowd in their 20s-30s.

3

Bingo night is on Tuesdays, popular with a middle-aged audience.

07
Alfred's Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Space blends 50's diner and sports bar styles with retro decor and historic signage. Atmosphere shifts from laid back and cozy to loud and lively during busy times. Frequented for breakfast and socializing, it draws a family-friendly crowd.

Eggs Benedict stands out with a California vegetarian twist and consistent deliciousness. The menu also features biscuits and gravy, Monte Cristo sandwich, and loaded grits that balance flavors well.

Old school vibe blends a 50's diner with a sports bar atmosphere. Full bar offers tasty adult beverages and a cozy, cheers-like feeling.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and has a home cooking style."

"I loved my breakfast; the portions were so generous!"

"The food here is great, with lots of variety."

Good to know

1

Parking at Alfred's Cafe is often unpredictable and can be a gamble.

2

Expect to wait during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

Breakfast prices are reasonable, with tacos costing $10.95.

08
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.

Various pubs serve prime rib that tastes delicious. The eggs Benedict features well-toasted English muffins. The loaded fries and cajun tot appetizer stand out as flavorful choices.

Craft beer flows from an in-house brewery while games like pool, shuffleboard, and pinball keep the vibe lively. A hidden bar adds a fun twist, and the tiki bar offers a tasty menu with standout service.

People are saying

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

"It's cool how many unique bars and secret rooms there are to explore."

"The American food here, like the loaded fries, is the best I've had."

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.

09
The Forum image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill with historic decor and a beautiful bar offers a lively local vibe that shifts from calm early evenings to a busy, loud late-night scene. Outdoor patio welcomes dogs and provides a pleasant downtown strip setting. Cocktails stand out as some of the best in the area, featuring unique infusions and rotating craft beers.

Pulled pork sandwich pairs well with French onion bisque. Tater tots come with several dipping sauces. Mac and cheese balls, chicken wings, and a classic Cobb salad also feature on the menu.

Calmer and more peaceful than typical sports bars, it offers a great pub atmosphere and excellent bar food. The spot suits quick solo visits and sits in a perfect location for a bar.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty and came out hot."

"The pulled pork sandwich and French onion bisque were incredible dinner spots."

"The French Dip sandwich here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, especially on busy nights like game nights.

2

Expect to pay around $89 for two drinks and a quesadilla.

3

The venue hosts game nights and music bingo events regularly.

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