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Dutch Randall on March 26th, 2020
It is no surprise that the South Sound, which was home to much of the micro-brew craze of the 1990s, continues to be a center for the craft beers of today. From Tacoma's historic brewery neighborhood to the community vibe of Olympia, you are sure to find a brew that
Reviews
Dutch Randall, Jackie Fender on January 23rd, 2020
ANNOUNCER: Where area diners have traditionally avoided strip mall eateries, Los Tapatios is doing its part to change that perception. Creative Mexican dishes are served up seven days a week in a tiny strip mall on the edge of Fircrest, and the locals are pouring in. This week, Jackie and
Reviews
Dutch Randall, Jackie Fender on December 5th, 2019
ANNOUNCER: Spud's Pizza has been an east Tacoma staple for nearly 60 years, often boasting several generations of loyal customers. Known for its large helpings of pizza and salads, Dutch and Jackie head over to relive a dining foundation from their youth.
DUTCH: I like the reminiscence of the place. On
Attractions
Dutch Randall on November 21st, 2019
For the past 25 years, the Pierce County Parks has delighted thousands of families from near and far with miles of elaborate displays that can fill even a Scrooge with holiday cheer.
From Nov. 28 through Jan. 1 from the hours of 5:30-9 p.m., Spanaway Lake Park will be transformed into
Reviews
Dutch Randall on September 12th, 2019
ANNOUNCER: With Jackie a bit under the weather, Dutch is left to a table for one in Gig Harbor. Just before you hit the Purdy bridge, there are a collection of places to grab a bite, from a quick-stop grocery store, to pizza, a few local bars, or the new
Features
Dutch Randall on August 29th, 2019
Affordable meals are available across the South Sound if you know where to look.
Like most people, I enjoy eating out and avoiding the clean-up of cooking at home. However, I don't like that sometimes it can cost an arm and a leg. Fortunately, the variety of offerings throughout the South
Online Newspapers
Dutch Randall on July 25th, 2019
Sometimes the very thought of joining a tour group evokes visions of people in Hawaiian shirts, Bermuda shorts, and socks with sandals. I myself am often a quick "no thank you" when the suggestion arises. However, Pretty Gritty Tours in Tacoma has changed how I view a tour through historical
Features
Dutch Randall on June 27th, 2019
For many patriots across the South Sound, the Fourth of July means burgers and dogs on the grill. But for those of us that crave something just a little more -- there's BBQ. Let's talk real BBQ, slow-cooked, tender meats, dripping in sauce that require a stack of napkins afterward.
Reviews
Dutch Randall, Jackie Fender on June 8th, 2019
ANNOUNCER: Known mostly for its pies and house-made jam, the Moonrise Café in Lakewood serves up some of the most creative breakfasts in the South Sound. If your diet of choice is carnivorous or vegan, then you are sure to find what you are looking for on the menu. Dutch
Reviews
Dutch Randall, Jackie Fender on May 30th, 2019
ANNOUNCER: As Tacoma's charming Proctor District continues to evolve, Jackie and Dutch are lured once again to dine at a newly opened establishment. Cactus, Seattle-born chain, boast Tex-Mex-styled cuisine.
JACKIE: This spot is bustling with activity! Although, due to some creative design choices, even at full capacity Cactus manages to feel
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Recent Blog Posts
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on March 6th, 2013
IT'S A SANDWICH SERIES >>>
Established in 1976, Rollies Tavern anchors the north end of McChord Field. The dive tavern is known for several things. For prowling ladies, it's a good spot to catch Air Force types all suited up and sexy. But it's even a better spot to find pizza,
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on February 27th, 2013
IT'S A SANDWICH SERIES >>>
Often considered - and awarded - one of the best bars in the South Sound, Top of Tacoma Bar and Café has extended its hours and added new menu items. Included in the menu expansion are 14 new sandwiches - most have been specials over
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on February 20th, 2013
IT'S A SANDWICH SERIES >>>
In a quest for awesome sandwiches, you should be creative. Delis, cafes, bars - those are obvious choices. If cars could drive by themselves (I think some all ready do), a sandwich command would most likely end at a deli, café or bar. Medi's Pizza &
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on February 13th, 2013
You can get a sandwich just about anywhere, but if you want to wrap your muzzle around a monument, then you need to go to the new masters of sandwich-making - Peterson Bros. 1111. Justin and Robbie Peterson opened the "Eleven Eleven" this summer in the Hilltop Tacoma neighborhood. From
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on January 30th, 2013
IT'S A SANDWICH SERIES! >>>
I've always felt that eating vegetarian food is like dating that proverbial nice girl. You know you should like her (she's nice and wholesome!). You want to like her (she's good for you!). You try really hard to like her (Wow! You're so sweet!). But in
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on January 16th, 2013
IT'S A SANDWICH SERIES! >>>
It's hard to elevate the sandwich into something truly extraordinary. There are a few spots in South Sound that manage, though, turning out masterful creations that put those mediocre ham-and-cheese-on-white-bread creations to shame. One of those spots is the Fish Tale Brew Pub in downtown Olympia.
In
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on January 9th, 2013
BEST SANDWICHES >>>
It seems almost a "cheat" to review a French dip sandwich when discussing the best sandwiches in the South Sound. After all, isn't the sandwich simply meat and bread dipped in drippings?
This is my column. I can do whatever I please (ha Pappi Swarner!). Besides, The Swiss serves
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on January 2nd, 2013
MAGICAL SANDWICH MAKERS >>>
I know it's a bold move to visit Tacoma's Magical Sandwich Makers so early in this sandwich series, but I can't resist the MSM Deli. Yes, that's what the acronym means. Yes, it wins the Best Sandwich year after year in the Weekly Volcano's Best of Tacoma
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on December 26th, 2012
A SANDWICH A WEEK >>>
Continuing my quest for awesome sandwiches in the South Sound, I dropped in on the Antique Sandwich Company in the little town of Ruston.
It's no surprise the Antique serves a tasty sandwich. It's been around since the mid-'70s. It has "sandwich" in its name! Yes, it's
Walkie Talkie Blog
Dutch Randall on December 19th, 2012
It's hard to screw up a sandwich, since it requires just enough skill to cram a couple slices of meat and maybe some cheese between two pieces of bread.
By the same token, it's also hard to elevate the sandwich into something truly extraordinary. In the months to
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