Hey, Tacoma! Join us for an in-person event about our dining scene’s evolution
From takeout to all-weather patios, pop-ups to pickup spots, Tacoma restaurants persevered through two-plus years of pandemic challenges. In a sense, the scene has blossomed into more than it was before.
What lessons were learned? What worked, and what surprised us? What’s next in the city’s culinary evolution?
TNT Diner food and drink reporter Kristine Sherred will host a live discussion about the future of the city’s food scene. Panelists include two top Tacoma chefs and one cocktail pro who continue to shape it.
Join us on Tuesday, Oct. 18 at Odin Brewing, 203 Tacoma Ave. S. Click here to register for free and help us shape the conversation with your questions.
Arrive early or stay late for a bite and a beer — the bar and restaurant serves 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Doors for the event open at 6 p.m., in time to order a pint of the brewery’s Galactic Space Dragon IPA before heading to the back room. The conversation kicks off at 6:30 p.m.
Register for free on Eventbrite for a seat at the discussion. We will take questions from our live audience, but RSVP in advance to push yours to the top of the list.
Our panelists
Deanna Harris-Bender — chef/owner, Over the Moon Cafe: Harris-Bender is the proprietor and head chef of one of Tacoma’s most enduring restaurants. Since opening in 2001, her 40-seat speakeasy has become synonymous with intimate dining and remains a tough reservation, even as the dining landscape has evolved around her.
Reginald Jacob Howell — executive chef, en Rama: Howell spent several years in the kitchen of en Rama, an Italian and Spanish-influenced restaurant and cocktail bar at Courthouse Square, before returning as executive chef in 2022. The Tacoma native brings a dedication to the industry and fearlessness of pushing boundaries both in and out of the kitchen.
Sam Halhuli — owner, The Mule Tavern: In the heart of South Tacoma, Halhuli has showcased his “craft dive bar” approach to hospitality through excellent cocktails in a neighborhood setting. Since opening in 2017, this stretch has blossomed into a nightlife destination thanks in no small part to The Mule and its addictive house-made ginger beer and tonic.
Join us
What: Culinary Comeback: The evolution of Tacoma’s restaurant scene
When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 18 (Doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: Odin Brewing, 203 Tacoma Ave. S
Tickets: Free with registration. Click here to sign up.
Deanna Harris-Bender, chef/owner of Over the Moon Cafe.
Reginald Jacob Howell, executive chef of en Rama.
Sam Halhuli, owner/bar pro of The Mule Tavern.
Moderator Kristine Sherred, TNT Diner food reporter.
