Located on Tacoma’s west side at the end of 19th Street, Boathouse 19 offers diners a menu of American classics in a waterfront setting. Sweeping views of Puget Sound are visible from the dining room year-round but are best enjoyed in the warmer months when the deck is open for seating. The atmosphere is casual and the décor kept simple with exposed wood beams and metal hardware. The staff is both knowledgeable and friendly. Conversations fill the air and large flat screens keep patrons up to date on the progress of local sports teams.
Playing off its name, Boathouse 19 offers 19 beers on tap including many from local breweries, 19 Washington wines and 19 specialty cocktails. Gertie’s Lemonade, my cocktail of choice, can best be described as refreshing. It is made with vodka, lemon basil and fresh strawberries, served in a mason jar.
Forgoing appetizers on a recent visit, we went straight for the main course. After much consideration of such offerings as a towering smokehouse burger and a hearty mac and cheese, I chose the grilled fish tacos, found under the Big Plates section of the menu. Served with a side of jalapeño polenta, the tacos’ Alaskan cod is topped with a fresh chipotle-lime crema and shredded cabbage. The pineapple-jicama salsa adds sweetness to balance the dish and a great texture for the perfect bite.
Not feeling quite as hungry, my companion opted for lighter fare, the soup of the day, which was a white bean turkey chili. Flavorful but not overly seasoned, it was a great choice for someone with a milder palate looking for something hearty but not too filling.
The dessert menu was too delectable to turn down. The Lemon Cheesecake Jar was a delicious way to end the meal: fresh lemon curd and graham cracker crust baked and served in a mason jar.
Boathouse 19 is an ideal spot to enjoy a good drink and good food with family and friends while taking in breathtaking views of the Puget Sound.
ANDREA LERUM
Boathouse 19
9001 South 19th St, Tacoma
253.565.1919
boathouse19restaurant.com