Harmon Brewery & Eatery
1938 Pacific Ave, Tacoma
253.383.2739
harmonbrewingco.com
An American restaurateur once said, “It all comes back to the basics. Serve customers the best-tasting food at a good value in a clean, comfortable restaurant, and they’ll keep coming back.”
Tacoma’s The Harmon does just that. The brewpub’s casual, welcoming atmosphere combined with inviting, reasonably-priced fare keeps diners returning.
Easily enough for two, the savory hummus appetizer is presented on a platter. It is accompanied by tender pita wedges, mild artichoke hearts, and lively feta. Sweet roasted red peppers and meaty Kalamata olives also supplement the flavorful starter. The garlicky chickpea spread is garnished with tomato wedges and cucumber slices. Other appetizer options include crab cakes, coconut prawns, and nachos.
Beer samplers (either flagship or seasonal) are served on undersized skis, complementing the brewery’s ski motif. The Harmon prides itself on being the hub of craft brewing in downtown Tacoma. Eight beers can usually be found on draught, including the award winning Puget Sound Porter and The Brown Pt. ESB. Other brews are Point Defiance IPA, Pinnacle Peak Pale Ale, and Mount Takhoma Blonde Ale; their names reflect the Harmon’s commitment to the Puget Sound area.
Dinner salads include grape tomatoes, shredded cheddar, and red onions tossed with mixed greens. The house dressing is a balsamic blend; a combination of honey mustard dressing and balsamic vinaigrette emphasizes the sweetness of both the rich, sweet vinegar and the amber nectar, complemented by the subtle pungency of mustard.
Fish tacos are made from the catch of the day, cooked to the diner’s specifications. Spicy blackened halibut chunks are wrapped in flour tortillas; a cilantro sour cream dipping sauce accompanies them. The coleslaw side is not over-dressed and a hint of horseradish can be detected in the cabbage salad.
A halibut sandwich, served on a hamburger bun with roasted red pepper, dill pickle and red onion, contains an unexpected ingredient – brie. Since a small amount of the strong, distinctive cheese is used, it does not overwhelm the delicately flavored fish. Crispy garlic parmesan fries are served with both entrees. Also available are burgers, sandwiches, chicken pesto linguine, and top sirloin.
The eatery’s peanut butter pie is made in-house. A slab of peanut butter ice cream atop a chocolate cookie crumb crust is sprinkled with chopped peanuts and drizzled with chocolate sauce. Ask for two forks—the generous whipped-cream garnished portions are more than enough to share. Other dessert choices are New York cheesecake and Lou’s Chocolate Mountain Surprise.
Just across the street from The Washington State History Museum, The Harmon is a favorite spot for downtown business folks, local residents and tourists alike. Whether you’re making reservations for a big party or in the mood for a casual dinner, the Harmon welcomes you.
Mary Morgan