6th Ave. Eateries: Spotlight on Il Fiasco

Tacoma’s wonderful, walk able, and eclectic 6^th Avenue business district and neighborhood elicits frequent and rave revues on its great restaurants. My husband and I recently revisited Il Fiasco Restaurant and Bar after a long absence for Italian food. Typically, our 6^th Avenue dining experience means repeat visits to Asado, Masa, and Primo Grill. We adore these places clearly; however, for our recent wedding anniversary, we wanted to do something a little different, so we chose Il Fiasco, a place we liked, but tended to overlook. We were glad we made the visit.

After a martini pit stop and appetizer at Asado, we trekked over to Il Fiasco on Tuesday night. We were surprised by the changes in the interior—the bar was moved to the back of the main room of the restaurant and the décor and lighting seemed more lackluster, less warm than in the past. I remember the lighting, mood and artwork had a more romantic feel previously. However the changes were no matter. Our friendly server was delightful. The diverse menu was perfect in size; not too large and overwhelming, but not too limited either. My husband settled on a filet mignon and I went for the scallops and prawns. We kicked it off with terrific Caesar salads and accompanied our meal with yummy Zenato Ripassa. We both agreed that our Caesars were perfect—just the right size. My scallops and prawns had a lemon butter preparation with some jazzy rice and broccolini. The seafood was succulent and smooth. Rick’s steak was tender and lovely. We watched the main dining room fill with patrons as we enjoyed our meal and celebration. Birthday parties and family dinners abounded with happy laughter and a low key, relaxed, homey vibe.

Whenever my husband and I get a night out locally like this, we always marvel at the diversity of the fine dining scene. We eagerly follow the latest and greatest on the growing Tacoma culinary opportunities. Surely, we Gritizens don’t need to make the trek to Seattle to enjoy a great dining experience.

So, readers and bloggers: share your own fave local eateries and let’s talk food!