Get to Know a Local Business This Weekend

It’s looking like a grey, wet, not too warm weekend – perfect for exploring Tacoma, and maybe discovering something new. Here are a few stories of local businesses that came to our attention in the last week, and that might make for good close to home destinations for your weekend.

Midcenturyville

A little shop called Midcenturyville has moved into the Tacoma Cracker Building at 938 Broadway. They’ve moved from a 600-square-foot space on A Street into the new shop with 3,000-square-feet of floorspace for all sorts of mid-century treasures. They’re planning a “grand re-opening/CharleyHarper exhibit/Ping pong party” for mid-May. We’re not sure what the proper attire for such a party would be, but it sounds like fun. Midcenturyville hours are limited – Saturdays 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., and by appointment – but you’re in luck, because we’ve got a Saturday coming up this weekend.

Harbor Lights

Harbor Lights will be reopening for lunch today after being closed for several weeks for a remodel. This weekend they will be seating guests on a first-come, first-served basis, and will begin taking reservations this coming Monday, April 22. The News Tribune has details of the remodel, which include new floors, updated restrooms, expanded views, and a general polishing and updating of the whole restaurant.

The TNT article also includes a slightly less sunny note about a potential dispute between Anthony’s, which bought the iconic Tacoma restaurant 13 years ago, and the family of the original owner. It seems there may be some disagreement over the fate of the photos, news clippings, and other memorable memorabilia that decorated the original Harbor Lights, and were loaned by the family to Anthony’s when the restaurant sold. The TNT reports that the family has retained a lawyer. We’re hoping that it’s the kind of misunderstanding that can be resolved amicably. Maybe involving a drink in the newly remodeled Harbor Lights bar…

Arthouse Cafe

Then there’s the opening of the Arthouse Cafe in the Stadium District. From what we’ve seen of the menu, and overheard from friends, it sounds like a welcome addition to the neighborhood. They’re supplied by Terra Organics. The menu includes ingredients like duck fat croutons, port wine reduction, caramelized onion relish, housemade sausage, and membrillo paste; and dishes like molasses rubbed pork shoulder, brioche grilled cheese with tomato cappuccino, pomegranate poached prawns. We haven’t had a chance to visit yet, but it’s definitely on the short list for the weekend.

So, there you have some options. Go forth, explore Tacoma, and try to stay dry out there.