El Gaucho
When you want to impress clients or treat VIP attendees, El Gaucho delivers the full steakhouse experience. This isn't just dinner—it's dinner theater. Chefs prepare 28-day dry-aged steaks over charcoal grills right in front of diners, creating aromatic smoke that fills the dining room.
The tableside service includes everything from Caesar salads prepared at your table to flaming desserts that are Instagram-worthy.
West 122
Located in the heart of the Theater District, West 122 brings Pacific Northwest sophistication without the stuffiness. The restaurant sources locally and changes its menu to reflect seasonal availability, giving out-of-town guests an authentic taste of the region.
The handcrafted cocktails are exceptional, and the 21+ policy creates a refined atmosphere for adult networking events. Their happy hour runs 3-6 PM Wednesday through Saturday—perfect timing for post-conference gatherings.
The Melting Pot
Sometimes your attendees want an experience, not just a meal. The Melting Pot at 2121 Pacific Avenue offers interactive fondue dining that allows guests to slow down and enjoy.
The four-course experience takes about two hours, making it ideal for team-building dinners or client entertainment where you want extended conversation time. Reservations are essential, especially during conference season.
Wooden City
Wooden City combines industrial design with seriously good food. Their Caesar salad has the perfect citrus-anchovy balance, and the homemade beet ravioli converts vegetarians and carnivores alike. The craft cocktail program is knowledgeable without being pretentious, and the location puts you in the heart of downtown's nightlife scene.
Matador Restaurant & Tequila Bar
Matador has been Tacoma's tequila headquarters since 2006. The Mexican-inspired menu hits all the right notes, but the real star is the tequila program—they know their agave spirits.
The restaurant maintains a perfect combination of quality food and late-night energy. Their extended happy hour (4-6 PM and 10 PM-midnight) works perfectly for groups with varying dinner preferences and schedules.
McMenamins Elks Temple
The McMenamins Elks Temple brings Portland's quirky McMenamins concept to downtown Tacoma. Several floors of dining, drinking, and entertainment in a historic building create multiple options under one roof.
The food menu covers everything from burgers to Northwest specialties, while multiple bars serve McMenamins' signature house-brewed beers. The unique atmosphere gives out-of-town attendees a distinctly Pacific Northwest experience they can't get anywhere else.
Dorky's Arcade
Dorky's Arcade combines pub food with classic arcade games. It's perfect for groups that want to unwind after intensive conference sessions. It's particularly popular with tech conferences and younger attendee demographics.
Anthem Coffee
Anthem Coffee at 1911 Pacific Avenue represents Tacoma's thriving coffee culture. They source quality beans and know how to brew them to perfection—essential for early morning networking or afternoon pick-me-ups.
The location provides a professional atmosphere for informal meetings. They also offer light pastries and snacks.
Corina Bakery
Well known for their house-made pastries and cakes, Corina Bakery is the perfect place for a grab-and-go breakfast or an afternoon sweet treat. Located just up the hill from many popular downtown spots and close to the scenic Wright Park, make sure to add this bakery to your list!
Downtown Tacoma's walkable restaurant scene means your attendees can explore, network, and enjoy quality meals. Most of these restaurants are within three blocks of each other and major hotels, making spontaneous dinner plans feasible.
The variety ensures you can accommodate different budgets, dietary restrictions, and group dynamics while keeping everyone within the downtown core. Your attendees will be impressed by the options—and you'll look like the event planning genius who knows all the local gems.
