2 Best Restaurants in Tacoma, Washington Cascade Mountains and Valleys

The rarefied setting—soaring ceilings, Palladian windows, polished-wood tables—inside downtown's neoclassical 1910 post office building is one good reason to book a table here. But don't overlook the well-prepared classic Italian and Spanish fare, which ranges from simple but hearty meatballs in red sauce and garganelli pasta (a short, tubular variety) with venison Bolognese to Spanish lentil stew with chorizo, paprika, and sherry.

Set in the middle of the genial and hip Proctor retail and restaurant district on the city's north side (not too far from Point Defiance), this charming, affordable neighborhood spot focuses on regional Italian recipes. Regulars feast on traditional panfried zucchini with goat cheese and crostini, slow-roasted lamb over pappardelle noodles, seafood risotto, and thin-crust pizzas.