Nothing Phony at Meconi's

It seems almost a sin to pass by a pub and eatery and not stop in to check it out. Meconi’s is just that kind of place; it has a certain quaint and friendly feel that beckons the hungry and thirsty masses. Located in one of the oldest buildings in downtown Tacoma, it boasts that warm and fuzzy old-time feel, where one can take a moment to step back in time.

I was craving a big, juicy burger and word on the street in T-Town is that Menconi's is the place to go. My partner in crime, D.P., agreed that we would go there… for a late breakfast. I know it sounds strange, but I’m all in no matter what time of day.   

Without even looking at the menu, I ordered the highly recommended Tacoma Pub Cheeseburger with a side of sautéed mushrooms and, feeling a bit of guilt, had a side salad instead of their ahh-mazing garlic fries. D.P. joined the burger fest with the bacon cheeseburger and decided on the fries because deep down inside, he really does care about me.    

All I have to say is, the word on the street cannot be beat!  This burger was a hand-shaped mound of flame-broiled perfection and the mushrooms were fresh, sautéed perfectly and kept nice and warm underneath a velvety cheese blanket. It was light pink on the inside and a messy stream of savory juices accompanied each coveted bite.

D.P.’s burger was equally as luscious and juicy. The bacon was thickly sliced, not overcooked and salted just the right amount to compliment the heavenly melted cheddar. My salad was a nice size and earned extra points simply because of the sunflower seeds—my inner bird tweeted just a little. D.P.’s fries were outstanding -- steaming hot and not overly seasoned.

Of course, Meconi’s serves more than just burgers -- their menu choices are plentiful and homemade.  Soups and salads include Big Wayne’s Famous Chili served with cornbread and Grilled Salmon Salad and Flat Iron Steak Salad.  Their pizzas include (but are not limited to) favorites such as the Chicken Alfredo, the Perfect Pizza (pepperoni, sausage, onion, green pepper, mushrooms and black olives) and a Mexican Taco Pizza.

There are Italian style subs served on Meconi’s own fresh baked rolls, which are divine and highly popular with the downtown lunch groups. My favorite: the Tuna sub with homemade tuna salad, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, Italian oil and oregano. D.P.’s favorite is the Italian sub with is wine-cured salami, spicy capicola, provolone cheese, lettuce, onion, tomato, mayonnaise, Italian oil, oregano and saucy pepperoncini peppers. 

I cant hold back -- there is nothing SUB-par about these babies!

I have saved the best for last—Meconi’s Happy Hour is run 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily and all day on Sundays! Each day, happy hour features main dish specials such as spaghetti and meatballs are only $5.99, as are great pub appetizers such as fried zucchini, beer battered onion rings, sliders and shrimp cocktail, just to name a few. Hint: no one can eat just one plate of fried zucchini.

And wait, there’s more: 4:20 at Meconi’s is a 15 minute super power happy hour where house wine, well drinks and all beer are just $1.00!

So if you happen to be in Tacoma visiting one of their many museums or perhaps on an antique quest, stop on in and check this place out, as you will not be disappointed. Just like those famous paintings, original glass art and authentic treasures, there’s nothing phony at Meconi’s.

For more information, check out their website at tacomapub.com.