6th Avenue Overview:
6th Avenue is a street that runs the length of Tacoma from east to west and has such a large number of businesses, restaurants, and bars that it has essentially become a district. Sixth Avenue—more fondly called 6th Ave—is one of the best parts of town to hang out with friends or take a date. It’s lively, interesting, and has something fun to do regardless of your tastes, whether that is going to a show, getting pizza and a beer , or enjoying a piano bar.
The best 6th Avenue Tacoma restaurants tend to be laid back and cool, but there are a few more upscale places here as well. You can also find some of the best breakfast spots here, too, but be forewarned—some of them are super popular. While restaurants and bars are top draws, there are also a number of other things to do, including shopping, going to a small theater, and even a farmer’s market in the summer.
Boundaries:
One end of 6th Avenue is in downtown Tacoma, but other than the Hob Nob near Wright Park, this part of 6th Ave is not really where it’s at. The lineup of trendy restaurants and bars starts shortly after the intersection of Sprague and 6th and continues on all the way to nearly the other end of the street to Jackson Avenue. The street continues after Jackson down to Titlow Beach, but this part is residential.
Transportation:
Pierce Transit Bus 1 runs almost the full length of 6th Ave, from downtown to the Tacoma Community College area. A number of other buses cross 6th Avenue, including routes 10 (between Pearl and Mildred), 51 (at Union), 220 (at Orchard). Route 53A accesses the residential stretch between Jackson and Titlow Beach.
6th Avenue Restaurants:
6th Avenue Tacoma restaurants are the best reason to head to this district. Much like smaller Proctor District in North Tacoma, 6th Ave is less about the chains and more about independent, local places. However, you will find chains here as well, and plenty of them, especially as you head away from downtown.
Just about every type of cuisine can be found on this street. If you are seeking something exotic, try Gateway to India (a reasonable lunch buffet), Bombay Bistro, Wild Orchid, Asado, or Masa.
If you want a casual spot to grab dinner and have some drinks, try out Engine House Number 9 (E9), Farrelli’s Wood Fire Pizza, or the Clover Leaf.
Some of the best pizza options in town are on 6th Avenue, namely the Clover Leaf and Garlic Jim’s, which is take out, but about the best take out you will find in town.
Coffee shops, both chain and independent, are found up and down 6th Ave, but only one is also a donut shop. Pao’s Donut and Coffee Shop is worth checking out.
If you want a quick and cheap bite to eat, fast food spots are plentiful, especially near the intersection of Pearl Street.
6th Avenue Bars:
You’re unlikely to find a thumping techno dance place here, but you will find many relaxed bars and clubs that offer a good array of beer and wine and often some tasty food to go along with it. Most of the best nightlife on 6th Avenue is located between the intersections of Sprague and Alder. Some of the best are 6th Avenue Pub, O’Malley’s Irish Pub, and the Olives Lounge, all relatively close to each other if you’re looking for a pub crawl. If you want some live music, Jazzbones and Chop Stix are great options. Chop Stix features live dueling pianos some nights of the week. For a wine bar, try Cork Wine Bar.
Events:
The 6th Avenue Farmer’s Market takes place from May through September on 6th and Pine.
The Tacoma Musical Playhouse puts on small productions at 7116 6th Avenue.
Swasey Tacoma Public Library is worth checking for small events.
Shopping:
Another great reason to head to 6th Avenue Tacoma is to go shopping, whether it is grocery shopping or looking to a special item. Stores of special note include Tacoma Boys at 5602 6th Avenue, which is a fine produce and meats store. Generally, between downtown and Pearl, you will find small stores such as vintage record shops or specialty bead stores. After Pearl, you’ll find more big business and chain stores.