Nestled just minutes from downtown Tacoma, and on the edge of the historical Stadium District; The Hub restaurant and Harmon Taproom have become a Tacoma favorite. Though part of the Harmon Brewing Company, The Hub has its own unique atmosphere and neighborhood feel to it. Its bicycle-themed pub-style restaurant setting make for a perfect meeting, eating and socializing hot spot. On warm days, one can enjoy the atmosphere from the open air bar and deck. The Harmon Taproom, located directly below in the basement, offers a much more casual pub experience with a huge beer garden patio full of picnic tables.

Known locally for their in-house craft beer and artisan wood-fired pizzas, The Hub and Taproom also offer Mediterranean-themed pastas, signature appetizers, salads, burgers and sandwiches. As difficult as it was to look past some of the delicious pizzas that pair fresh roasted garlic with artichokes, olives and basil; pepperoni, salami, Italian sausage and chopped ham, to name a few, I found myself drawn to their selection of sandwiches ranging from the chicken BLT to a grilled veggie. I couldn't resist the salami grinder offered in the Taproom downstairs.

Served on a crunchy buttered hoagie roll, the grinder is loaded with flavorful slices of salami and provolone cheese, and accented with roasted red peppers and a kalamatoa olive tapenade, and finally topped with fresh organic greens for a final, natural crunch. The salami is the star of this sandwich with its bold flavor and pepper finish, but the tangy and meaty flavor of the kalamatoa olive tapenade is the perfect pairing on this grinder. Greek mythology suggests that Athena gave the olive tree to us humans as a gift, and I personally offer my thanks to this Greek goddess of wisdom (and flavor!). And finally, the fresh greens and roasted red peppers simply offer a needed textural freshness for a perfect balance.

Because the beer selection is always hand crafted and in-house, the offerings change almost daily. However, there are a few standards that are consistently on the menu; the Puget Porter, Mt. Takhoma Blonde Ale, Pt. Defiance IPA, and even an Opening Day Ale for the Mariners opener last month. Whatever your choice is. ... The Hub and Taproom are sure to have whatever your beer needs are. The dark and chocolate tones of the Puget Porter was perfect for the sharpness of the salami grinder when you find yourself out on one of the decks.

A complete dining experience of hand crafted beer that pair with any meal make The Hub and Harmon Taproom a must visit for any casual diner visiting Tacoma.