The Porch Light Bar & Grill — Restaurant in Tacoma

Largely barren of personality, devoid of charm, and designed without a sense of style, The Backyard, though well-intentioned, confuses functionality for an inviting environment. The repurposing of the Alleycat thinks things with aioli are novel, fails to deliver barbeque worthy of the name, markets tacos as though they are 'special', and, while the drinks are stiff, is habited by a staff, who though mostly are affable, humor-natured and -humored, notwithstanding, collectively, give off a vibe as much off-ramp freeway cardboard signs as folks biding time until shift end (their likely genuine disposition; if they do not want to be there, it does not suggest that you would either). None project a collaborative sense that they are among the vanguard of a revival. Perhaps that is by design, a choice that serves familiars but it is one unlikely to cultivate new customers or entice many back who left when Alleycat violence destroyed itself. Unfortunately, despite hopes that The Backyard retread would yield another promising meeting place for 6th, its lack of imagination suggests a framing more akin to echoing the living room of a common friend (where perhaps this version was conceived) than inviting a morphing Central Tacoma demographic to share spaces thoughtful and welcoming, fun and inclusive. If you perceive that your patio is your draw, a feature unknown to the unacquainted and uninviting to the unfamiliar, then you are thinking as though the enterprise is your backyard rather than providing a venue with that feeling. It seems to be a place for old regulars from other venues rather than a neighborhood hub with energy and the feel of a yard party. As a (re)new(ed) bar less than a half a year old, it comes off as oddly tired and weary. Perhaps its presently prevailing inertia will gather momentum, but early returns suggest that it is more a barge aimlessly floating down a river than a ship launched on an adventure worthy of joining. If what you seek is a random, quick pick-me-up on the way to something better, then enjoy, but as a regular hang, a great deal of work will need to be done to bend its fate toward realizing the implications...

I had the privilege of stopping by here after the recent grand opening with new management and it was really cool! The space has an inviting aesthetic; cozy and stylish, with unique touches and an awesome back patio area. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, and the owner was super cool. You can tell they really care about their guests here. One of my favorite parts was the art on display. They were all from local artists and each piece is for sale! Really gives the whole place a creative vibe and makes it stand out from other spots.

Great food, great atmosphere, and genuinely wonderful people. Definitely a place I look forwarding to...

I've been there a few times with my girlfriend and we love it! I live in Fredrickson but am willing to drive 40 minutes to go there. Now they're also doing trivia nights and it's even better. The back patio are is cozy and comfortable to relax and have a drink in. I feel like I'm at a friend's place having drinks when I'm there. We'll be going again tonight. Oh I almost forgot, the prices of drinks are very reasonable and the service is really good. If I could rate it higher I would. Tonight I'll try thr food for the first time and come...