By ANGELA JOSSY

When it came to my attention that we have a new bar downtown, I quickly zipped over to their website and read this: “Welcome to the Blue Rose Bar located in the Downtown Tacoma’s Theatre District. Some call us a ‘Dive-Lounge.’ We’re ok with it. We serve up some great sandwiches, soups, and salads. Our Mac-N-Cheese is kind of amazing, and if y’all want to get fancy, we have meat and cheese charcuterie plates to tingle your tastebuds too. Our full bar sets the stage for a laid-back lounge experience. Kick back, enjoy good company, and have a beer, a glass of wine, or indulge in one of our house cocktails. So come on by! Enjoy our delicious food, have a drink, and unwind with friends! Cheers!”

I immediately chased down owner Danny Puskarcik for a one-on-one interrogation, ah, I mean interview!

Weekly Volcano: What is the origin story of your establishment?

Danny Puskarcik: I have wanted to own a restaurant/coffee house, or something along those lines since my teens. After I turned 21 (many years ago), the idea of a bar entered the picture as well. I grew up pretty poor and never really had the opportunity  to do so. I had spent the last decade working and saving and built the opportunity for myself. After some big changes in my life and an opportunity for reflection, I decided to take the risk and pursue that dream. My goal(s)? I want to create a space that brings people together. Where they find themselves having a feeling of home away from home and community; and where they really enjoy the service and the food/drinks, etc. I believe I’ve been building that and hope that those who visit agree!

WV: What is your most popular food and drink?

DP: Our most popular food items are the The Turkey Sandwich (generous amounts of roasted turkey layered on a mix of mango chutney, blue cheese, and mayo; served on a rustic roll) and the Antipasti Plate (assorted cheese and cured meats, marinated olive mix, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar; served with a French baguette). Our most popular drinks are The Blue Rose (Four Roses Bourbon, Rose liqueur, Sweet Vermouth, Butterfly Truth Serum) and The Garden of Heathens (Ransom Gin, Elderflower liqueur, shrub, basil, soda).

WV: What’s unique about your place? 

DP: We’re as if a dive bar had a slightly more sophisticated older sibling? Kind of rock bar meets relaxed lounge with a great menu of comfort food, sandwiches, salads, and charcuterie.

WV: What’s the overall vibe there?

DP: The best way it’s been described is “dive-lounge” (see previous answer). You can expect to hear anything from David Bowie to Murder City Devils to John Lee Hooker to The Sonics to Screamin’ Jay Hawkins playing, and everything in-between. All while sitting in a warm environment and being surrounded by interesting artwork. So you be the judge.

WV: If there was one thing you’d like everybody in Tacoma to know about Blue Rose Bar what would that be?

DP: We’re slightly off the beaten path, we’re laid back and have quality food and drinks for decent prices. We want to be your new go-to spot and welcome you to come check us out. We won’t be where you go for a crazy night on the town, but we make a pretty great chill and have eats and drinks with good friends, and have good conversation type of place. We hope to become your next regular hang out. Cheers!  Blue Rose Bar 628 St. Helens Avenue Tacoma, WA 98402 (253) 426-1347 HOURS: Tuesday – Thursday: 12pm to 10pm. Friday: 12pm to 12am Saturday: 3pm to 12am Read the whole menu here: https://www.bluerosetacoma.com