Ben Dews Tacoma has rapidly become a cherished culinary destination, celebrated for its innovative approach to modern American cuisine. Nestled in the heart of Tacoma, this restaurant offers a thoughtfully curated menu that reflects both local flavors and global inspirations.
The ambiance is inviting, combining rustic charm with contemporary elegance, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or an intimate dinner. Whether you’re a longtime local or a traveler exploring the Pacific Northwest, Ben Dews Tacoma’s menu promises a memorable dining experience that balances comfort with creativity.
What sets Ben Dews apart is its commitment to quality ingredients and seasonal offerings. The menu changes to reflect the freshest produce and sustainable seafood, ensuring that every dish bursts with vibrant flavors.
This approach not only supports local farmers and suppliers but also showcases the rich culinary heritage of the region. Diners can expect dishes crafted with care, where each plate tells a story through its textures, colors, and taste.
With a diverse selection ranging from hearty mains to delicate appetizers and indulgent desserts, the Ben Dews Tacoma menu caters to a variety of palates. Whether you favor bold, spicy notes or prefer something light and refreshing, there is something to satisfy every craving.
The thoughtfully paired beverages further elevate the experience, offering both classic and inventive options.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Ben Dews Tacoma sets the tone for the meal with a variety of starters that highlight fresh, local ingredients. These dishes are designed to awaken the palate and prepare guests for the courses to follow.
Each starter balances creativity with familiarity, ensuring there is an option for every taste preference.
Among the popular choices is the Roasted Beet Salad, featuring earthy beets paired with tangy goat cheese and a drizzle of honey vinaigrette. This dish is not only visually stunning but also delivers a perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors.
Another favorite is the Pacific Northwest Oysters, served fresh with a zesty mignonette sauce that enhances their natural brininess without overpowering it.
For those seeking something heartier, the Duck Confit Spring Rolls offer a crispy, savory bite with a hint of Asian-inspired spice. These rolls come with a side of hoisin dipping sauce that complements the rich duck meat beautifully.
Vegetarians will appreciate the Grilled Artichoke Hearts, served with lemon aioli and toasted almonds, providing a textural contrast and bright finish.
Notable Starters
- Roasted Beet Salad with goat cheese and honey vinaigrette
- Pacific Northwest Oysters with mignonette sauce
- Duck Confit Spring Rolls with hoisin dipping sauce
- Grilled Artichoke Hearts with lemon aioli and toasted almonds
“Our appetizers are crafted to provide a journey of flavors, setting the stage for the rest of your dining experience.” – Head Chef at Ben Dews Tacoma
Entrées and Main Courses
The main course offerings at Ben Dews Tacoma are a testament to the kitchen’s mastery of technique and flavor combinations. Here, diners will find a selection of dishes that range from robust, meat-centric plates to delicately prepared seafood and vegetarian options.
Each entrée is thoughtfully plated, balancing visual appeal with satisfying portions.
A standout entrée is the Pan-Seared Alaskan Halibut, served with a beurre blanc sauce and seasonal vegetables. The fish is cooked to perfection, boasting a crispy skin while maintaining a tender, flaky interior.
The beurre blanc adds a rich, buttery tang that complements the mild flavor of the halibut.
For meat lovers, the Slow-Roasted Prime Rib is a must-try. This dish features tender, juicy beef cooked low and slow, accompanied by horseradish cream and a red wine reduction.
The prime rib is always a crowd-pleaser, delivering depth and warmth in every bite.
Vegetarian diners are not left behind, with options like the Wild Mushroom Risotto. This creamy dish is infused with earthy mushrooms and finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, providing a hearty yet meat-free option.
Main Course Highlights
| Dish | Main Ingredient | Accompaniment | Flavor Profile |
| Pan-Seared Alaskan Halibut | Halibut | Beurre Blanc, Seasonal Veggies | Buttery, Mild, Fresh |
| Slow-Roasted Prime Rib | Prime Rib Beef | Horseradish Cream, Red Wine Reduction | Rich, Savory, Tender |
| Wild Mushroom Risotto | Mushrooms | Parmesan, Fresh Herbs | Earthy, Creamy, Herbal |
Signature Sandwiches and Burgers
Ben Dews Tacoma’s sandwich and burger offerings bring a gourmet twist to classic comfort food. Perfect for a casual lunch or a satisfying dinner, these dishes incorporate premium ingredients and inventive combinations that elevate familiar favorites.
The Smoked Brisket Sandwich is a highlight, featuring tender, slow-cooked brisket layered with house-made barbecue sauce and pickled red onions on a toasted brioche bun. This sandwich strikes a balance between smoky, tangy, and sweet notes.
Another beloved option is the Portobello Mushroom Burger, which offers a hearty vegetarian alternative. The grilled mushroom cap is marinated in a balsamic glaze and topped with melted provolone, arugula, and roasted garlic aioli, creating a rich and flavorful bite.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, the Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich delivers a crispy, fiery experience, complemented by cooling coleslaw and pickles. Each sandwich pairs beautifully with the restaurant’s hand-cut fries or a side salad.
Popular Sandwiches
- Smoked Brisket Sandwich with barbecue sauce and pickled red onions
- Portobello Mushroom Burger with balsamic glaze and provolone
- Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich with coleslaw and pickles
- Hand-cut fries or side salad as accompaniments
“Our sandwiches are designed to deliver bold flavors with every bite while maintaining a balance of textures.” – Ben Dews Culinary Team
Salads and Lighter Fare
For guests seeking lighter options, Ben Dews Tacoma offers a variety of fresh, vibrant salads and small plates that emphasize crisp textures and bright flavors. These choices are perfect as starters or as standalone meals for those who prefer something less heavy.
The Kale and Quinoa Salad is a nutrient-packed favorite, combining hearty kale leaves with fluffy quinoa, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries. A lemon-tahini dressing ties all the elements together with a subtle tang.
Another refreshing option is the Citrus Avocado Salad, which features ripe avocado slices paired with grapefruit, oranges, and a hint of chili flakes. This salad offers a delightful balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy notes.
Additionally, the Grilled Caesar Salad puts a twist on the classic by adding charred romaine hearts, garlic croutons, and shaved Parmesan, finished with a house-made Caesar dressing that is both bold and nuanced.
Light Fare Selections
| Salad | Key Ingredients | Dressing | Flavor Notes |
| Kale and Quinoa Salad | Kale, Quinoa, Almonds, Cranberries | Lemon-Tahini | Earthy, Nutty, Tangy |
| Citrus Avocado Salad | Avocado, Grapefruit, Oranges, Chili Flakes | Light Citrus Vinaigrette | Creamy, Sweet, Spicy |
| Grilled Caesar Salad | Romaine, Croutons, Parmesan | House Caesar | Smoky, Garlicky, Bold |
Desserts and Sweet Endings
The dessert menu at Ben Dews Tacoma offers indulgent treats designed to provide a satisfying conclusion to the meal. Each dessert reflects the same attention to detail and quality as the savory dishes, often incorporating seasonal fruits and house-made components.
The Chocolate Hazelnut Torte is a rich, decadent option that combines layers of dark chocolate ganache with crunchy hazelnut praline. Served with a dollop of whipped cream, it is a favorite among chocolate lovers.
For a lighter choice, the Lemon Panna Cotta delivers a creamy, tangy finish, complemented by fresh berries and a drizzle of honey. This dessert balances sweetness with a refreshing citrus zing.
Another standout is the Apple Crisp, featuring warm, spiced apples baked under a crunchy oat topping and served with vanilla ice cream. This dish evokes comforting, nostalgic flavors that resonate with many diners.
Dessert Highlights
- Chocolate Hazelnut Torte with dark ganache and praline
- Lemon Panna Cotta with fresh berries and honey drizzle
- Apple Crisp with spiced apples and vanilla ice cream
“Our desserts are crafted to leave a lasting impression, blending tradition with inventive flavors.” – Pastry Chef at Ben Dews Tacoma
Beverage Selections and Pairings
Complementing the menu is an extensive beverage list that includes carefully selected wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails. Ben Dews Tacoma prioritizes pairing drinks that enhance the flavors of each dish, elevating the overall dining experience.
The wine list features both local Pacific Northwest vineyards and international selections, offering options for every preference and budget. From crisp whites to robust reds, the sommelier’s recommendations help guide guests toward the perfect pairing.
Cocktail offerings range from classic concoctions to house specialties crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Notable examples include the Smoked Maple Old Fashioned and the Cucumber Basil Gimlet, both designed to complement the restaurant’s flavor profiles.
For beer enthusiasts, the menu includes a rotating selection of local craft brews, which pair excellently with the heartier dishes and sandwiches.
Beverage Pairing Tips
| Dish | Recommended Wine | Cocktail Option | Beer Pairing |
| Pan-Seared Alaskan Halibut | Sauvignon Blanc | Cucumber Basil Gimlet | Pilsner |
| Slow-Roasted Prime Rib | Cabernet Sauvignon | Smoked Maple Old Fashioned | Stout |
| Wild Mushroom Risotto | Pinot Noir | Herbal Gin Fizz | Amber Ale |
Seasonal and Special Menus
Ben Dews Tacoma embraces the changing seasons by updating its menu to incorporate the freshest, most flavorful ingredients available. Seasonal menus highlight the best produce, meats, and seafood, creating dishes that reflect the time of year and regional bounty.
Special menus are often introduced to celebrate holidays or local events, featuring unique dishes or prix fixe options. These menus provide an excellent opportunity to explore new flavors and enjoy exclusive culinary creations.
Vegan and gluten-free selections are thoughtfully included within these seasonal offerings, ensuring inclusivity and variety for all diners. The kitchen’s flexibility and creativity shine in these menus, showcasing their dedication to exceptional dining experiences.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring: Asparagus and pea risotto with fresh herbs
- Summer: Grilled corn salad with cherry tomatoes and basil
- Fall: Roasted butternut squash soup with sage
- Winter: Braised short ribs with root vegetables
“By embracing the seasons, we craft menus that celebrate nature’s rhythm and local abundance.” – Executive Chef at Ben Dews Tacoma
Conclusion
The Ben Dews Tacoma menu offers a harmonious blend of creativity, quality, and local inspiration that appeals to a wide array of tastes and preferences. Each dish is carefully developed to showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients, resulting in vibrant flavors and memorable presentations.
From the enticing appetizers to the indulgent desserts, every course invites diners on a culinary journey that respects tradition while embracing innovation.
Whether savoring a perfectly seared piece of fish, enjoying a carefully crafted cocktail, or indulging in a sweet treat, guests at Ben Dews Tacoma can expect an experience that delights the senses and nurtures the soul.
The restaurant’s dedication to sustainability, local sourcing, and exceptional service further enhances its reputation as a premier dining destination in Tacoma.
In a city rich with culinary options, Ben Dews stands out by offering a menu that is both approachable and sophisticated, ensuring that every visit is special. By consistently evolving with the seasons and listening to its community, Ben Dews Tacoma continues to set a high standard for dining excellence that keeps guests returning time and again.
