Europa Bistro
2515 N Proctor St, Tacoma, WA, 98406
Europa Bistro Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Tacoma for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Tacoma for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Tacoma for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
2515 N Proctor St
Tacoma, WA, 98406 - Phone (253) 761-5660
- Website https://www.europabistro.net
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
Italian Cuisine
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
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Chris W.
After visiting the Saturday Farmers Market, we were wandering back to our car, thought this place looked good and went in. The service was good. Our waiter was attentive and prompt in responding to our needs. The food was excellent; well prepared from fresh ingredients. If I had any complaint it would be that the portions were a little on the small side. Not ridiculously small, just slightly so. I wouldn't hesitate to go here again while I'm in the neighborhood, but wouldn't drive across town for it.
(4)Corinne M.
I was very pleased with my visit, everything that I'd expect from a Bistro. The bread and infused oil, were my favorite! I ate the ravioli, and they seemed to be a little on the chewy side, and a little dry, but the other flavors of the dish were pleasing, and overall it worked out well, I would not have liked it if the ravioli had been served by itself. The staff was great, and the cook was even singing, that was a bonus. I really liked the atmosphere, it was very comfortable. I'm happy that I've found this place, and I am looking forward to coming again!
(4)Monica W.
We made reservations for a senior banquet here for a party of fifteen and ended up having to move the time an hour later. They were more than accommodating and even called to make sure we were on our way when we were running behind schedule. We were to last party there and had about an hour until closing but everyone was so courteous and didn't rush us at all. I really appreciated the service, especially since we ended up being a bit of a high maintenance group. The food was great as well. Portion sizes were more than substantial, though it could vary according to the dish. I ordered the Penne Matriciana and enjoyed that the sauce wasn't overwhelming in taste nor amount (not a huge lover of sauce gobbling up my pasta). Even though I have been to Italy, there were so many touristy restaurants that catered to American expectations that it got confusing what was authentic Italian food (basically nothing in Rome) but this place felt pretty authentic. It was a good mix between staying true to an Italian experience while still satisfying those that still may insist that Olive Garden is the best Italian restaurant ever.
(4)Deb R.
Appetizer - the Montanaro, was great. Lots of well bought and prepared ingredients, with exception of artichoke hearts which were straight out of a number 10 can. The eggplant was perfect! Great flavor and texture and one of us usually passes on eggplant. Lots of GF options. We both ordered GF pastas. Il Classico (spaghetti with meatballs and sausage) was the best. The Fusilli ai Funghi didn't seem to have many 'wild' mushrooms, more market types and the sauce was a tasty rosemary cream sauce but something was off. Not bad, just not that great. Server and one busses ended up juggling 12 tables, but when we came in there were very few and they weren't that attentive then either. When they were at our table they were great, good listeners and caring, but no check-backs and no water refills though the pitcher passed a few times.
(3)Karen M.
Every time we come here we experience nothing but genuine service! The food is divine and the music soothing. You need to go here. Rico is amazing!
(5)Alfonso O.
Best authentic italian food in Tacoma (fiance is italian and her family loves it...they are from Italy) Service is exceptional. Always my go to!
(5)Nancy C.
Told they closed kitchen @ 1:45 - we got there at 1:47 - never again, your loss....Really wanted to try this place but they didn't want our business. Walked across the street to Pomodoro where it was packed to have lunch....
(1)Bart T.
We have been meaning to stop in for a long time and I am glad that we did. The staff are attentive and the food is fantastic. We both had one of the specials. I went for the vegetarian beer ravioli with zucchini and sun dried tomatoes. Tracy had the sautéed chicken Creasy with portobello mushroom. Both were excellent. Wine prices are super reasonable. With we had come here sooner.
(5)Dennis B.
Great service and a bus girl who is studying opera--and just entertained us. How cool is that!
(5)Gino G.
Made a reservation for 20 of us for lunch. They we're ready for us. Since we were on limited time, the service was fast and the food was great!
(5)Dr. John S.
Today we took a trip to Tacoma to visit the Proctor District and specifically wanted to see the remodeled Metropolitan Market. Upon arriving we notice a rather non-descript building across from where we parked and saw a sign that read Bistro. Thinking what the heck let's check it out, have a bite to eat and then go to the market. As we entered the building we were immediately greeted by a most polite waitperson , seated and given menus followed by a complimentary serving of oven warm bread and an herb infused olive oil dipping sauce. The interior of the restaurant was well planned, nicely designed, charming and super clean. As we looked at the most extensive menu and ate the bread it soon became apparent that this was not just another Italian restaurant. When our wait person arrived we complimented him on the bread, accompanying olive oil and told him it was as good as it gets to which he thanked us and told us that yes, it was homemade! We both decided on the special for the day which was a chicken ravioli in a creamy gorgonzola sauce with bits of broccoli. Unlike so many corporate style restaurants this dish and apparently everything they serve is made to order and takes some time. Was it good? Absolutely not as it was not only outstanding but simply fabulous! If you didn't know better you could easily have thought you were in Italy and not Tacoma. As someone who relishes good Italian food this was far far superior to any Italian restaurant in the entire state of Washington with the possible exception of Massimo in Gig Harbor. Will we go back? Absolutely! Can not wait!
(5)Lisa K.
Just came back from our anniversary dinner. First time here, but it won't be the last! Where else in Tacoma does the owner spend time chatting with all the customers, answer questions, give out some cooking secrets, and even agree to take a selfie with you? Our meal of IL Classic and cioppino were over the top crafted. They make their own sausage for the IL Classico, and the seafood on the cioppino is fresh and cooked to perfection! The tomato sauces were like none we ever had. Perfect blend of tomatoes and seasonings. We're thinking of taking one of their cooking classes they have each month to learn more secrets we can take home and try. Highly, highly recommend Europa. Suggest you go early to get the best personal attention.
(5)Joyce M.
Went here for lunch with my two daughters to celebrate my 70th birthday. It was amazingly good. We had read about an appetizer that people loved, but it wasn't on the menu. When we asked our waiter he said he would have the chef/owner make it for us. He did and it was great. We shared a chicken risotto dish, gnocchi's and spinach manicotti. It was all wonderful. We were not rushed and enjoyed the whole experience. I wish I could have had dessert as the tiramisu looked great. I typically don't go out for Italian food as I don't feel it's done any better than what I can do at home. However, this place was recommended and it is, by far, the best Italian food around this area. Try it. Bon appetitio.
(5)Richard K.
So we went to this restaurant for one of my friends who is getting ready to have her wedding and she wanted to look into this place as a possible catering option. We had heard really good things about this restaurant however our experience it was something other than what we had read and heard. We had a reservation at seven and The majority of our party did arrive promptly at seven however we were seated and not offered any water or any sort of drinks to wait for the rest of the party. once the rest of the party did arrive we were greeted and then left alone for approximately 15 minutes before they took our drink order once they took our drink order and then it was another 30 minutes before we actually received the drinks that we had ordered (keep in mind it was a total of four drinks out of a party of eight). Then he left without getting our appetizer order came back about three minutes later took her appetizer order left for another 15 minutes and then finally came back and took our entire order. Once our order was placed we actually did receive our food quite fast the server was very hectic and seemed very scatterbrained as he may have had couple (like three) tables it was a Friday night and I do understand that it was quite busy however I would think that they would want to take care of customers regardless. It always seemed like a task to grab our servers attention and whenever we were requesting something and took quite some time to actually receive the items that we requested. I ordered the chicken Alfredo and let me begin by saying that I have had Alfredo many other places many other times and this chicken Alfredo was some of the blandest chicken Alfredo I have ever tasted two other individuals at our table order the same thing and thought that it was very dissatisfying. Of course I tasted other people's dishes at the table and they were fantastic some of my friends ordered for lasagna another order The Classico dish and another ordered another dish that I do not recall but I can see the majority of their dishes and they were all amazing how were the three people that I had ordered chicken Alfredo or simply discussed it with the taste as it was bland and he said like flour. I'm sorry to say I will not be returning to or recommending this restaurant. (This is an addition to the already bad review) But when you have someone message negatively based on a review you left... Really not good look at the pictures to see the message back about my review
(2)Monika N.
This is one of my very favorite restaurants, EXCEPT for the noise level on a busy night. If they could muffle some of the sound level, I'd enjoy my delicious meals much more. As it is, I'm one of those people who hates to yell at my dinner partner who is sitting two feet away.
(4)Jessica R.
The happy hour here is great! 4.50 pours and appetizers are half off. And these are really good appetizers- no nachos or chicken strips- bruschetta, olives, egg plant, goat cheese, cape ear salad. So yummy...
(5)Zoe B.
Long waits, slow service and probably gluten everywhere. Don't eat here, ever. ...then there will be more for me. So seriously, if you're going to bitch, leave your 1 star snark and then F right off. Seriously amazing Italian food, all hand-made with love. Very reasonable prices and healthy portions particularly when you consider that every single thing is made to order, just for you. You want 30 lbs of cheesy glue? There's an Old Spaghetti Factory downtown; have at it. That monstrous, shiny machine on the counter is a pasta maker. They use it to make the pasta on your plate. You're not going to get that anywhere else, not even Seattle. Good things take time; didn't your mother ever tell you that? Drink your wine, nosh on that fresh-from-the-oven house made bread, and shaddup about it.
(5)Kevin P.
I love this place! My wife and I have eaten here and handful of times and have loved it every time. Food - We've only eaten pasta dishes, and every one of them have been great! They make their own pasta and every dish tastes very fresh an has great flavor. The prices are great as well. Service - I love the service here. We always have friendly service. Yes it can be slow at times to get your food, but good food takes time. It feels like they're inviting you to their house, and we love talking with the staff. I think that's why people complain about things taking a while: it's because they treat everyone with genuine hospitality an take the time to make you feel welcome. Also, this last visit we had the host said it'd be 30-45 minutes before we got a table. We decided to wait, and say at the bar and I had a glass of wine. My wife is gluten free, but we forgot to order the pasta gluten free. Oops! We told the waiter, he apologized (not that he needed to) and we ordered the same meal gluten free and asked for the non gluten free meal to go. Alfredo (the owner?) came by a little later and asked how our food as an why my wife wasn't eating. We explained the mixup and that we were waiting for the new dish, and he ended up fixing us the dish for free! Nice. At the end I the meal I got our bill, and I noticed the glass of wine I got while waiting was also taken off the bill. Wow. Awesome! You can't get better service than that!
(5)Angel B.
It's ok it's worst than Olive Garden and I think Olive Garden is ok but it's sauce is to watery and I'm Italian it doesn't taste like Italian food at all #dislike
(1)E S.
Really fresh, yummy, consistently great food for an unexpectedly reasonable price. Attentive, great service. Our go-to spot for special occasions.
(5)Scott H.
Have eaten here many times. Alfredo is one good chef. Service is good. Got crowded at 6 pm and the restaurant is a little noisy but you can still here the other party talk. I had chicken parmesean thst was A plus. My friend had the rack of lamb which was different from the traditional French version. It was slightly overdone medium as opposed to medium rare however the Kalamata olives over powered the dish. The pasta was perfectly done and the marinara sauce was just right.
(4)Liliane E.
The quality and composition of the dishes here varies greatly depending on the chef in the kitchen. I came here again for lunch, ordered the soup of the day which was crab chowder and also ordered the vongole (sauteed manilla clams with garlic and parsley). Cons: The soup looked amazing, and the flavor was on point. The big draw back was finding numerous shell pieces in my soup. In my opinion, this is a big no-no and is very lazy and sloppy. The vongole was visually pleasing, but the amount of garlic in this dish was overwhelming, and there were numerous shell pieces in the broth, both large and small which made it inedible. Bummer, I was looking forward to dipping my bread in it. The service was par, nothing spectacular but definitely not proactive. I hate having to ask for table staples, case in point I shouldn't have to ask for more cream for my freshly topped coffee especially when the restaurant is empty. Pros: The complimentary bread and olive oil was tasty.
(3)Kevin L.
Great meal for four of us. Unfortunately only one waiter so he was a little slow. Not his fault and the food more than made up for it. Everything was delicious and a great time!
(4)Archie P.
The hospitality here is amazing! We decided to stop in for dessert after eating dinner across the street and the Maître d' was happy to seat us and serve us personally, although at least four other servers tried to bring us menus and bread. The food coming out of the kitchen all looked amazing and I can tell you that the crème brûlée was so good that it made my eyes to back in my head. All things considered, we will definitely be back for dinner next week. Everything just looked and smelled so good and the staff were so hospitable that I can't help myself!
(5)Wes W.
[Warning, the following may seem condescending to culturally ignorant yelpers] Absolutely great food. Haven't had this great of Italian food since visiting Roma Firma. I honestly can't believe the reviews are so average for such a stellar restaurant, but from reading some of them, I see it's because most Americans are in such a hurry for their main dish to come out that they can't sit back enjoy some vino and homemade bread and olive oil. It's quite absurd to write reviews such as, "the food was great, but we had to wait for it". Well, most Americans don't realize this, but homemade food actually takes time to be made. If you are one of these people, may I suggest a McDonald's or Burger King. Also, as anyone who has actually been outside of the US and visited Italy can attest, a dinner meal is an event than takes 2-3 hours on average to have. This buena vita of true Italians was so apparent in Europa Bistro, it was as if my wife and I were back in Rome. Anyways, food was great, atmosphere was great. Keep doing what you are doing Europa Bistro.
(5)Evan S.
Food was 5 stars. Seems like owner needs to iron out service. Waited 1/2 hour for bill after asking for it twice. Then went to bar to ask for it myself. Awesome food for all of us. We had the gnocchi, spinach manicotti, pasta with wild mushrooms and sausage. Maybe someone stayed home from work as they were short handed. Chef deserves a lot of credit for excellent food.
(4)Char M.
Here from Los Angeles, and didn't realize places close down so early for dinner. Went to 5 different restaurants that said the kitchen was closed (it was only 10pm). Stopped by here and they said no problem. Not only did they cook for me, but the food was delicious! Will definitely be coming back during my visit here and bringing other people along!
(5)C.M. M.
The first time I ate here it was FIVE STARS. Tonight, one. Here's why... We sat down and waited 23 minutes to order our wine and caprese. Then our server wanted our order twenty minutes after that when we only had just received the wine. The wine glasses were filled up to the top (red wine should only take a couple of fingers). No caprese yet. Finally forty-five minutes later we had the caprese. Five minutes later our entrees appeared, no, only three of the four entrees. We waited nearly ten minutes for the fourth entree. Then we had to ask for cheese. What appeared was the cheap Kraft shaker cheese (I kid you not). Nothing was freshly grated. Not once did any one ask how our dinners were. Not once did we get an offer to bring more wine. When I asked the server about the cheese, she rudely said, we never grate fresh cheese. Well, I ate there last month and had a five star meal and THEY DID. Anyway, we had to wait another THIRTY minutes for our dishes to be partially cleared. Finally we caught her and just asked for our check. It was ridiculous. Bad service. Marginal food served at different times, no refill on the wine, and the topper was the cheese! Anyway, apparently I rushed to judgement when I last reviewed. We had excellent service, amazing food, and a lovely night. Tonight - I was embarrassed after bragging about the place and bringing three friends only to be served disappointment. Rats.
(1)Mark H.
Worst meal ever. Ordered the special which was supposed to be mushroom ravioli and ended up with a beet ravioli. Our guest ordered a pasta pesto dish which was nothing more than 2 lbs of pasta dressed with a flat pesto sauce. We all ordered Caesar salads which were never delivered. We've eaten there before and it was OK....tonight they were way off their game. It will be some time before we return. Pomodora across the street is a much better bet.
(1)Peter A.
Absolutely phenomenal Italian cuisine. Alfredo (owner/chef/winner at life) will send your tastebuds into wonderland, for a fairly inexpensive price. If you are hesitant about dishing out the presidents for Italian eatery, go to this place and try out their lunch menu - it is, unbelievably, cheaper than eating at subway and 1000 times better, eat your heart out Jarod!
(5)R W.
We arrived on time for our reservation. We were made to wait 30 minutes for a table. The staff seemed to be confused and stressed. The table,olive oil decanter and s & p shakers were all sticky. Since we were seated near the kitchen area we got to experience the chefs slamming plates down on the counter and watch as entrees sat for minutes before being delivered cold, no doubt. We thought they might comp desert to make amends for our long wait for a reserved table, but were never asked about desert at all. Being a Saturday night, the place was very busy, but one wonders how long that will continue with it being run the way it was that peticular evening. It was not our first time there, but will probably be our last.
(1)Sarah H.
Amazed this place doesn't have better reviews. One of the biggest mistakes I've made in Tacoma is not coming here right away! I've yet to have a bad meal here. The service can be slow, and the restaurant can be loud, and the decor sucks, but the food is good, well portioned, and reasonably priced. Alfredo has a great personality and always remembers you. What to order- the lamb noodle stew pasta (the best!!!), whatever is the special, the smoked salmon pasta, the pesto pasta the Gorgonzola gnocchi.
(4)JM B.
The owner/main chef (?) greeted us and said he'd get a table ready right away.. There were three empty tables open but he walked away then started chatting with other people at the bar as we kept standing waiting to be seated. Very rude! We almost left but decided to ask a waitress rushing by if we were allowed to sit down. Food took a bit longer than average to receive. Main courses were disappointing... Lamb dish was bland and missing the vegetables that I ordered. Polenta was like wet cardboard. Pasta dish was similar to TV dinner. Leftovers the next day left something to be desired. Appetizer (prawns) was great though! Service was super slow and we waited forever in a half empty restaurant to get boxes and check. Waste of $70 that could've been spent better elsewhere.
(1)Derek K.
This place was amazing in so many ways.... We get here and they were about to close, the guys welcome us in with open arms! Their freshly made pasta was to die for and prices were very reasonable. Wine was really tasty and well priced as well. I highly recommend!
(5)Karin K.
I finally popped in here for lunch with a friend, after hearing great things. I have to say - m'eh. We ordered pizza. They brought us the wrong one. It had mushrooms, which I hate, and they suck to have to try to pick them off because you can still taste them after you do. Anyway, We didn't want to bother asking them to correct it because we were worried we would be forgotten or it would take forever. I asked for a silverware. Then I waited. And asked again. This should be a basic and easy to expect thing at a restaurant, not some crazy off the wall request. The quality of the pizza was ok, i wasn't the biggest fan, but then again, it wasn't what I ordered. Overall, if someone else suggested it I'd probably go back, it wasn't really a bad experience, just a pretty mediocre one. But I wouldn't make a point of it. I assume they don't usually bring you food you didn't order with ingredients you hate.
(2)Lorri M.
Super friendly waiter! Really enjoyed the restaurant had the crab Russo- yummy! My friend and I had the same thing next time we go we'd get two different things and split them. Good Caesar, bread and wine list!
(4)Danny M.
Very long waits. Service is as bad as if it was their first night open. Waited over an hour after arriving for first dishes to come out of kitchen.
(2)Barb Z.
feel of walking into italy. an amazing owner who makes you feel at home & truly cares about your service & food. food made freshly daily by owner himself. true italian food.
(5)Ken S.
The food was OK. We started by having flat cokes. It didn't get any better! Some of the food was good, all was well cooked and hot. The waiter a small foreign younger man with a well trimmed beard didn't meet our expectations. He seemed distracted and not ready to serve. He was looking out the window when he was telling us the daily specials. Maybe he should find a different job. It seemed he didn't like my wife and I. The other waiters were nice to us and helpful. The chef greeted us upon arrival and he smiled and was pleasant. The rest of the wait staff were pleasant and focused on serving. Too bad our evening was spoiled by a rotten apple. I didn't Want to make a fuss at bistro but I felt the owners should know how their staff is.
(2)Cyra B.
This place was AMAZING. First, the atmosphere--including the chef whistling in the open kitchen--is beyond quaint. Second, they actually have gluten free pasta offerings, which is extremely rare at Italian restaurants (their menu says they offer GF pasta, ravioli and gnocchi). Third, the food was incredible. From starters to dessert, there was no part of my meal that I didn't love--and the five people I was with all thought the same. It wasn't the fastest service, but European meals are never about getting in and out quickly, so that didn't really bother us. Can't wait to eat here again!
(5)Alicia P.
Been here twice so far, and both times food has been amazing. Boyfriend had the Veal Marsala twice, which in his opinion is the best he has come across in Washington. I have had two different types of pasta, and both were tasty. Place has a small town feel, and only one very hard working waiter. Despite being the only waiter, he checked back with us often, and was adequately attentive. We plan on coming back here often!
(5)Travis V.
Europa knows how to do one thing. PASTA! I have been a half dozen times and have had consistently friendly service, regardless of speed. The wait staff varies on their knowledge and preparation of various dishes. Honestly, you could throw a variety of edible ingredients on fresh pasta and I would be in heaven. However, the Fusilli Russo is an amazing dish worth the visit. Crab meat in a creamy, basil sauce can make a grown man weep a tear of joy. They have an extensive wine selection and the wife likes that. Also, I know they integrate their food knowledge into the curriculum of Washington-Hoyt. I support a varied school experience of our youth and when a restaurant can support the education of local kids, that's huge!
(5)Michael B.
This place is great. Very warm and friendly, the staff make you feel welcome, like you are in their home. The food is authentic, if just a tad on the salty side; The veal and lamb are memorable, but what really strikes me is how friendly everyone is. If you are in the area, be sure to show up early so you get a good seat. It's a popular restaurant
(4)T T.
Went here for a friend's birthday dinner. We had a large group (around 20 people), and the service was AMAZING! The staff there was so friendly and attentive! As we all know, It's not an easy task to cater to such a large party especially when you're a small restaurant, but this place definitely proved that size does not matter lol (excuse the pun). The service was wonderful and they made us feel at home. The food was delicious! We had family style dinner so the chef made a chicken pasta dish and salmon dish that he did not skimp on the meat at all! I've never seen a pasta dish filled with 1:1 on chicken to pasta! They also were so diligent to pack up all the leftovers and placed it all in boxes on a table so that everyone can just grab a box to go. Furthermore, the best part was that they split the checks equally among everyone, but separated the drinks so that only those who drank, paid for their own share -- that way it was a fair split on the meals! This is a huge plus for me because my husband and I don't drink, so Everytime we go out to eat in a group, we always get screwed over with the bill because everyone else would drink and buy bottles that we would end up having to split on the costs! Needless to say, love this place and would recommend to anyone! I will have to host my birthday here next time!
(5)Jenni J.
not a great experience. the food was great, i will say that, but we were there recently on a weekend and the place was packed and there was 1 - yes, 1 - server. all of us felt ignored and neglected all night. not good at all. the server never asked if we needed drink refills - barely ever came by. food is crazy $$$ for the small portion sizes. also one of the busser girls kept clabking her glass to get everyone's attention because she "was studying to be an opera singer" so she sang loud opera like 5 times through the night, for everyone. um - SO awkward and inappropriate. and weird. she was a good singer though... but anyway... my friend had rissoto with clams, shrimp, and he was very annoyed as there was maybe $1.50 worth of 4 pieces of meat in the dish.... Rip. Off. can't way i will return. :( bummer...
(2)Tae L.
I was in the Proctor District and was getting hungry when I remembered hearing from a co-worker that Europa had daily dinner specials and the food was very good. After I finished up some grocery shopping at Metropolitan Market with a friend, I suggested we walk down to Europa to grab some dinner. I'm very glad we did! Since it was Monday, Europa was offering their spaghetti and meatball dinner special for only $9.95 which we both ordered. The food came out within about 15 minutes and was absolutely delicious. The pasta was cooked perfectly and the sauce tasted fresh and had a nice spice to it. We each got 4 good sized handmade meatballs that were very tender and zesty. I will certainly be stopping by here again in the future to try some of their other dishes.
(4)C V.
We've been coming here since they opened! This is by FAR our favorite place to eat. Our 11 yr old son, who was in my tummy for his 1st culinary experience here, would "live" here if we would let him! The atmosphere is very warm and welcoming and we always feel at home. The food is very fresh as most of it is made in house, like the pasta, meatballs, sausages, pizza crust, homemade desserts... and I could just keep going on! There is a broad selection on the menu such as seafood, pasta, steaks, stuffed pork chops, and the pizzas are the bomb! As a bonus, they have a fantastic wine selection too! The owners take great pride in their restaurant and that is shown time and time again with the quality of the dining experience here!
(5)Joel F.
My wife and daughter have celiac and I also avoid gluten. We were excited to try Europa bistro because their website and menu says they offer gluten free pasta, gnocchi, and ravioli. But when we mentioned to the waiter we would be ordering gluten free, he said he had to check if anything was available. So after going out of our way to try this place, turned out they didn't have any of the gf things listed on their menu. We could have ordered an entree or salad but at that point I didn't want to support the place. If the website had just said call ahead then I would have understood. But if a restaurant wants to cater to a specific dietary need they better be ready to deliver. The waiter was nice enough so it's too bad he lost a table because of poor management.
(1)Natasha B.
Delicious pasta. I've been to Italy and this is one of the few places I really felt like I was back there. I came in with a group pretty close to their closing time but they were all very flexible. The server was incredibly flexible and ready to please. I asked several questions about different pastas because the menu is quite extensive and a little overwhelming at first. Server then said they could custom-make anything for us, especially now since they weren't too busy. Oh man, music to my ears. I will be coming here whenever I'm in Tacoma. Great wine selection too!
(4)Randy R.
Great food & fun atmosphere. The chef/owner came out of the kitchen and took our order personally and then went back into the open kitchen where we could watch him cook it for us! Talk about personal service. Minutes later the food started arriving... the grilled chicken raviolis in browned butter with carmalized onions, zucchini, and sun dried tomatoes was superb. Good sized portions, fair prices not to mention warm bread with herb infused olive oil to start. Everyone on staff was friendly and personable - five stars! we will be back!
(5)Paula K.
I have been to Europa twice now, both times with other military spouses for a girls' night out. It's not just a night out for dinner, it's an experience. This is an authentic Italian joint with a nice wine list, great atmosphere and outstanding food. This evening, I went with five other women. We all sampled each other's food and loved every bite. I had the Manilla clams for my appetizer and Risotto Gorgonzola for dinner and both were excellent. I could have turned the bowl up and drank the sauce in the clams. YUM. The service is wonderful, but don't go here if you're in a big hurry. It's very laid back, very European and they take their time and let you enjoy your meal.
(5)Mike D.
We just dropped our freshman off at University of Puget Sound, and dropped in here on a Saturday about 4 pm for our goodbye meal together. At the time, the restaurant was dead (one or two other tables occupied), but by the time we left after a leisurely two hour meal, nearly every table was full and there was quite a line. The food was terrific. I had the ravioli and tiger prawn special with a caesar salad. My wife had the penne rustica with the house salad, and my daughter had fettucini and the caesar. My wife and I each had wine by the glass (she had the vermentino and I the pinot nero). We also had bruschetta to start, and dessert (two tiramisu and a creme brulee). After eating all that, the only complaint was that the top of the tiramisu was slightly dry, probably due to being refrigerated. Otherwise, the meal was authentic Italian, and very tasty. Portions are generous -- you can safely expect to take home half your meal for later. The wines we tried were food friendly. The bread and pasta are house made, and taste it. The bread (as part of the bread and oil) deserves its own mention. I could happily sit and drink a bottle of wine with this bread and the house oil mixture. They appear to have Mon-Thu $10 specials, as well as a $18 bottle wine special which changes (it was a Cabernet Sauvignon, a Malbec, and a white the night we visited). As someone else noted, the service got a bit slower as the place got busier, but it was always pleasant. Don't go if you're in a rush -- sit and enjoy this exemplar of Italian cuisine. We will definitely eat here again when we come to visit on Parent's Day. Pretty sure our daughter will make us take her here for dinner.
(5)Henry S.
The Europa Bistro is a wonderful little place in the Tacoma Proctor District. We visit two or three times a year. This time we made reservations for six on a Sunday evening for a family celebration. We arrived on time to find our table set for five. They had also switched from nice cloth napkins to cheap, tiny paper napkins, such as you used to find on diner tables in the Midwest. The service was friendly but very slow. It took almost twenty minutes before we could order drinks (beer and wine only), and the wait for entrees was also longer than usual. It turned out only one waiter and one bus boy were handling the entire place. The bistro has lots of wood work and tile floors, so that when it is full, the noise level is high. Be prepared. The food is still wonderful. The bread was just crusty enough for dipping, the oil and spices superb. My penne rustica was hearty and filling, with the sausage slices adding just the right touch. Our other family members, including someone in the restaurant business were pleased, except one of us, who got the wrong order. Not bad and the prices are reasonable, but the service was way too slow, and please go back to real napkins!!!
(2)Mike F.
Except for a really noisy group of ladies sitting nearby I enjoyed my visit. All five people in my group thought the food was tasty and a good value. I was pleased they had a red clam sauce that was loaded with clams, and came out steaming hot. My wife liked the wine and it was reasonably priced. The bread and salad were both good. I want to return. Have been back not as good of an experience. Arrived and no system to seat people and determine who arrived first, depending on the patrons to tell them. Asked for red clam sauce, but it was more of white wine broth. Changing rating to three stars.
(3)Martha H.
I've been to this restaurant several times. The first time I went was the best and I had a pretty good meal. Service was wonderful and very nice. That was before the restaurant expanded into the space next door - after that my experiences have gone down hill. I've been back 4 times since and don't plan on returning ever again. Here's why: The first time I went there after the expansion I went with my husband, who can be a bit picky at times, all he wanted was a red sauce with meat or meatballs - nothing fancy. All they had was "tarted up" (his words) food on the menu. When we asked if it were possible to get a plain marinara for his sauce the waitress replied "If it's on the menu you can have anything you want." This didn't bode well for our dining experience. So, my husband found something on the menu that might be something he would like and I ordered the Pesto. When we got our dinners - thank god his entree was good - I can't remember what it was but I think it was ordered off or would have appealed to a child if there wasn't a child's menu. How was my entree? Well let's just say it lacked - the pasta was big over done sticky clump sitting in my bowl, the sauce was scarce and what little hit had didn't have any flavor. To top it all off - we were given our bill without being asked if we wanted dessert. We can take a hint - so we paid and left. My husband vowed to never return. The second time I went - it was with a group of 7 people. Service was sub-par and it took forever to get the waitress' attention and even longer for her to bring you the wine you ordered. However, the bread in the baskets was plentiful (but a little on the dry side) and that kept me entertained while I sat waiting for my wine and food. It was busy in there that night - but it shouldn't take 30 minutes to get a glass of wine. I had a Caesar salad - which I thought was pretty good. What I should have ordered was there polenta - I had a bite of it and it was everything polenta should be - tasty, creamy, firm, in short perfect. Even though the service wasn't that great - the servers were pleasant enough and that's speaks for something. The third time I went it was with the same group of friends - we made reservations this time - however - it had been a slow day and they let half their watt staff go home. 15 minutes after we arrived so did half of the North End. They sort of freaked that it got so busy when they weren't expecting and let me tell you service at our table suffered. A friend of mine and I were the last the to get our tickets and when the waitress brought them to us she also lectured us on not making reservations (we did) because if we had they wouldn't have let half their wait staff go home (not my problem) and because it was busier in there than they thought it was going to be she wasn't able to provide us with the service she is so well know for - and it offends her when she's not able to provide the type of service she's known for. It's a little embarrassing to be bitched out by a waitress but what are you going to do?? The last time I went - it was with the same friend who was there when we got "dressed down" by the waitress. We were there for dessert. We sat the bar and low and behold it was the same waitress. I thought this would be interesting - I'll get to experience her first rate service - it wasn't busy and there's only two of us. I ordered coffee with cream and a piece of chocolate cake. My friend order black coffee. We got our coffee - it tasted old and sour - there was no way I could drink this stuff without my cream. So I asked our waitress again for the cream, and she finally brought it to me after the 3rd request along with a spoon that she laid down on the bare table - no napkin. Not very sanitary if you ask me. So, I sat there sipping my old, coffee (at least I had my cream) and my cake was served with no utensils to eat it with - except the spoon that I was given to stir my coffee. I asked for a fork and a napkin - didn't get either and ended up eating with my questionably clean spoon. The cake was a disappointment - It tasted like it had been sitting in the refrigerator for a day longer than it should - just on the verge of being stale. All in all, the food and the service sucked. I made a decision that there were other places I where I could spend my money and vowed to never return to Europa Bistro. Maybe it's just me - maybe my expectations are too high but when I go to a restaurant I want food that is better than I could cook at home and if you are expecting me to give you a tip - please give me some service and spare me the lectures - I'm not interested. I realize my review sounds harsh - however - it is based on my experiences dining in this establishment. If you can give a good review to restaurant based solely on good experience, then so should you be able to give a not so good, to bad review based solely on bad experience
(1)Kevin S.
After reading the reviews, I was tempted not to go, but I'm glad I did. We were greeted, seated, and given menus as soon as we walked in. The waiter said water would be coming shortly and it did, in about 30 seconds. As soon as we put the menus down, the waiter was right there to take our order. He was extremely engaging and made you feel welcome. The bread arrived shortly thereafter. I asked for butter and once again, it arrived very fast. I have to say I think it was the best bread I've ever had. We asked to split a Caesar salad and it was brought it in two bowls. I was impressed. The entree arrived within an appropriate time. We both ordered the fusilli alla funghi. I do have to agree with some of the other reviews that the pasta was a bit gummy, but then is that real Italian? Also, the sausage was good, but otherwise the dish didn't have a lot of flavor. When we were done, our order was packed up quickly and our bill was closed out very fast. Overall, I would say they have taken their reviews to heart and made improvements. I will return. It was a nice dining experience. Just bummed I didn't get to hear the guy singing in the kitchen.
(4)Dale F.
I thought the food And service were great. A little slow so the server gave us free desert.
(4)Heidi H.
Wow. Horrible. Started out with the waiter saying "take your time looking over the menu. i have other things to do" Really?? Got to read the menu 20 times waiting so long. Had to wave across the restaurant to get my waiters attention while he chatted with his employees, talked on his cell phone and having a grand old time....not working. Would have loved to get that beer I ordered. Also would have loved that water refill I waited 20 minutes for after having to ask. Had to walk up to the counter to get the check and drop it off. Was there 2 1/2 hours, didn't get food for an hour. The food was ok but I would not come here again. P.S. I'm still waiting for the check... its been 40 min.
(1)Sue M.
Food - very good; service- horrible We took some Seattle friends there last night. We planned to eat then hit Zoolights, but the service was so horribly slow and inattentive, we never got out till 8:20...and the Zoolights closes at 9. We told the guy our intentions, he said no problem, then pretty much ignored us all evening. We had to ask to order , appetizers arrived 2 minutes prior to our dinners and we had to beg for our bill. Food was good, but the service left a very bad taste in my mouth.
(2)Jen B.
I used to go here every Friday for a year after they opened & they were fabulous. After they renovated & added on the dining area, they also fired all the staff ...and the owner decided to hire his dad to be a waiter. This is probably the big annoying Italian waiter that people mention. He used to walk around singing Italian while simultaneously sticking his finger in my wine glass while handing it to me. Yummy. I actually like the owner/chef and used to have a drink with him here & there when business slowed down, but after his staff left..the service & food quality went down. After getting stale bread 2x..I had to say enough. If you want good Italian for good prices, try Il Fiasco.
(2)Mike H.
UGH. Worst. Italian. Ever. We got two entrees to go from the Tacoma Food Co-op and they were both pretty bad. We got the lasagna and it was soggy, bland and very unremarkable. We also got the Spinach Manicotti and it wasn't even done. The pasta was dry and the sauce was really weak! Seriously, you can get a better meal at Olive Garden, or out of a can and I'm not even joking!
(1)Stacy K.
walked in for lunch...crickets....nothing. nada...not a soul to be found... walked right out.
(1)Stephanie F.
Overall food was good. Three of four of us liked our meal, but the service was slow. Be prepared to spend some time! Nice atmosphere.
(4)Alina G.
Was almost discouraged by all the negative reviews here, but my family and I ended up going here anyway and I am so glad we did! I thought the service was actually some of the best around and the food was very good. Maybe it's because it wasn't super busy, but the waiter and the hostess were both really attentive, and the hostess especially was exceptionally friendly and always making sure we had enough of their fantastic bread and spiced olive oil. I am not an expert on Italian food so can't speak to its authenticity, but I do know the pesto sauce was fresh and tasty and they make at least some of their pasta in house, which is nice. Plus the prices are really reasonable for the quality of the food. Maybe there have been some changes since some of the other reviews, or maybe we just caught them on a good night, but we all enjoyed the restaurant and will be back.
(5)Bob W.
We had a wedding rehearsal, so set everything up with Alfredo, the chef/owner. They did a FANTASTIC job! Our 20 people had plenty of great food and excellent service. The bread and pasta tasted home-made, and the antipasta was very fresh. Alfredo was very accommodating. As an example, we agreed on a set menu, but had one Vegetarian in the group. Alfredo came out and talked to him directly, then fixed an excellent dish for him right on the spot. The wait-staff was very accessible, easy to talk to, and responsive. I would highly recommend them.
(5)Jeff M.
One of our favorite places. Always great service. The owner comes out and chats with you and checks on your food quality. Awesome food and a great environment.
(5)Jentry M.
OLD WORLD CHARM Man, I walked in the door for the first time saw a list of wine on the chalkboard and an appropriately sized chef slaving away behind the flames of an open kitchen, and the smell of garlic olive oil hit me and i was in love ! In the downtown Tacoma area it's tough to find really good Pasta place that has dishes with a modern flair. Alfredo @ Europa Bistro delivers consistently time after time! Amazing Pasta, Great Wine, Open Bright atmosphere, Cultured Waiters ... Europa is a pleasure ! Park Out Back across from the Safeway Grocery.
(5)Steve S.
Nice enough place. There are no booths, only tables and chairs. The bar is right at the entrance so experiences high traffic flow. The chairs are not padded and that is a problem considering how long you will be sitting, which is my only real complaint: We were seated immediately, and I had a great view of the small kitchen and the two guys cooking. I asked our server if they had a bolognese on the menu and she stated they do for lunch but not for dinner, but said she would ask the guys if they could make some for me. They said they would so kudos for flexibility. We ordered a couple of house caesar salads and entrees and settled in to wait. The salads came in a reasonable amount of time and were excellent; the house-made dressing is among the best I've had. When clearing the bowls, the server confirmed my detection of real anchovies in the recipe (if you've never had real caesar dressing, don't let the idea of anchovies throw you - it doesn't taste/smell fishy at all, rather it gives a smooth velvety texture and richness you can't get any other way). I watched the guys cooking while we waited for our entrees. And I watched. And I waited. And watched. And waited. Watched. Waited. The two guys were cooking as fast as two guys could cook, with pans on every available burner. It appeared nothing was pre-made, as they moved quickly to add ingredients and seasoning to every pan, cooking pasta in a big pot of boiling water for each order. There was never a moment when either of them paused; they went from one pan to the next, plating and then starting the next order immediately. Still, it took a very long time before any of the plates got to our table. I didn't time it, but we sat for at least 25 minutes between the salad bowls being cleared and the arrival of our entrees. This length of time would have been unacceptable, except I was watching the kitchen literally the entire time and there was nothing the server could do to get our food any faster. There appeared to be nothing either of the cooks could do to get our food to us any faster. The kitchen is too small for another person to help, and the two guys were cooking much faster than I imagine I could have, never taking a break. Both our pastas were good (though mine was more al dente than I prefer) and the portion was large enough to make two meals. We had no intention to stay for dessert but did ask what was in the parfait cups visible in the cooler. I don't remember what it was, but our server mentioned they had a chocolate panna cotta also. We had to try that, and it was also excellent; they got the texture perfect and the flavor was very chocolatey without being too sweet. The place was maybe 3/4 full at the peak but we were there well over an hour; we even followed our server to the cash register to pay the bill so we wouldn't have to wait for her to get back to our table. The caesar salad and panna cotta could not have been better, the pasta and sauce was hearty, very fresh and made in large portions. Just don't go if you are in a hurry, and be prepared to have a sore butt after sitting on the hard chair for such a long time.
(4)Dawn B.
Just had dinner there. The food presentation was great and it was served HOT! Those are both positives. However, it was almost flavorless....not what we expected. The other big drawback, is that it is VERY noisy. A table of 6 nearby was having a great time, but my husband and I could not carry on a conversation due to the noise....the other diners as well as the kitchen. We probably won't go back, sorry to say.
(2)Kristi L.
We noticed Pomodoro and thought Italian sounded good for dinner..but they were super packed...then I remembered that Europa was near by as well. If the place looks empty then maybe there's a reason why. Tables in the center of the restaurant are arranged kinda odd and at an angle...so when you look to the right...to look out the window in the front of the restaurant at the street view...but you also end up looking right at the person/table to your right....meaning...the people seated to your left....are staring at you all night..even tho they are looking out the window...it was creepy. I thought this older man to my left had a freaking problem and I was going to say something...until I realized he was just looking out the window in the front of the restaurant and he continued to do this all through our meal...nothing like being stared at while eating even if he wasn't actually staring I think the menu was kinda limiting for an Italian restaurant. No Alfredo, no pizza's, no lasagna's, no stuffed pasta's..where's a cioppino??. Basically if you want a pasta tossed with something..like pine nuts, spinach, olives, sauce and a protein then go here..but I have no problem easily doing this myself at home. There is a several salads to chose from that looked good. Food..WAY TO MUCH SALT...it was bad....I mean really bad. I had the special which was a meat sauce with sausage and meat balls and OMG..it reminded me of South Park and Chef's Salty Balls and the song...it was ridiculously salty. I think it may have been the Parmesan cheese they added to the meatballs as well as additional salt add to each element of the dish (sauce and meat) and then salt added once again when it was all combined...because it was all salty..it almost burnt my tongue it was soooo salty. The bread was yummy I dipped it in my salty sauce. :o) I had visited Europa back when it was a tiny little restaurant..it was nice and fresh tasting....not so much anymore. Service kinda of slow..but friendly..had to wait awhile just to get the check...then sat there for awhile waiting for the sever to come and pick up my CC and bill. I started checking to see how much cash I had on me so I could pay and leave.
(1)Yosafena C.
Good food, cozy atmosphere, excellent service, and a nice wine list. The puttanescas are delicioso. However, I find the linguini pesto to be too thick - cream based rather than the expected olive oil. Caesar salad is quite nice with just enough of a garlic kick, not over-dressed. Not crazy about the small, soft bread loaves they serve. I prefer crusty, rustic bread with my pasta. The sauteed calamari is excellent. Overall, a very pleasant dining experience. Honestly, I slightly prefer the food around the corner at Pour at Four, but that's small plate casual. Europa is your best bet for a serious sit-down meal in the Proctor.
(4)Ivo A.
This is actually a decent little restaurant. The service is not the best - which is very authentic I think - and the food can be quite delicious. I went here with friends and my girlfriend often while I was going to school 5 blocks away. I would highly recommend the custom made bruschetta mix that the chef makes by request, and I would also recommend the salmon - it is as tender and flavorful as any others I have had elsewhere. I speak Italian so I have spoken with he staff sometimes in Italian and that has made me feel more like home. :) They did expand the place a bit lately so it is not as cozy and comfy as it used to be but it is still worth going there. Almost certain you will be going back...
(4)Sonja S.
I love Europa Bistro! Had Fettucine Bolognese tonight and was so impressed. Flavorful with great texture. They make their pasta in-house and it is wonderful. Have had so many things on the menu and have loved all of them. Their Crudaiola Salad is a favorite. I have tried to duplicate their amazing olive oil dipping sauce--no cigar! Don't know what they put in it but it is sublime. Service is always good. I'm confused by these negative reviews. I've been here a lot and they always treat us like family. Many dinners around the $10 price range so it's an affordable option for families. Plenty of leftovers too. It boggles my mind that Olive Garden stays in business when we have a local gem like this. Give them a try.
(4)Meg R.
Big disappointment on all levels. The place was dead, there was only one server, two cooks and two other tables seated when we arrived. Our server must have written us off right in the beginning when we didn't order any alcohol or something. He pretty much ignored us all evening. Water glasses were left unfilled (which was pretty important since that's all we had to drink), plates stacked up and barely a glance from the server. It took one of the cooks to come out and say something to him to get him to bring us our check. He never once apologized for being neglectful. Other than the horrible service, the food itself was another huge letdown. We had dined here about a year ago with some friends and had great memories of the food. Well tonight was a different story. The zucchini appetizer was tasteless and soggy. The eggplant parmesan was bland and full of tough skins and my husband's pasta with sausage and mushrooms was very strange. It's too bad because we really liked this place on our last visit but after this horrendous experience: feeling like we were ignored all night and having to hunt our server down just for a glass of water and to pay the check to finally get out of there we will NOT be back. Go elsewhere for good Italian food.
(1)Andi C.
My husband loves their food and he's a hamburger type guy. Visited twice and he got the chicken marsala each time - very tasty! I got the salmon ravioli the first time and it was good but not excellent. The 2nd time I got a salad made of cucumbers, tomatoes, artichokes and some grilled chicken with balsamic vinegar/oil dressing - quite good and was not overladen with chicken. While many people would complain there wasn't enough chicken, it was just right for me and enough to take some home. The waiter the first time was very attentive and personable. The 2nd time he was cooking! Pros: staff is very attentive and helpful, they know the food; food is fresh, home made and bread with the oil on table is delicious Cons: space is a bit noisy and clanging in kitchen is hard on ears; the 2nd visit had our original waiter from the 1st visit cooking and that was OK except he would put the waiter's order sheet on top of the salad when it was ready (ick) and another wait staff person then put on a chef jacket and went to kitchen. He came out and went around in the restaurant and then back to the kitchen without washing his hands.
(4)Rick V.
Yummy & Very fresh enjoy a nice glass of wine or a nice esspresso oo hmm :)
(5)Alex W.
A nice spot in the Proctor District restuarant niche, Europa has a nice open candlelit atmosphere for dinner. It once was known for its small intimate atmosphere but after a remodel the restaurant is now twice as big and while no longer quite a hole in the wall it is none the less not at all grossly oversized. One can still feel a personable touch from the accented Italian waiters and it is not too loud nor are the tables too compactly clustered inside. The food was quite delightful. I had the pleasure of trying three different pasta dishes with two of my peers and and they were all exquisite in their own way and vastly different. The Pesto is scrumptious and so much fresh basil is used in it that it almost looks a luminescent green. Who would of thougt that something that at first had the shade of green reminiscent of mutant ooze out of a ninja turtle movie could be so delicous? Next was the Fungi ahi Fusilli which was in a white sauce and not only good for someone partial to mushrooms but also to anyone who likes bolognese sausage and sundried tomatoes which it was filled with. I myself had the Campenelli Putenesca which was a delightfully olive dish in a light marinera. Just the sauce and noodles sin olives where imbued with such a pungent kalamata olive taste that tasted better than many actual olives that I've had. It was an olive lovers dream. Thank you Europa!
(5)Liz D.
The food is ok. I went on a Friday night...and it was dead. I ordered Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, my favorite Italian dish. The sauce wasn't right. The gnocchi was good. I was with a group of 4 people. They all ordered different entrees, but the sauces tasted very similar despite their description. It is not a bad place to eat, but it is not very authentic in my opinion.
(3)Wendy F.
Cute place, reasonable prices, but the service was slow and mediocre. I sat for 15 min at the bar and was never asked if I wanted a drink, though I did request a wine list, and each employee looked at me several times. Food was decent. I would return, but not as a destination restaurant.
(3)Eileen E.
Great food! My husband and I both enjoyed our meals, and were thrilled with their wine special on a Saturday night. We will absolutely be back!
(4)Cherlyn P.
Europa's owner chef, Alfredo, delivers some of the best Italian food around! Anyone who has been to Italy will appreciate this gemstone of a restaurant. The pasta, bread, sausage, herbed olive oil, and desserts are homemade in house. Everything we order is always fresh and delicious! We especially love the Mediterranean Salad, risotto dishes, and Chicken Marsala. We recently started trying Alfredo's pizzas. They are also wonderful--the crust is on the thinner crispier side so the flavors of the toppings don't get lost! We eat there at least once a week. Hearing Alfredo whistle or sing while he cooks in the kitchen makes this neighborhood place pretty special!
(5)Robert C.
My wife and I have had lunch at Europa Bistro twice in the last year. Each time the food was quite tasty, with appropriate size portions (not too big nor too small), and a very reasonable price. The atmosphere is quite casual but nice. The service is a little on the slow side, but not hopelessly so. Each time the wait staff was very pleasant and very helpful. I can't speak for the dinner experience, but we'll definitely go back for lunch again when we're in the Proctor district.
(4)Lee K.
Best place for Italian food with integrity in Tacoma. Food quality is outstanding, and the sevice is excellent. The lunch time pizza is a must, but any dish is certain to be a hit. Second only to The Upper Crust Bistro in my book.
(4)T M.
We were excited about eating here because of several good reviews but it was a big disappointment. First, on the website it said that the dinner special was ravioli but when we got there it was lasagna. My dining partner ordered the dinner special lasagna. I took a bite half way through the meal and it was so bad I actually spit it out. The noodles were completely mushy - you could push it through a fine mesh sieve - and the seasoning in the meat completely overpowered everything else. I had fettuccine with "prawns" (actually medium sized shrimp) and broccoli. It was completely unremarkable and pretty flavorless as well. I tried to fix it with a little salt, pepper, and Parmesan but it was just a bland, bland, dish. We will not return here.
(1)Chuck L.
I remember when this place first opened up, when it was tiny and brimming with people. That was it's peak. Now...it's still a nice Tacoma option. Linguini with garlic and clams still good.
(4)Jessica H.
My husband is a chef, and when he was in school we went with 3 of his fellow students. The food seemed okay, not the greatest, and they actually pointed out that they had some of the ingredients listed wrong, like they used a different type of tomato than they had listed on the menu, little things like that. And the waiter kept trying to hit on the only woman there without a partner, though she does have one he was just busy that night. It was a bit excessive. Then we got to that night. I was sick ALL night long and into the next day, with food poisoning. And come to find out, another person in our group ended up with it too, and she had a different dish than I did. We will not be returning.
(1)darcy l.
My husband and I decided to try Europa since it looked very cozy with good ambiance from the outside. The first time there the food was fine nothing great, but what really ruined the experience was the service. The waiter was a one man show; hostess, bartender, bus person, and waiter. He was not inpolite, but when I go out I like to have a relaxing and enjoyable time. You could cut the anxiety and tension in the place. Everyone and I mean everyone was either waiting for a drink, food, or bill. We witnessed the waiter throw a young man a dirty apron and put him to work. The young man had been sitting at a nearby table and was obviously in there for an interview. This poor kid was walking around the dining area not knowing where to go. He had the coffee pot but could not find the empty coffee cup at our table. We called him over and a made light conversation with him. It was his first time he had ever served a table. We wished him well. At the end of the dinner we asked to see the dessert menu. The waiter told us it's all in his head and he would be back to tell us about them. He never returned and we waited for an additional 25 minutes. We finally had to go find him to ask for our bill. No apologizes, since he obviously did not remember us asking about the desserts. We thought this was just a difficult night and everyone/place deserves a second chance...... We'll this is obviously how things are run at Europa. Same time, same place, same person, same tension, same horrible experience. I'm not going to see if a third time is a charm. Whoever is running this show needs to go to Business 101. Trying to cut corners, try having enought wait staff to serve people. The same people that will pay you to feed them will help keep your place in business. We didn't see the young new bus boy on our second return. We just hope he ran and ran fast.
(2)Savy S.
the food was alright...had Penne ai Funghi, very bland.. the house special lasagna was sour..i'm better off making my own or buying store bought frozen lasagna...
(2)Jacob R.
I had one of my most interesting dining experience here. We were greeted by an older Italian fella who (nicely) yelled at us from across the dining area that it would be 5 minutes. It made us laugh. The dining room is a bit unwelcoming it has a lot of tiles flooring which I am not to fond of and it pretty open. Some tile works but wood floors are much more inviting. No real waiting area. You just kind of stand there by the door. The waiter seemed a bit overworked for a busy night. It was fun watching him though. Everyone else seemed to snicker a bit at him. Not in a bad way but because he was pretty loud and very Italian. He bumped into my chair a few times. When my guest and I said to just put our entrees wherever on the table because we would share them, the waiter went on to get us 2 clean plates and split the entrees on them for us. It was funny. The food was ok. Not the best I have ever had. The pasta seemed a bit undercooked. The duck was good. The spinach salad was delicious. I would try the place again.
(3)Nick D.
This cozy little bistro offers Tacoma some of the best European-style foods and deli items in the Puget Sound area. I always have great sandwiches when I come here. Seating is very limited so get here early if you can. Other than that, what a great little place!
(5)