Dining in downtown Kent, part 1

Downtown Kent is becoming a popular destination for dining out. Here are some of the area's favorite spots, some new and some old favorites.

Archia Thai Bistro - Thai food in an elegant atmosphere
214 E. Meeker St.
253-373-1868

Bev's Cucina - Homemade Italian cuisine
326 W. Meeker St.
253-854-1601

Bittersweet Restaurant - New American cuisine with homestyle favorites
211 First Avenue S.
253-854-0707

Gourmet Steve - Everything from comfort food to catering
216 E. Gowe
253-874-3663

Kona Kai Coffee Company - Tasty food and beverages in a tropical setting
124 Fourth Ave. S.
253-859-5662

Maggie's on Meeker - A favorite breakfast & lunch spot, complete with home cooking
307 W. Meeker St.
253-852-4116

Bittersweet on First Avenue South

After a two-year absence, I visited the Bittersweet restaurant on First Avenue South yesterday with a friend. Now owned by Sue Froyd, also the owner of Maggie's on Meeker, the restaurant was much the same as I remembered. The menu features fresh salads, sandwiches and homemade desserts...pretty standard fare, but the food was delicious and the service was good. I ordered the spinach salad which was outstanding. Just the right size and the light creamy pepper dressing was wonderful! A nice lunch at an affordable price. The only disappointment was that the menu featured a wine list, but the restaurant does not have a beer and wine license any more.

A Few of My Favorite Kent Restaurants

Downtown Kent has a handful of locally-owned restaurants. Here are a few of my favorites:

Spiro's Greek Isle - Open for lunch and dinner, this restaurant on First Avenue South has delicious, affordable Greek food. I recommend the gyros, Greek salad, baklava and the interesting selection of cocktails.

Archa Thai Bistro - Located on East Meeker across the street from Renaissance Yarns, this Thai restaurant has an elegant decor and the tastiest lunch specials. My favorite - Garlic Chicken. You can enjoy a nice lunch for less than $8.

Maggie's on Meeker - On West Meeker, this diner has the best breakfast sandwich in town and the entire staff is friendly, cheerful and remembers each and every customer. For an affordable breakfast you can't find anywhere else, check out Maggie's for breakfast or lunch.

Do you have a favorite spot in Kent? If so, post a comment and share your favorites!