Make no mistake, the venue itself is great. Good sightlines, two bars, and a bunch of great pinball machines. But I can't in good conscience recommend going to a show at this place. The security here was completely out of synch. Once the crowd started surfing, there was nobody up front to keep it safe, and people were getting seriously injured and dropped since we couldn't catch them to help them down. Worse, at one point one of the bouncers stood in the middle of the pit and assaulted one of us during the headliner for no reason, leaving nail marks and bruises. The owner did try to make things right but frankly, the fact that it got to that point is on them. Go if you have to, but if a band is playing elsewhere nearby, I'd recommend going there instead. read more

When I heard the band " X " was in town I said what dump with they be playing at cause "My Phones Off the Hook"! WOW what a great venue for live music, I was impressed by its sound quality & size. No need to feel cramped by over zealous fans cause it's a large room . Also plenty of security for safety which is a relief. Bar looked quality but I didn't drink that night since I was driving. If the band was selling merchandise they had a great area set up that didn't interfere with crowd flow... Band was outstanding & venue was awesome so if someone else come through I enjoy FRANK will come again. read more

Airport Tavern - John Doe " X " - Bars Near Me - Tacoma, Washington

Cool venue for live music and a night out. There are some pinball machines and arcade games to play. Not very much seating if you order food or want to sit while you drink. I ordered a plain hot dog and my husband ordered the three taco plate. It took a long time to get our food, but there was only one person working the kitchen. I would definitely eat before coming here. They have a great bar and alcohol section if you're out to drink, we were out for a live music show. There is plenty of floor space and you can get super close to the stage. read more

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WORST experience of a lifetime in one night, before the night even started. The bouncer let my friends and I in, informed us of the $15 cover charge and we entered the building. Behinds the bouncers they were taking cards to pay the cover. The computer/ card machine stopped working. The employee spent maybe 15 minutes trying to re-start the system while my friends and I waited patiently near the door, however it was freezing since the door was wide open in the middle of a fall night. I kindly asked if we could buy a drink at the bar and return to the card machine when it was back on, and so we could warm up. Others started walking through the front entrance to the bar area, past the card machine. When I asked if my group could, the bouncer taking the cards yelled, "NO! YOU need to be f***ing patient!!!" We left immediately without paying the cover and went to Real Art Tacoma next door, had a great time. Careful, these people have an attitude and can be aggressive. read more

Very VERY full of themselves and rude af. Not a place that supports the community. With all the venues in Tacoma to choose from, I would definitely SKIP this one. Just because you "cleaned up" a bit doesn't mean anything when it comes with the snobbiest attitude on that whole strip. Just gross you guys are a music venue not some "big spot" get over yourselves. read more

My review is very specific to the food and the chef. I ordered the chicken nachos with pico de gallo and all I can say is, they were/are the BEST nachos I have EVER ordered. This was the first time I have ordered nachos and didn't think "I could have made this better at home." I had to compliment the chef in person and she told me that the pico de gallo is homemade and it absolutely showed. If I heard her correctly, the chef told me her name is Orecia (I'm SO sorry if that's spelled incorrectly or I completely got your name wrong) and all I have to say is this; Chef Orecia, keep making such incredible food and I hope this establishment knows how LUCKY they are to have you! You are incredibly talented and I will be telling EVERYONE I know about your delicious food! read more

This place is nice for a show! The staff is so helpful and polite and the place is updated and clean. The new s action has a huge area for dancing and additional stalls in the restrooms. The pizza here was delicious!( read more

Airport Tavern - Bars Near Me - Tacoma, Washington

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Venue was pretty rad, first time visiting there. Didn't order any food or drinks, so I can't speak to any of that, but place seemed nice and clean :) read more

Our group of about 10 of us stopped in the Airport Tavern for a nightcap after a local event at Edison Square across the street. We were all dressed in 1920's Gatsby style outfits from the prior event so we stood out a bit but everyone we met were super friendly and complimentary. I remember Savannah was one of our bartenders and she was super cool. We got our drinks and hung out in the back area where they seem to have live bands, etc. on some nights. When we arrived they were just finishing up Trivia Night and were going to start Karaoke soon. There were a lot of people inside but not too crowded. After a bit we went out front to smoke and chatted with some other bar patrons. One even brought out his 4 month old golden doodle puppy named Maple to meet us. So big for that age! The same guy also told us the history of the Edison Square area and why the name Airport Tavern (an small airport was very close by when this place opened a long time ago). We met very nice people in addition to having fun with our own group. Overall, this place seems like a cool hangout with a lot going on. read more

Security was very belligerent. I walked into the bar just after midnight (with nobody out front). As I approached the bar I saw someone running in after me that looked like they may be security. I promptly pulled out my ID, as I assumed that was the issue, but the security guard grabbed me by my collar and physically tossed me out. It was only once I showed my ID a second time that I was told there was no entry at the time. I will not be returning and I suggest they look into replacing the current security staff, the experience was very unprofessional. I would not suggest coming here until they figure it out. read more

I haven't been to Airport Tavern since the management change. It used to be a gay bar in which I went one night to a great drag show but didn't return since. Since then new ownership took over and the space looks a lot better. Unfortunately it seemed dark and in disrepair before but it's all redone and a lot brighter. Definitely an improvement there! We went here because the folks and the newly opened Discovery Cider sent us over this way. We got a glimpse of the menu and it looked promising as we were getting hungry. Steve and I had the nachos here which were excellent but we were still a bit hungry and got some great beef tacos too which were very good. Beer tap list has mostly local breweries on tap but did see the Tangerine from Lost Coast out of Eureka that we never had before so that was an extra nice perk! Lots of pinball machines at the front of the entrance and would really like to play some when time allows next time I'm in! read more

Airport Tavern - Enjoying the Tangerine (from Lost Coast Brewing) at Airport Tavern! - Bars Near Me - Tacoma, Washington

Fabulous concert venue. We had the pleasure of seeing Mike Love and it was incredible.

Although this is a limited review based on not having time to grab something to eat, I had a really nice time here. We parked on South Tacoma Way, planning on just grabbing a drink somewhere and happened to end up in front of The Airport Tavern. Inside, there are pinball machines and games and the place smelled delicious! I absolutely intend on returning and trying one of the vegetarian sandwiches. I was bummed I only had a little bit of time, but I went up to the bar and ordered a cider. The bartender was super friendly and funny (maybe the owner. Not sure). In the back of the bar, there is a decent sized room with a stage. Also, I'm going to check the calendar of events. I will be back soon with my meal review. Thank you for the great service! read more

Airport Tavern - How rad is this place?! - Bars Near Me - Tacoma, Washington

Update: They have food now! And it's fuggin amazing. Simple but at the same time complex and gave me mouth orgasms. During the week they have brought fun events into the mix and literally fits every walks of life. Im not sure what some of the reviews from 2 years ago are bitching about "the food"...cause the food is literally something that has happened within the last year. The bar is clean as always and seems as if the bars in the area are all in cahoots to provide a once dingy Tacoma...with something us natives can actually be proud of. One of the few places that came out of the pandemic better than ever. Cheers to this establishment...its ownership...its staff...and it's patrons. LOVE THE AIRPORT TAVERN!! read more

Airport Tavern - So good to see people living again... - Bars Near Me - Tacoma, Washington

Even though I won't be back here for a bit i shall always remember the Airport Tavern fondly. Regardless: Overall?? The staff in general are terrific; just about all of the patrons are kool as all get out and the venue itself is fantastic. Do not hesitate to visit A.T. read more

Love this place!!! My husband and I will stop by here every so often. Bartenders have always been great! They make small pizzas that are EXCELLENT! Drinks are amazing. Fun to just hang out. read more

hi I came into Airport Tavern to enjoy my night and a purple haired woman named O'recia harassed me using bad language and disrespect towards me. Then another time their was a gentleman with orangish/ brown hair light complexion goes by Azai harrased, threatened, and wanted to fight me and my company and I just left because it was not the first time I was harassed and scared for my life in the airport Tavern. She is the Owner she announced to me multiple times and that it was her business and she was protecting the gentalman from me making prev reports on this situation. its not a professional view and they shouldnt have a job if they can't speak to people nicely they picked us out and targeted us for no reason. I've already spoke to the police and lawyers about this environment and the situations that never got handled. I even asked to speak to a different person in charger( manager) and was told no and that Orecia was the only one in charge of the airport tavern which Is not true at all.... This has cause trauma and pain and suffering. please do something about these 2 employees I've never seen anything like it. read more

I've been coming to this place a couple years now and I still don't know the management. I go at night when the bar turns into a nightclub and they charge you a fee to get inside. The sound system is very loud, which attracts a lot of DJ's. Be sure to bring good earplugs. There is no defined line for their two bathrooms and people always cut in front of you while you wait in a long and slow process. The food looks like you could have made it yourself at home but the price is good. They serve alcohol but this is not a place to drink too much because you will risk being kicked out. This is a place to gather and enjoy loud music. read more

I was asked by several friends to come out to the airport tavern on a Tuesday night to watch some djs. The amount of over service was shocking. A lot of young people stumbling around, falling over, and even fighting. Yet...still getting served alcohol. During my visit I did try an order of chicken wings. And boy, let me tell you...these were the worst wings I've ever had. BEWARE. These wings are microwaved and SOOOOO fatty. I mentioned my disgust for the wing to the Microwave Chef, and he just blew me off. Told me I was wrong. This place is awful. But if you like fatty microwave wings and possibly a roofie in your drink then this is your place. read more

If you wanna go somewhere with the best vibes, genuinely HAPPY people, bartenders that actually entertain you and make yummy drinks... wanna have fun and enjoy your day/night--- come see us at the Airport Tavern!! We love you guys!! read more

Great place on South Tacoma Way serving up some awesome cocktails! Nice local tap selection. The bartender was chatty and super nice. He was familiar with a brewery I work for so we had lots to chat about. They've got a pretty nice selection of vodka. I usually stick to Tito's though. Liked that he muddled the orange and lime. My friend enjoyed his Old Fashioned. Arcade games! Pool table! Now if only there was a shuffleboard table... They've got lots of fun stuff lined up from live music to karaoke to taco trucks. A little something for everyone. I'll be back for sure! Cheers! read more

Airport Tavern - Just a Tito's and soda... strong! - Bars Near Me - Tacoma, Washington

Airport Tavern was cool. But we actually hang out outside due to the Reggae on the way Concert that was Airport Tavern put together! Didn't had the pleasure to try some of their cocktails but, looking at a few customers drink, it look good. Until next time! read more

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Fun bar with some live music. Definitely qualifies as a dive bar. I was here with a friend and got along great with the bartender who was friendly and on point. It began to get rowdy late when some club folks arrived and that was cue to leave, but I can see this place going fun and late. read more

I love the bar. Great place. Lots of fun. However. The cook on Thursday's for trivia is the most miserable person I have ever seen. If you hate working that much, don't! read more

I enjoy coming in for Electric Taco Tuesdays. Always a great crowd especially for this area. Like a hidden gem on south Tacoma way.

Awesome place! The staff was awesome and they were fun to talk to. The food was pretty good and there's a nice beer selection. Pin ball makes it even better. Great joint! read more

We came in for a local band that was playing. The drinks are strong, beer is cold. The service was very friendly. The venue for bands are a little on the small side but hey it sounds great! They have a great menu but I did not eat. I had a old fashioned. Which was ok, not near as what I remembered though. read more

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Veggie out sandwich is delicious... my man cheesy British an we will be back.... bartenders are really fun

Don't play this venue - they make the band pay for the sound guy and occupancy tax with a venue too small to support those charges. The staff are nice and the food is good but this isn't somewhere to play unless you enjoy donating your services. read more

._. Nothing gets my llama to happily spit of where it wants to get a drink than this place. (Cuz it is a delight.) With Tacoma being the ups and very lows that is sometimes, it's always a miracle to find a bar that doesnt scream to any of the staff.. "Hey.... didn't I see you on Cops last night trying to sell potato starch as cocaine to random squirrels in the trees at the park, while trying to self document yourself for the Discovery channel?" So let's us land this plane with this review! *crickets stop cricketing and throw tomatoes at me* ._. Atmosphere: It's a great responsive vibe when they put pinball machines at the very front. With amazing trinkets surrounding the door with airplanes things that enforces the theme of the place. (Kinda when your grandma decides to really pimp out your Christmas sweater with more sugar cookiess and candy canes. [Which I hear the ladies really dig!... at the retirement center.]) The floor layout is a rectangular structure with a great selection of pinball machines as the entrance, (you said that already.. well you know what I'm excited about it!) a great selection at the bar for drinks on the right side. (Which is great! Cuz if your an intoxicated person, you only try to go straight to your seat. [That's one straight line you dont have to sweat about walking :3]) with a place that host local music and comedy, it's no wonder its an amazing entertainment center to drop on by to enjoy some uhhh entertainment haha. Customer Service: Is quick and responsive! With how the night was (which was slow) drinks were quick and the bartender was very helpful in deciding what to drink. (Never had the sudden feeling that he wanted to just put anything in the glass and send us our way. [Aka roofies]) With a very clean environment, you could confuse this place with being in Bellevue. :3 Shout out to the bartender. He had a heavy hand with the drinks! (As to why I had the biggest hang over. [Cuz he had bricks attach to his hand and kept swinging at clients head.. jk lol ._.]) Drinks: Where amazing! That tequila was selected from the highest mountains of Mazlatan Mexico!.. (ok he just took it off the shelve! ._. But he did it with style! [actually just normally pouring it while trying to check if I was staying back and forth or an earthquake. ]) What I'm trying to say is, is that drinks were cold and the place was kicking. (More than Jackie Chan movies) Which makes any drink go down smoothly. (That's what my colonoscopy doctor said when he was making full eye contact with me.) Conclusion: Tired of walking through sketchy parts of the city? Wanting more than drinking with the local homeless community? (Which Robert you owe for that hobo drinking race with the trash cans!) Well land your two wheels into this landing strip and kick back and enjoy a cold one... with the boys haha I had to put that there. ._. CUZ I WRITE WHAT I WANT .. poodle fist! Big birds! With tiny legs and a moose in a first family encounter dinner with his fiance that's a goose. ._. Great place. read more

Airport Tavern - .o. getting ready for Settle Your Score!! - Bars Near Me - Tacoma, Washington

I'm a regular here bartenders are always cool, super attentive I've been to a few different events they post always had fun definitely recommend the place read more

Usually is my favorite spot for Taco Tuesday... unfortunately the recent change in security has really killed the whole vibe of the bar. They will get in your face and be rude to anyone that comes in for just asking a question, especially their regular patrons when they feel comfortable with being just rude cause they think you'll come back there and patronize them anyways. They also seem to go out of jurisdiction to harass those sitting in their cars outside, repeatingly asking "what are you doing out here?" When simply avoiding the cold and smoking a cigarette. Really disappointing change in atmosphere. Seems like the place has gone on lockdown and it's no longer a relaxing, fun spot. Just feel on edge inside and outside the bar.. sucks cause, great music.. read more

Very clean. Great back room for watching games on a big screen with sound. Yummy food from Ah Badabing. In a city full of pretentious-hipster bars this place is friendly and down-to-earth. Beer on tap and in bottles/cans as well as plenty of liquor. Pinball, also! read more

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One of the worst experiences I have ever had! Went out with the girls to have some drinks and play pool, the staff was extremely rude and they were also very strict on rules! Not only are you allowed to walk outside on the patio with you're drink, you are also not allowed to go into the restroom when your friend isn't feeling well, and you also can not have a vape in the building. Honestly it was not worth our time. Just go down the street a little bit to one of the other bars because seriously this bar is a waste of space. Drinks sucked, and staff sucked! read more

Super happy to see the amazing rehab job on this place. Warms my heart they kept the name! Seriously nice atmosphere, great drinks, really nice staff. It's a total gem the SOTO neighborhood needs. Pizza and grinders are delivered from their partnership with Ba Da Bing! down the street so you know it's YUM! read more

Airport Tavern - Burnt wood technique on the bar + yummy drinks! - Bars Near Me - Tacoma, Washington

I love this place! Staff is great! Tuesday's are my favorite. I'm a pinball nerd so that's why I came here. I keep coming back because Electric Taco Tuesday's are off the chain! I play a little ball, have a reasonably priced drink, and make my way to the back for a little head bobbing in between games. I've only eaten here once but it did not disappoint. Shout out to my fave bartender in the area, Carlo, you're awesome! I hesitate to give this place a great review because I don't want it to get too crowded ;) read more

Love airport tav. Lots of fun music events. Great staff, fun people to meet, etc. They don't have a kitchen, so eat down the street at any of the cool bars, then play pool or pinball at airport tav! Fun place to people watch and a great live music scene. read more

I was pleasantly surprised with this spot! Aside from the few pinball machines right when you walk in which I thought was cool, they have a good variety of cocktails and beer to choose from, and the bartender was super friendly and easy to talk to. It's definitely a cool place to hang out at and relax. read more

F*ckin hate this place. Me and some friends were visiting from out of town and went because they had pool. As soon as we walked in they starting yelling rules at us. We go in anyway it just got worse. The bouncer warned us that there was gonna be a lot drugs because of an edm concert going on. They saw and allowed hard drugs un their venue yet when I was putting a VAPE in my pocket they got mad and threw us out. We had just bought drinks and they were tryna shuffle us out without us even getting our cards. There's so many regulations about the dumbest bs. Not allowed to take your drink on the patio (but only past 9pm), couldnt go to the bathroom with your sick friend, the list goes on. Its a waste of time, just go down the street to the Irish pub down who had friendly staff and actual good drinks. Airport Tavern would be better off as a subway. BS drinks and BS staff read more

The bouncer accused my friend of having a fake Florida ID and insisted she show another form of identification. He did not have the appropriate lighting equipment to confirm his visual opinion, and even though the birthdate showed her well over 21 he refused to let her in. He was rude from the start and very brash, and the business lost 2 (legal) customers on a Friday night. read more