BARBEQUE INN; TILLICUM, WA
Saucy Karaoke at Barbecue Inn

By Sue Sawyer

One of the biggest yummy surprises along I-5’s karaoke trail is the Barbecue Inn, in tiny Tillicum.

During the past 2 1/2 years, new owners, Ann and Bob have lovingly transformed the old roadside “dump” into a modern, clean, beautiful bar and restaurant that serves luscious barbecue, salads, hot sandwiches, chili and pizza’s which are all made from scratch at very reasonable prices. There is full service liquor and cocktail service and many assorted beers. Steak night is every Wednesday – Rib eye with all the trimmings for $10.99. Taco night is Thursday - 3 for $2 along with daily low-cost specials every night of the week.

There is a pool table, electronic games, darts, pinball and karaoke five nights a week. Ann and Bob decided to purchase their own CAVS equipment and music library. About two years ago, when their then hired karaoke host didn’t show up, the Inn’s cook, Houston, was summoned to fill in. Houston rose to the occasion and has since never looked back. Years later, he still oversees the kitchen and cooks when not tending to karaoke and judging by the number of envelopes holding customer song slips, Houston has built a large singer following.

In back of the Inn is a smoking canopy equipped with horseshoe games and outside speakers. The staff is sensitive to their customer’s needs and the service is extraordinary. Houston hosts with a lot of energy and it shows that he loves what he does. Rotation moves quickly and the host personally let’s you know when you’re next in line. If you’re expecting a redneck bar this is not the place. No one sang “Beer For My Horses” all night. Here there are many styles of singers. For example: Gail with her talented Aretha Franklin voice sang “Neither Of Us” and “Baby I Love You.” Alabama hit “Texas Flood” on the head while Terry Lee did a fine rendition of “At Last.” Other singers chose 1950s ballads, Phil sang “My Girl,” David “The Most Beautiful Girl In The World” and Chris “Strokin.” And while Chris was singing a mystery mic voice from the audience was answering “Strokin’s” questions which turned out to be rip-roaring laughter fun.

Donna, donned in a scanty outfit performed “Let’s Stay Together” while Tammy got even with “Hit Me With Your Best Shot.” Houston’s girlfriend, Jessy, is a karaoke host too during the week and also covers the show on the weekends at Galloping Gerty’s in Steilacoom.

The motto of the Barbecue Inn: “You’re a stranger here but once” lives up to its calling. Lunch time is filled with military since it’s so close to Ft. Lewis and McChord but the evenings are filled with locals and singers that come from all parts of Pierce County. Bring your appetite and voice, it’s a party. The impression goes both ways.

Karaoke is Tuesday-Saturday and their located on Union at Maple Street in Tillicum (253)-584-0832.

Donna

Gail

Houston & Jessy

Terry Lee