Between the Lines
Where life, flavors, and conversation come together in every chapter.
Our Story, Still Being Written
Manuscript started with a simple idea: good food and good people make everything better. We wanted to build a spot in Tacoma where friends could share great meals and genuine moments — and where those working behind the scenes feel proud, supported, and happy to be part of it. Because a restaurant isn’t just built by its food — it’s built by its people.
From Idea to Table
At Manuscript, cooks, bartenders, and servers work together to craft every experience. Our menu draws on Italian roots and global inspiration, while cocktails, wine, and service reflect the same care and creativity. Without hierarchy or titles, we create thoughtful, ever-changing meals and moments worth sharing.
Meet The Team
Eda Johnson
Owner / Operator
Eda Johnson is the Owner and Operator of Manuscript, a Tacoma-based scratch kitchen rooted in Italian influence, collaborative hospitality, and food made with intention. After nearly 20 years in hospitality — alongside careers in cosmetology and emergency response as a firefighter, EMT, and paramedic — Eda built Manuscript around a simple idea: great restaurants should care deeply about people, not just plates. She believes in scratch cooking, collective creativity, deep house playlists, birthday cake, and not taking restaurant culture too seriously.
Gell Lele'a
Bar & Commissary Manager
Gell brings years of bartending experience from across Tacoma to Manuscript, where she manages both the bar program and commissary operations. Originally from The Bay Area, she’s known for her enormous heart, calm presence, and ability to make just about anyone feel like family — which makes sense, considering she comes from a gigantic one herself.
Corey Gamroth
Bar & Restaurant Manager
Corey hails from Wyoming and has been working alongside Eda for the past five years in a wide variety of roles. A former paraeducator with Tacoma Public Schools, he somehow balances being deeply dependable with being a complete nerd — which is exactly why everyone loves him. At Manuscript, Corey brings patience, humor, and an endlessly curious energy to the team every.
A Space For Every Story
At 203 Tacoma Ave S, our space is as flexible as your ideas. From private events and celebrations to classes, workshops, and meetings, Manuscript can be arranged to suit your needs. With AV options, projectors, and sound support, it’s a space built for connection, creativity, and community.
