Billy McHales had several locations throughout the South Sound, but now the one in Federal Way is the last remaining. Billing itself as “a fun eatin’ and drinkin’ place,” the restaurant has activities, such as Wine and Art Night, a large all-homemade menu, dozens of TVs for watching favorite sports, a model train that runs around the walls of the dining room, and a friendly staff.
We stopped in on a Friday afternoon for a late lunch and found it welcoming, and comfortable. Sara, our server, brought drinks and the extensive menu, and we decided on the turkey sandwich ($10.99), a cup of seafood chowder ($4.99), the Killer Cajun Prawns ($12.45) and warm apple crisp ($4.95). Water was free, and coffee was $2.75.
The turkey sandwich, with deli turkey, bacon, lettuce and tomatoes, had good whole wheat bread, and we asked for dressing on the side. It also had french fries, crispy and seasoned.
The seafood chowder was thick and had lots of seafood, but smelled fishy and didn’t seem fresh.
The Killer Cajun Prawns, five medium-size shrimp, came with four pieces of French bread for dipping.
I am sure I made it clear that I wanted to take home the apple crisp to eat, but it was put into a container raw, and there was no mention of baking. After I took the time to bake it, it was quite good.
Billy McHales has food made on the premises, lots of activities and an unusual menu, and if you enjoy the area, stop in.

IF YOU GO
Billy McHale’s
1320 S. 324th St., Federal Way. From Pacific Highway South, turn west onto South 324th Street and right into the first driveway. Go all the way to the west end of the shopping complex. Billy McHale’s is in the corner.
253-839-4200
Hours: 11a.m. to 2 a.m. daily

Carolyn Augustine, a freelance restaurant writer, writes the Senior Eats column.