Mexican Food in Seattle (2025)

A Ballard staple since 2004 serving regional Mexican recipes from a multigenerational family team. Expect hearty brunches, tlayudas, and excellent al pastor—recently singled out by local coverage—plus an atmosphere that feels like a neighborhood gathering place. Featured by Eater Seattle and praised by local food writers.

Long lines are part of the ritual at this family-run Oaxacan legend. Known for deep, complex moles, hand-crushed guacamole, and a serious mezcal list, it’s repeatedly recommended by Eater Seattle and other critics as a foundational Seattle Mexican experience.

A family-owned steakhouse celebrating Guadalajara and Jalisco traditions: carne en su jugo, tomahawk steaks, and birria alongside excellent margaritas. Consistently praised by The Infatuation and noted on Resy’s city lists for its lively room and meticulous grilling.

A tortillería and restaurant devoted to nixtamalized heirloom corn. Come for tortillas that taste alive, sopes, chilaquiles, and dinner plates built around house-milled masa. Covered by Eater Seattle and local reporters for championing corn biodiversity and technique.

Chef-owner Chester Gerl nixtamalizes heirloom Oaxacan corn and pairs it with Pacific Northwest produce and seafood. Think vibrant antojitos, handmade tortillas, and a deep agave program. Highlighted by Seattle Met and featured on KING 5 for thoughtful sourcing.

Capitol Hill’s lively standby where tortillas are pressed all day and fajitas arrive sizzling. Locals love the al pastor and tequila-forward cocktails. Frequently cited by The Infatuation and trusted by neighborhood regulars for dependable, house-made fare.

Queer- and Mexican-owned tamal specialists turned Fremont restaurant and brewery partnership. Massive, flavorful tamales and community programming make it a cultural hub. Celebrated by The Infatuation and profiled widely for its inclusive, grassroots story.

A Pioneer Square lunch gem serving 100% plant-based tacos, tortas, and burritos. House-made al pastor soy curls and jackfruit carnitas draw raves. Recognized by The Infatuation and spotlighted by Axios for convincing, flavor-first vegan Mexican cooking.

A tiny Greenwood spot with handmade tortillas, vibrant salsas, and plates that blend Mexican traditions with Northwest produce. Consistently praised by The Infatuation’s 2025 guide and beloved by neighborhood diners for hospitality and punchy flavors.

A casual Fremont hangout best known for lamb birria—rich, peppery, and deeply comforting—with a menu of familiar favorites on the side. Noted by The Infatuation for that lamb and appreciated by locals as an easy, sit-down option.

A Mexican market with a taquería tucked in back—order carnitas, barbacoa, or quesadillas, then browse the shelves. Loved by locals for generous portions and weekend specialties; included on Eater Seattle’s Mexican maps over the years.

Chef Janet Becerra’s masa-driven cooking—nixtamalized and pressed daily—anchors creative plates like suadero tacos and mole negro. Named among The New York Times’ 25 Best Restaurants in Seattle and praised by Condé Nast Traveler for precision and depth.