Asadero Ballard

"We can feel you wondering, “Wait, Asadero has a burger?” Yes—hidden among the tacos, A5 Japanese wagyu, and ball-out filets at this Mexican steakhouse is a thick bacon cheeseburger that eats dinky smashpatties for breakfast. Each chomp into this charred patty with two slices of american cheese reveals perfect pink drippings that soak through the bun like a french dip. But the real crown jewel here is the aioli, which tastes a little spicy and sweeter than a Girl Scout’s people skills once March rolls around. You’ll find us in the corner of a booth actively ignoring the ribeyes for this juicy thing. It tastes better than the steak anyway." - aimee rizzo, kayla sager riley

"Asadero specializes in DIY carne asada tacos—think filet mignon, medium rare, served to you on a sizzling skillet with corn tortillas, some salsa, and lime. It’s a pretty special experience if you’re into beef, and they do also have chicken, fish, and some vegetable dishes, too. But you’re not here for any of that. You’re here for some pink wagyu and an even pinker hibiscus margarita. And while we know that this is a guide to Mexican food, Asadero's finest contribution to the world is their hulking cheeseburger." - aimee rizzo, kayla sager riley

"Dinner in Ballard? You have dozens of great choices. Brunch in Ballard? The world is yours. Lunch in Ballard? Annoying! But one of the best options is surely this Mexican steakhouse (with another location in Kent). Even at lunch you get a lot of those fun steakhouse touches — citrus water, a selection of salsas, warm tortillas to wrap around that meat. You even get a little palate-cleansing tea at the end, which makes you feel like a fancy gentleman (non-gendered)." - Harry Cheadle

"A big steak always feels good when it’s raining outside. We know this because it rains in Seattle fairly often, and we often find ourselves at this beef place, Asadero. They make outstanding steak that comes with fresh tortillas and salsas so that you can DIY the best carne asada tacos in the city. When you’re sitting in the chill darkness with a tasty margarita and someone you don’t hate, it’s hard not to turn a mopey mood around." - aimee rizzo

"At Asadero, a dark Mexican restaurant that smells like grilled meat, the steaks come cooked perfectly with a side of tortillas so that you can make your own tacos, and top them off with salsa and lime. It’s one of the tastiest experiences for eating steak and tacos alike. Make it your next date night." - Aimee Rizzo