La Carta De Oaxaca

Viva Oaxaca!

Food

Service

Atmosphere

Of all the great restaurants in Seattle, this is the one I keep going back to.  I have never had anything less than a great experience here.

It's a small place, almost hidden but for the tell-tale line of people and a wooden sign propped up on the sidewalk.  Yes, there's always a wait but it's well worth it.  If you're dedicated, cram into the back bar and wait it out with one of the best margaritas in town.

Once you're inside, you have won.  You're enveloped in spicy, mouthwatering aromas and the sounds of people eating and exclaiming about the food.  It's all authentic, homemade Oaxacan cuisine.  It's family run and has a communal feel to it.  Don't be surprised if you're seated right next to a stranger.  It's ok - you'll be friends by the time you leave.

On to the food.  Each item on the menu is better than the next.  Standouts are the tamale, steamed in a banana leaf, tacos al pastor that melt in your mouth, and fresh halibut tacos.  Everything you've heard about the mole' here is true - It's deep, rich chocolate and spice and so good I could drink it straight.  The house specialty, mole' negro oaxaqueno, is guaranteed to please.  When you're in a place where they make their tortillas by hand, you really can't go wrong.

Prices here are completely reasonable  Many smaller items on the menu run $5 while larger plates run closer to $10.  I recommend ordering a few things and sharing...except you may want to keep those al pastor for yourself.  Even though the place itself is small and, admittedly cramped, once you've got a seat the service is fast.  Any waiting, which will not be much, can always be eased with another margarita or by admiring some of the stunning backlit photographs that cover the walls.

I've been to La Carta de Oaxaca well over a dozen times and love sharing it with friends.  It is consistently good and never disappoints.  If you find yourself in the Seattle metro area, do yourself a favor and seek this one out.