Seattle Restaurants

La Carta de Oaxaca

#8 of 568 things to do in Seattle

#108 of 19917 things to do in USA

2 reviews | Write a review

Good for: authentic food, margaritas, Foodie Approved, atmosphere, food

Not good for: quiet dining

  • Address
    • 5431 Ballard Ave NW
  • Website
  • Phone
    • 206-782-8722
  • Price
    • mains $7-12
  • Hours
    • lunch Tue-Sat, dinner Mon-Sat

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Lonely Planet review for La Carta de Oaxaca

This lively place serves the cuisine of Oaxaca, particularly black mole sauce – try the mole negro Oaxaqueno, the house specialty. You can sample the same stuff on tamales or go for a combination of various small plates. Seating is mostly picnic-style, and there’s a full bar – handy considering there’s usually a wait for a table.

 

Traveller reviews for La Carta de Oaxaca (2)

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    Amazing Mexican food in trendy Ballard (Seattle)

    shopgirl8525 recommends this,

    This lovely spot is owned by a family from Oaxaca, so it's authentic Oaxacan style fare--not Americanized. Large family style table or individual tables inside and out. There is a wait as it's a small space & bar, but it's worth it! We show up right when it opens at 5 if we want to be seated right away. The chips and quac and homemade salsas are amazing and my favorite is the halibut tacos, however no dish will disappoint. You can also sit at the counter and watch the homemade tortillas being made on the spot. The margaritas pack a punch, so don't plan on more than 2, especially the Cadillac. It's my number one choice for Mexican food in Seattle. Afterward, walk over to Cupcake Royale for dessert.

    Good for: authentic food, margaritas, Foodie Approved

    Not good for: quiet dining

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    Viva Oaxaca!

    jdubya recommends this,

    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.

    Good for: atmosphere, food, Solo Travellers, service

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