Great Places for Mexican Food in SLU
Photo Credits: @elgrittoseattle and @tacoschukis
Cactus - South Lake Union
Cactus - South Lake Union blends Southwestern, Mexican, and Spanish flavors in a lively space originally opened by brothers Bret and Marc Chatalas, who launched Seattle’s first tapas bar in 1990. Known for inventive, seasonal dishes like butternut squash enchiladas, portobello fajitas, and the cult-favorite chicken-fried chicken, the restaurant also caters to vegan and vegetarian diets. The space features design elements inspired by Mimbres pottery and a vacation-like ambiance, making it as visually striking as its food is flavorful.
Visit at: 350 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
Flair Taco Taqueria
Flair Taco Taqueria is the brick-and-mortar evolution of Angel Aguilar’s popular Fremont taco truck, which he launched 18 years ago to bring authentic Mexican street food to Seattle. Opening its doors in 2024, the taqueria reflects Aguilar’s Yucatecan roots and commitment to regional diversity, offering bold fillings like cachete (braised beef cheeks), barbacoa de chivo (goat), and chicharrón de cazuela (pork cracklings in green sauce), alongside vegetarian options such as rajas con crema and nopales. With weekend brunch, daily happy hour, and Tuesday karaoke nights, Flair is a fun new standout in SLU’s dining scene.
Visit at: 1256 Republican St, Seattle, WA 98109
El Grito Taqueria
El Grito Taqueria offers a vibrant take on Mexican cuisine, housed in a historic building that's been a restaurant since 1943, blending rustic charm with modern touches. The menu features standout dishes like the quesabirria—braised beef short rib tacos with cheese and arbol salsa—and cactus tacos with pepita pesto. A separate vegan menu offers items like enchiladas made with Daiya cheese and dishes prepared on a dedicated grill to avoid cross-contamination.
Visit at: 234 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
La Palmera
A family-owned gem since 1991, La Palmera brings the vibrant flavors of Jalisco, Mexico, to Seattle with dishes like sizzling fajitas, molcajete, and the indulgent California burrito. Renowned for its commitment to authenticity, the restaurant boasts over 100 premium tequilas, including a special Herradura Double Barrel Reposado selected directly from Casa Herradura in Tequila, Mexico. Beyond its rich menu, La Palmera is known for its fun mariachi nights and seasonal events like the Christmas Cantina.
Visit at: 901 Mercer St, Seattle, WA 98109
Tacos Chukis
Tacos Chukis is the polished expansion of Roberto Salmerón’s Capitol Hill original, born from a 1,700-mile bike ride to Tijuana that reignited his craving for the street tacos of his youth. The SLU location, opened in 2016, stays true to its roots with crowd favorites like the signature adobada taco—marinated pork shaved from a trompo, topped with grilled pineapple, guacamole, and melted cheese—and nopales tacos featuring cactus paddles. The new SLU spot expands upon the affordable, flavor-packed tacos that have earned it a cult following across Seattle.
Visit at: 832 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
