La Carta de Oaxaca
Seattle, WA 98107
Phone: (206) 782-8722
- Price:
- $$
- Cross Street:
- Market Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Mexican Food 2006
- Hours:
- Mon 5pm-11pm, Tue-Thu 11:30am-3pm, 5pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-3pm, 5pm-12am
Editorial Review for La Carta de Oaxaca – by Citysearch Editors
The Scene
The bustle and bright lights behind big storefront windows make this cheery restaurant stand out along dark Ballard Avenue. A long family-style table, an open kitchen and large margaritas all contribute to the festive atmosphere. Dramatic black-and-white photos capturing southern Mexico rise up along the walls in an airy, white room that gets surprisingly warm.
The Food
From tamales wrapped in banana leaf to barbecued pork in tortillas, Oaxacan food surpasses standard Mexican fare. Served in portions that are somewhere between tapas and small entree, each dish is homemade and wholesome. Although the kitchen shies away from hot seasoning, a serve-yourself salsa bar spices things up. The house specialty of chicken in sweet mole negro, traditional posole (pork stew with hominy) and fish soup are all boldly flavored favorites. Vegetarians face limited choices involving beans and cheese.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkWith more than two dozen tequilas from which to choose, the bar manager concocts delicious, distinctive cocktails (ask for a Chimayo or a Jazmin).
Look GoodMain dishes are small, so it's normal to order more than one if you're hungry.
When to GoLa Carta is very busy nearly every night of the week--come early or be prepared for a long wait.
Know Before You GoDon't come here if you need to have a serious conversation. The atmosphere is very lively, with tables close together and a louder-than-average noise level.
User Reviews for La Carta de Oaxaca
06/16/2008 Posted by foodlvr84
I had heard so many people recommend this restaurant, and finally tried it this weekend....was very pleased with the choice. Had the Mole and it was amazing. Portion sizes are on the small side compared with other mexican restaurants (ie. chicken mole for lunch had 1 chicken thigh, some rice, and two corn tortillas for $9)....but it's definitely quality over quantity!
04/19/2008 Posted by hoyr
this place is located in ballard, and is really super busy during the dinner hour. it can be hard to snag a table sometimes, but is definitely worth the wait for the great, authentic mexican food. you serve yourself when it comes to the salsa bar, but you order as you would at a normal restruant. the fish tacos and mole dishes are fabulous choices!
Pros: great flavor, great food
Cons: very busy and sometimes a long wait for a table
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