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    El Borracho

    3.8 (193 reviews)
    ModerateVegan, Dive Bars, Tacos
    Closed 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

    Order El Borracho Takeout or Delivery

    El Borracho Photos

    EL BORRACHO ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Hipster
    Casual
    Outdoor seating

    Recommended Reviews - El Borracho

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    Reviews With Photos

    Joe K.

    I stopped into El Borracho while staying nearby for work the day before Thanksgiving. I had a long travel day to get to Seattle but saw El Borracho was a completely plant based restaurant and a little walk from the hotel. It's located by the market and you can order food through a kiosk or online. I got an order of 3 Cheesy bean and rice burrito shorties to go. While I waited I ordered a beer from the bartender. It seems that's how it's done, specifically drinks at the bar, food from the kiosk or online. The beer was enjoyable, the restaurant relatively empty save a few very obnoxious younger intoxicated guys. The bartender was trying to steer them towards water, etc, and did a good job. But that was unpleasant. My shorties were out pretty quickly. I finished my beer and back to the hotel. The burritos were really tasty. I decided to pick something a bit more basic to test them on the food quality and I enjoyed those cheesy bean and rice shorties. I will say they were on the salty side of my taste preference but enjoyable. I'll certainly return if given the chance.

    Burrito, tacos, chips, salsa, guacamole
    Xochitl L.

    This place had highs and lows. The vibe definitely leans into the bar part of it rather than the taqueria aspect, it's dark but cute inside. We split 2 tacos, chips and guacamole, and a burrito. The chips, guacamole, and salsa were good, standard Mexican restaurant fare. For the burrito we got the vegan "steak." The flavors were great, but it was a very wet burrito on a very flimsy paper tray, so it almost bled through to the table. The tacos were a little disappointing. We tried the papas y poblanos and the jackfruit carnitas. I expected the papas y poblanos to be more like fajitas, but instead it was more like a large helping of mashed potatoes on a soft tortilla, which was very mushy. The jackfruit was also lacking in texture, and a bit too sweet for me. Overall it feels like this place hasn't quite mastered the art of preserving interesting textures within the vegan framework.

    Yellow rice and black beans
    Ginger A.

    Nicely done El Borracho!! We had Coronas to start, an impossible burrito for my husband! He raved about the flavor, it was filling and the burrito did not fall apart! I had the jack fruit carnitas taco with yellow rice and black beans! Great combo, I think the beans needed a little salt but I would order it again! We sat outside, very relaxing! The waiters were on point and provided great service!

    Gracie G.

    100% vegan. Got to the restaurant an hour before closing and they still served us! Everyone was super nice. You order from your table by scanning a QR code. They brought our food out quickly.

    Burrito bowl and Impossible burrito
    Crystal F.

    This is one of my favorite places to eat at Pike Place Market. My husband and I enjoyed a meal here on a Sunday night. As we walked in, we received a warm welcome from the bartender. We found a table for two in the corner. We ordered a black bean burrito bowl and Impossible burrito. Hot sauce is in the mini fridge and water can be found near the middle of the restaurant. My burrito bowl was a bit on the bland side but my husband liked the burrito. To be fair, I asked for a bowl of beans and salad because I was not hungry enough for the rice and cheese. Just a heads up, this place is more fast-casual than a sit-down restaurant. I ordered from the QR code on the table and we received our meal from the cook in the kitchen. Drinks came from the bartender. I see many people did not like the service but I actually prefer less interference with my dining experience, so, this set up suited me just fine. The bathroom was very clean. Parking was plentiful at the Pike Place Market this time of the day. I appreciate the hours they keep. The food is a bit pricey but it is downtown Seattle (and inflation is a thing) so I think that may have something to do with it.

    Impossible bowl
    Marcus S.

    My friend had previously been here and considered a favorite. A "100% plant-based tacos and burritos" spot. Sorry to say, the name fits here, because I think I'd have to be a drunk to come back. Came in on a Saturday afternoon and it surprisingly wasn't very busy which was odd to me. To start they have the scan menu way of ordering which I've never been a fan of to be honest. With Covid I kind of understood but I think since that has died down for the most part, physical menus should be an option. It turns out you have to do everything through the scan - select your options pay, and everything. My phone doesn't work well with those scan things and the reception wasn't great for me or my friend either, so it just turned into a hassle. So, I finally order. I got the "impossible Burg'r taco crumbles" bowl it was alright, have had better plant-based bowls like this. Tried some of my friends Oshi Blackened Salmon. Not good at all. Chewy and slimy. Both of these bowls + chips with salsa was like $50. Unacceptable. I usually don't make direct comparisons in my reviews but Rojo's Mexican over on James st., maybe a 10-minute drive from here is más excellente compared to this place in price, presentation, taste just.... everything. Seriously it's not even a competition. Lastly the service. There were like two ladies whom I guess were employees they were hanging out behind the bar, sort of bussing tables. but like 3 tables still had things from previous customer or just hadn't been wiped off. It wasn't even that busy which as I mentioned above was surprising. Saturday afternoon. Pike Place. Not busy = red flag. Skip El Borracho.

    Allen W.

    I had the pleasure of checking out El Borracho yesterday and it was a phenomenal experience! Firstly let me say my server whose name escapes me was incredible. She went above and beyond to provide a pleasant experience for me. I shared with her that i was in town visiting for a couple of days and she provided me with a short list of recommendations for me to enjoy my experience. The food was amazing. If you're going solo. I would recommend sizing down your appetite. There's a lot to offer and I definitely had more food than i was able to eat. The food is really flavorful. The one thing I think that could take their food to the next level would be quesadillas. It's a tad bit pricey in my opinion. Parking lot directly across from the building.

    Nachos and Horchata
    Keely N.

    First timer at El Borracho. I love how the entire menu was plant-based. We ordered the seitan burrito, nachos, and a horchata, and felt like there was lots of room for improvement here. The nachos were soggy while the olives had a strong canned taste. I thought that the service was good, and the staff were attentive and outgoing. The horchata was definitely thick from the rice milk.

    Cheapo Margarita With Black Beans And Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos
    Steve A.

    Checked out this restaurant in Pike Place Market to get some Mexican drinks and food. El Borracho happens to be all plant based if you can believe it. It has the typical stuff like margaritas, burritos, tacos and whatever. Has okay prices for being in a touristy location. The stuff certainly isn't authentic, but that doesn't mean it's not good though. A lot of the classic favorites. It's about $7 for the Cheapo Margarita. This is made with Limazune tequila. Certainly one of the cheapest drinks. There's also plenty of affordable stuff to eat. It's $4 to get a side of black beans. Sides aren't included with burritos and tacos. Boo. It's about $6 to get a taco. Had to get a few because these are small. The best we had of these was the Jackfruit Carnitas Taco. It has that famously stringy fruit marinated in seasonings and made to taste like beef. This is a pretty good substitute. For sure we could come here again. It's located on the east side of the market close to the big sign. The whole menu is okay for vegans and vegetarians.

    Dining Area
    Kristen N.

    I visited for lunch on a Sunday and was the only one in the restaurant for a while. The music and decor were eclectic, and the staff was very nice. I was underwhelmed by the food for the price, but appreciate an all-vegan restaurant in busy Pike Place!

    Drinks are great
    Jaquelyn C.

    Walking by we notice the name of the place. We thought it was funny since my husband and I are having a little vacation away from work and kids and we are doing some bar hooping drinks were ok. They had food but we didn't try any since we had just ate some appetizers at the place before this one. Our bar te Dee was really nice and friendly, we did notice that the guy who works in the back was on his phone the whole time we were there. Place is nice, but elk we just sat at the bar top.

    Bean and Cheese Burrito
    Ananya M.

    good vegan breakfast and lunch options. got a basic bean and cheese burrito to go and it was so yum

    Blackened salmon bowl
    Aaron M.

    While wandering around Seattle waiting for our flight post-cruise, we happened upon El Borracho. We were desperately looking for a place to sit and eat instead of finding grab and go. #TiredPeople The vibe of El Borracho is not your typical Mexican restaurant. There is rock music playing, and there is no mariachi band. Also, you have to scan at your table to order. Our introverted selves LOVED that! A further surprise? Salmon is the only meat on the menu. Everything else is plant based. We were a bit skeptical upon this discovery, but we are all 4 SO glad we stayed! I got the blackened salmon bowl, my partner got the jackfruit burrito, my daughter rice & bean burrito, and my son ordered the impossible bowl. They also have cocktails, but we didn't get those. We are sad we don't live in Seattle. We would be regulars. Highly recommend!

    Seitan Chikin Tinga Bowl + Horchata

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    Page 1 of 5

    Ask the Community - El Borracho

    I have a nut allergy - what items are made with nuts?

    Is this establishment 21+?

    Good morning, We are family friendly until 5pm daily when the Market common area entrances and gates are locked per WA State Liquor Control Board guidelines. Thank you very much for your inquiry. Have a gr8 day!

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Shorty's

    Shorty's

    3.9
    (717 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $

    This is it, the emperor of Seattle dive bars. Inimitable. Sui generis. My favorite place to hang…read moreout in downtown Seattle when bad decisions and fun are on my agenda. Time without number I've found myself here, be that first dates, my birthday, or New Year's Eve, and it always feels like home. If home were a clown/carnival themed acid trip of a pinball arcade bar, that is. And what's not to love about that? The bar tenders here are cool and friendly people who pour drinks with a heavy hand, and understand the mission: get the patrons who want to be drunk, drunk. The first few times I visited, I felt a leeriness about ordering food. But once I got over myself, I kinda fell in love with the menu, and I've probably eaten everything on it (including the clam chowder). Their hot dogs are wonders to behold, utter symphonies for the senses, and I refuse to visit Shorty's without getting one. Best dog in Seattle? Why yes. I think so. To paraphrase one reviewer: "Take your date here. If she doesn't like it, she's lame and you shouldn't waste your time with her anyways." Shorty's is the bomb.

    The male bartender was extremely rude. As soon as we walked in, he aggressively asked for our IDs…read more Then, while my cousins and I were looking through the food menu, he barely gave us a chance to read it before saying, "I'll take whoever is ready to make my life easier." That's not something paying customers want to hear. I ended up ordering a drink for myself while the guys were looking at the menu because they were doing a food hop, and us girls were doing a bar hop. During that time, the bartender came back to our table at least four times within about five minutes. Instead of being attentive, it felt pushy and aggressive, especially since they were still deciding what they wanted. I've been here a few times before, but after this experience, this will definitely be my last visit.

    Photos
    Tables are made from pinball machines
    Tables are made from pinball machines
    Spicy Pepperand Cheese Hot Dog, topo Chico seltzers
    Spicy Pepperand Cheese Hot Dog, topo Chico seltzers
    Slushi and beer pint

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    Slushi and beer pint
    Loretta's Northwesterner

    Loretta's Northwesterner

    4.2
    (699 reviews)
    5.9 mi
    $$

    Amazing as always…read more The food is delicious with well balanced flavors and made quickly. The staff is on it and always busy but quick with it. There are a few options of where to sit: Indoors near the front where there are a few booths and bar seating where it is dark and you won't know what time of day it is unless you are by the windows Indoors near the back has some tables as well And outdoors also has a fireplace that is nice for rainy Seattle dining. Very fun atmosphere and good drinks as well. Strong.

    One of the dishes I miss after moving to Seattle from the Midwest is the humble tenderloin…read moresandwich. A giant plate-sized piece of pork, pounded flat, breaded and deep fried? Yes please. After finding out about Loretta's Northwesterner, which is basically the only place in Seattle that serves tenderloin sandwiches, we made it a priority to visit on a surprisingly rainless and cloudless February winter weekend. Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich ($18) - That's the stuff. A perfectly fried and breaded tenderloin, easily 3 or 4 times the size of the almost vestigial bun, topped high with veggies (on the side, of course, to assemble to taste). It's a very respectable size, larger than many places I've visited in Indiana and Iowa. Thick breading encrusts a perfectly cooked tenderloin, allowing a hard crispy shell to develop, while the interior meat, pounded flat, remains tender yet moist. Both the breading and pork are liberally seasoned with salt, pepper, and spices, which creates a well seasoned bite. They include tons of romaine, red onion, tomatoes, and tangy pickles - with everything in place, I almost had to unhinge my jaw to eat the sandwich. The bottom bun is slathered with an ungodly amount of mayo. It's necessary to add more creaminess and fat to the relatively lean meat. The one qualm I have that prevents me from anointing this sandwich the best in the west: the bun. While toasted on all sides, it's dry and kind of crumbles apart while eating. Otherwise, this sandwich is excellent and easily competes with the many pork tenderloins I've eaten in the Midwest. (5/5) Fries ($6) - A $6 basket comes with a generous portion of freshly fried potatoes. The fries are skin on, which basically makes these crisp starchy sticks a health food. I found them to be fried a bit too far, rendering the interiors fluffy but dry. They have good crisp exteriors, though, and aren't overly salted. (4/5) Tavern Burger ($7) - Loretta's is actually more famous for their burgers than the tenderloins, with many publications in Seattle claiming they serve the best in the city. People often recommend getting the Double Tavern Burger, but we opted for the single given that we were planning on a couple of stops for desserts and pastries afterwards. For a full meal, I'd definitely want to upgrade to the double - the single isn't that large, probably comparable to a cheap fast food burger with a slightly larger patty. The beef is heavily charred in flavor, lending a great smoky aroma and a beefy bite. It's cooked well done, so the entirely of the burger is the same brown color, but there's more than enough moisture coming from the other ingredients to offset the dryness of the beef. There's a requisite slice of melted American cheese on top and plenty of fatty mayo-based secret sauce underneath, dressing a bunch of chopped onion and sliced pickle. The tanginess from the pickle balances out the fat and meat quite well. I'm not sure I'd call the burger the best in the city, but it's certainly pretty good. (4/5) I don't eat at dive bars very often, but I'd definitely return to Loretta's for the tenderloin sandwich. It's not a dish commonly found in the PNW and the fact that Loretta's rendition is actually really good, is a boon to the city. Bathrooms - Two tiny unisex rooms

    Photos
    Chili cheese fries
    Chili cheese fries
    Double Tavern burger
    Double Tavern burger
    Classic Neon sign outside

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    Classic Neon sign outside
    Screwdriver Bar

    Screwdriver Bar

    4.2
    (93 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    Amazing spot for a dive bar and a cool experience. Customer service was off the charts and is a…read moreplace I'll keep visiting. Highly recommend!

    During my Fall stay in Belltown this cool quaint spot was recommended to me based off of a set of…read morecriteria I asked from my bartender at another spot: dive-y, cocktails, preferably records/vinyl DJs, and cool vibes. The bartender said Screwdriver Bar. I looked it up, closed my tab, and walked over to Screwdriver Bar which was a short walk back to my hotel. Score! First off don't get confused. There is one (1) door attendant possibly for two venues?! I want to say there was a venue on top of this bar. Either way I saw Screwdriver Bar was downstairs so be sure you kinda know where you are going. Screwdriver Bar is (seemingly) free from a cover. I walked down the steps and entered a whole world of vinyl records, throw back artwork and memorabilia that filled the very top of the ceiling all the way down to the tables and floor. This spot made me feel welcomed right off the bat with laughter, people dancing, and a busy bar staff serving up all the drinks from tallboys to fancy hand shaken cocktails. I really enjoyed my time here when I visited. On the menu I thought I saw a dumpling type of food situation going on. I know I smelled good warm food smells but I did not have a chance to order anything (I ate somewhere else). Mostly locals here which made me feel good as the recommendation was spot on and the others here were all having a great time which was the vibe I needed during my stay in Belltown.

    Photos
    Screwdriver Bar
    Junglebird slushy
    Junglebird slushy
    Inside

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    Inside
    Thunderbird Tavern

    Thunderbird Tavern

    4.7
    (32 reviews)
    5.4 mi
    $

    I just moved to Seattle from Austin last Friday, and my first order of business was finding a great…read moreneighborhood bar like I had in Austin. The bar should have Norm Peterson-like regulars, cheap drinks and a good jukebox. And, well, Thunderbird fits the bill. I've been here every day this week so far, and have already made a lot of new friends who are starting to feel like family. My standard well vodka soda drink only costs $3.50, just like it does at Hideout Pub in Austin, and I can manipulate the jukebox to fit my tastes with the TouchTunes app. The only flaw here is the lack of parking (only a few spots on the side), but I can always park in the nearby neighborhood and walk it, or just take Lyft. This is because the snooty strip club next door isn't willing to share its spots but is more than willing to encourage their patrons to take Thunderbird's spots. I have yet to try the food, but I have no doubt it will surpass expectations, turning the trifecta from my first paragraph into a quadfecta. To note, Hideout Pub in Austin also has great food, so this newfound quadfecta is a natural progression. The night crowd is a little different than the happy hour crowd, but not in a bad way. What I mean is, I have yet to be approached by a creeper at Thunderbird, unlike at a select few other Ballard area bars who shall remain nameless. But, there's always tomorrow night.

    First timer and will be back! Good lime. Come for the lime stay for the back patio vibes!read more

    Photos
    Blurry vod sod with lime
    Blurry vod sod with lime
    SLAWDOG - german bratwurst, w/Salvadoran slaw & Tim's cascade style chips
    SLAWDOG - german bratwurst, w/Salvadoran slaw & Tim's cascade style chips
    Pickled egg

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    Pickled egg

    El Borracho - vegan - Updated July 2026

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