Stalwart Mexican in Ballard. Excellent chips, good vibes, and I actually love the portion size that isn't intensely overwhelming. Parking decently doable by searching around on Leary, but remember walking is good for you! Service was attentive and cocktails were good too! read more

El Moose - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Great place for authentic Mexican food! I had the carne asada tacos and the chips with guac. Both dishes were fantastic and the flavors were great. Staff was very attentive and friendly during the whole meal. I gave 4 stars because the consistency of the food was a little weird. The chips came out hot and fresh, but the guac was lukewarm and not cold. The carne asada was also lukewarm and was still medium. I would've liked the meat to be more burnt. Otherwise, this is pretty solid Mexican food! read more

I used to love El Moose and visited often as I live near by, but the price has become very unreasonable for what you get. I work from home most days and would order pick up pretty regularly but took a break as they raised their prices, and it already wasn't cheap to begin with. I finally went back and paid $22 for Huevos a la Mexicana, which to my surprise was essentially a box of beans with a side of egg and veggies. Given that it was 2/3 beans and no meat, I'm having a hard time understanding the price point. I love supporting small businesses in the area, so I'm bummed to have to scratch this one off my list. read more

El Moose - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Food was so good and very big portions. Service was great. 10/10 micheladas The restaurant itself is relatively small so just keep in mind when coming during peak hours read more

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We came here for dinner and had high expectations. The food was average, nothing to write home about but not bad. What was shocking was the price point. Most entrees are $25-30. Even chips and salsa cost $8. The entrees didn't come with rice and beans. Even adding cheese to anything was an extra $2. The menu is quite a bit different from most Mexican restaurants, so there were some cool options to try. The service wasn't great either. Overall, the place is fine but there are plenty of other Mexican restaurants I'd go to over this one. read more

I've always wanted to come here as it's a local favorite. But it's a bit of a let down with their prices and the amount of food you get. Most dishes are over $20 and there's not a lot of food. I got their Manchamanteles and the mole was okay, it leaned more sweet than spicy. The other dish was a carne asada and it wasn't very flavorful. The service was fast and friendly, and the restaurant was cute. read more

El Moose - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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The service was very friendly and the ambiance was bright and colorful. We sat near the window and away from the door, but it was still a little chilly inside. The food was good flavor overall, but my meal felt like 60-70% beans and sauce unfortunately. Maybe the issue is with what I ordered, but I was somewhat disappointed with the proportions of the ingredients for the huevos rancheros. They do have quite a few vegetarian options. Not really many vegan options though I suppose some you could just ask them to hold the dairy if needed. I'd definitely give it another try but order something else. read more

El Moose - Huevos rancheros - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

We stopped in for drinks once night right before closing. We were welcomed in and directed to the bar. The bar was vibrant and colorful and the bartender was so kind and fun. We chatted with her the whole time. She made me a non alcoholic tamarindo margarita and a standard one for my fella. The tamarindo version was exceptional! It was tasty, tart, sweet, spicy. So good! I imagine the regular margarita was just as delicious as we both finished them. Everyone the that night was so friendly and helpful. Unfortunately we didn't get to go back for food, but it's on the list of places to go when we return. read more

El Moose - Tamarindo margarita (NA) and standard margarine. - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Very mid experience. The drinks are super pricy, I was told that the basic margarita is made from a mix for $15 dollars so I ended up ordering the $17 marg instead. We got some really expensive guac that had no flavor and was mainly made up of tomatoes. And then to top it all off, when the food came out the enchilada sauce smothered on my food was sour. My husband did like his skirt steak entree, but it was super small for $27 dollars. The final bill was over $100, so I would certainly not return when there are so many other more affordable and tasty options in Ballard. read more

El Moose - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Ordered online. Food was ready when I arrived. We had fish and a pork tacos. Both were great

Oh my gosh, this place! Seriously the best food and service. I'm a regular for brunch, and my absolute go-to is the Enchiladas De Puya--it's simple, yet the flavors are incredibly rich. This time I added eggs which were also cooked to perfection! If you're in Ballard, it's a total must-try. Plus, the staff is super friendly, the vibe feels genuinely authentic, and the spot is always sparkling clean. I never take any photos of my food but this one deserves the extra effort! read more

El Moose - Enchiladas De Puya, added eggs. - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

The meat in the fish tacos was definitely frozen boxed fish fried. They all had the same square shape and the chicken in the enchiladas was really dry. There is much better food around the area read more

solid unpretentious mexican. both the al pastor and carne asada are great. service is fast and great. better than other mexican in ballard

The ambience is pretty amazing Mexican themed. Food was good palette wise not heavy at all just about subtle. In terms of flavours it needs pepping up! Overall a little hyped, the portion size is small; one can easily devour the whole ordered plate. The on-the-menu drinks are steeply priced. Service was quick. It was difficult to find parking around the neighborhood, there is no restaurant parking facility. read more

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Went with a friend for dinner. The food was very tasty. I ordered steak tacos that were very flavorful and agua de Jamaica which was also tasty. But for four tacos and a beverage, I paid over 30 dollars.... and the tacos were small street tacos at that. So I feel like you do not get a lot for the price. Service was fast, and wait staff attentive. There is minimal outdoor seating, and indoor seating though kinda small, and stuffy. There is no onsite parking but if you go a block over can street park for free. It's a nice , safe corner. I'd eat there again but would want bigger portions for the price. read more

El Moose was an incredibly enjoyable experience. We showed up to this place very close to closing time, and they still welcomed us ravenous diners in with open arms when everyone else in Ballard shuddered their doors. We asked for chips and guacamole, but were blown away with what was placed before us. 4 various homemade salsas, fantastic guac, and some sort of mystery spicy peanut sauce. This sauce was the star of the show. I ended up taking it all, hiding it, and using it for my entree. I kept my mouth shut when my friends kept asking "where did that peanut sauce go?!" The menu here is massive. I'd love to go back to try more of it, but the first thing that caught my eye were the alambres. Alambres is always a fun experience because you're making your own path with your meal. The tortillas on the side let you craft an adventure that's packed with powerful flavors. It's easy to drive past El Moose without a second thought as you're entering the heart of Ballard. But it would be a mistake to sleep on it, you'd be missing out! read more

El Moose - Alambres - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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El Moose is very busy on Sundays for brunch. If you want a table go early. The restaurant is colorful and homey. My favorite drink to order is the cafe de olla. We started with the guacamole and salsas. The chips were fresh and tasted like they were actual fried tortillas, that's my favorite way to have chips and salsa. Instead of just the bagged chips. My partner ordered the alambres, which is one of his favorite things to get here! I had the machachas with eggs which was also very good. One of our friends ordered the chorizo with cactus and eggs, she enjoyed her dish as well! She is egg free so eggs were on the side. Our other friend ordered sopas and also enjoyed her food. The only downside is, our friend ordered soy milk in her latte as she is dairy free. She asked the waiter that brought out the drink to confirm it was dairy free and they said it was. A few minutes later, after she drank a sip, another waiter came out and informed us it was not dairy free. They corrected the mistake and brought her a new coffee. Unfortunately, she had already drank it. Just be sure to clarify food allergies when you order. read more

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Solid Mexican place. I enjoyed their tacos Al pastor and their shrimps in Chipotle cream sauce which were spicier than I thought they would be! The chips here are fried fresh to order and the guacamole looked like it was also made fresh to order. Service was good. They have happy hours if you go on weekdays. read more

Solid place for slightly more upscale Mexican fare. They have a great drink menu as well with micheladas and plenty of fruit-forward cocktails. Highly recommend the seasonal watermelon margarita, which is made with fresh watermelon (watch out for seeds though!). Food wise, their mole dishes are jam packed with savory flavors, and they come out piping hot -- definitely a must try. The al pastor street tacos left a little to be desired both in terms of meat flavor and garnish quantity, but this place isn't a taqueria so it's hard to hold that against them. Service was friendly but not very attentive, and we waited awhile to order despite it not being busy. read more

El Moose - Watermelon margarita - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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This place is a gem for sure, what a cute little spot!!! Had a spectacular lunch, the food was delicious and the service was top notch as well!!! I will definitely be back!!!!! read more

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We used to come here for brunch sometimes, but haven't been since the name changed from Señor Moose to El Moose (ownership change?). Every time I've been, I always got the same thing - chilaquiles with chicken, poached eggs, and salsa verde. I got it for delivery this time and it was just as I remembered (so maybe no ownership change?). Also got some al pastor tacos, which I apparently forgot to photograph. They were beautiful and delicious, though. For some reason, if you're getting delivery, chilaquiles is only avail on the dinner menu. While it's 100% delicious any time of day, for me, it's def more of a brunch food than a dinner food. I don't get why it's not available before dinner unless you're dining in? But whatever, I was excited to get it either way. Glad this place is still around, still putting out amazing food, and now avail for delivery! read more

El Moose - Chilaquiles w/Shredded Chicken - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This place was so yummy! Authentic Mexican food for sure. We got to try a variety of dishes and none of them were a miss. Price is a little bit on the expensive side. We also got chips, salsa and guacamole and the chips were so freshly made! No notes. The service was quick and friendly. I loved the atmosphere too! read more

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We dropped in for a quick drink and ended up having such a great time that we wished we had arrived earlier. The moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt warm and welcoming. The bar itself had a lively, inviting vibe, and the team behind it made the whole experience even better friendly, upbeat, and genuinely great to talk to. I ordered a non-alcoholic tamarind margarita while my partner went for the classic version, and both were fantastic. Mine had an amazing balance of bright, bold flavors refreshing with just the right amount of kick and it was gone before I knew it. Judging by how quickly the other glass disappeared, the original version was just as impressive. What really stood out was how comfortable and well taken-care-of we felt, even though we arrived close to closing time. Everyone working that night was approachable, attentive, and clearly proud of what they do. We didn't have the chance to try the food this time, but based on how good everything else was, its definitely on our list for the next visit. A wonderful spot with great energy, memorable drinks, and a staff that makes you feel right at home. Highly recommend. read more

*CELIAC / GLUTEN FREE REVIEW holy YUM! they have a disclosure on the menu saying 99% of it is GF, and man was it good. we got the al pastor tacos, pollo en mole, and the alambres. Everything was SO DAMN GOOD. staff are very knowledgeable, huge variety of options to choose from, and a safe kitchen. read more

El Moose - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Love El Moose! Everything from the vibrant atmosphere to the friendly staff and delicious food, it's a great neighborhood staple. Their Pepino Margarita is one of the best I've had. Perfectly balanced between the cucumber and jalapeños. Chips and salsa are straight forward, but I love that peanut sauce; so unique! The Alambres is good...very flavorful and filling. The sliced cheese on it is weird though...especially since it wasn't melted down. I'd much prefer something else that you don't need to cut through. All in all however it is all delicious. Prices are a bit steep but worth stopping in. read more

El Moose - Chips with salsas...the peanut sauce is amazing! - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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They've been doing it for years with no drop off in quality. Many fantastic breakfast options as well as a dang good cup of coffee. Chorizo con Juevos is my personal favorite but you can't miss in any direction. read more

Caught ourselves in Ballard craving Mexican food. This place was rated highly so gave it a shot. Service was great, seated right away, never found myself waiting for our waitress Atmosphere is decent. Simple design with piñatas on the ceiling Food. Food was hit or miss. Liked the corn appetizer. Rice and beans were awful to me. Tasted like the plain basmati rice served at Indian restaurants. The beans were also plain. The shrimp was delicious, just bummed there were only 6, I wanted to dip everything in the sauce it was coated in. Quesadilla was eh. These tasted like your packaged mission tortillas. Value. Shrimp plate, quesadilla, side of rice, corn app. 1 beer and 1 marg. Total cost, $90 before tip. The shrimp and corn were highlight of the meal, everything else was just plain, and for $90, you expect more than just eh. Definitely taking advantage of the clientele and the neighborhood. 2.4/5 in my book. read more

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Food and service were both excellent at El Moose. I've yet to find better Mexican food in Seattle. The esquites were perfect and we loved the sopes con huevo and frijoilitos con platanos. I will definitely be back and will save room for flan next time! read more

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Most authentic Mexican food I have found in Seattle Service was very good I will be returning to El Moose very soon read more

It is alright. The idea that you can't substitute any meat tells me that they prepare all food in advance and just cook when asked for which is not bad but I don't want their poor chicken with my favorite sauce. Instead, I would love to have the beef but they never allow substitutions. Drinks are boring, very light and expensive. Service is not good and the place is very hot. And what's up with the poor decoration? Who came up with the idea of poor seating and tables? We have been here 3 times. I would say it is meh. Sad that it is the best Mexican spot in Ballard. read more

A couple friends were visiting and staying in Ballard, so after consulting Eater for the best brunch spots, we decided to meet them here. I got the machaca con papas, which was a little too dry. The dish was good, but it needed more sauce. Everyone else in my party seemed to enjoy their dishes, so I would consider returning and trying something else. read more

Decided to try this hole in the wall restaurant in Ballard. Really cute ambience and very friendly staff. I ordered the Camarones enchipotlados, it was delicious! The smoky chipotle sauce was perfection and I thoroughly enjoyed my dinner. I would have like some Spanish rice in place of the white rice but that's just me. The Cadillac margarita was one of the best I have had. Overall a great experience, I will return for more! read more

El Moose - Camarones enchipotlados and Cadillac margarita - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Not awful but not great either. Authentic it's not. Got a very average dish that was generic, flavorless ingredients & beans that tasted watered down. read more

Chips and guacamole for $18... overpriced and bland. Prices are ridiculous. Thinnest layer of beans and flavorless rice. Not sure how they have 1k reviews. Will not ever go back. There are a lot of other great Mexican restaurants and this was such a disappointment. read more

El Moose - $18 for this... guac and chips. Sauces tasted store bought. - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

IMO this restaurant was a little overpriced for the amount of food we got! There were only a few shrimp in the dish and it was decently expensive. The restaurant itself is very cute with on-theme decorations and was very packed during dinner time on a weekday! I don't think I would come back here regularly since I don't think it's worth the price, but I had a fairly good experience and it satisfied my Mexican food craving! read more

El Moose - Carnitas - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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This is our first time visit as we read on Google "the best Mexican food in Seattle." Well, people in Seattle need to try more different things for sure. In short, not so recommended if you were a vegetarian because you won't have many options. I order the tacos with shredded beef, it is good. Beef is tender and soft. The cilantro and lime make the tacos flavorful but light. What I like the most is the grilled spring onions, they add an extra flavor to the tacos. But my partner doesn't enjoy the enchiladas very much. He says the sauce is tasty but the dish is just cheese wrapped in tortilla. Service is good but I feel we are a bit pushed as the staff literally check in every few minutes to ask if we need anything. Maybe it's just me but I do find it a bit annoying. read more

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Pretty good Mexican food in Ballard! I came for a late lunch on a Sunday and the place was packed! I got the camarones enchipotlados. I enjoyed the spice and flavor in the shrimp and it went well with the small tortillas that they give you. I usually do not get seafood when I go out for Mexican food so this was a nice change to my usual routine! Next time, I want to try their enchiladas. read more

El Moose - Camarones enchipotlados - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

The best flan I have ever had. Such attentive service. And perfect mood setting music the whole time. I cannot wait to come back!

Good service, amazing drinks, delicious food. We came for bunch yesterday. Had a wonderful experience and plan to return very soon. read more

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I love the name of this place, though I'm curious it's not Alces or Musa which are pronunciations of Moose. Are there Moose in Washington? Random thoughts I had perhaps due to hunger. To start it was Esquites. This was terrific. You can pile it into a tortilla or do like me and eat it by the fork full. So well-seasoned with the epazote and cream. Definitely recommend for an appetizer. Keeping it simple for a first visit, it was Tacos on target. Got my favorite - Tacos De Carne Asada. Great presentation and though small, loaded with the goods - including cilantro, salsa green as well as diced onion, radish, avocado and of course steak. A bit higher than the others, this was good and hit the spot after visiting the nearby brewery. Service was very nice. There is a colorful aesthetic inside, but it was so nice outside, with outdoor seating that was a no brainer. Maybe next time though. Good to know there is a Mexi restaurant in the area that stomps like a moose. read more

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