How I heard of this place: We were walking through Ballard with out-of-town visitors, and needed a fun snack. Situ caught our attention and we made our way in. Type of cuisine: Mexican with an interesting, fusion flair. "My Situ, (Arabic for Grandma), Delores Flores, was half Lebanese and half Mexican. She raised me in the kitchen cooking, since I was 3 years old. Learning how to make and sew these tacos, was a rite of passage for me when I was young, and I've been doing it ever since. The original crunchy taco, the tortillas are initially fried, then stuffed, and sewn together with toothpicks. Then they're pan fried to a golden crisp and are delicious. You can fill them with whatever toppings of your choosing, (I recommend guacamole and pico de gallo). People have contacted me after 20 years of distance to ask about my tacos. This shit is no joke." Ambiance: We dined in the street-parking-made patio space, where small tables and benches hosted a couple of other dining pairs. Inside, the entry is on the smaller side, with order counter to the left, and booth seating to the right, extending far back, a long rectangular-shaped establishment with fun, colorful, vibrant decorations. For families and those with friends/children who are opposed to off-color verbiage, perhaps consider staying outside or avoiding this place altogether, as the decoration, menu and displays are full of it. What I ordered: We only ordered taquitos ($15/five): Your choice of homemade savory carnitas or papas filling, (or mix and match!), these 5 rolled tacos are served atop a bed of fresh lettuce with guacamole, cotija and our broiled tomatillo salsa. We chose potato and beef. What I loved: The crisp exterior, the abundant filling and the burst of flavor was definitely among the best taquitos I've ever had. Why I loved it: We love the middle eastern fusion at Situ and thought it was strange, but ended up working so well together. Cost: High read more

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Great food Great service Great atmosphere Love the addition of Situ Tacos in Ballard! It's like the mullet of taco joints...business in the front (a small but mighty restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating). But a party in the back! Fun bar area where you can have some tasty drinks - I recommend the pineapple jalapeno margarita. Staff are all great. It's still newly open but have been in three times already. The food is that good! Tacos (omg the flavor on that Hushwe), taquitos, queso, nachos, you really can't go wrong. Everything is super fresh and super flavorful. Do yourself a favor and stop on in! read more

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I understand they recently opened and hope they stay open for a long time. Unique take on tacos with a Lebanese twist. Deep fried tacos with yumminess inside. Also had a nice shot with a cheese chaser. That was a new experience and one I would repeat. read more

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Made this a stop on a recent dine around Ballard tour, I'll be back for a full dinner soon. Other reviewers have already done a great job at describing the tacos, they're not wrong. Just make sure you don't eat the damn toothpicks (2 to a taco). The cute little bar in the back just adds to the charm of the experience. I ate the tacos too fast for a picture, but here's a quick video of the disco vibe in the lounge. read more

Came here for breakfast on a Saturday to grab a breakfast burrito! Got a pork burrito, and they ask if you want it with the salsa on top to make it a wet burrito. We didn't but did get the salsa (choice of red or green) on the side. They also give another salsa with the burrito that's a bit sour but good! The burrito is pretty filling with eggs, cheese, guac, potatoes, and meat. Pork was super tender and flavorful but a bit too oily for me. It was dripping out of the burrito, which I know can't always be helped. Salsas were good and service was super nice! read more

Situ Tacos - Pork breakfast burrito - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

The food was a seed oil greasy gut bomb. Service was great and I like the environment but the food did me grimy. Will not be returning.

This place was cute but it was all vibes. The food was expensive, small portions, and just okay. I wanted to like it better but I was a bit disappointed. I will say that the queso was really good! read more

Situ Tacos - Taquitos and quesadillas - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This is the kind of place that feels like it's always been there-- unfussy, and incredibly delicious. The tacos are packed with bold, balanced, authentic flavors that somehow taste both classic and like something you've never had before. House marg was perfect. Strong and delicious. Bonus points for the singing parrot and friendly quick service. read more

Situ Tacos - Taco plate, taquitos and bean dip. - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

It was okay. This place is on the Eater and Infatuation Best New Restaurants list 2024 so I was curious about it. I got the 3 taco plate and sampled one of each taco. I did not like the slaw. It was too vinegary and could have been toned. They needed to chop the pieces smaller too. The longest pieces were ~3 inches long. The taco shells had a good crispy texture when eaten immediately. The beef one was the best. The potato and cauliflower ones were just mush and I honestly didn't know which one was which until halfway through. Not a repeat for me. Food came fast. Dine in if you don't want to pay extra for takeout. read more

Everything was a little sour, which is not our favorite. We ordered before sitting down, we had to get our own water and bus the dishes. The minimum tip amount listed was 20% (not counting customized tip), which is a little high considering we have to do everything on our own. read more

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Great service, nice people, warm and welcoming, the best casual Mexican food around, definitely my favorite burritos in Seattle. I go back time and time again and I will continue to. Highly recommend. read more

Good spot for tacos in Ballard! An interesting twist with Lebanese inspired tacos. I got their 2 tacos and soup combo and I tried the hushwe which was pretty good. The soup of the day had noodles and beef and was so refreshing. The food was good but it was definitely pricey for the quality and quantity. read more

Situ Tacos - Two tacos and soup combo - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

We went here late in the evening. I got one of every tacos. I thought the vibe was lively and we were able to get a large table for everyone. Service was quick and the people there were very friendly. When it comes to the food, nothing really stuck out besides the toothpicks placed in the tacos. It was more of a nuisance than a decorative part of the dish. My favorite taco was mashed potato one - it had a good balance of flavor and was super soft inside. The beef taco didn't have much flavor and tasted a bit bland / pretty dry. The cauliflower taco was ok - I didn't like the flavor and was pretty bland. read more

I wrote an honest review about the food and experience here, but it appears someone associated with the business had it excluded based on a technicality. So rather than recap the whole story, I'll say this. We didn't find the food flavorful, spicy or worth the drive. I think it's great that the owner is trying to honor her Grandmother, but nothing about the food tasted authentic to me. I think it's great that some people appear to love this place, but 60 reviews in a year also speaks to my point that the food isn't fire. If you want real authentic Mexican in the same zip, check out La Carta de Oaxaca. If Situ wants to truly build a base and attract a crowd, they are going to have to drastically improve the taste of their offerings. As someone with equal roots in the Mexican community, this place doesn't represent me. read more

Want some Soup? The soup was perfectly seasoned and delicious - tried both the vegetarian and potato/pork. The only place that I will go for soup, tacos and nachos in Seattle. Staff here is unusually sweet and inviting. The restaurant atmosphere is colorful and cozy. Creative design choices you'll find even in the bathrooms. Great bar atmosphere in the back, perfect for meeting friends out for the night. read more

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What a sweet newish spot on Ballard ave! I had been wanting to try this new spot that replaced the old bitterroot bbq for a few months. I stopped in for a lighter dinner and drink and so glad I finally checked it out. I got the two tacos and soup of day special. Picked one beef and one potato taco and pork chile verde along with a margarita. Oh my yum. While the tacos aren't probably a type of tacos I can have on the regular, they were so deliciously deep fried and flavorful. I liked the potato better than the beef which I was surprised. The soup is where I was sold and I can't wait to come back to try all the daily soup specials. The chunks of potatoes and pork in perfect balance with the verde base. Wow. Getting your drink is a little strange because you have to get it from the back bar but I think it is probably a pretty awesome spot to hang out with some friends. Can't wait to be back soon - although I'd probably skip the tacos to try something else next time because I bet the rest of the menu is just as flavorful as the soup! read more

Situ Tacos - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

The food is amazing so delicious! i love the service and it is very authentic! i've tried many quesadillas nachos and tacos but nothing taste as good as situ tacos! they are also quick at getting the order done wonderful service! i will be coming back read more

Awesome service, awesome ambiance in the club. Great tequila choices. Awesome bartender.

Potato leek soup was a let down, super thick and lumpy texture and a heavy oily feel. The cauliflower taco did not live up to the hype, overdone and a bit bitter. The potato taquito was surpisingly the lightest most savory and enjoyable option. Very expensive - 3 tacos, a portion of taquitos and soup was just under $50. Overhyped, will not be back. read more

Context: Looking for a casual dinner on a Sunday night with our family of 4. Food: The tacos are what you come for and stay for. All 3 were flavorful and delicious and affordable, especially during happy hour only $3.50! The sauces have a nice spicy kick which I enjoyed. I like their house made queso as well, which we had on the nachos. The kids enjoyed the quesadillas which are pretty standard. And finally the dessert Mexican cookies were awesome. Everything is gluten free on the menu which is dope! The only thing my wife and I didn't like were the margaritas, tasted strong though. Service: it's order up front and seat yourself and bus yourself. Ambiance: small place but plenty of seating available, especially since no one is staying more than an hour since the food comes out fairly quick. There is a small bar in the back which looked cool. Everything is so colorful regarding the decor, I enjoyed it. We will be back! read more

Visiting from Rhode Island and stopped in for lunch. Ordered the carnitas burrito and it was fresh with crunchy slaw and creamy avocado. so big I only ate half. My friend got 2 tacos and beans but was suprised when they came out fried looking like empanadas. Just wasnt what was expected from the menu description but still tasty. Their home made hot sauce was next level. read more

Always top notch! I can't even think about which is the best soup that I've had here, because they are all so good. Hushwe & cauliflower tacos are my fave's! read more

Situ Tacos - Hushwe & spicy cauliflower tacos with chicken & rice soup - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Wasn't sure what to expect but absolutely blown away. Honestly totally cool with ordering at the register and they bring the food to you. The staff were friendly and very accommodating. The food came out within minutes and from the first spoon full of soup I knew it was going to be i. For a treat. Absolutely the best soup I've had in my life. Could not stop eating to even try the tacos until it was almost gone but left enough to dip my tacos in. Everything fresh and a delight to taste. Slaw, guacamole...perfection and unique. Absolute religious experience. Will be back. I asked the cook/owner if she would marry me, she wasn't having it but what a fabulous experience. Thank you Situation Tacos! read more

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Situ's addition to the Ballard neighborhood has been awesome. Female owned and primarily female staffed, which to me, makes it extra special! Everyone is so kind and helpful. The food is delicious and ever changing. I love the taco and soup combo - it's so fresh and full of spices and flavor. I will say, the plates are a bit small but still very filling! The back bar is a great vibe with dimmer lighting and beautiful decorations all around. Certainly lots of love and thoughtfulness went into every piece of the place. And remember kids, DON'T EAT THE FUCKING TOOTHPICKS! read more

Don't sleep on the soup. I got the two taco and one soup combo and it was definitely the way to go. The tacos were crunchy with the hushwe beef being incredibly juicy and flavorful and the garlic potatoes just melted in my mouth. The soup though came out of left field with its limey, potato, chorizo, kale deliciousness. The level of spice was perfect with the provided salsa. I'll definitely be coming back. I want to try the cauliflower tacos next time. read more

Situ Tacos - Two tacos and soup combo - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Finally went out to try this unique, Lebanese-Mexican fusion taco spot in Ballard! They have recently switched from a pop-up to a brick-and-mortar store. The ambiance is SO cool, bright and colorful, and the bathroom has glittery purple walls and a disco-ball looking light fixture! Super aesthetic, and they have both indoor and outdoor seating. It's fairly casual, so you order at the counter, they bring it to you, and you pick up your napkins and water, etc. I tried the three taco plate, including mix-and-match taco fillings and a Mexican coleslaw. The fried tacos are perfectly crispy and the coleslaw was light and fruity, a good pairing to the heavy tacos. I am vegetarian, so I tried the spicy cauliflower and potato tacos, while my friend tried one of each. We both agreed that the cauliflower was our favorite. The spicy cauliflower one was delicious. It almost reminded me of a samosa or an empanada, with the flaky fried crust and the deliciously spicy filling. The potato taco filling was like mashed potatoes and I wasn't a huge fan of the texture. It was also less seasoned than the cauliflower. Overall, I was excited for this fusion, intrigued by the intermingling of two distinct cuisines that I think would work really well together. I think it was a great meal, but I wanted more from the fusion. I wanted layers of toppings or flavoring, more sauces (it only came with one hot sauce). The fried tacos only have a filling that's been mixed together, but I really enjoy having multiple sauces and multiple layers of toppings that taste a bit fresher / allow for variety in every bite. However, I want to definitely support a local, unique restaurant in their newest opening! I look forward to trying more items. read more

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Delicious! Lives up to the hype. Best enjoyed fresh... fun atmosphere... especially the back bar. A little oily. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed! read more

What an amazing place!! Very inviting atmosphere and the friendliest of staff. I had some chilaquilas and they were divine. I'll be back next time I make the trip to the PNW from Texas! read more

Situ Tacos - Lupe's Situ Tacos!! A home away from home - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

After much deliberation, I've landed on 3 stars for Situ Tacos. Why? Well, I arrived very excited and departed fairly disappointed. What drew me in was first of all how cute this place is, then a love of tacos, then an appreciation of a clever mash-up of two cultures and THEN when I found out they have a veggie soup every day, I was on a mission to give this place a try. Today I invited my husband for a lunch date, fully expecting this place to earn an instant spot in our rotation. Side note that when you walk in, you may notice huge signs about not eating the toothpicks and even t-shirts with this slogan and think, that's weird, what kind of idiot eats toothpicks? More on that later. How two taco /soup combos (two tiny tacos and a cup of soup), chips & guac, a topo Chico, and an iced tea could ring up to $67 dollars is still a mystery to me. Especially in a restaurant with counter service and bus your own tables. I wasn't offered an itemized receipt. They did offer me the opportunity to tip, beginning at 30%. Is this a joke? Anyway the food came. I was glad it was lunch time because the portion was very small (I later read an article where the owner describe the tacos as "two-bite tacos". The food itself was OK but not good enough to inspire a return. I liked the cauliflower taco was better than the potato one and the dipping sauce was tasty. The guac & chips was a healthy portion and I really liked that the agua fesca was just a little sweet. Oh, right, I was going to tell you about the toothpicks. So the thing with the toothpicks is that they are in the tacos but for all the clever signage and t-shirts no one tells you there are toothpicks in the tacos. They are also easy to miss because they are precisely the same color as the tacos and one does not expect toothpicks in their tacos. So even though we saw the signs and laughed about the dummies who eat toothpicks? The first thing that happened is that one of us ate a toothpick. Luckily I realized it quickly enough to alert my dining partner who extracted it before doing too much harm. But the toothpick situation is ridiculous and easily avoided. One wonders why, knowing about this obvious hazard that people obviously keep eating the toothpicks, the owner chooses to chastise their customers with signage, t-shirts etc, rather than simply change their process (some ideas: remove the toothpicks prior to service, use colored picks that would be more obvious, or basically any solution other than hiding tooth picks in tacos). Anyway, as excited as I am for daily vegetarian soup, I really can't abide $33.50/each for what amounts to a snack so I probably won't return. read more

My coworker told me about this spot and after seeing her taquitos I knew I had to check it out. Food, ambience and music was really nice. I enjoyed my food in their outdoor seating. Staff was very nice and did a good job explaining their items. I am definitely going to go back. Their pineapple agua fresca is perfect for a sunny day. Their beef soup was a lil bit spicy but very delicious I highly recommend it! Especially in the fall or winter time! read more

Situ Tacos - Beef tacos and soup Pineapple agua fresca - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I must say this spot is super cute, definitely a vibe and I could see why they're so successful. It's also a great learning opportunity for people who may be unfamiliar the Lebanese impact on Mexican culture (see: Al Pastor). I do like that they do things like directly as a fusion, although I do wish they also did Al Pastor and maybe even a true shawarma taco. I got the Hashweh tacos, which are phenomenal. My only gripe is that there were no pine nuts or fried nuts, which I would argue are essential to a Hashweh. I am assuming that's in an effort to not add a common allergen to the kitchen so I'm not too mad. The Hashweh is phenomenal though and the tacos provide a perfect vessel for it, next time I'm in Ballard I'm definitely stopping in again. Also, I came on Sunday during the Farmer's Market and it was super busy. Even with that the service was awesome. read more

The food was not bad but the service was terrible. Our server had an attitude when we started ordering but it only got worse through the night. Ruined the dining experience.. read more

Once you get over the "quirkiness" of the toothpicks, this place just sucks. Total ripoff. I've had better food from the Trader Joe's frozen section. Hopefully a more serious food establishment takes over the lease, because they are taking up some prime Ballard real estate. Really terrible to see. read more

The food is so/so if you are looking for a unique twist on a familiar food. The tacos are deep fried and made with a choice of Lebanese butter beef, or garlic potato or cauliflower. Unfortunately, for me, it was not what I was expecting walking into a taco restaurant. The part that really disappointed me was that for the hefty price of a $30+ meal I was expected to bus my own table and go to the other end of the building to pick up my beer. It felt like fancy street food with a McDonald's style twist. Oh! And beware of the toothpicks! read more

I was very hungry at the Ballard Farmers market and stumbled into the first place I saw. I am not necessarily a huge taco aficionado and am generally kind of medium on them. So I was not prepared to LOVE THESE AS MUCH AS I DID, so freaking delicious! I will say that my "spicy" cauliflower/chickpea tacos were not spicy at all (but that was fine with me, still so flavorful). I also got a side of slaw, which was a refreshing contrast to the fried crunchy tacos. The service was friendly but a little chaotic, but again, it was during the farmers market and pretty busy. We sat outside, so I didn't get much of an idea of ambiance, but I will say the bathroom had exciting pink glitter wall paper! I am very sorry to hear of people eating the toothpicks (which hold the tacos together) and ending up in the ER. I wouldn't wish that on anyone, but at the same time, their literal slogan is "Don't eat the fucking toothpicks," our waitress pointed out the toothpicks and in addition they were pretty obviously there. So yeah, keep an eye out for the toothpicks, definitely do not eat them, and enjoy these fine tacos! read more

Situ Tacos - Spicy cauliflower tacos and slaw. - Tacos Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Came in on Halloween night for some cocktails and tacos (3rd or 4th overall visit). You cannot beat these tacos for how unique they are - the fillings and the preparation - ignore everyone complaining. They also have bomb soups that are super flavor. The staff is fun, and the back bar has some unique cocktails that are worth your time. read more

I wanted to love this place. I've gone twice, and the food was just okay and pretty expensive for what you actually get. I expected more flavor and more options. Food on Ballard Ave is pretty bland in general, though. read more

Everything about this place is mediocre. The food is not even close to "authentic," straight bar food. Even the service is not great. Great vibe/ambiance tho. Would I ever return? Probably not. read more

I visited this place for my first time this afternoon and absolutely loved it!!!! All the staff were really nice and super accomodating to my dairy free needs. If I lived in Ballard I would come here every dang day! The salsa was perfection and the pickled onions were an added and unexpected treat if you like a little kick. I will definitely be back and will for sure be bringing friends!!! read more

Definitely overrated and overpriced. Cool vibe but underwhelming. Not bad but really nothing special and $60 for a few tacos and taquitos is just silly. Mediocre food with fun decorations. read more