I was first exposed to the Mexican culture when I was in first grade. We lived in Douglas, Arizona, a small town on the border of Mexico. Many of my classmates and friends were Hispanic and lived in Mexico. Birthday parties always included piñatas, cake and Mexican food. My mother learned to make a few popular dishes (enchiladas, tacos, etc.) during the year we lived there and I was hooked for life.

When I moved to Seattle from Dallas umpteen years ago, I remember scouring neighborhoods for fresh, authentic Mexican food. I wish I had found El Camino back then! 

I was pleased to happen upon them this summer after shopping at the Fremont Sunday Market. I was walking back to my car when I looked up and saw a colorful balcony decorated with festive lanterns. Since it was lunchtime, and I didn’t have other plans, I decided to give them a try. Best decision I made all day!

They serve breakfast/lunch every day from 11 am to 3 pm and dinner begins at 4 pm. My favorite brunch item (my family can confirm) is Huevos Rancheros. It includes two organic eggs, homemade corn tortillas, a side of black beans (vegetarian or simmered with bacon) and salsa on top. It’s healthy, flavorful and gluten-free.
 
There is a wide selection of items on the menu, from scrambles to tacos to tortas. They offer local, fresh and organic meats, dairy and produce whenever possible. And I hear their mole sauce is the best in town.
 
The wait staff is friendly and attentive. They did a great job looking after me from the time I sat down until I left.

The patio is open year-round. It has a large fireplace and floor to ceiling garage door windows that are open or closed depending on the weather. You can reserve it for special events such as cocktail and dinner parties. The interior is roomy with big windows up front and a nice-sized bar in the back.

I recommend El Camino to anyone looking for fresh, authentic and muy delicioso Mexican food in Seattle! I can't wait to go back!! 

El Camino
​607 N 35th Street
206-632-7303
Breakfast/Lunch: 11 am to 3 pm
Happy Hour: 3 pm to 6 pm
Dinner: 4 pm to 10 pm (Sun-Thu) to 11 pm (Fri-Sat)

What's the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon? Here are three of my favs!

​You might start your afternoon by strolling through the Fremont Sunday Market where you'll find jewelry, handmade crafts, vintage clothing, antiques and local artwork. If you are a bit hungry, there are usually a couple of gourmet food trucks onsite and vendors selling homemade pies and other tasty street food.