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El Taco Loco in Washington

Discover El Taco Loco, a relaxed taco spot on NW Market St offering a warm dining atmosphere and authentic Mexican flavors in Seattle.

4.6 313 reviews $10–20 Taco Restaurant American · Southern

2840 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107, United States

FoodPlacee Passport United States · Washington · 24725
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El Taco Loco

Seattle, Washington, USA

Four Steak Tacos with Onions and Cilantro Mole Enchiladas Con Barbacoa Quesadilla with Rice and Beans Barbacoa Burrito
Rating★ 4.6 / 5
Price$10–20
CategoryTaco Restaurant
Today 10:45 AM - 06:00 PM

Overview

About This Food Place

El Taco Loco is a vibrant taco restaurant located in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, offering an authentic Mexican dining experience. Known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, this spot stands out for delicious tacos, enchiladas, and burritos served in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

With a solid 4.6-star rating from over 300 reviews, El Taco Loco provides quick and attentive counter service. Outdoor seating and convenient options like curbside pickup and no-contact delivery make it a versatile choice for lunch or dinner. The restaurant proudly identifies as Latino-owned, enhancing the authenticity of its comfort food menu.

Gallery

Photos from El Taco Loco

Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.

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Local favorites

Why People Come Here

A beloved spot in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, El Taco Loco draws locals and visitors for its authentic flavors and friendly atmosphere.

Fast Service

Quick counter and window service ensure guests get their favorite tacos and Mexican dishes without long waits.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Welcoming to all ages with a casual vibe, high chairs, and a special kids' menu make dining easy for families.

Convenient Location

Located inside a liquor store near Ballard Locks with free parking options, it’s accessible for quick lunches or relaxed dinners.

Highly Rated Menu

Popular dishes include Four Steak Tacos, Mole Enchiladas, and Barbacoa Burrito, praised for authenticity and generous portions.

Varied Offerings

Enjoy comfort food, vegetarian options, wine, alcohol, and hard liquor alongside quick bites and small plates.

Accessible Dining

Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating ensure an inclusive experience for all guests.

Multiple Service Options

Offers dine-in, takeout, curbside pickup, delivery, and no-contact delivery to suit every preference.

Experience

When & How to Enjoy This Place

Whether stopping in for a quick lunch or settling into a relaxed dinner, El Taco Loco offers tasty Mexican fare in a friendly setting with multiple ways to enjoy the food.

The mix of fast, friendly service and authentic flavors makes this location a standout for locals and visitors alike seeking a casual yet satisfying Mexican meal near Seattle’s waterfront. — FoodPlacee editorial note

Quick Lunch Spot

Ideal for a 10-minute stop, this taco restaurant delivers fresh, flavorful dishes that satisfy any midday hunger with fast counter service and takeout options.

Family-Friendly Dining

With a welcoming atmosphere, children’s menu, and high chairs available, this is a great place for families to enjoy authentic Mexican comfort food together.

Casual Dinner Experience

Enjoy dinner served quickly in a relaxed environment featuring popular dishes like mole enchiladas and steak street tacos, plus a selection of wine and hard liquor.

Late-Night Cravings

Open until 9 PM most evenings, El Taco Loco caters to late-night diners looking for hearty Mexican specialties or a quick bite before heading home.

Convenient Takeout & Delivery

Multiple service options including curbside pickup and no-contact delivery make it easy to enjoy El Taco Loco’s offerings without dining in.

Best for

Lunch Dinner Family-friendly Solo dining Takeout Late-night food Alcohol served Accessible

Guest sentiment

What People Feel

A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.

MF
Mike Finley 2 month ago

"The place was slightly hard to find as it is located inside a liquor store. The people were welcoming and friendly and later we found out they are very talented at cooking. These were the best tacos I have had since the last trip to Mexico. We had Barbacoa and Carnitas. Initially I thought the prices were a little high,but the quality and service more than made up for it. If you are visiting Ballard Locks, this place is a short 200 feet from the entrance."

J
Joel 2 month ago

"hidden gem inside a liquor store, v reasonably priced. had the tacos, quesadillas, and tamales. rice was delicious too. nvr tasted anyth like these before. yum!"

KT
K T 2 month ago

"We stopped here for lunch after a visit to the Ballard locks. Great service, great food, super fast!"

JM
Jonathan Mathews 2 month ago

"FANTASTIC CLASSIC MEXICAN FOOD . FRIENDLY STAFF . OUTDOOR SEATING . PARKING LOT AVAILABLE"

CP
cheese pizza 3 month ago

"Very delicious, filling, and affordable Mexican food. The atmosphere is also one of the best. It's not too crowded and is very clean, staff are also friendly. Overall, the place provides good quality food."

MB
Mira Boora 3 month ago

"Having lived in California for a long time, I really missed good Mexican food once I moved to Seattle. I am SO HAPPY I found this place. Probably the best quesadilla I've had in Seattle hands down. So so so good. And everyone was so nice. Definitely coming back. I got the chicken quesadilla and added veggies."

M
Murakami 3 month ago

"The boss is super nice! I ordered the steak taco and the food was really delicious. He even recommended the Mexican soda to us and said it’s his absolute favorite! The place has such an authentic Mexican vibe! And get this the boss even gave us a shirt as a souvenir gift!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​"

MH
Mark Hannon 3 month ago

"Easily the single best Mexican restaurant in Ballard, Fremont and Greenwood. No competition. Fair prices for Seattle, perfect serving sizes, a menu that isn't too large but still has variety. You're getting great food inside a liquor store across the street from one of the best parks in Seattle. Get literally any item on the menu, a bottle or case of something smooth and go enjoy your Sunday."

Visit info

When to Visit

Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.

Today Closed
Weekly hours
Monday 10:45 AM - 09:00 PM
Tuesday 10:45 AM - 09:00 PM
Wednesday 10:45 AM - 09:00 PM
Thursday 10:45 AM - 09:00 PM
Friday 10:45 AM - 09:00 PM
Saturday 10:45 AM - 09:00 PM
Sunday 10:45 AM - 06:00 PM
Hours may change. Please confirm with the business before visiting.

Best time to visit

The restaurant’s hours accommodate both lunch and dinner crowds, with convenient timings for quick solo dining or family meals.

Weekdays 10:45 AM - 9:00 PM for lunch or dinner Sunday hours end earlier at 6:00 PM Ideal for quick solo lunches or casual family dinners Typical visit lasts around 10 minutes, perfect for a fast meal Outdoor seating available for pleasant dining days

On the map

Where This Food Place Lives

Find your way to El Taco Loco in Washington .

Address 2840 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107, United States
Phone +1 206-376-8563
Area Washington
Call Address copied ✓

Questions answered

Food Place Questions

Find answers to common questions about El Taco Loco, a top-rated taco and Mexican restaurant in Seattle.

El Taco Loco is open Monday through Saturday from 10:45 AM to 9:00 PM and on Sunday from 10:45 AM to 6:00 PM. Hours may vary on holidays or special occasions.

Yes, the menu includes vegetarian choices alongside comfort food and traditional Mexican dishes, catering to various dietary preferences.

Customers can enjoy El Taco Loco’s fast service via dine-in, takeout, curbside pickup, delivery, and no-contact delivery, with outdoor seating also available.

The restaurant welcomes families with a kids' menu, high chairs, and offers a family-friendly casual atmosphere. It’s fully wheelchair accessible including entrance, seating, restroom, and parking.

Located at 2840 NW Market St, Seattle, WA, El Taco Loco offers free parking in its lot and on nearby streets, along with paid parking options close by.

Highly recommended dishes include Four Steak Tacos with Onions and Cilantro, Mole Enchiladas Con Barbacoa, Barbacoa Burrito, and Quesadilla with Rice and Beans.

The restaurant accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, providing convenient options for all customers.

For owners

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Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.