Hispanic-Owned Businesses In And Around Seattle
Hispanic Heritage Month starts on September 15th, celebrating the independence days of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, plus Mexico (Sept. 16) and Chile (Sept. 18). That means it’s the perfect time to spotlight something we're passionate about year-round: the incredible Hispanic-owned businesses that shape Seattle's neighborhoods.
At Pao, we believe local businesses are what make places special, and Seattle's Hispanic business owners prove that every day. This guide features spots where owners shared their stories with us directly - because the best recommendations come from the people actually doing the work!
The Eastside's first authentic Mexican bakery bringing traditional pan dulce to Redmond
Cafecito Mexican Bakery is filling a sweet gap on the Eastside as the first and only authentic Mexican bakery in the area. Founded by Lizeet and Porfirio, this Redmond spot bakes traditional pan dulce and serves cafecito using recipes and ingredients that transport you straight to Mexico. Open Wednesday through Saturday or at local markets and pop-ups (keep an eye on their socials!)
Serving Venezuelan arepas and Belgian waffles in Madison Valley
Arosa Cafe brings together the best of both worlds with authentic Venezuelan arepas alongside perfect Belgian Liege waffles and Swiss mochas. This cozy Madison Valley spot has earned a loyal following for unique dishes like their chicken avocado panini and chicken coconut soup, plus its warm atmosphere that works whether you're grabbing breakfast or settling in to work!
100+ tequilas and Tulum-inspired design in Bellevue
Cantina Monarca brings elevated Mexican cuisine to Bellevue with handmade tortilla tacos featuring wagyu carne asada, pork belly, and standout sea bass with apple slaw. Owner Bernie Garcia has created a stunning Tulum-inspired space filled with greenery and imported wood finishes, plus an impressive tequila and mezcal selection (with over 100 to choose from) and craft margaritas. The upstairs mezzanine and boutique hotel vibe make it perfect for special occasions, though after 6 PM it's 21+ only.
Family-run spot known for generous portions in South Park
Honor Mexicano is co-owned by two couples who've built a loyal following for their authentic flavors and generous portion sizes. We tried the shrimp in white sauce, which combined mushrooms, onions, and shrimp… trust us, it was delicious!
Caribbean-Latin fusion bringing East Coast flavors to Ballard
Fuego Lounge is the Seattle outpost from Hispanic entrepreneurs Jose and Sonia Paulino. This location serves a fusion of tropical Caribbean and Mexican influences - think everything from authentic pupusas and tacos to Dominican and Puerto Rican specialties that showcase the diversity of Latin American cuisine. They offer a weekend brunch, host live DJs throughout the week and have a number of cocktails to choose from! It’s a great spot for an occasion or just to enjoy good food in a fun atmosphere.
Mexican steakhouse grilling USDA Prime and Wagyu over mesquite in Ballard
Chef David Orozco has created something special at Asadero Prime - a Mexican steakhouse where USDA Prime and international Wagyu meets authentic grilling techniques using Spanish Josper charcoal ovens and mesquite wood. The result? Incredible carne asada, ribeye, and mixed grill parrilladas with flavors you won't find anywhere else in Seattle. With house-made tortillas and fire-roasted salsas this spot gives a Mexican steakhouse experience that will have you making reservations well in advance.
Venezuelan-founded candle company offering hand-poured soy candles and studio experiences
Pumarosa Candles brings the sweetness of childhood memories to Seattle through hand-poured, 100% natural soy candles with wooden wicks. Co-founded by Venezuelan immigrants Vanessa Barrios and Jon Cardenas, the brand is inspired by Vanessa's memories of playing under the pumarosa tree in Venezuela. Beyond creating vegan, cruelty-free candles, they offer immersive candle-making experiences in their studio where you can learn about scent culture while making your own! The perfect gift experience if you have a special occasion coming up.
Latin-inspired gourmet hot dogs in Capitol Hill
Hot Dogs Perrones is the perfect spot if you’re looking for Latin flavors that meet American comfort food in the most delicious way possible. Operating from a Capitol Hill kitchen, husband-and-wife team Lena Escoto Arriaga and Emer have built a loyal following for their inventive hot dogs, like the bacon-wrapped Julio and the crowd-favorite Picadillo topped with seasoned ground beef. Available for delivery until late (3 AM on weekends!), they serve generous portions and creative combinations that have locals raving!
Birria meets ramen in SeaTac
Birrieria La Santa has been serving some of the most flavorful birria tacos in the SeaTac area since 2021, with tender stewed meat and that rich, savory consommé that keeps locals coming back. They've also created birria ramen that brilliantly combines Mexican and Japanese influences into something completely unique. With fresh tortillas, homemade salsas, and a casual outdoor seating area, it's become the best spot for a satisfying meal whether you're a local or just passing through the airport.
Family-owned Mexican coffee shop serving homemade tamales in Beacon Hill
Cafetal Quilombo Cafe brings authentic Mexican flavors to Beacon Hill with homemade tamales, tacos, and tortas alongside excellent espresso drinks. This spot has created the perfect mix of cozy seating and takeaway coffee bar, making it great for a quick caffeine fix or for tucking into a breakfast burrito!
Famous for the best fish tacos in West Seattle
La Chingona has quickly become a West Seattle favorite for its bold Mexican flavors served with genuine warmth. Their fish tacos - featuring crispy, flaky cod with tangy chipotle dressing - are regularly called some of the best in Seattle, but don't miss their chorizo quesadillas or that incredible tres leches cake with peaches. La Chingona is a family-owned spot delivering casual weeknight dinners to fun weekend brunch. If you’re in Seattle, you can’t miss it!
Bean-to-bar chocolate café with live jazz
Cocoa Legato is where chocolate meets music… intrigued? It was founded by musician and former Theo Chocolate alum Aaron Lindstrom. Producing small-batch, vegan chocolate bars from ethically-sourced Colombian and Peruvian cacao, each bar comes with a QR code linking to a song that complements the flavor profile. They host live jazz and local artists (especially championing queer and BIPOC performers) on weekend nights, plus offer factory tours and everything from mochas to granola bowls with that signature chocolate twist! Yum.
Generous portions and sizzling fajitas in Bothell
Patrona Mexican Cantina & Grill is where Rocio Salcedo and her family have built a local favorite known for generous portions and consistently fresh food. Their sizzling fajitas arrive with all the fillings. Make sure not to miss the Fiesta Avocado (deconstructed guacamole), mole enchiladas, and those hot, fresh chips with house-made salsa that keep tables coming back for more!
Authentic Mexican spot serving affordable tacos and weekend menudo
Taqueria Costa Sur has built a loyal following across four Washington locations for authentic flavors, generous portions, and prices that won't break the bank. Their breakfast burritos and carnitas taco plates are local favorites, but you won’t want to miss the fish tacos or spicy al pastor that show why this family-run chain has become a go-to for reliable Mexican comfort food. This is the kind of spot where you know exactly what you're getting… and it's always good.
The first completely halal South American restaurant in White Center
Cocina Casera is breaking new ground as Seattle's first South American restaurant offering a completely halal menu alongside vegan and gluten-free options. Their Pabellón Criollo - Venezuela's national dish served bento box-style with slow-braised beef, black beans, and sweet plantains - shows the authentic flavors made fresh from scratch by experienced chefs. From Colombian-Venezuelan empanadas to arepas with juicy chicken or vegan chorizo, this White Center spot proves that inclusivity and bold South American flavors go hand in hand.
Authentic Mexican Cuisine with influences of Jalisco and Colima regions located in Shoreline
Las Brasas del Volcán brings authentic Oaxacan flavors to Shoreline with handmade tortillas that taste like they were rolled minutes ago. Their impressive salsa bar lets you customize every bite, while the massive margaritas are perfect for sharing (or not - we don't judge). The family-owned spot serves up traditional dishes like Mole and Carne En Su Jugo that transport you straight to old Mexico!
Are you a Hispanic business owner in Seattle and want to be included in this list? Visit our work with us page and send us a message!
