Carnitas Michoacan — Restaurant in Seattle

Update: So most people don't realize this, but being a military brat is one of the most idyllic, multi-cultural/ethnic, racism-free upbringings a kid can have. The force is broadly representative of America and race is not a factor in how housing is assigned, which is to say, when you're a kid, your best friends (which you have a lot of because you're moving all the time) are all these white, Black, Mexican-, Filipino-, Russian-, Korean-American kids. And the moms tend to be full-time (well all moms, regardless) stay-at-home moms. Which is a roundabout way of saying for a non-Mexican kid, I ate a lot of Mexican home cooked meals growing up. (And Cajun, Filipino, etc).

This place is brings me back to my childhood, of neighborhood, of tribe. Not necessarily because of the specificity of the menu items - most of the menu is familiar enough to dig in with gusto, but because there are just enough peculiar things that might cause one to take pause and ask, "Hey, what part of what animal is this? Do I chew it?" before popping in your mouth.

So, why am I telling you all this? Because, evidently, there's a reason why this restaurant has a gut level (hah!) homey feel about it. When it was started across the street in its original hole in the wall location, when the original proprietress was trying to decide on the menu, her sons suggested that she put in the menu simply the things that she used to cook for them every day when they were growing up. And thus, the menu of Carnitas Michoacan, the restaurant where it feels like you've stayed for dinner when your mom's talked on the phone after you were out playing too late with your Mexican friends.

You know you're getting decent Mexican food when the tables are near full and you're the only table that isn't speaking Spanish. Food here is genuinely good even without the social context cluing you in. Burritos are among the best I've ever had. But better pay attention to your surroundings anyway so you know when to go pick up your food and that you pick up on the fact that you bus your own table after you're...

I don't know if it's because it's hard to find a great Mexican food spot in Seattle. that when I try one as good as this place, I think it's better than it actually is. Regardless, I think this place is good and I recommend it. I mean, I've been blessed to have lived in California and have had a plethora of different taquerias available to me so I feel like I have a gauge of good Mexican food, or maybe that's null n void. I'll let you decide.

Anyways, this place is awesome and the menu is straight forward with photos. I like photos. They take cash or card. Review is based only on the quesabirrieria and the burritos.

Quesabirrieria, pair it with the consome for the complete experience. I like to dunk the quesabirrieria in the consome. I like to lather it with spoonfuls of consome. I like to follow each bite with a sip of it. Get ready for a messy time and a good time.

Burritos are classic. It's just the right ratio of rice, meat and other accoutrements. It's definitely filling. I like to throw on salsas and curate each bite as well. I'll cycle between the many salsas offered at the self service salsa bar.

Salsa bar has Avocado Salsa Verde Spicy guajillo salsa(I think) Lime wedges Sliced radishes Cucumbers

Also if you get a drink like horchata or one of their juices. The serving size is huge. You'll be surprised and definitely thinking, "I got my money's worth on this". Food cost I believe is comparable to other establishments in the greater Seattle area based on not having any specials Sorry for the long winded passionate review and hope you enjoy this place as...

Carnitas Michoacán is a hidden gem in Seattle that offers an incredibly authentic Mexican dining experience. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted not just by the mouthwatering aroma of traditional dishes, but by the warmth of a space that feels like home. I ordered the enchiladas potosinas, the tacos gobernador, and the shrimp tostadas—each one was packed with flavor, made with care, and brought back vivid memories of meals in Mexico.

There was no wait, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The service was friendly and attentive, and I was able to savor each dish at my own pace. But what truly sets Carnitas Michoacán apart is the incredible artwork that fills the space. The vibrant murals celebrating Mexican culture and heritage are breathtaking—every wall tells a story, every brushstroke speaks of pride, struggle, and beauty.

In a city like Seattle, it’s a gift to have spaces like this—places where migrants and the broader community can connect to the richness of Mexican culture. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a cultural haven, a place where we can find comfort, familiarity, and identity through food and art. I can’t recommend Carnitas Michoacán enough—it’s truly a...