Rumba — Restaurant in Seattle

I've been here twice and I really like this joint. I wish I lived closer so I could come more often! The empanadas are delicious but, so is the ceviche, the rice and beans, and the sandwich! Rumba really knows how to make food and drinks. The place is decorated nicely inside too- it feels refreshing being there. The location is easy to get to also- plenty of paid parking lots nearby.

The only reason I didn't give the fifth star was last time we were there service was incredibly slow. I'm pretty tolerant coming from the industry myself but this was definitely a thing. Part of it was Capitol Hill block party- I was told that didn't effect their business but I think they were catering for it or something so they were out of empanadas and food/drinks came out slow. The block party is just a single weekend so it was unfortunate that it clashed with our party but, it happens. Also, Rumba switched to a different payment system which is VERY sloooow. When a customer is ready to go, it should take no more than 3 minutes to ring them up and cash them out. This is NOT the servers fault so I hope people take it easy on them.

Despite those issues, our server was nice enough to take care of some of our items and was so apologetic. I really like Rumba and even still despite the last experience. Stuff happens sometimes but the food is good, the drinks are good- I'll definitely be...

Great rum themed bar, is the perfect 'island escape' when you are feeling like getting away from some of our less than stellar PNW weather. Really, a true rum bar rather than tiki bar- fans can still rock those hawaiian shirts on Wednesdays- the official tiki day hosted each week. By far, this has to be the largest and probably most difficult collections of rum assembled in the state. As any WA drinking aficionado knows, rum is very under represented and quality examples are hard to come by in our corner of the country. Rumba not only delivers in selection, their craft cocktails are on point and really showcase these rare libations. If your rum game is weak, or you're a seasoned veteran you wont find a better spot to partake of some of the world's best offerings. Food offerings are also on point, with house made pork rinds, empanadas and other decent selections. For me, the only disspointment was the cuban sandwich. Served with too much pulled pork, onions and some bacon it really isnt a true cuban. While others rave about its deliciousness, I guess i'm just too spoiled having had my first cuban in Little Havana, Miami. So for me- it didnt come close. Hence my only reason for not giving 5 stars- but I think I'm gonna...

Rumba has an incredible selection of rums - one of the best in the world, more than 700 at last count. They're always getting new ones in, and all of their bartenders manage to know about nearly all of them, offering incredible recommendations regardless of your tastes - funky, floral, woody, smooth, you name it.

Their cocktails are a mix of well-executed classics (don't skip the daquiri, and consider trying all 3) and innovative new ideas. While rum is the most popular option, they have other options as well.

The food is incredible and far better than bar food has any right being. I particularly recommend the tacos and the guacamole/plantain (they do plantain better than anyone else in Seattle), but the sliders, empanadas, and to be honest the whole menu is amazing and reasonably priced.

Service is incredible - the bartenders are all knowledgeable and great to talk to, the managers and owner are friendly and helpful when they're around, and it's really a place where you can feel at home - especially if you decide to pursue the rum map or passport.

Seattle is fortunate to have a number of excellent bars, but Rumba is where I find myself drawn to the most and spending the most time at. Unconditionally...