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Seattle / Dining / Mexican


 

You may want to dance the tango at Fandango, a labour of love from chef Christine Keff, who owns Flying Fish nearby. Fandango is a south-of-the-border romp where the action is at the bar and one of 50 tequilas the best way to lubricate your visit. Nibble on the ceviche or queso asado if you get hungry or retreat to the deserted but oh-so-sexy orange booths in the back for a more languid meal. Fandango stays open late and kicks up its heels till the last drink is poured.

 

This is the closest thing to authentic Mexican food you’ll find in Seattle, which is one long bus ride from the Mexican border. It does seem as if the staff was in Mexico yesterday, though, since they barely speak English. No matter, muster up your best Spanish and order the tacos filled with carnitas (slow-cooked pork and the definitive choice) and topped with homemade pico de gallo (a puckering mouthful of tomato, onion and cilantro). The burrito stuffed with braised tongue packs a real punch. Cheap and very good.

 

Every big city has one – a Mexican cantina where it’s all about mixing and matching over margaritas and, um, did someone mention food? Welcome to Tia Lou’s, Seattle’s version of Margarita Madness smack in the heart of Belltown. The 'ritas rock here and the tequila list is also muy especial and they all go down well with the chips in a kicky salsa. The queso fundido is a gooey, cheesy appetiser while the house speciality Santos enchiladas are also worth a try. Take a cab home.