La Carta de Oaxaca Menu

La Carta de Oaxaca Restaurant Review:

Large black-and-white photographs illustrating the places and people of Oaxaca are a dramatic backdrop for the zesty food and margaritas that have made this bustling spot a stalwart on trendy Ballard Avenue. Those in the know start with freshly fried tortilla chips and chunky guacamole served with a selection of salsas. For a significant culinary adventure, order the molotes, deep-fried miniature torpedoes filled with crumbled beef and potatoes. For a classic taste of Oaxaca, try the pork or chicken cooked in a richly spiced, chocolate-seasoned mole sauce paired with yellow rice and handmade tortillas. Chicken or pork mole is also bundled into banana leaf-wrapped tamales. La Carta carries three single-village Del Maguey mezcals (the Oaxacan apéritif of choice), poured into glazed ceramic shot glasses. Margaritas are first-rate, and the tiny bar at the back offers two dozen types of tequila. Portions are small but so are the prices, so order several dishes. Reservations aren’t available, which means long waits to be seated are possible.