La Carta de Oaxaca

I moved to New York about a month and a half ago.  So far, I absolutely love the city and I have met some incredible people.  There's something inexplicably appealing about New York - a certain je ne sais quoi.  The city is inspiring and it seems to be filled with endless treasures around each corner.  Not to mention, an endless array of mouth watering restaurants.  Nonetheless, I find myself missing Seattle and my regular stations.  One place in particular is La Carta de Oaxaca.  As my Seattle friends know, I rave about this place. 

Oaxaca is tucked away in Ballard, one of Seattle's artsy and hip neighborhoods.  It's a casual, warm, hole-in-the-wall, authentic Mexican eatery.  Be prepared to wait for a bit if you visit for dinner. But trust me, like all good things, it's worth it.  While you wait - and battle the tummy growls that ensue the second you enter the front door - you can sip a margarita in the back bar.  Before you know it, one of the amazingly friendly staff members will seat you at a very snug table.  The ambiance is pleasant and social, and you may leave with a new friend or two. 

As to the menu, the home-made tortilla chips and fresh guacamole is a must.  I love everything on the menu, but highly recommend the tacos al pastor, tostadas, and tamales de mole'negro.  One of the best features is the very reasonably priced dishes.  Entrées range from $8 - 15.      

Be warned: after the first visit, you may experience the Pavlovian reflex of drooling each time you think of Oaxaca.  http://www.lacartadeoaxaca.com/