El Camino is Way Better than PBRs in Front of Your Box Fan

Photograph by Ann Janikowski

Special to Seattlest by Ann Janikowski

Yesterday, as the mercury went from "uncomfortable" to "unbearable," the search was on for a patio that could serve up the required survival items at a time like this: chips, salsa, and stiff margaritas. Fortunately we found ourselves near El Camino, one of Seattle’s most overlooked outdoor sanctuaries.

Nestled between the Burke-Gilman trail and the Fremont Rocket on 35th Street, this low-key Mexican restaurant has a sizable back patio that feels more like a lanai with its paper lanterns, rustic floors, and overhead fans. You might not get a view with your meal (the entire thing faces both an alley and a PCC), but hey, at least you’ll get some shade.

For snacking, you would be wise to check out the tostones de platano: plantain chips deep-fried to perfection with a generous helping of chunky guacamole and fresh pico de gallo that strikes the perfect balance of finely diced tomatoes, cilantro, crisp onions, and hints of jalapeno. Go ahead and order a second basket of chips for $2--we guarantee that the first batch won’t last long.

For dining, try the carne asada tacos made with organic marinated steak (at $11, the a la carte version is perfect for sharing), or the pipiàn verde (pumpkin seed cream sauce) enchiladas.

And the drinks? Well, let’s just say that those don’t disappoint, either. In addition to a lengthy premium spirits list, the hand-shaken house margaritas ($5 during happy hour!) are especially tart and to the point on days where even blinking makes you sweat. Some people prefer mint juleps, but really, who can argue with the restorative powers of tequila?

So what are your favorite outdoor spots to help get us through this punishing heat?