Seemor
D’ La SantaA-Worth Trying
2359 10th Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102
· Mexican restaurant, Bar & grill, Family restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1094 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Destination-worthy Mexican steakhouse with standout meats and brunch ritual, but expect long waits, a strict host stand, and occasional service inconsistencies.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
D' La Santa delivers exceptional food quality with premium steaks and refined regional Mexican dishes that justify its reputation as a neighborhood destination. The distinctive setting with dramatic indoor tree and lively energy enhances the experience, yet inconsistent service pacing during peak hours and operational friction at the host stand prevent grade A territory. Strong execution on core dishes and loyal following make it competitive with the area's better restaurants, though operational polish remains uneven.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling under a dramatic indoor tree, with servers who often guide guests through regional dishes. One diner put it simply: service felt like family on a great night, though others found the host stand unforgiving at peak and waits longer than quoted. Cooking leans elevated and tradition-forward: wagyu cuts on lava stones, chile en nogada with silky sauce, rich bone marrow, and handmade tortillas. It is polished but not flashy—technique supports heartier flavors rather than modernist tricks. If you like classic Mexican flavors made with premium ingredients, this hits the sweet spot; if you want fusion theatrics, look elsewhere. For families, there are kid-amenable choices like quesadillas and tacos, plain beans and rice, and mild salsas. The flip side is the long waits and a firm no-reservations policy; aim off-peak to avoid meltdowns, since the online waitlist can be inaccurate compared with in-person timing.
At a Glance
- Premium steaks and regional Mexican specialties executed with care
- Distinctive, photogenic room with lively energy
- Long waits and firm host policies frustrate some guests
- Service pacing inconsistent during peak hours
- Generous portions and shareable platters
What Sets It Apart
- regional_mexican_specialties
- premium_wagyu_selection
- signature_brunch_hot_chocolate_cart
- dramatic_indoor_tree_decor
What People Love
- Emotional attachment to family-run warmth
- Showpiece Tomahawk and deeply flavored carne en su jugo
- House tortillas and salsas with real character
- Brunch pastries and hot chocolate cart experience
- Beautiful plating and inviting lighting
Points of Concern
- Waitlist/reservations friction: online estimates can be far off; long outdoor waits
- Service inconsistency at peak: slow check-ins and course pacing reported
- Occasional overcooked mixed grill platter; better results ordering individual steaks
- Isolated safety/cleanliness complaints contrasted by otherwise positive feedback
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-$66 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For kids or cautious eaters: plain quesadilla ($3.75) plus beans ($2.50) and rice ($4.99)
- Seafood fans: Tacos Gobernador ($14.99)
- Vegetarian-forward: Nopal ($13.99) or Rajitas ($8.99)
Perfect For
- Celebration dinner centered around a impressive steak
- Weekend brunch with pastry and hot chocolate ritual
- Date night with lively ambience and classic cocktails
- Out-of-town friends seeking elevated Mexican flavors
Location Insights
Area: Residential hillside near Portage Bay with a neighborhood-destination vibe; draws diners citywide for brunch and steak nights.
Safety: Generally safe, well-traveled evenings; typical city lighting and foot traffic.
Nearby: Close to I-5/520 corridors, near UW and Eastlake spots; mostly street parking and some patios nearby.
Capitol HillThe dining environment in Capitol Hill is dynamic and varied, featuring everything from trendy cafes and upscale restaurants to casual eateries and ethnic food spots. The neighborhood is known for its inclusive and progressive atmosphere, attracting a crowd that values creativity, diversity, and social engagement.
Central Capitol HillThis micro-neighborhood around 10th Ave E is characterized by a mix of residential and commercial spaces, with a strong presence of bars, restaurants, and boutique shops. It is popular for its walkability and vibrant street life, especially in the evenings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–21:00
Wednesday17:00–21:00
Thursday17:00–21:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday10:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Sunday10:00–15:00, 17:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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