Seemor
Red Star Taco BarB+Worth Trying
513 N 36th St, Seattle, WA 98103
· Mexican restaurant, Bar, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1478 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively 21+ Fremont taco-and-margarita spot with creative fusion tacos, strong drinks, good HH value, and occasionally inconsistent service; great for groups of adults, not for families with minors.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Red Star Taco Bar excels as a lively Fremont hangout where creative fusion tacos and well-made cocktails drive the appeal, supported by strong value and loyal regulars. However, inconsistent service execution—including forgotten orders and variable attentiveness—prevents grade A-level reliability, while the crowded, occasionally uncomfortable seating limits ambiance appeal. Best suited for cocktail-focused outings and happy hour rather than destination dining.
Restaurant Summary
A Fremont hangout with lively bar energy, Red Star delivers the kind of fusion tacos and colorful margaritas that make happy hour feel like a small victory lap. One diner summed it up: "This is where you go for bold tacos and better drinks." Service swings from attentive to absent, but the atmosphere stays fun and buzzy with a patio when weather cooperates. The cooking leans playful and fusion-forward rather than strict tradition: think Bang Bang Cauliflower, Sriracha Honey Tofu, and a sleeper-hit carnitas that regulars praise. It suits snackers, cocktail lovers, and groups chasing variety more than purists seeking regional authenticity. Tacos skew smaller but fairly priced, while cocktails are well made and often the highlight for many. Families take note: this is a 21+ only venue, so minors cannot enter. Menu-wise, kids who like simple tacos might be fine in theory, but the door policy rules it out. For picky adult eaters, stick to straightforward options like Tequila Lime Chicken or Carnitas and confirm spice levels, since heat cues are not always labeled.
At a Glance
- Creative fusion tacos with reliable crowd-pleasers like Carnitas and Bang Bang Cauliflower
- Strong margarita and cocktail program with slushies and infused tequilas
- Good value on tacos and happy hour deals, especially Taco Tuesday
- Service inconsistency including forgotten orders and slow follow-up
- 21+ policy means no minors allowed, even for food-only visits
What Sets It Apart
- creative_fusion_tacos
- strong_margarita_program
- late_night_hours
- value_happy_hour
What People Love
- Margaritas that feel balanced and bright
- Fusion tacos that push beyond standard fillings
- Nachos big enough to anchor the table
- A Fremont vibe that is upbeat without pretension
- Taco Tuesday deals that feel like a win
Points of Concern
- Service can be inconsistent—some guests waited or felt ignored, while others had intuitive servers
- Small taco size may underwhelm big appetites; consider ordering 3+ or adding nachos
- Spice and heat levels not always marked; one diner found beans unexpectedly hot
- Review patterns show occasional marketing-style praise; overall authenticity still appears solid
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$26-38 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a trio: Carnitas + Bang Bang Cauliflower + Tequila Lime Chicken for balance
- If you like heat, try Jalapeño or Mango Habanero Margarita
- Vegan path: Sriracha Honey Tofu and Sweet Potato Black Bean tacos
Perfect For
- Happy hour taco crawl with cocktails
- Late-night bites after Fremont bars
- Casual date that leans lively over quiet
- Group hang where everyone wants to try different tacos
Location Insights
Area: Eclectic, artsy Fremont hub attracting nightlife seekers and casual diners; adult-oriented bar energy most nights.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; reviews note feeling safer than downtown with normal urban awareness.
Nearby: Near boutiques, street art, and other bars; street parking typical with modest walkability to neighborhood spots.
FremontFremont offers a diverse dining environment ranging from casual eateries and craft breweries to upscale restaurants. The social atmosphere is laid-back yet energetic, with a strong emphasis on local businesses and sustainable practices. It is known for its walkability, outdoor markets, and a friendly, inclusive community.
Fremont NorthFremont North is a sub-area near the address that features a concentration of trendy bars, innovative restaurants, and boutique shops, catering to a younger crowd looking for a dynamic and social dining experience.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–00:00
Tuesday11:00–00:00
Wednesday11:00–00:00
Thursday11:00–00:00
Friday11:00–02:00
Saturday11:00–02:00
Sunday11:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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