Barrio Mexican Kitchen & Bar

Barrio is a lot of things. It’s over-the-top, it’s far from authentic Mexican (the cocktail menu has a Singapore Sling), and the prices seem to climb every time we eat here. But in spite of all of that, Barrio is a great place to ball out. Eating at Barrio is an event, and if you don’t sprain your elbow trying to open the comically massive wooden sanctum door, you’ll be greeted by hundreds of lit candles covering every wall. (Seriously, closing up has to be a real bitch.) Pyro-logistics aside, the food is actually great, whether you’re getting al pastor tacos or grilled shrimp enchiladas, the number of solid vegetarian options is astounding, and the chopped salad is probably the best plate of leaves in Seattle. It’s also stupidly easy to make a reservation for as many people as you have in your group, so book away your birthdays, special occasions, and coworker group therapies at Barrio.