I love this place. Top tier view, blazing fast service, and great margaritas. It's on the pricier side for sure... but I think the location justifies the price point. The food can be hit or miss, but if you stick to the basics it's damn good. The construction on Eastlake has hit them super hard and is incredibly unfair/unlucky. Show them some love!! read more

I went after a year. Chicken Tacos were not worth the price. Chips and salsa was tasty; but for the extra salsa they charged $5. Certainly not worth it. The same goes for carne adada tacos. All the quality has gone down significantly. Will think twice before going again. read more

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For the price, the food is shit. 2 tacos for $16 without rice and beans. Agua verde sells you 3 tacos plus rice and beans for under $20. I needed up adding a side of rice and beans and it taste like they are out of a can. I eat a lot of Mexican food and this food is not authentic at all. it's unfortunate because the place does have a nice view. read more

Surprised at the low ratings because I thought this place wasn't half bad. It's a nice place to eat by the water, though you do pay the premium on the pricing for that. 2 fish tacos for $16 is more than I'm used to, but I appreciated that they were big and loaded. I found them flavorful and the fish tender. You can easily walk in as well, they only had a couple tables filled throughout Saturday afternoon. The -1 star is that it's not a full service place. You seat yourself and order & pay off a QR menu. Your food, water, and utensils do get brought out by a server, but there is minimal interaction for the prices you're paying. read more

Great food, great view. Perfect spot for lunch, especially with the underground parking.

Fun spot on a nice day to sit outside. The service is all online now, which is interesting, but the food is always really fresh and the margs are delicious!! Good vibes for a sunny Seattle day. read more

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The food was fresh, though I wanted the salsas to be spicier. Loved sitting on the back deck. Great view. Especially on a sunny day. Odd menu/ordering system: You scan the qr code to see the menu and order. No one appears that you can ask questions. We ordered the chips and salsa. Enjoyed the mixed corn and flour chips, obviously house made. The salsa was nice, but very mild. Id lije ut spicier. You get a nice sized portion of chips, without enough salsa to eat them with. We flagged someone down to get more salsa, and were advised we'd need to buy more salsa. So for $7, you get chips and salsa, but if you want more salsa, you gotta pay. We tried the elote corn and appreciated the knife to cut it off the cob. It was ok, but would probably not order again. Very mayo heavy. The grilled fish tacos were tasty but very messy to eat. The green salsa it came with had little flavor and no heat at all. The rice and beans were great! Loved those flavorful beans. I'm sorry I paid online when I ordered. I would have tipped less after the meal. The service was barely there. read more

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I just got back from Tulum and was still craving tacos - when I walked outside and saw they were serving fresh watermelon margaritas I decided to stop. I came in for a late lunch (3pm) and there were about 5 tables taken. A friendly waiter greeted me - I was able to seat myself on the patio and enjoy the view. I learned while I sat here that they have a free parking garage - I walked so I didn't require it, but that's great information to give my friends who drive down (I'll be back). The watermelon margarita was so fresh - the refreshing cocktail I was hoping for on this sunny day. The fish tacos hit the spot - great flavor and appropriately sized. Unfortunately - I found a few bones in one taco. I was fully intending to make this a 5 star review before those unfortunate few bites. Stuff happens - it didn't ruin my experience. read more

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Great place to hang out overlooking the lake on a nice day with a few cervezas and margaritas. Came her after a UW graduation before flying out of town. Meal took an hour which was perfect. Ordering is done via toast tab. Had quesadillas, nachos burritos tacos, salads, etc and everyone was pleased. read more

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This place has pretty decent Mexican food for prices that are a little high, but makes sense for the location. Definitely ask for an outdoor seat here because the view is amazing, you can even see Gas Works Park from their patio! The service was decent, you get your menu from a QR code and order on your phone so you're not personally tended to. The chips with salsa and guacamole was a great starter. They had 2 different types of chips which I liked. The salsa is very spicy though (and I like spice)!!! The tacos were good with not much meat on them but enough to satisfy me. The quesadillas were thin and plain, so probably wouldn't order those again. Overall: AMAZING location because of its clear waterfront view. The food was average for a Mexican spot, and the service was mainly through a device which didn't bother me. read more

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$18 burrito. It was cold, super bland and full of rice. The food has been mediocre the last few years. Drinks are always good and they have a great deck. read more

Little Water Cantina - $18 chicken burrito. Cold, bland and full of rice. No bueno. - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

5 stars for ambiance and food... service and sustainability make this a 4 star review. If you're lucky enough to get an outside table in the summer, grab it. And then try a spicy margarita which is delicious and served in an actual glass. (For some reason, water comes in a single use plastic glass, despite this being the 2020s.) Tacos and elote corn are very good.. sharing food is easy but requires a lot of coordination through their ordering system (especially if you want separate bills). Maybe just have one person order everything and then use venmo. read more

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Mixed - Incredible ambiance, friendly staff and great view, mid food. Maybe I ordered the wrong thing (grilled chicken burrito) but with the price I was surprised the food was so very bland. read more

Went with friends for late night drinks and small bites on a Friday. The restaurant was not busy so we were seated quickly. Staff was friendly and attentive but the food was underwhelming. We ordered the queso, ahi poke, and beef tongue tacos. The queso and ahi were bland and needed more seasoning. The tacos were fine, not bad but not especially good either. If they were in front of me I would eat them again, but I would not go out of my way to come back for the food. It is a better spot for drinks than for food. The restaurant itself is cute, nice lighting and decor. read more

Traveling through Seattle and stopped for a quick drink before my reservation. However, stopping here quickly turned into cancelling my reservation at the other place and hanging out here. Absolutely great conversation with the bartender Chris - he is so down to earth, and served prime drinks the entire time. The views are amazing. Overall, I highly recommend this place and will always make a stop when I am in Seattle! read more

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I couldn't imagine a Mexican restaurant being worse. To start with the good, patio seating and homemade tortillas. It ends there. You order from a QR code and food is delivered. Hate this. No interaction. No human connection. We ordered tacos, grilled fish and chicken tinga. They were stingier with their meat than Chipotle...on a bad day. There was plenty of cabbage and crema. So much that you could not close the tortilla to eat the taco. The tortilla was so thin, everything fell through the bottom. This was not a taco. I ordered corn tortillas and received flour. Not a big deal but one of the little things that made this experience one I would not want to repeat or recommend. As a visitor to Seattle, this might be the best Mexican restaurant available. If so, I'm so sorry. Don't eat here. Don't waste your money. Pass on Little Water Cantina. read more

Little Water Cantina - Grilled fish tacos. Where is the fish? - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

No reservations, so we waited about 25 minutes at the bar for a seat on the beautiful outdoor patio. The watermelon margs were as fresh as advertised and the chips and salsa were bold and spicy (skip the flour chips). It was $17 for 2 largely stuffed fried fish tacos, but they were delicious and service was kind. read more

Little Water Cantina - Salsa & Chips - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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If you can't have spicy food & I'm meaning the slightest I would not recommend. Asked for least spicy thing & had heartburn for 3 days. I used to love & eat spicy food. Unfortunately I have a hiatal hernia that prevents me from enjoying it so obviously this is not the restaurant's fault. Service was ok, took some time initially & it appeared to be a slow Monday; we almost walked out. Once our server showed up he was friendly. Atmosphere is casual & does have a view in the back of Lake Union so be sure to sit in the back of the restaurant & there is a parking garage below the restaurant. read more

Maybe it was a magic moment, being right at opening on New Years Day, or maybe they've taken some of the feedback left here by others to heart. Regardless, my partner and I had a great time at Little Water Cantina, which was our first time, and we'll absolutely be back. Are you paying for the view on top of the food? Absolutely! But I've paid twice as much for half as decent food at other places with views around town. Honestly, I thought their barbacoa was amazing and the salsa that came with the chips was stellar. I didnt find the staff cold at all. Granted, we were the only ones there. We were provided with all the accoutrements for the table as expected and we didnt find the QR menu experience cumbersome at all. The food came fast and was very tasty. I def will be ordering extra tortillas and splitting the tacos up next time. I scoffed at the price at first for two tacos, but they were so full that they were more like 4 tacos at other places. The experience of paying without interacting with anyone was a little disconcerting, and I could see how that part of the experience could come off feeling cold to other folks. But I appreciated the simplicity and we were well-wished warmly on the way out. I suspect some of this gets lost when they fill up, which is why I'll likely continue to try going at odd hours. Oh and for those concerned about the location, theres decent parking on site if they arent busy. A whole little parking level underneath the building. read more

Little Water Cantina - The patio view - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

We were impressed that they had an online waiting system. But after waiting for half an hour, the host just started calling out who's next. He brushed me off when I said we had been waiting for a long time also as he started seating people that had come in after us. So we left. read more

I went to Little Water Cantina last night to sit outside and enjoy the last few days of Summer. I got there just before 5pm and was immediately greeted by Cayman, who was incredibly friendly and welcoming! He sat me at a bench on the patio that was filled with sunshine and a perfect view of the water, even though it was just me. I had margaritas and chips & guacamole - both of which were so yummy that I ordered a second round! He checked in on me a number of times. I could not have asked for better service! I live in the neighborhood, which is currently under construction, making it almost impossible go anywhere on Eastlake Ave, with most people avoiding the area all together. They do have a small parking lot; even still - he gave me a discount, as a gesture to appreciate a local. Even though our sunny days will be leaving soon, I'll be back!! read more

Highly recommend in the summertime when you're looking to sit outside in the sun with a beautiful view of the water and enjoy a nice casual meal with friends. Food is nothing to write home about, pretty average but decent Mexican food. Lots of different kinds of margaritas, also good but nothing super memorable. Like it said, it's all About the view, and it's worth it! I keep it on my summertime patio list. read more

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22% automatic tip but you have to order from kiosk? Then they ask you to add tip on check out?

Food was really good and the portions were huge! Was a bit spendy, even though it was happy hour. I would go back with a big group on a night out, but definitely not a a regular thing! Was mostly self serve (online order and online menu) with somewhat slow service (had to grab my own box from a table because no one came back). Other than that, the staff was very friendly and accommodating. read more

Waiter never showed up, we had to use an app to order for ourselves, app didn't work because too sunny on outdoor deck, no one around to take an order and we are supposed to clear our own table after we're finished...but by all means have a good time! Guessing they expect a 20% tip? read more

Little Water Cantina - A sign full of rules - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Little Water Cantina was the perfect spot for the "Happily Ever After" lunch we hosted the day after our wedding, and we're so glad we chose it. From the very beginning, the team was communicative, responsive, and clear, which made planning a post‑wedding event for all our guests feel surprisingly easy. They offered thoughtful options for how to use the outdoor space, including the choice to have the patio covered and heated or more open to the elements, so we could match the setup to the season and the vibe we wanted. Their guidance on how much food to order, which dishes to select, and when to put everything out meant the lunch flowed naturally, everyone was well fed, and we didn't end up dramatically over‑ordering. The food itself was excellent - fresh, flavorful, and a big hit with our guests, and they even provided to‑go boxes so nothing went to waste, which we really appreciated. Service throughout the event was friendly and efficient. Staff checked in just enough to keep things running smoothly while giving us plenty of space to focus on spending time with the people we love. The setting added so much to the experience as well: the indoor-outdoor space and beautiful views over the water made the whole lunch feel relaxed, celebratory, and distinctly Seattle in the best possible way. Having parking available was a huge bonus for our out‑of‑town guests and helped keep logistics simple. Overall, Little Water Cantina helped us create exactly what we wanted - a casual, joyful gathering where we could connect more deeply with each guest after the whirlwind of the wedding day, and we would wholeheartedly recommend it for any special event or group celebration. read more

This place is a must-try if you're in Seattle--the margaritas are amazing, the chips and salsa are delicious, the music sets the perfect vibe, and the view is absolutely stunning. read more

The margarita I ordered was decent 7/10! The food was definitely white washed Mexican food and I ordered the safest thing which was the shrimp burrito and it was ok. The view in the patio was great, the fire place in the front dining room was cozy. This is a place just to grab a couple drinks and sit up at the bar. Would come back only for alcohol if it's on my way... read more

Little Water Cantina - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I LOVEDDDDDDD my time here! The view from this restaurant is absolutely amazing, the service is to die for, and the vibes are impeccable. My friends and I intended to meet only for drinks but ended up eating food too. The nachos, chips & guac, and the ceviche are amazing. The chips that come with the quac is so good and I wish they served it with everything! Craig the bartender is the bomb! He made some amazing drinks throughout the night and was extremely thoughtful when we didn't know what drinks we wanted to order. I would go back to Seattle just to visit Craig and have the drinks he made again! This restaurant would not be anything without him. 10/10 would return! read more

Little Water Cantina - Margarita - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I've worked in Eastlake for almost 17 years now and I had been wanting to try this place since they opened! I happened to order takeout since I live in the area now. Saturday night, seemed slow, super sweet and kind server, food was ready in no time. I take my tacos very seriously (Mexican born here) and I really liked their asada ones; perfect combo with the toppings and delicious salsa, their rice and beans (these beans are pretty epic; puerco style) were pretty delicious. Have to come back for brunch or dinner, ambience seems pretty chill and pleasant. read more

I love going to this place! Our little family loves the chips and salad! And the fish taco is the best , love the drink menu choices for sure! read more

Lovely view, good ambience, and slightly overpriced (for the quality) food. I'm giving it a 4 because we had a nice time overall and enjoyed the view, not for the food quality. They had Pacifico beer that I loved. But, nachos could be better than that.. Give it a try once if you are in the area, you'll enjoy the view! read more

Little Water Cantina - Cantina Nachos - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This place has an amazing view. The Mexican food has flavor. It is not on the heavy side spices that most Mexican restaurants have...However it is appropriate flavor for all ages and taste buds. Your not getting authentic Mexican food but it's better than most. The portion sizes are okay for the price. It is a little on the pricey side but you are paying for the view and the atmosphere is my opinion. The restaurant was clean and staffed as friendly. The margaritas are good. If you do order the $35 margarita just be aware they use the work Chalas for the size. This is not the Chalas most would think it is about the size you get from Texas Roadhouse. Give it a try you all and see how you like it and leave a review. read more

Little Water Cantina - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Absolutely love the outdoor patio here, as well as the ability to order on your phone. Great spot to come with a big group as there is lots of room and easy to have separate checks. The food is fantastic, and I love that they split the chips and salsa appetizer (half flour, half corn). Wonderful experience! I'll be back. read more

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Ok yes the food here is pretty good. I got the chicken quesadilla which was packed with grilled veggies and had a healthy portion of guac on the side. But the service and QR code thing to pay with is trash. It's so confusing trying to split up the tab because when you order for the same table it all goes on the same bill. Not super fun going in large groups abs trying to pay or get served. Great atmosphere and view!! But the experience to literally get service and pay kinda ruins the vibe read more

Little Water Cantina - Veggie Quesadilla add chicken - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

The reviews from others are basically accurate. Perhaps due to staff shortages, it feels like a very nice cafeteria instead of a restaurant. The staff is generally pleasant on our visit, with one exception, but it feels like nobody is in charge--it's hard to get help, there's no host or manager (or nobody who acts like one). The prices being charged are restaurant prices for the view, more or less. The food was fine. A basket of about 20 tortilla chips with admittedly excellent salsa for $7 is insane, however. As others noted, you have to use an online ordering system that's a little janky, but it worked fine, and the food came very quickly, even though the place was full. It just had the feeling of going to a Taco Time with a bar. The menu is pretty thin: it's mostly the same items in a few different forms, like tacos, burritos, chimichangas. I had ordered one kind of burrito and a different one arrived, which I didn't notice (it was also good) and had completely eaten, when one of the staff came by about 10 minutes later with another burrito...because they had given us the wrong one! So I got an extra burrito out of the experience. You have to dig up stuff you need, like water, silverware, napkins, etc. When my spouse asked the bartender for help, he was openly rude to her. Why would we go to a restaurant where an undemanding request for silverware--my wife is never anything but perfectly polite--would get an unpleasant response? On a more specific matter, we tried to find out about gluten and got a very uncertain response from the kitchen, meaning one of our party had very limited options. We were there for the weekly trivia night which, despite there being tons of room on the deck and main room, was held in the dark bar area near the front, meaning on a glorious evening near sunset we were off in the dark. The trivia was extremely well run, however, and fun. It seemed like the restaurant staff wasn't very into the trivia event happening. This place has the makings of an actual restaurant. Somebody needs to come in and overhaul it. Make it welcoming, perhaps. read more

You cannot go wrong with their food. O.M.G. I've been here twice. Once during wintertime and once this weekend when the sun was shining and their patio was blooming (with patrons). Hands down an easy vibe spot where you can go to hang out and eat good food. Their guacamole is delish! Please order some. Extra salsa (small) was $0.50 and worth it with my entree. The food really is amazing here. The burritos, tacos, chimichanga. Everything. My only grievance is that I still haven't figured out how to customize my drinks given we order from the phone. This weekend saw some folks training so I am hoping we can go back to full service soon and not have to use the phones. read more

Little Water Cantina - Shrimp Chimichanga - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Never not tipped at a restaurant, this was the first time. The app ordering experience is awful and I can only assume it's been put in place by greedy owners who don't want to pay to keep a staff on. I go to a restaurant to interact with people, enjoy service and enjoy food. Our time there was emotionally cold and lackluster. The view is nice, the food is decent, but you're paying for the view. The staff didn't seem like they were enjoying themselves at all and I assume that it's because the job of interacting with humans has been taken away by a QR code. We ordered three items and never received one, couldn't flag anyone down to help while we were at the table but were able to speak with the bartender to have the item removed. The bartender was friendly and apologetic, but if you're trying to streamline service by getting technology involved, you need to ensure accuracy. When our food was dropped off we weren't asked if we needed anything else, any sauces, silverware, anything. No one checked in to see how things were tasting. Would be a fine place for takeout, but if you want a standard restaurant experience, this isn't the place for you. I've been here in years past and the service and ambiance was lovely when there were actually people taking orders, but I won't be going back. I hope owners make some changes because I don't see this cafeteria style dining for restaurant prices working out for them for much longer. read more

We were trying to go to the U District street fair, but gave up on the horrible traffic and decided to try Little Water Cantina because my gal used to live in Eastlake and remembered it being good. I have to say it was! You order off a QR code menu, which is pretty nice, cause you can keep adding to the order. I will be back, good food and drinks with a beautiful view! read more

Little Water Cantina - Cantina Nachos and Veggie Quesadilla! - Mexican Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Food, medium. View, perfect. Music, 2009 dance party. Service: none. Things didn't come, no one checked on us. Other restaurants can do QR ordering, and still own the table's experience. Not here. When I asked them to remove the item that didn't come... They didn't. I asked again. It's still on there. Let's see. read more