Currently dubbed the only Puerto Rican Restaurant in Washington. Please see our review for our thoughts.

2320 NW Market Street, Seattle, WA    [View Map]
206-789-0516
  $$

La Isla is a Puerto Rican restaurant located on Market Street in the Ballard neighbourhood of Seattle; it says on its website that it is the only Puerto Rican restaurant in Washington. Based on this my boyfriend and I went there on a Sunday night and were not disappointed, as the bright cozy atmosphere was a welcome change to the grey weather outside.

After walking in the first thing we noticed was the subtly tropical ambience, which was not gimmicky and though it is a small space, the owners manage to maximize every inch. When we sat down and started looking over the menus, we quickly decided on the Medley de Platanos which included three types of plantains that were served with a tangy mojito sauce full of garlic. I most enjoyed the sweet maduros which were crispy on the outside and a little gooey on the inside

For the main course my boyfriend ordered the Bistec Encebollado, a grilled steak smothered in grilled onions; the dish looked tender and flavourful. I ordered the Salmon a la Parrilla which was marinated subtly in lemon, oil and garlic and covered in onions; the fish tasted fresh and had a nice grilled flavour. Entrees are served with a side of beans and rice, a slice of avocado, tostones, and mojito sauce. Instead of beans and rice, I ordered a salad that consisted of mixed greens tossed in tart balsamic vinaigrette. The portions were filling, leaving no room for dessert. The service was good - both efficient and friendly. We left the restaurant extremely full and satisfied.

If you are thinking of going in a group the menu provides something for everyone, including steak, fish, chicken, pork and prawns. Also there are vegetarian options such as the pastelon, a Puerto Rican style lasagna made with a tofu vegetable mixture and vegetarian empanadas. Furthermore La Isla is accommodating to those with special dietary needs; for example, there are high fibre options including beans, chicken, fish, and a lentil soup as well as plenty of seafood to help with other healthy diets.

Reviewed by: Sukie Juhan

Last reviewed: March 18th, 2007

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