Taste the moment
Welcome to Malena's Taco Shop
Malena's Taco Shop in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood is a beloved hole-in-the-wall known for its authentic Mexican flavors and generous portions. For over 20 years, it has served fresh, made-from-scratch dishes like the tender carnitas, beautifully crafted tamales, and flavorful carne asada burritos. The affordable prices and consistently high quality make it a go-to spot for those craving satisfying, bold flavors without breaking the bank. Though takeout-focused, a few outdoor tables offer a laid-back vibe on sunny days. Whether you indulge in their oversized combos or just a couple of tacos, Malena’s delivers a fulfilling, memorable meal that keeps diners coming back.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Two Carne Asada Tacos
Three (3) Rolled Tacos
Veggie Tostada
Fish Taco
About the Place
Malena's Taco Shop
Nestled in the heart of Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood, Malena’s Taco Shop stands as a genuine gem for lovers of authentic Mexican cuisine. This unassuming spot at 620 W McGraw St has quietly earned a loyal following over its two-decade presence, drawing diners who crave fresh, flavorful dishes crafted with care. What sets Malena’s apart is not just its affordability—an increasingly rare quality in the city—but the generous portions that don’t sacrifice quality or taste.
From the moment you bite into their carne asada burrito or tender carnitas tacos, you sense that every ingredient is chosen with intention and prepared from scratch. The guacamole arrives with a lush, creamy texture, never stingy, enhancing each taco or tamale with bright, vivid notes. The tamales themselves are beautifully crafted, embodying tradition with a fresh, modern twist that elevates the entire experience.
Though the space is modest with limited seating, the vibrancy of the flavors more than compensates. The “hole in the wall” charm is complemented by an inviting outdoor nook, perfect for a relaxed meal on a sunny day. Whether you’re grabbing takeout or dining in for bottomless chips and salsa—when available—Malena’s Taco Shop balances simplicity and depth. Its enduring popularity is a testament to honest cooking and a commitment to delivering Mexican food that satisfies both your palate and your appetite.
Returning here feels like treating yourself, a rare find in a city where quality and affordability often don’t intersect. If you’re exploring Seattle’s culinary landscape and appreciate hearty, soulful Mexican fare, Malena’s Taco Shop is a stop that promises not to disappoint.
Shared Experiences
Guestbook
“ Best hole in the wall Mexican food around. Huge portions especially the burrito, beautifully done tamale, very generous with the guacamole and the flavors are sublime. Take out only when we went but a couple tables outside is chill on a nice day. While there check out Macrina Bakery across the street for dessert. Will definitely be back! ”
“ Update to my original review below 1 year later: They've raised the prices, and the burrito isn't as large anymore, but it's still a good meal to treat yourself to every once in a while. ‐--------- YES!!! Unlike much of Seattle, this place is Affordable and reasonably priced because the quality is an A+ in addition to the amount you receive. Ordered a Carne Asada Burrito and y'all, YES. Well seasoned, Freshly made and nice portion. Didnt feel corporate. Will be my new go to spot for Mexican food. ”
“ Amazing!! I had the rolled chicken tacos with guacamole, made it a meal with rice and beans. Everything is made fresh from scratch in house and you can taste it! Huge portions for reasonable prices, you can't go wrong! ”
“ Been coming here for lunch a bit recently and I have to say the prices are cheap and the food is good. You get bottomless chips and salsa for dining in. This place has been here for 20+ years and it seems like it's still going strong. Word of advice though, the combos are HUGE I usually just go for a couple tacos and it's plenty of food and half the cost. This is a great spot in Queen Anne. ”
“ 2018: Amazing carnitas! Good price to portion and did I mention the carnitas! The tenderness and charred bits of delicious pork wrapped in a taco is very delicious! Worth the trip to Queen Anne! Plus free chips and salsa if you eat there. 2022 update, no more free chips and salsa but the portion and price is still unmatched, two tacos for ~$7 will leave you full. The freshness of ingredients of great but it lacks in the flavor department. Also tortillas are not made in-house. ”