I’ve lived in Seattle for almost eight years now (and I’ve written about the food scene here for most of it), and I must share something that isn’t common knowledge to outsiders: Seattle isn’t much of a late-night town. Unlike New York City or the title of that famous Tom Hanks movie, we very much do sleep here in the Emerald City. That’s not to say there isn’t a ton of stuff to do here, but the bulk of it is designed around earlier crowds.
From talking with friends who’ve lived here a lot longer than me, this is just how it’s always been. Sure, you can always grab a Seattle dog from a street vendor in the late hours of the night (depending on where you are), but finding a sit-down dining spot after 10 p.m. requires more effort. The good news is there is an evening scene for those who seek it out, and I’m talking about full meals, not just bar snacks. I’m in my 30s now and don’t revolve my life around going out at night like younger me used to, but every now and then, the late-night cravings hit — when they do, they hit hard. Fortunately, I’ve discovered several places that serve the perfect hunger remedies until midnight and beyond.
Red Star Taco Bar serves amazing late-night chorizo tacos
Seattle’s busy Fremont neighborhood is a rarer corner of the city that actually does have quite a few late-night bars and eateries. This one stands out as not just an awesome spot to get food until 12 a.m., but also as one of the city’s best taquerias. I first came here with some friends after a nearby comedy show, and the chorizo taco absolutely blew my mind with how tasty it was. I’ve been coming back ever since, regardless of whether or not I already have plans in the area.
I’ve since tried the tequila lime chicken, catfish, and bang bang cauliflower tacos. Although they’re all delicious, I have to say the chorizo ones remain my go-to. Seriously; this may sound dramatic, but I can’t stress enough how good these are. I live near multiple taco places in my own neighborhood, and even some closer late-night spots, but I keep making the trek to Fremont just for Red Star and its chorizo tacos. The late-night happy hour that starts at 10 p.m. only makes it more enticing since you can get three of these babies for $11 — a steal in Seattle! Oh, and the margarita slushies pair perfectly with them; you can make great margarita slushies at home with the right blender techniques, but I doubt anyone can make chorizo tacos as tasty as Red Star…