While Washington’s larger cities like Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane tend to dominate the local food scene, we definitely have some gems hiding in some unsuspecting places that can compete with even our most wildly famous eateries. Asadero Sinaloa is a prime example, sitting at the end of a strip mall in Kent. And while this upscale Mexican steakhouse has a cult following in King County, there are far too many Washingtonians unaware of its existence.

Asadero got its start as a food stand in Kent in 2014, with unbelievable tacos that kept people coming back for more.

Google But soon after, the venue that housed it shut down, and David Orozco, the chef and owner, had to find a brick-and-mortar space quickly. Luckily, he did, and the eatery has been in this little strip mall ever since.

The exterior may be casual and unassuming, but the interior is stunning.

Jessica Wick The vibrant red walls and colorful decor are lively and fun, with just the right touch of elegance.

Asadero is perfect for a date night, a special occasion, or an average night when nothing but the best meat will do.

Asadero Sinaloa Facebook The food here really is exceptional, and it’s something you have to try for yourself to truly understand.

David Orozco is a self-taught chef who was born in California and raised in Mexico, and he’s brought the smoky and savory flavors of Mexican ‘Norte’ cuisine to his lucky patrons.

Jessica Wick If you’re looking for standard Americanized Mexican food, you won’t find it here — and you won’t miss it.

The emphasis here is on the meat, both the quality and the way it’s prepared.

liquidmj / TripAdvisor It isn’t often that you’ll see Waygu beef on a Mexican food menu, but this steakhouse happens to be special.

The housemade guacamole is out of this world, served with delicious crispy freshly made tortilla.

Jessica Wick Save a little to use on your tacos or steak. There’s also a good-sized salsa bar in the back, full of flavorful salsas and garnishments.

Deciding what to eat isn’t easy here… but when in doubt, go with the Carne Asada.

liquidmj / TripAdvisor The 16 ounce Carne Asada Platter is locally famous, and at $25.99, it’s incredibly affordable for the size. The prices here are surprisingly low, given the quality of the ingredients.

Asadero’s Kent location was so wildly popular, the Orozco family opened a second location in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood a few years ago.

Asadero Sinaloa Facebook Both locations are family-owned and operated. David Orozco’s father manages the Kent location, and his mother makes all the salsas molcajete-style for both restaurants.

Asadero is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

Jessica Wick The Ballard location is open until 10 p.m. on the same days.

Kent Address: 310 Washington Avenue North, Kent, WA, 98032

Google

But soon after, the venue that housed it shut down, and David Orozco, the chef and owner, had to find a brick-and-mortar space quickly. Luckily, he did, and the eatery has been in this little strip mall ever since.

Jessica Wick

The vibrant red walls and colorful decor are lively and fun, with just the right touch of elegance.

Asadero Sinaloa Facebook

The food here really is exceptional, and it’s something you have to try for yourself to truly understand.

Jessica Wick

If you’re looking for standard Americanized Mexican food, you won’t find it here — and you won’t miss it.

liquidmj / TripAdvisor

It isn’t often that you’ll see Waygu beef on a Mexican food menu, but this steakhouse happens to be special.

Save a little to use on your tacos or steak. There’s also a good-sized salsa bar in the back, full of flavorful salsas and garnishments.

The 16 ounce Carne Asada Platter is locally famous, and at $25.99, it’s incredibly affordable for the size. The prices here are surprisingly low, given the quality of the ingredients.

Asadero Sinaloa Facebook

Both locations are family-owned and operated. David Orozco’s father manages the Kent location, and his mother makes all the salsas molcajete-style for both restaurants.

The Ballard location is open until 10 p.m. on the same days.

Ballard Address: 5405 Leary Avenue Northwest, Seattle, WA, 98107

Asadero is a dining experience you won’t soon forget. And if you can’t make it anytime soon, these small-town steakhouses will tide you over.

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