San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge? If you’re craving authentic Mexican and Southwestern flavors on Bainbridge Island, San Carlos Restaurant is the place to be. Located at 279 Madison Ave N, this family-owned eatery has served the community since 1984, making it one of the island’s longest-running Mexican restaurants. Its longevity, home-style cooking, and consistently high marks from diners (it holds a 4.5-star rating across nearly 150 Yelp reviews) reflect the kind of real-world track record that keeps locals coming back. The restaurant is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and standout dishes including chicken chimichurri, grilled steak fajitas, and chile relleno. San Carlos is also known for serving what many call the “Best Margaritas in the West” for over 32 years, with signature options like the Santa Fe (made with fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice) and a Skinny Margarita made with agave nectar, alongside a dozen local and regional beers on tap.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal on the outdoor deck, San Carlos promises a dining experience rooted in home-style cooking and attentive, experienced service. Just a short walk from the Bainbridge ferry terminal, it’s earned a loyal following among both locals and visitors, consistently cited as one of the island’s most reliable Mexican and Southwestern dining options.
A Taste of Mexico at San Carlos
The San Carlos Story
San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge has quickly become a beloved destination on Bainbridge Island. Family-owned and operated, this location brings a rich history of authentic Mexican cuisine to the community.
The restaurant’s founders are passionate about sharing their culinary heritage, which is reflected in every dish they serve. Since its opening, San Carlos Mexican Restaurant has gained a reputation for warm hospitality and delicious food, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge Menu With Prices
San Carlos offers a diverse and tantalizing menu, showcasing the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine. From classic favorites to innovative creations, there’s something to delight every palate.
The menu is thoughtfully crafted, ensuring that each dish is made with the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques.
Appetizers and Small Plates
| Dish | Description | Price |
| San Carlos Chips & Salsa | – | $3 |
| House Guacamole | – | $9 |
| Bacon Wrapped Prawns (4) | Jumbo prawns wrapped in bacon with guacamole and chipotle aioli | $14 |
| Bacon Wrapped Prawns (6) | Jumbo prawns wrapped in bacon with guacamole and chipotle aioli | $18 |
| Seared Pork Carnitas | With guajillo aioli and guacamole | $15 |
| Poco Nachos | Homemade tortilla chips, cheddar cheese, tomato, jalapeno, guacamole, sour cream | $12 |
| Deluxe Nachos (Medium) | Made with homemade tortilla chips | $18 |
| Deluxe Nachos (Large) | Made with homemade tortilla chips | $25 |
| Carlos Quesadillas | Cheddar and jack cheeses, pico de gallo, salsa & black beans, topped with cotija cheese and guajillo chili aioli | $14 |
| Add Roast Pork or Pulled Chicken | – | $5 |
Entrees and Local Favorites
| Dish | Description | Price |
| Carne Asada | Skirt steak broiled with infused chili butter sauce | $40 |
| Add Sautéed Santa Fe Prawns | – | $8 |
| Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos | With Pico de Gallo Salsa, Guajillo Aioli | $26 |
| Grilled Steak and Goat Cheese Enchiladas | Open faced on fresh roma tomato tortillas with Santa Fe Sauce | $30 |
| Mesquite Smoked Chicken and Sour Cream Enchiladas | House smoked, with sour cream, cheddar cheese, and red chili sauce | $24 |
| Add Goat Cheese | – | $4 |
| Sautéed Spinach Enchiladas | With green chili sauce, Monterey Jack cheese, and guacamole | $20 |
| San Carlos Signature Combo | Grilled steak burrito, mesquite smoked chicken and sour cream enchilada, roast pork and chili verde enchilada | $34 |
| Cowboy Burger | – | $18 |
| Add Cheese (Cheddar, Jack, or Swiss) | – | $2 |
| Add Bleu Cheese or Goat Cheese | – | $3 |
| Add Bacon, Guacamole, or Avocado | – | $4 |
| Cabo San Lucas | Roast pork enchilada with green chili sauce, two steak soft tacos | $28 |
| Chili Relleno | Large Anaheim chilies filled with jack cheese, baked and topped with chili verde sauce | $22 |
| Chili Relleno (With Smoked Chicken) | – | $28 |
| Chili Relleno (With Steak & Goat Cheese) | – | $32 |
| Herbed Crab Chimichanga | Crab salad, lightly herbed, flash-fried, topped with creamy salsa | $27 |
| Add Sautéed Santa Fe Prawns | – | $8 |
| Smoked Chicken Chimichanga | Flash-fried, topped with green chili and Santa Fe sauces | $24 |
| Southwest Prawn Sauté | Sautéed in Santa Fe Sauce, served with house salad | $28 |
Vegetarian Specialties
| Dish | Description | Price |
| Vegetable Burrito | Seasonal vegetables, cheddar and cotija cheeses, Santa Fe Sauce | $19 |
| Add Goat Cheese | – | $3 |
| Black Bean and Cheddar Burrito | Covered in tomatillo salsa, with Spanish rice, sautéed vegetables, and guacamole | $19 |
| Vegetarian Burrito | Cheddar cheese, Spanish rice, guacamole, chili verde sauce | $19 |
| Vegan Bowl | Black beans, gourmet greens, Spanish rice, guacamole, tomatillo salsa | $16 |
| Jack Cheese Enchiladas | Verde sauce, black beans, Spanish rice, and guacamole | $19 |
| Sweet Potato Enchiladas | Verde sauce, goat cheese, black beans, Spanish rice | $24 |
Entrée Salads
| Dish | Description | Price |
| House Green Salad | – | $10 |
| Add Guacamole | – | $4 |
| Add Goat Cheese | – | $4 |
| Add Grilled Chicken | – | $8 |
| Add Prawns (5) | – | $12 |
| Iceberg Wedge | Bleu cheese dressing, bacon, tomatoes, shaved Bermuda onion, and guacamole | $20 |
| Taco Salad | Served in a homemade taco shell | $24 |
| San Carlos Gourmet Salad | Greens, tomatoes, purple cabbage, goat cheese, guacamole, with house dressing | $25 |
| Add Grilled Skirt Steak | – | $30 |
| Add Sautéed Santa Fe Prawns | – | $30 |
Burritos
| Dish | Description | Price |
| Fajita Burrito (Grilled Chicken) | Sautéed bell peppers, onions, fajita sauce, guacamole, sour cream | $24 |
| Fajita Burrito (Grilled Skirt Steak) | Sautéed bell peppers, onions, fajita sauce, guacamole, sour cream | $28 |
| Grilled Skirt Steak Burrito San Carlos Style | With creamy green chili and Santa Fe sauces, and guacamole | $27 |
| Grilled Chicken Burrito Verde | With jack cheese and chili verde sauce | $20 |
| House Burrito | Topped with red chili sauce, choice of pulled chicken, roast pork, machaca or ground beef | $19 |
| Refried Bean Burrito | Topped with red chili sauce | $17 |
Fajitas
| Dish | Description | Price |
| Grilled Chicken Fajitas | Served with black beans, Spanish rice, guacamole, and sour cream | $27 |
| Jumbo Prawns Fajitas | Served with black beans, Spanish rice, guacamole, and sour cream | $30 |
| Grilled Steak Fajitas | Served with black beans, Spanish rice, guacamole, and sour cream | $30 |
| Vegetable Fajitas | Served with black beans, Spanish rice, guacamole, and sour cream | $27 |
| Fajitas for Two | Served with black beans, Spanish rice, guacamole, and sour cream | $44 |
Enchiladas, Tacos, and Tostadas
| Dish | Description | Price |
| House Enchilada (1) | Served with refried beans and Spanish rice | $15 |
| House Enchilada (2) | Served with refried beans and Spanish rice | $22 |
| House Enchilada (3) | Served with refried beans and Spanish rice | $26 |
| House Taco Dinner | Served in corn tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, black beans, Spanish rice | $16 |
| Skirt Steak Taco | Served with black beans, Spanish rice, and guacamole | $30 |
| Pork Carnitas Tacos | Served with black beans, Spanish rice, and guacamole | $28 |
| Tostadas | Black or refried beans, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, Spanish rice, guacamole | $18 |
| Add Pulled Chicken, Pork, Ground Beef, Machaca, or Grilled Vegetables | – | $5 |
Margaritas
| Margarita | Price |
| San Carlos House Margarita | $10 |
| Cuervo Gold Margarita | $12 |
| Cadillac Margarita | $14 |
| Margarita’s Margarita | $15 |
| Skinny Margarita | $14 |
| Marianne’s Margarita | $18 |
| Lemon Drop Margarita | $14 |
| Santa Fe Margarita | $14 |
| Jalapeño Margarita | $14 |
| Strawberry, Mango, Cranberry, or Pomegranate Margarita | $15 |
| Coconut Margarita | $14 |
Specialty Cocktails
| Cocktail | Price |
| Lime Drop Martini | $14 |
| Lime Mojito | $15 |
| Strawberry or Mango Mojito | $16 |
| Pink Sapphire | $15 |
For a full list of offerings, check out the San Carlos Bainbridge menu.
Chef’s Specials
Don’t miss the Chef’s Specials, which change seasonally. These unique dishes highlight local ingredients and traditional flavors. Ask your server about the current offerings! The specials often include fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and unique sauces that showcase the chef’s creativity.
Happy Hour & Specials
San Carlos features fantastic happy hour specials with great deals on drinks and appetizers. Enjoy discounts on margaritas and select appetizers every weekday from 4 PM to 6 PM. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day! The happy hour menu includes options like $5 margaritas and $3 tacos, making it an excellent choice for a casual outing with friends.
Private Dining & Events
San Carlos offers private dining options for special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday party, wedding reception, or corporate event, the team can help you plan a memorable gathering. The restaurant can accommodate large groups and offers customizable menus to suit your needs.
Catering Services
Looking to bring the flavors of San Carlos to your next event? They offer catering services that include a variety of menu options to suit your needs. From small gatherings to large celebrations, San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge can provide delicious Mexican cuisine that will impress your guests.
5 Best Recommended Dishes from San Carlos Restaurant, Bainbridge
1. Carne Asada Tacos
Tender, marinated steak is grilled to smoky perfection, then nestled onto warm corn tortillas for an authentic, satisfying bite. Each taco is generously topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a bright squeeze of lime that cuts through the richness of the meat. The result is a perfect balance of char-grilled flavor, herbaceous freshness, and citrusy zing. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or shared at a gathering, these tacos deliver bold, smoky flavors with every single bite.
2. Chicken Mole Poblano
Slow-cooked chicken is lovingly smothered in a rich, velvety mole sauce, simmered from a complex blend of chilies, chocolate, and warming spices. Each spoonful reveals layers of deep, earthy flavor with just a hint of sweetness. Served alongside fluffy rice and warm tortillas, this dish brings together tender meat and bold sauce in perfect harmony. It’s a true taste of traditional Mexican comfort food, rooted in generations of culinary heritage.
3. Shrimp Ceviche
Fresh shrimp is marinated in zesty lime juice, allowing the citrus to gently “cook” the seafood while infusing it with bright, tangy flavor. Mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, every bite delivers a light, refreshing crunch balanced by vibrant, zesty notes. This dish is the perfect combination of freshness and flavor, ideal as a starter to whet the appetite or a light meal on a warm, sunny day when you crave something clean and satisfying.
4. Chile Relleno
A roasted poblano pepper is generously stuffed with gooey melted cheese, then lightly battered and fried to a golden, crispy perfection. The contrast between the crisp exterior and the warm, creamy center makes every bite irresistible. Served with a tangy tomato sauce and Mexican rice, this classic dish delivers a satisfying balance of mild heat and rich creaminess. It’s a beloved staple of traditional Mexican cuisine, comforting yet full of character.
5. Churros with Chocolate Sauce
Crispy, golden-fried churros are generously dusted with sweet cinnamon sugar, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Paired with a warm, rich chocolate dipping sauce, each churro becomes an indulgent treat that melts perfectly into the velvety cocoa. This dessert offers the ideal sweet finish to any meal comforting, nostalgic, and utterly craveable. Whether shared among friends or savored solo, these churros bring a touch of festive, traditional flavor to the table.
The San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge Experience
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Step inside San Carlos, and you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior is decorated with vibrant colors and traditional Mexican art, creating a festive vibe. Whether you choose to dine indoors or on the patio, you’ll feel right at home. The outdoor seating area offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a family gathering.
Quick Guide About San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge
| Category | Details |
| Restaurant Name | San Carlos Restaurant |
| Rating | 4.0/248 Google reviews |
| Cuisine Type | Mexican & Southwest |
| Price per Person | $20–30 |
| Address | 279 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110 |
| Phone | +1 206-842-1999 |
| Website | For the menu with prices, visit the official website here. |
| Service Options | Happy-hour food, fireplace |
| Hours | Monday Closed, ⋅ other Days open 4–9 pm |
| Parking | Street parking nearby |
| Best Dish | Carne Asada (Skirt steak broiled with infused chili butter) |
| Seating | Charming cottage with funky decor, indoor & outdoor seating |
Email:
sancarlos98110@gmail.com
Directions:
From the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal, head south on Washington Ave. Turn left onto Winslow Way E, then right onto Madison Ave N. Finally, turn left onto West North St. San Carlos will be on your right.
Location on Map:
<iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2688.987478111877!2d-122.52386292360595!3d47.62637467119158!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x54903eb0c725c31b%3A0x8c47d003af9a424d!2sSan%20Carlos%20Restaurant!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1785737706576!5m2!1sen!2sus” width=”600″ height=”450″ style=”border:0;” allowfullscreen=”” loading=”lazy” referrerpolicy=”strict-origin-when-cross-origin”></iframe>
San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge Reviews and Testimonials
Guests rave about their experiences at San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge. Here are a few reviews:
Overall Rating: 4.0/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆) Based on 260 Reviews. Google Reviews
- “The food is amazing! The fish tacos are the best I’ve ever had!” – TripAdvisor
- “Great atmosphere and friendly staff. A must-visit on Bainbridge!” – Yelp
- “The mole was rich and flavorful, and the churros were the perfect ending!” – Google Reviews
Tips for Dining at San Carlos
- Reservations: It’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially for large groups or during peak dining hours.
- Dress Code: Casual attire is welcome, making it a comfortable spot for families and friends.
- Parking: Parking can be tricky, especially during peak hours. There is street parking available on nearby streets, as well as a public parking lot at the ferry terminal. Arrive early or consider biking to avoid parking hassles.
- Best Times to Visit: For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays or early evenings. The restaurant tends to be busier on weekends, especially during dinner service.
3 Nearby Attractions and Activities
After your meal, explore Bainbridge Island! Here are some nearby attractions:
- Bainbridge Island Museum of Art: A great place to appreciate local art and culture, featuring rotating exhibits and a gift shop.
- Bloedel Reserve: A beautiful garden and nature reserve perfect for a stroll. The serene landscapes and walking trails make it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
- Ferry Terminal: Enjoy scenic views of the Puget Sound. The ferry ride itself is a popular attraction, offering breathtaking views of the water and surrounding islands.
Conclusion
San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge offers a truly memorable dining experience. From the mouthwatering cuisine to the warm hospitality, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Mexican fare. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch, a festive dinner, or a special celebration, San Carlos is sure to impress.
Make a reservation at San Carlos Restaurant Bainbridge today! Enjoy a delightful meal and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Mexico. Visit their website or call to secure your table and experience the best of Bainbridge Island’s dining scene.
Please also read articles about the Related restaurants:
- Top 7 Must-Try Lynwood Center Bainbridge Restaurants for Food Lovers!
- The Ultimate Guide to Top 3 Thai Food Bainbridge Island, WA
- Bainbridge Island BIMA Bistro Menu Fresh Flavors, Unforgettable Memories!
- Bainbridge Island Studio Tour 2025: Dates, Artists & Masterful Overview
- Blackbird Bakery Bainbridge Island Menu & Location | Taste the Magic
- Explore Lytle Beach on Bainbridge Island: A Hidden Gem for Relaxation and Scenic Views
