Tucked away at 1126 Commerce Street in Tacoma, La Isabella is a vibrant celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine that blends family heritage with modern flair. Opening back in March of 2024, this cozy eatery delivers a taste of tradition, with recipes stemming from generations past, passed down from a great-great-grandmother to a generation determined to delight.
At the heart of La Isabella’s mission is a dedication to authentic flavors, high-quality ingredients, and recipes that honor Mexican culinary traditions. The restaurant takes pride in sourcing 100% grass-fed New Zealand beef and incorporating cherished family recipes into every dish, aiming to provide a genuine and comforting dining experience. If you are looking for excellent Mexican food in Tacoma, try La Isabella – you won’t be disappointed.
What’s on the Menu at Tacoma’s La Isabella?
Not only is it a trendy and super cute restaurant, but walking through La Isabella’s menu is like exploring a vibrant map of Mexican flavors! Here are the must-trys. You may need to go back a few times to experience the whole menu. It’s just that good!
Street tacos feature fillings like chicharrón in salsa verde, al pastor, asada, barbacoa, carne con chile, and pollo, each garnished with traditional toppings such as pickled onions and cilantro. If you are a taco connoisseur, these will not disappoint.
Enjoy tacos and burritos your way. If you have analysis paralysis, this plate offers a customizable delight. Choose between tacos (3 corn tortillas) or a burrito, accompanied by sides of rice and fillings such as papa con chorizo, tinga de pollo, rajitas en crema, or bistec con papa y chile poblano. Yum.
Quesabirria is a specialty dish served with a side of rich, dipping broth. The inventive Hamburguesa Norteña is a juicy Wagyu-bacon blend with melted American cheese, grilled onions, cilantro crema, and a fried jalapeño, accompanied by fries crisped in beef tallow. If you are in the mood for a filling, rich, and delicious meal, try the quesabirria.
Don’t miss the enchiladas. For classic comfort, you can’t go wrong with enchiladas verdes, enchiladas a la diabla, or tostaditas al pastor loaded with grilled pineapple.
For sweets and drinks, La Isabella’s menu is rounded out with flan, tres leches cake, and drink selections like agua fresca, café de olla, and house-made horchata. Plus, find a creative cocktail lineup including Mezcalita Picante, Horchata Borracha, Oaxaca Old Fashion, Isla Bonita, and the Spicy Mezcal Paloma. Big emphasis on the Spicy Mezcal Paloma. You can’t go wrong with a bit of smoky mezcal and a delicious grapefruit flavor!
Don’t forget the delicious guacamole! La Isabella’s guacamole doesn’t play. It is so good!
La Isabella’s Vibes in Downtown Tacoma
Though it’s not a huge spot, La Isabella has the intimate dining atmosphere on lock. The staff are super friendly and the food was even better! They also offer a fantastic lunchtime special. Think, three tacos, a side of rice and beans, and either an aqua fresca or horchata for just $11. Plus, if you want an alcoholic beverage, the margs are only $5! What a steal.
Even though they’ve only been around for a year and a half, La Isabella has created quite the buzz on social media. The restaurant’s Instagram describes it as delivering “Authentic Mexican restaurant providing quality and freshest ingredients” along with “exquisite mezcal cocktails,” while a TikTok post highlights that they cook everything in beef tallow, a nod to bold flavor choices.
Located in downtown Tacoma, the restaurant is easily accessible and ideally situated for a flavorful meal before hitting nearby attractions or local nightlife.
La Isabella doesn’t just serve food. It’s an immersive experience rooted in heritage. From the rich, slow-cooked recipes passed down through generations to thoughtful touches like grass-fed beef and house-made sauces, every bite tells a story. Combined with welcoming service and a cozy downtown setting, it’s no wonder this place has become a favorite for both locals and taco enthusiasts.
If you’ve been searching for a Mexican restaurant that honors tradition while delivering creativity and care, La Isabella is a must-visit. Whether you’re craving a robust quesabirria, innovative cocktails, or simply an honest plate of tacos, this Tacoma treasure delivers with flavor, heart, and grace.
La Isabella welcomes guests during the week and weekend evenings, offering hours that accommodate both lunch and dinner. They are open Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., then 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and are closed on Mondays.