Somewhat tucked away on a non-descript block in the Eastlake neighborhood is Little Water Cantina. You could easily miss it, but be glad you didn’t because upon entering the highly sustainable, LEED Platinum space you will be transported to a destination that is quickly becoming a well-deserved darling of the Seattle restaurant scene, known for its innovative and eclectic take on Mexican grub gone gourmet.

Must Have Eats: The happy hour menu, which does have two daily specials (Torta del Dia, $10 and Tacos del Dia Plato $9) stays largely consistent with stalwarts such as Guacamole made with Avocado, Roasted Tomatillos, Serranos, Onion, Garlic, and Epazote ($6). However, with homemade chips, tortillas made on demand, generous portions, and refined spices, these classics are anything but. The dark horse on the menu is the Escabeche ($2), which is plainly speaking an assortment of spicy pickled vegetables, but absolutely worth your time and eight quarters. While it admittedly doesn’t have the curb appeal of the rightfully popular and sexy Empanadas with Vanilla Bean, Chile, and Cider-Braised Carlton Farms Pork ($8), when paired with other bites and drinks from the menu it truly brings everything to life and provides a well-timed contrast to the richness of some of the other dishes.

Must Have Drinks: While it is perhaps cliché to recommend a house margarita at a Mexican Happy Hour, we would be remiss if we championed anything else. Offering the perfect amount of bite, tang, and tequila these are well worth the $6 price tag. If you’re wanting something a little less sassy, multiple food friendly options abound including $3.50 drafts, $1 off all wells, and $5 house wines that while perhaps not spectacular on their own are quite nice with a nibble.

Happy Times: Tuesday through Friday, 3p – 6p, Friday and Saturday, 10p to Close (in bar and lounge).

The Inside Scoop: The patio is spectacular, and while not available for reservations, boasts large tables and communal style seating, so enjoy soaking up the sun with a stranger in the dog days of Seattle summer.

Little Water Cantina | 2865 Eastlake Avenue East, Seattle| (206) 397-4940