About Us

A Little History

About Cactus

Welcome to Cactus!

Born and raised in Seattle, Cactus has been a proud part of the local dining scene for over 30 years, starting humbly with our first location in 1990. From the early days as Seattle’s first tapas bar, we’ve grown to six locations across the Puget Sound, all while staying true to what made us special—our dedication to bold Southwestern and Mexican-inspired cuisine, and our commitment to exceptional guest experiences.

Though we’ve expanded, our focus hasn’t changed. We continue to work hard every day to ensure that the quality and vibrant atmosphere that got us here remains at the heart of everything we do. Our seasonal menus and signature craft cocktails reflect our passion for creativity, while our locally sourced ingredients help us stay connected to our community.

This commitment has earned us prestigious recognition, including twice being named a “Top 10 Restaurant of the Year” by The Seattle Times and voted “Best Mexican Restaurant” by 425 Magazine readers for 13 consecutive years.

At Cactus, we take pride in being a place people can rely on—both for our consistency and our constant innovation. Over the years, we’ve developed more than 3,000 unique menu items, keeping our offerings fresh and exciting, while maintaining the quality that has made us a regular part of our guests’ dining rotation. Whether you’re discovering something new or enjoying your go-to favorite, we work to make every visit satisfying and memorable.

With six locations across the Puget Sound area—Downtown Kirkland, Alki Beach, Madison Park, Bellevue Square, South Lake Union, and the Proctor District in Tacoma—it’s easy to find your Cactus.

Experience why Cactus, born from humble roots, has remained a beloved local staple for over three decades. We’re not authentic, we’re uniquely Cactus. Join us today and discover why so many make us a regular stop in their dining routine.