Rojo's Mexican Food

As far as Pioneer Square lunch options go, Rojo's should be at the top of your list. It's perfect for eating tortas and people watching, or for grabbing a to-go burrito for a Mariners game. The food at this Mexican spot is fantastic, and it also happens to be vegan.

The menu is like any other taco counter with proteins like carne asada and grilled chicken. What makes Rojo’s different is that those meats aren’t made of meat. Everything is a plant-based dupe. But that’s not a catch—these alternatives are brought to life with marinades and seasonings that are craveable, and might just trick you into believing shredded jackfruit is carnitas.

Faux steak’s beefy texture holds up well when packed into a bolillo loaf spread with creamy refried beans, vegetables, and dairy-free sour cream. But it’s really the al pastor soy curls that shine the most. Marinated in adobo, they have hints of sweet pineapple and pork-like salty charred bits from the grill. In an overflowing toasted burrito or on a pillowy corn tortilla doused in salsa, this stuff competes with some of the best taco trucks out there. Meat or no meat.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Nate Watters

Al Pastor Taco

Sweet and salty chunks of al pastor soy curls in a pineapple-y marinade, a hefty scoop of cilantro, and raw white onion are piled on top of a thick corn tortilla. Proceed to inhale these in multiples of four.

photo credit: Nate Watters

Carne Asada Torta

You know when a sandwich has time to sit and soften in its foil wrapping only to become even better by the time you decide to unwrap? That's what happens with this torta—the creamy beans, vegan sour cream, juicy seitan,and thick-cut vegetables get cozy and become one delicious mess.

photo credit: Nate Watters

Loaded Burrito

The burrito is Rojo's best dish—it's stuffed so full of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream that it looks like what would happen if a Chipotle employee let their intrusive thoughts win. Prepare to have leftovers for days.

Chick’n Taco

Unfortunately, this soy-based "chicken" is the only meat option we're not into. It feels and tastes like bouillon cube-flavored chewing gum that can be skipped.