Southwestern Style Restaurant on Bainbridge Island, Washington

San Carlos is named after founder Lee Jorgenson's father, who grew up in central New Mexico, had a fanatical love of chili, the ol' Wild West, and could brew a mean pot of green chili stew. When the doors first opened in 1984, there was not much in the way of Mexican food in the Northwest, especially on this side of the water, so San Carlos happily filled that niche. As time progressed and our menu developed, a Nuevo-Mexican / Southwestern style was born. The long running success of San Carlos is in large part due to the passion and dedication of founder Lee and his wife Marianne, the long tenured staff, and the greater Bainbridge community.

Dean and Kristin Gellert purchased the restaurant in January 2016. Dean had worked many jobs in the restaurant and settled into the role of head bartender for many years before adding the responsibilities of General Manager, and now owner. Dean and Kristin actually met in the bar of San Carlos, so their love of the restaurant goes beyond great food, drinks, and atmosphere.

Best Entree Bite of Seattle Herbed Crab Chimichanga 1996
Best Appetizer Taste of Edmonds Grilled Chicken with Santa Fe Sauce 1991
Best Barbeque Bite of Seattle Mesquite Smoked Texas Ribs 1998
Bainbridge Island Chili Cook-off 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2009 & 2010

Along with the delightful Southwestern menu, San Carlos is proud to serve the Best Margaritas in the West. Featuring among others: the Santa Fe (with fresh squeezed grapefruit juice) and the Jalapeño Margarita. We have twelve local and regional micro beers on tap and a tasteful selection of local and regional wines.

San Carlos believes in a deep and abiding involvement in the community, and there is always some kind of local activity going on, from the Annual Poetry Reading (featuring local writers of many talents), to fundraising events benefiting junior athletic and academic endeavors. Watch the website for future events, and come join the fun.

We are delighted to have you visit and we hope to see you here soon!

Dean & Kristin Gellert