Delicious Destinations: Global Cuisine Restaurants for Seattle-Area Families

Your kiddos have probably had Mexican food (or at least the Americanized version thereof), but there’s so much more to the fascinating world of Latin American cuisine than salsa and tacos! The beautiful Central American country of Guatemala has shaped its local food profile from its ancient Mayan roots, a culture that featured foods such as corn, chilis, beans and the country’s native avocados, and later incorporated Spanish influences. Fun fact: Guatemala is also the birthplace of chocolate!

Ready to sample? Head to Antigua Guatemala Restaurant in Kent, named in honor of the nation’s historic capital city. This homey, no-frills joint dishes out generous portions of authentic eats, such as garnachas, deep-fried tortillas topped with spiced meat; and chuchitos, a Guatemalan take on the tamale. Kiddos will love the elotes locos, literally “crazy” sauce-drenched ears of corn; and shuco, a version of the hot dog that’s loaded with no fewer than 13 funky toppings.

Culture side dish: Try a simple and colorful tissue paper craft to make a brightly colored quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird, and a symbol of liberty. 

Next stop: Cultural oneness ►