50 Best Mexican Restaurants in Chicago

“BEST TACOS IN CHICAGO“

“Lugar acogedor, el pulpo exquisito. Procuren ir a la hora de la apertura (4 p.m. ) a esa hora es menos concurrido lo que permite que la atención sea aún más espectacular.“

“Outstanding! Highly recommended Knowledgeable, friendly staff and incredible experience“

“The food was great and the atmosphere perfect Im from Monterrey and I felt I was there!!!!“

“Thank you Fernando and Ismael at 5 rabanitos!! Great food, great drinks and great service. Can’t wait to go back!“

“This restaurant is truly exceptional. The food was unique and delicious and authentic. And the service was excellent. Our server told us a story of his childhood, and the owner stopped by our table and chatted with us about the food and our experience. We had the ceviche, guacamole, Brussel sprouts, potatoes, pork, and chicken flautus. Everything was amazing but the potatoes and the pork in a poblano pepper were particularly special. The menu changes often and they only serve the pork on a year — it requires 32 ingredients.“

“Estimados encargados de El Solazo: Espero este mensaje les encuentre bien. Me dirijo a ustedes como un cliente frecuente y admirador de su restaurante, en el cual siempre disfruto de una comida deliciosa y un servicio excepcional. Sin embargo, en mi última visita, experimenté una situación que considero importante señalar para su atención y mejora. El día de hoy, martes 26 de noviembre, llegué a cenar a las 8:45 pm confiando en la información publicada en sus redes sociales, donde claramente se especifica que el horario de cierre es a las 11:00 pm. No obstante, a las 9:30 pm ya se estaba anunciando el "último llamado" para bebidas alcohólicas. Además, durante mi estancia, fui testigo de cómo dos familias fueron rechazadas para cenar por el mismo motivo: el restaurante estaba cerrando antes de tiempo debido a "la falta de clientes". Entiendo que puedan surgir situaciones operativas, pero considero que este tipo de decisiones impacta negativamente en la experiencia de sus clientes. Cuando se anuncia un horario de cierre, los clientes planeamos nuestras visitas en base a esa información. De no ser posible mantener el horario anunciado, sería más transparente ajustarlo oficialmente en sus plataformas para que las personas puedan planear con anticipación y, en caso necesario, optar por otras opciones. Por último, quiero mencionar que esta inconformidad fue compartida con nuestra mesera, quien nos escuchó con amabilidad. Sin embargo, creo que esta situación requiere un ajuste desde la gerencia para evitar malentendidos en el futuro. Agradezco de antemano su atención a esta situación y espero que se tomen las medidas necesarias para garantizar que su excelente servicio sea consistente en todos los aspectos. Atentamente, Jesus Jesse Hernández“

“Very nice family run spot!
The birria tacos were around $18 and they were very good. My only complaint is that the meat itself could have had more flavor, I think it was not properly salted. But it was cheesy, meaty, and crunchy. They gave me a ton of consume, too much. That didn’t have as much flavor as I would have wanted either, and salt would have helped. But you could just add salt and everything would be 2x as good.
The rice and beans were pretty good.
Also, the salsas that they have are unfortunately not to my taste. They are very spicy, and I love a spicy salsa, but they lack balance and are very one note. They are spicy without any depth or acidity. You may like this kind of salsa.
But the family was very nice and the food was all very good depending on your tastes. Very high quality and I will be coming back again.“

“Great taco restaurant, great food and service. Edil, thank you for the great service, very kind and timely service. The best.“

“I highly recommend Manchamanteles Restaurant! My dining experience was exceptional from start to finish. The food was outstanding, with each dish expertly prepared and presented. The staff were friendly, attentive, and made sure we felt welcome. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for any occasion. I will definitely be returning when in town!“

“The food, drinks, service and recommendations were excellent. We were celebrating a birthday, and everything from the Oaxacan tlayuda to the Cornish hen with mole and the margaritas made with mezcal from the owners’ hometown in Oaxaca made for a great meal.“

“These are some of the best tacos I've had ever. I lived in Southern California and visited Mexico often and this feels like a food journey to Mexico. Service is great, music is good but the tacos are the star. Try the Birria and Baja fish. You will not be disappointed“

“the food is always delicious and service is always so kind! I've ordered something different each visit and have never been disappointed! margaritas are great too! love this place so much!“

“5 star food, 5 star horchata, 5 star service!!! This is my weekend splurge almost every weekend.“

“Tacos con sazón muy buenos . Y servicio excelente. Precio justo .“

“Great food/drinks Great service Great prices We will be back.“

“The food was OUTSTANDING! Best mexican food I have ever had. The chips and warm salsa were delicious. We had the shrimp and chicken fajitas and those were so tasty. The margarita was sooo yummy! They even had kid's options for our daughter. Very accommodating and the atmosphere was perfect. Hope to return sometime! Thank you!“

“Outstanding service and an incredible meal. I had the tuna crudo appetizer as my entree and it was the absolute best I've ever had. Unique and enough for two people! The margarita was fantastic without the tartness that comes with many bottled margaritas. This was very authentic. Everything was very reasonably priced. What a wonderful find!! I will be back!“

“We were in town for a few shows and we stopped by and were not disappointed. the owner was out greeting every guest and was so kind and even offered us a free chicharrón when he realized we were from out of state! the carnitas were excellent along with the iced cafe de olla. the taste and experience is so authentic. I am looking forward to visiting again next time I am in Chicago!“

“Katie was our server and omg she was amazing. Half of our group was a lil buzzed from the cubs game and she handled it like a pro!!! Food was amazing but the service was better!! We will come back because of her!! Thank u Katie!!“

“Don't let the fact that its in a gas station fool you! Best Chilaquiles east of the Chicago River!“

“I drive 6 hours from Cincinnati just to buy tamales from El Milagro - the taste, the variety, the quality of their tamales can’t be beat. Also, while I waited for my order, I drank a hot cup of velvety creamy Champurrado. Delicious!!! Chef’s kisses!!!“

“Very good food. I highly recommend this place.“

“Excellent service very clean very delicious food well recommended 100%“

“Food is fantastic .. the steak torta is soooo good Definitely a place to visit when you are in Chicago. I will be back“

“Fan of Rick Bayless on PBS. \nFood is authentic Mexican, locally sourced ingredients, seasoned well but more warm, smoky flavors than water-chugging heat. \n\nOrder the guacamole. The chips are sturdy and not overly salted. \nOut table ordered the steak tacos, mole chicken enchiladas, and tortilla soup. Everything was presented incredibly - especially the soup. That broth alone will make you weak in the knees. That good!\n\nDecor is delightful. Dia de muerta even more so.\n\nHow did I miss the multiple Michelin plaques?! Don't be put off by the prices or gratuity added for service. Must try!“

“Fresh and good flavor. Not a big menu but burrito was outstanding.“

“Oooooorale’! We found another hidden gem! (Well not really hidden, lol) este restaurante está riquísimo! For all of you non-Spanish speakers, this place is delicious! It looks small from the outside, but it’s enormous in flavor! It’s a very cute and nicely decorated place. Staff is incredibly nice and helpful. But the food… it rocks! We ordered the Orden de Quesobirria and a Carne en su Jugo and a Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus water) and a Horchata (rice water). The Carne stew was delicious! So many levels of flavors. The birria was fantastic! Levels and levels of flavor. Will definitely be back for the Menudo this weekend. See you all here!“

“Try as many tacos as you can! The fish tacos are a much but the birria tacos blew me away!“

“I’ve written several reviews about this restaurant because I just can’t say enough. Best Mexican food, excellent service. Cute, intimate setting you must try for yourself. BYOB. I’ve gone on record to say that I had the best steak I have ever had, with their skirt steak in their Tampiquena dish.“

“Iris was such a wonderful waitress! Amazing drinks and food. 10/10 will be back and recommend. 💓“

“Excelente food and great service“

“Nice selection of authentically prepared dishes. The menu is focused, presumably on what they do best. Preparation is simple and with very nice quality ingredients. Don’t overlook the sauces and sides. Overall an excellent choice in this vibrant neighborhood (Pilsen).“

“Muy rica la comida y buen trato“

“I stopped by with my toddler and was immediately greeted by staff. Ordered the breakfast burrito and a taco and rice for my daughter and the food was delicious. The rice was flavorful, the tortilla was fresh and the best part was the agua de Mango. Will definitely have to stop in again and try other items on the menu.“

“the best food in town 😋😋😋“

“The vibes of this place was a real throwback! And the taco combo- YUM! Comes with a side of guac, chips, rice, beans, and chicharron! My favorite is the chicken tinga and al pastor 🔥 Shoutout to Luz that took our order, she is incredibly sweet!“

“Best Carne Asada in the Midwest!because it’s al carbon! My family has been coming here since before I was born 🫶🏼“

“This was a dinner to remember!! It was so good.. having just got back from Mexico City and being Indian, this was the perfect fusion. I would definitely do tasting menu again.. totally worth it! The seating at the Bar was such a great experience.. talking to the Chef and hearing about each dish.“

“I had a wonderful experience coming here. As soon as I walked in I was greeted and giving a menu. The options here are easy to understand. The categories here make it simple to choose. You don't have to speak Spanish to place your order but it is a plus. Everyone in the eating area to the staff all the way to the cook had a positive attitude. They have bathroom here and they were clean. I would definitely recommend coming here for good Mexican food. I certainly would come back. Payment here will be in the form of cash or credit card.“

“I really like the rooftop during happy hour! I thought the margarita slushy was delicious. The food isn’t mind blowing, but it’s tasty and the space is very cute. Semi-related, I did reach out twice to try and book the space for an event but they never got back to me 🤷🏼‍♀️“

“Had a barbacoa burrito with lime rice and ranchero beans. (Maybe the beans were called something else, can't remember.) Anyway, it was awesome. Very fresh ingredients, meat was cooked and seasoned very well. All three sauces are great; probably liked the plain Verde the best. I ate too fast and didn't take a picture. I'll be back“

“I visited this place on yesterday randomly looking for breakfast spots. As soon as we entered, all of the employees greeted us with a smile, and a hello the atmosphere was extremely welcoming and made us extremely excited.. We let our waitress. Maria know that it was our first time she assured us that we would be satisfied. We were indeed satisfied I highly recommend this place. Please go check them out.“

“😋 muy deliciosa la comida buen servicio les doy 5 estrellas muy recomendado“

“The best birria I have ever eaten in my entire life. I've just been there for the first time and it's simply incredible. From the first place, I was involved in something difficult to explain, so many years passing and never having given them a chance or knowing the goodness of their food.“

“We came here for both a private dining event and a brunch and we were blown away both times. Great flavors and a wonderful staff. The chef made an effort to speak with us on both occasions and really puts a lot of effort and thought into his dishes. A new favorite and would highly recommend to anyone considering coming.“

“The food is always delicious and the service is always excellent.“

“The perfect place to fill your stomach. Me and my man got a burrito and tostadas. SOOOO good. I love the vibe and it’s a small business you MUST support.

im never going to another Mexican restaurant again. Take all my money!

Also the cashier lady was disgustingly beautiful and sweet😍“

“Pollo Express has become my new obsession. I’m there 2-3 per week. I love the Chicken Burrito and the mixed Burrito— Burritos have Jalapeño in them FYI— which can be optional, if you let them know. The burrito I get the Charro beans and the Mexican rice. The Flautas are delicious— consider adding refried beans on top. I love the chicken with a side of rice and beans, as well. Their desserts are tasty too. The staff is super friendly and eager to explain things, and they love being part of the neighborhood. I love that Smokey salsa they have too. I put it on everything!“

“An absolute neighborhood gem! The food was fresh and delicious. From the minute my husband and I walked in we felt super welcomed. The owner, Dr. Lulu is so kind, funny, and welcoming. We live in the neighborhood and decided to give it a try. Great pozole, great nachos, fantastic lengua, asada cut for tacos is perfecta and tasty, and the fish tacos are actual fish—sooo good! We enjoyed the hospitality and we will definitely be returning! Try the café de casa! Delicious! It was also very nice to see how many regulars she has. You could tell everyone enjoyed Dr. Lulu’s bright personality .“