50 Best Mexican Restaurants in Chicago

“Mi Tocaya Antojería is a charming restaurant offering unique and delicious food. The menu features a variety of dishes, with some that rotate and others that are consistently available. The service is excellent, with staff providing friendly and knowledgeable recommendations. The Tacos con Nopalitos are a standout dish, and the burrito, pulpo, and flan are also highly recommended. The restaurant has a cozy neighborhood atmosphere, and street parking is available. Reservations are recommended for a delightful dining experience.“

“Tzuco offers a notable dining experience with excellent service that is both attentive and tailored to guests' preferences. The food stands out with its dynamism in texture, color, and flavor. The avocado guavabana tapioca dessert and carrots were particularly enjoyable. Although the mushroom cazuela and mussels received mixed reviews, the dessert was a highlight. The mole cosmo was not well-received, tasting like corn whiskey. Despite this, the company and service made for a great anniversary celebration, and the restaurant is worth visiting again for the atmosphere and dessert.“

“Birrieria Zaragoza serves amazing food with care and attention to detail. The staff is super friendly, and the restaurant offers an intimate setting for dining in or take-out options. The menu features fresh, handmade tortillas and tender goat meat, with dishes like quesabirrias and consomé. Prices are affordable, and the Oaxacan flan is a must-try. This spot is highly recommended for authentic tacos in Chicago.“

“Cantón Regio, located in Chicago's Pilsen, offers a delicious Mexican dining experience. The carne asada, shrimp tacos, and homemade tortillas are standouts. The restaurant is welcoming with good soup, chips, and salsa to start. Service is friendly and the atmosphere is hearty. It's a cash-only, BYOB establishment with an ATM on site. Some may not prefer the queso fundido.“

“5 Rabanitos Restaurante & Taqueria in Chicago is a must-visit for authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine. The menu offers a variety of flavorful dishes like Al pastor tacos, goat adobo tacos, carne asada torta, pork tenderloin “a mi region”, and chicken pozole. The guacamole and signature green and red sauces are exceptional. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere, although it can get busy, especially on Mondays and Tuesdays when other local spots are closed. The service may not be speedy, but the staff is friendly and accommodating. The mole is highly recommended, and the ambiance, especially on Cinco de Mayo, adds to the overall experience. The outdoor area is kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible.“

“Leña Brava offers very tasty food and good drinks. Customers enjoyed the volcanes starter, Chilean Bass, Turf Platter, Mezcal margaritas, and Molé Enchiladas. The skinny margarita was impressive. The staff, including Salvatore the sous chef, was attentive and friendly, providing great suggestions. Dishes like fish, guac, salmon, and steak were fantastic. Customers can't wait to go back and try more.“

“Solazo offers a beautiful atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food and drinks. The Beber, Comer, Querer motto is reflected in their on-point drinks, legit Al Pastor, and must-try Chocolate Tres Leche. With a vibrant ambiance and friendly service, it's a hidden treasure for both locals and visitors. While the food is great overall, some dishes like the shrimp in the asada could use improvement in quality and size. Check them out for a unique dining experience that won't disappoint.“

“Chilam Balam is a cozy and rustic restaurant that delivers an exceptional dining experience with its contemporary Mexican cuisine. The menu features a range of delectable dishes, including the must-try pistachio tres leches and the standout pork belly tostada. The restaurant's focus on simple, locally-sourced ingredients and no additives is evident in the quality and flavors of the food. The service is impressive, with the staff efficiently delivering each course with a personalized touch from the owner. The underground atmosphere is perfectly balanced, offering a private and intimate setting for groups, couples, and families alike. Chilam Balam consistently impresses its guests, making it a go-to destination for those seeking an exceptional dining experience.“

“Rubis Tacos: Where Handmade Tortillas Make Every Bite a Fiesta! Rubis Tacos is a must-visit destination for taco lovers seeking an authentic and flavorful experience. Nestled in the vibrant Pilsen neighborhood, this humble establishment has earned a reputation for its exceptional handmade tortillas and flavor-packed fillings. The tortillas are the star of the show, described as soft, comforting, and sturdy enough to hold the delicious ingredients within. From the savory carne asada that melts in your mouth to the zesty al pastor that will make you want to dance, the fillings at Rubis Tacos are a flavor rollercoaster. The salsa, a flavor party in a jar, complements the tacos perfectly. Beyond the food, the welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff create a sense of belonging, making customers feel like part of the taco-loving family. The portions are generous, and the prices, while a bit higher, are well worth the exceptional quality and experience. Whether you're craving a taste of Mexico or simply seeking a delightful taco adventure, Rubis Tacos is the perfect destination to satisfy your cravings and indulge in a fiesta of flavors.“

“Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant offers authentic Mexican tacos, with perfect meat and condiments. Customers can have their meat weighed for tacos, but seating is limited. The chicharrones are large and perfect for cooking, though could use more seasoning for snacking. The flavorful menudo comes with sides and seasoning. The owner is friendly and informative. The restaurant is strictly for takeout, making it ideal for a taco picnic at Harrison Park. A must-visit spot for taco lovers seeking an authentic Mexican experience.“

“Taco El Jalisciense is a must-visit spot with fantastic service and delicious food. Known for the best tacos in the city, especially the Steak and Pastor varieties, it also offers top-notch beans, rice, and incredible Horchata. Whether you're a local or just passing through the area, stopping by this restaurant is a definite go-to for a satisfying meal. The owner's friendly demeanor adds to the overall positive dining experience.“

“La Josie is a popular spot for great food and cocktails. The bartenders are happy to create a custom cocktail based on your preferences. The restaurant offers a range of Mexican dishes, including pulpo tacos, tres leches, and tamale, which are highly praised. The wine selection includes a variety of Mexican options. The dessert menu features unique treats like tres leches with coconut helado and churro cheesecake, which are sure to impress.“

“Bàrbaro Taqueria is a phenomenal eatery that has survived the pandemic. Their queso with al pastor is a must-try, and pairing it with the bean app is a game-changer. The Mahi fish tacos with habanero sauce and al pastor burrito are also standouts. The menu offers a wide range of flavors, from flavorful without being oversalted to spicy options. The atmosphere is unique, with dark vibes, amazing music, and artwork. The margaritas are exceptional, and the serving size of guacamole is generous. Prices are reasonable, with a dinner bill of $75 for two people. Overall, Bàrbaro Taqueria is an amazing spot that's worth a visit.“

“Frontera Grill offers a variety of flavorful dishes like shrimp, chicken, and mole specials. The creamy white sauce on the chicken was mentioned as not a favorite. The restaurant's ambiance is cool, and the service is top-notch. Customers enjoyed the attentive staff and delicious desserts like flan and tres leches. The different salsas provided can be very spicy. The location is prime, but parking in River North can be a challenge. Wheelchair accessibility is good, with an elevator to reach the private room upstairs.“

“Carnitas Don Pedro is a gem in Pilsen, offering delicious and affordable Mexican cuisine. Their tortas, packed with meat and refried beans, are a steal at $7.99, and diners can enjoy them in the simple but cozy dining area. The restaurant is known for its excellent carnitas, served with fresh tortillas, cilantro, onion, lime, and pico. Brain tacos and flavored Agua Frescas are also available. While service can be slow on weekends, the friendly staff makes up for it. Families are welcome, and with its great food and affordable prices, Carnitas Don Pedro is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors.“

“Lonesome Rose is a restaurant that offers a hipster Mexican-themed cuisine, known for its friendly service and a charming rooftop patio, a great place to relax with a cold drink. Their menu features standout dishes such as vegan cheese nachos, highly praised by those who tried them, and the tilapia fish taco, ranked as the best among other options. The restaurant is also recognized for its exceptional vegan options and its perfectly crafted margaritas, making it a hidden gem in Logan Square, Chicago.“

“Iztatl Cocina Mexicana is a restaurant known for its delicious meals and excellent service. Their homemade quesadillas and fresh ingredients are widely praised. Even when there's a mistake with an order, such as the wrong meat for tacos, they quickly replace it at no extra charge, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction. Some customers have yet to try their special tamales, as they often sell out quickly. Overall, it's a great dining experience with tasty food and accommodating staff.“

“Lucido's Tacos offers delicious food, particularly their tacos al pastor, which are highly praised. The cook is attractive and the service is commendable, creating a welcoming environment. While the pastor tacos are already delicious, some customers suggest adding pineapple or roasted onions for an even better experience. The toro taco and sauce are equally enjoyable.“

“Aloha Wagon in Chicago offers delicious Hawaiian food, reminiscent of a sunset in the islands. Standout dishes include Spam musubi, kalua pork, and mac salad. The banana bread is a delightful sweet treat. Freshly squeezed juices are also available. The owners and cook are friendly, with the cook hailing from Oahu. Generous portion sizes make for a satisfying meal. This restaurant is a hidden gem for authentic Hawaiian cuisine.“

“Moe's Cantina - River North is a top destination for food, drinks, and atmosphere. This vibrant spot offers delicious Mexican cuisine, including savory tacos and succulent carne asada, in a lively and inviting atmosphere. The expertly crafted cocktails, such as the Smoky Margarita and Passionfruit Mojito, are a highlight of the drinks menu. With exceptional service, including standout staff members, this restaurant has become a beacon of culinary excellence and a hot spot for Chicago's elite. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a romantic evening, Moe's Cantina delivers a luxurious and relaxing experience.“

“Carnitas La Michoacana offers a welcoming and delightful dining experience. The cheese enchiladas with salsa verde are described as very spicy, but highly enjoyable for those who love bold flavors. The carnitas, hand-made tortillas, and crispy chicharrón are praised as exceptional, elevating the taco experience. The restaurant boasts a family-friendly atmosphere and great service, making it an ideal choice for parties and gatherings.“

“Old Pueblo Cantina offers a welcoming atmosphere and excellent service. Friendly servers, like Natalie and Kass, provide attentive care and cater to dietary needs. Enjoy delicious dishes, such as chips and salsa, and cheese crisp, in their nice outdoor patio. Manager Carlos ensures a great dining experience, making guests want to return soon.“

“Cruz Blanca Brewpub is a great spot for private events, with a fantastic second-floor tap room and excellent service. The food is highly praised, including accommodations for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. Customers enjoy the fun, graphic environment, non-alcoholic drinks like the Ritual Margarita, and a variety of flavorful tap beers, particularly the La Floridita with hibiscus and the Paloma with grapefruit. The guacamole is always fresh, and the food menu offers a great selection.“

“Diego is a fantastic little spot in West Town with a Mexican-inspired menu. The tacos, especially the fish, shrimp, and steak ones are highly recommended, as well as the burger and burrito. The karaage was a surprise favorite, and the cocktails were well-balanced and creative. The staff, including bartenders Fabian & Derrick, provide excellent service in a warm and homely atmosphere. Owners, husband and wife, ensure that customers have a great time. Add a pitcher of house margarita for a very enjoyable evening.“

“Sol de Mexico is a cozy restaurant serving great upscale Mexican food in a high-end setting. The chefs are amazing, and the food is delicious, with dishes like carne asada, sopes, flank steak, and chocolate tamales with vanilla ice cream. The service is excellent, with friendly and attentive staff. Cocktails are made with fresh juices, and homemade corn tortillas are a nice touch. Overall, a great dining experience.“

“Chilo Y Chela Restaurant is a must-visit spot for tamale lovers. Their tamales, including the torta de tamal with crema, are extremely filling and delicious. The restaurant offers a variety of options, including green chicken tamales, queso con rajas tamales, and vegetarian choices like chile con rajas. With its warm and toasted bread, Chilo Y Chela is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and is especially popular for its Arroz con leche and Champurrado.“

“Kite String Cantina offers a variety of gluten-free options, with tasty taquitos and delicious homemade salsas like tomatillo avocado. The local craft beer selection and specialty drinks like piña poblano and draft margaritas are also highlights. The restaurant has a cool atmosphere with vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices, making it a must-visit spot for flavorful meals.“

“Broken English Taco Pub serves delicious food and great drinks in a cozy atmosphere. Attentive staff provide excellent service, despite occasional delays. The menu offers exceptional value, with standout dishes like enormous, mouth-watering nachos. With friendly servers and top-notch recommendations, this Chicago gem is a must-visit spot for taco lovers.“

“Birrieria Zaragoza serves delicious and high-quality Mexican dishes, including their signature quesabirria and grilled quesabirria tacos. The birria, made with braised goat meat, is a highlight, and the tacos are especially tasty. While the consomme could be improved, the restaurant's dishes are well-packaged and arrive quickly. Prices are a bit high, but the quality justifies the cost. For the best experience, it's recommended to dine in, as the food doesn't travel well. Overall, Birrieria Zaragoza offers an incredible birria experience that is not to be missed.“

“El Tragon Taqueria is a Mexican restaurant located near Old Town Chicago, known for its delicious food and friendly staff. They offer a variety of dishes, with particularly delicious pastor tacos. The interior is charming, and they are kid-friendly. There is easy parking outside, making it a convenient option. It is a must-visit for Mexican food lovers in the area.“

“Manchamanteles is an excellent spot for groups of friends and co-workers to gather, offering outstanding food and good conversation. The flavors are powerful, with everything homemade and fresh. Highlights include Mexican hot chocolate with a little concha, red mole (pollo con mole teloloapense), and the best pineapple upside-down cake in Chicago. The enchiladas suizas and lamb chops in mole are particularly noteworthy. Soft, stretchy tortillas add to the authentic experience. Margaritas are excellent, and an extensive gluten-free menu caters to dietary needs. However, the parking lot is small, though metered street parking is available nearby.“

“Kie-Gol-Lanee is a delightful restaurant in Uptown Chicago that offers delicious Oaxacan dishes. With excellent service and outstanding food, it's no wonder they have a Michelin rating. The menu has tempting choices like Codorniz a la Parilla, Gallinitas al Horno, and Enchiladas De Pollo. Guests can enjoy complimentary frijoles and must-try dishes such as Crema de Elote and Tamales Oaxaqueños de Hongos. The Tlayudas de Chorizo could use more chorizo and cheese, but the Horchata is the best in Chicago. The restaurant is conveniently located near the Red Line Argyle station, with easy street parking on Sheridan. Overall, Kie-Gol-Lanee is a must-visit spot for flavorful Oaxacan cuisine and top-notch service.“

“Chicago's Tacos Market offers delicious tacos, burritos, tortas, and bowls in a convenient location with ample parking. The service is great, and the family-owned business is praised for its excellent food. Visitors from Chicago and beyond can enjoy the best Mexican cuisine in the area.“

“De Luna Taco Grill in Pilsen is known for its best tacos in the area. Customers love the enormous quesadillas and flavorful salsa. The must-try is the taco volcan with carne asada. They also offer refreshing aguas. With excellent service and high-quality carne asada, this spot is a favorite, especially for the steak taco and taco guerro lovers.“

“Bocaditos Chicago offers a cool atmosphere with delicious food. The chips and guac appetizer is a hit, featuring crispy chips and flavorful guac. Noteworthy dishes include the Salmon Azteca, carne tacos with a flavorful sauce, chicken enchilada with verde, and chicken tacos with spicy salsa. There are daily deals like $4 tacos and $11 tequila cocktails on Tuesdays. Some found the service lacking but still appreciated the overall dining experience. Happy hour runs from 3-6 PM, adding to the appeal.“

“Antique Taco Wicker Park serves large, filling tacos with a hipster twist. Expect thick, flour-like tortillas and unique flavor combinations, such as arugula on their steak taco. While not traditional Mexican cuisine, the tacos are surprisingly delicious. Prices are on the higher side, with four tacos costing around $26, but the generous portions make it a satisfying meal. With its Americanized atmosphere, Antique Taco Wicker Park is a great spot for those looking for a modern take on traditional tacos.“

“Don Churro is a restaurant known for its authentic and delicious churros. They offer a variety of flavors, with chocolate and strawberry being popular choices. The churros are fresh, sweet, and reasonably priced at $1.50 each. While seating is not available, it's worth visiting, especially for those looking for vegan options. The restaurant opens early at 6am, but it's recommended to check for the full range of flavors as the selection may vary throughout the day.“

“Tacombi offers a fun atmosphere with a brilliant ambiance that transports guests to Mexico City. The space features an exposed kitchen setup and a unique ordering system. Food is excellent, with standout items like Sinaloa Shrimp and beef birria tacos. Fresh juice, guac and chips, and vegetarian options are also available. The hospitality and service are amazing, making it a great spot for an afternoon bite or an evening out. The fresh margaritas are highly recommended. Pricing is reasonable for a West Loop restaurant. Tacombi is hands down one of the best in the area!“

“Chile Toreado is a restaurant known for its delicious food and exceptional service. Their shrimp tacos with egg and green chilaquiles with cecina are highly recommended. The restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere, with the owner and staff making sure every diner has a quality experience. The cafe de olla is a must-try drink.“

“El Nuevo Mexicano is a favorite among Mexican food lovers. The restaurant serves delicious nachos, arranged in a nice circle with every chip coated perfectly. The enchiladas are a must-try, with amazing flavors that will leave you wondering where they've been all your life. Vegetarian options like vegan fajitas with seitan and vegetarian enchiladas are also available. While some dishes may not impress, the Camarones en Chile Ancho Con Piñones is a highlight, with shrimps simmered in a rich and zesty sauce. The cozy atmosphere and efficient service make it a great spot to grab a meal before catching a movie.“

“Chicago Taco Authority is a beautiful restaurant with a unique Chicago vibe. The menu offers delicious asada, pastor, tinga chicken tacos, and a huge steak burrito. The horchata is a must-try, not watery at all. The red salsa adds a spicy kick to your meal. The owner keeps the menu fresh, ensuring consistent, authentic taste since 2016. The friendly service, especially from Fernanda, adds to the welcoming atmosphere. While a bit pricier, the quality of the food justifies the cost. The in-house-made horchata and Jamaica drinks are top-notch, making it a great dining experience for the whole family.“

“Barca Restaurant is a hidden gem in Chicago, offering a delightful dining experience. This cozy and nicely decorated restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including the popular Orden de Quesobirria, Carne en su Jugo, and Menudo. The food is flavorful and delicious, with the birria being a standout. The staff is friendly and helpful, with some reviewers giving special mentions to the owners and service. With fair prices and a welcoming atmosphere, Barca Restaurant is a must-visit spot.“

“Early Morning Delight serves fresh, consistent, and delicious food in a clean and cozy atmosphere. The staff provides kind, friendly, and knowledgeable service. Must-try dishes include the huevos rancheros, Burrito Delight, and veggie omelet, paired with a perfect mocha latte. This breakfast spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.“

“XOCO is a restaurant with a mixed start, as the female greeter/hostess can come across as unfriendly and rude. However, the service is generally great once you pass through the initial hurdle. The portion sizes during happy hour are small, but the Churros and Habanero pepper sauce are absolutely amazing. The Mezcal is also a highlight, and it's recommended to order a margarita and enjoy it before ordering a second round.“

“Costera Cocina Tulum offers a mix of experiences. While some feel the service could be improved, others praise the beautiful interior, great vibes, and excellent food. A knowledgeable and attentive server can make your visit a 10/10 experience, perfect for a night out with friends or a fun date. Despite some hiccups like forgotten appetizers and cold food due to staggered serving, the delicious food makes it a must-visit spot in Chicago.“

“Jarabe - Taqueria is a restaurant that offers delicious food with a great atmosphere. The service is wonderful, and the ambiance is enhanced by unique elements such as vintage decor and a working pay phone. The location is convenient and accessible, with paid parking available across the street. The menu features various options, including the Adobo Chicken and Austin queso dip. While the queso dip received mixed reviews for its flavor and consistency, the chips were praised for being perfectly fried and crispy. The torta, filled with flavorful steak and toasted cheese, was a recommended dish. However, some might find the pickled jalapeños too overpowering. Jarabe - Taqueria's in-house sauces are a highlight, as well as the option to ask for modifications such as requesting pickled jalapeños on the side. The bathroom decor also adds to the overall charming experience of dining at this establishment. In summary, Jarabe - Taqueria is a charming restaurant with tasty food and attentive service, making it an ideal spot for various occasions.“

“La Luna is a restaurant that offers an exceptional dining experience. The attentive and friendly staff, including the outgoing waiter, ensure that customers' needs are met. The food is consistently praised, with the birria tacos and Luna potatoes being standout dishes. The drinks, particularly the mango margarita pitcher and tequila shot flights, are also highly regarded. While the pricing may be considered slightly high, especially for the birria tacos, the overall value and quality of the meal make it a worthwhile visit.“

“Mesa Urbana is an upscale Mexican restaurant with a lively atmosphere, complete with live music in the summer. The outdoor seating area is a great spot to enjoy their delicious dishes, including vegetarian options like Elotes and Butternut Squash Enchiladas. The restaurant is kid-friendly, accommodating to dietary restrictions, and offers exceptional service. Try their standout dishes like salmon Al carbon and ginger pomegranate margarita, but be prepared for a higher price point.“