Best of 13 restaurants in Belmont Cragin
Belmont Cragin, a vibrant neighborhood in Chicago, is known for its diverse dining scene. The area is home to a variety of restaurants, each offering unique culinary experiences. Whether you're in the mood for classic American fare, authentic Mexican cuisine, or exotic flavors from around the world, you'll find it all at the many restaurants in Belmont Cragin. This bustling neighborhood is a foodie's paradise, so come and explore the many dining options available in Belmont Cragin.
- 1. Los Andanes
- 2. Jerusalem Grill
- 3. Hong Huah
- 4. Jess Cafe
- 5. Central Gyros in Belmont Cragin
- 6. Kaze Sushi and Thai
- 7. La Trailita Mexican restaurant (Diversey Ave)
- 8. Guerrerense Restaurant
- 9. Congress Pizzeria
- 10. Mi Cuadra Restaurant in Belmont Cragin
- 11. Magos Tacos & Tamales 2
- 12. Avenida Peru
- 13. Tacos El Tio
1. Los Andanes
Family-owned restaurant with homemade dishes and recipes passed down through generations

The food at this establishment stands out for its unique and authentic flavors. While some reviewers found the dishes unfamiliar, many praised the food for being delicious and made with obvious care. The restaurant's offerings are a refreshing change from the typical fare found elsewhere.
The staff at this establishment are a highlight, with reviewers consistently commenting on their friendliness, niceness, and welcoming attitudes. In addition to the great service, reviewers also enjoyed the music and raved about the delicious torta. Overall, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, making for a enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
2. Jerusalem Grill
Family-owned, authentic Syrian recipes, caters to dietary preferences

I had a late dinner at a restaurant that offered delicious food. The sampler plate we shared included various meats, all of which were cooked to perfection. The chicken, in particular, was unexpectedly delightful, despite my usual pickiness when dining out. The falafels were also fresh and tasty. The service stood out with attentive and speedy staff, who went above and beyond to ensure we had a great dining experience.
The service I received was truly exceptional. I arrived shortly after the restaurant had closed, yet the tall man, named Jacob, willingly took my order and even helped me choose my meal. The old chef and young chef worked together to prepare my dish with care, making sure I enjoyed myself despite the late hour. The whole team's efforts created a memorable experience, leaving me eager to return.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
3. Hong Huah
Family-owned and operated restaurant, using traditional recipes and techniques for over 25 years

The service at this establishment is generally viewed as friendly and courteous, with staff who are prompt in attending to customers' needs. However, some guests have noted that the service can be slow, particularly for dine-in customers.
The soup offerings at this establishment are a highlight for many guests. The hot and sour soup, in particular, has received high praise. Additionally, the lunch specials are a popular and affordable option, often including soup, an egg roll, a fortune cookie, cookies, and tea.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
4. Jess Cafe
Local, healthy options with a cozy atmosphere

Jess Cafe is a popular neighborhood restaurant, known for its delicious Pan-Asian cuisine. The teriyaki beef and crab Rangoon are among the most recommended dishes on the menu. In addition to a wide variety of Asian dishes, Jess Cafe also offers fantastic smoothies.
The staff at Jess Cafe are friendly and provide quick service. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere and is a great spot for a casual meal. Whether you're in the mood for teriyaki beef, crab Rangoon, or one of their many other Asian dishes, Jess Cafe is sure to satisfy. And don't forget to try one of their smoothies for a refreshing treat.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
5. Central Gyros in Belmont Cragin
Family-owned and operated, using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes

The food at this establishment is consistently delicious, with a range of options including Greek plates, gyros, and souvlaki. The Tzatziki sauce is a standout, and guests often recommend trying the Avgolemonos soup.
The service at this establishment is highly rated, with customers praising it for its friendliness, speed, and overall greatness. The team goes above and beyond to ensure a pleasant dining experience for all guests.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
6. Kaze Sushi and Thai
Family-owned and operated, Fusion of Thai and Japanese cuisine

The restaurant, yet to be named, is an outstanding sushi and Thai dining location in the north side of Chicago. It outperforms popular choices such as Hot Wok Cool Sushi, offering a superior experience in food and service. The staff is commendable for their friendliness, elevating the overall atmosphere of the establishment.
The food and presentation at this restaurant are nothing short of phenomenal. This is the first time that all four members of the family agreed on the quality of the dining experience. The food surpasses any other place they have visited before. Such an exceptional experience warrants a definite return visit. The family is eager to revisit this remarkable restaurant soon. It's worth noting that the individual who provided this feedback typically prefers other places in the city, but this new discovery has certainly changed their mind.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
7. La Trailita Mexican restaurant (Diversey Ave)
Family-owned and operated, homemade tortillas

The taco spot in a small and cute trailer offers impressive flavors in all of its varieties. With a limit to around 8 people inside the trailer, it provides an intimate setting for customers. The service is commendable, and the staff is extremely friendly.
This 'hole in the wall' taco place is a hidden gem, serving delicious tacos with fresh and tasty salsa. The chips and salsa are a must-try. The spot's charm lies in its cozy and unassuming atmosphere, making it a worthwhile visit for any taco lover.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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8. Guerrerense Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant with a festive atmosphere

The delivery service is prompt, ensuring that customers receive their meals quickly. Reviewers have consistently raved about the quality of the food, particularly the green salsa which has been described as a standout. When it comes to Mexican cuisine, this establishment is highly regarded in the local area.
The meat used in the dishes is consistently tender and full of flavor, making even simple items like tacos a delicious choice. However, some reviewers have noted that larger plates could benefit from improvement. Despite this, the overall consensus is that the Mexican food served here is among the best in town.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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9. Congress Pizzeria
Family-owned pizzeria since 1981, using original recipes and homemade dough.

Customers have reported mixed experiences with the quality of service. While some customers have had positive interactions, praising the customer service for being great, others have had negative experiences, with some even claiming to have been ignored or hung up on. This inconsistency in the level of service provided has left some customers feeling unsatisfied.
The food quality has also been described as inconsistent. Some customers have reported receiving cold pizza with thin sauce, while others have had issues with incorrect orders or long wait times. This lack of consistency in the quality of the food has left some customers feeling unsatisfied and disappointed with their dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
10. Mi Cuadra Restaurant in Belmont Cragin

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. Magos Tacos & Tamales 2
Family-owned and operated, Authentic Mexican recipes, Handmade tortillas

I had a great experience with the food from Tacos & Tamales Magos (Diversey) in Chicago's Cragin neighborhood. I ordered a steak sope, a steak taco, and one de pastor, and all three dishes were impressive. They were packed with a generous amount of meat and fresh vegetables. I was pleased with the quality and taste that I decided to return for more.
During my second visit, I tried their caldo de res and a chix tostada. Once again, the food was delicious and satisfying. It's clear that this restaurant is dedicated to serving authentic Mexican cuisine. Their specialty, traditional Mexican tamales, and other dishes have gained popularity, and their breakfast options, particularly the Chilaquiles con Carne y Huevo, are highly recommended. I'm glad to have found a quality Mexican restaurant in my area.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
12. Avenida Peru
Authentic Peruvian cuisine, Cozy atmosphere, Family-owned and operated

Peruvian cuisine takes center stage at this establishment, thanks to the skilled chef. The Ceviche Mixto, Lomo Saltado, and Aji de Gallina are just a few of the must-try dishes. For a sweet treat, indulge in the delicious Alfajores. When it comes to drinks, the Chicha Morada and fresh juice options are highly recommended. The restaurant prides itself on offering tasty food at affordable prices, making it a popular choice among many visitors. The ambiance of the restaurant is described as cozy.
Avenida Peru, located in the Belmont Central neighborhood of Chicago, is a standout restaurant that provides a traditional Peruvian dining experience. The menu features an array of authentic Peruvian dishes, with the Ceviche Clasico and Arroz con Pollo being some of the most popular choices. The emphasis on authenticity and quality has helped establish Avenida Peru as a go-to destination for Peruvian cuisine in Chicago.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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13. Tacos El Tio
Authentic Mexican cuisine, Homemade tortillas

Tacos el Tio #2 recently opened, but our first experience left something to be desired. We ordered tacos, expecting a delicious start to our meal, but were left feeling disappointed. The al pastor tacos, which typically feature tender pork and sweet pineapple, were overcooked and dry, lacking any real flavor. Unfortunately, the steak tacos suffered from the same issues, resulting in a tough and unappetizing dining experience.
The protein in both the al pastor and steak tacos was overcooked, resulting in a hard, chewy texture. The steak, in particular, had noticeably decreased in quality, making it a less-than-ideal choice for our tacos. Due to this lackluster performance, we would not recommend Tacos el Tio #2 for those seeking a satisfying taco experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Late Night