Best of 28 Tacos restaurants in Chicago
Tacos restaurants in Chicago are a foodie's paradise, serving up delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine. With a vast array of options, these restaurants cater to all tastes and preferences. From traditional street-style tacos to gourmet fusion dishes, tacos in Chicago offer a unique and satisfying dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, be sure to explore the diverse tacos scene in Chicago.
- 1. Velvet Taco
- 2. Broken English Taco Pub
- 3. Taqueria La Zacatecana
- 4. XOCO
- 5. Big Star
- 6. Taqueria El Asadero
- 7. 5 Rabanitos Restaurante & Taqueria
- 8. Mercadito
- 9. Flaco's Tacos
- 10. Garcia's Restaurant
- 11. Taqueria El Milagro
- 12. Paco's Tacos
- 13. Chicago Taco Authority
- 14. Taqueria Los Comales Pilsen
- 15. Gordon Ramsay Burger
- 16. Flaco's Tacos
- 17. Broken English Taco Pub
- 18. Carnitas Don Pedro
- 19. La Pasadita
- 20. Taco Maya
- 21. Big Wig Tacos & Burritos
- 22. Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco
- 23. Zombie Taco
- 24. Taco Lulú
- 25. Ever Restaurant
- 26. Taco Pros (River West)
- 27. La Lagartija Taqueria
- 28. Taco Maya
1. Velvet Taco
Upscale casual taco concept with a focus on innovative flavors and sustainable practices

Velvet Taco is a restaurant that provides a unique taco-eating experience with various filling options such as chicken, fish, beef, pork, and vegetarian. The food is praised for its delicious taste and funky street food vibe, offering unexpected flavor combinations that make for an exciting meal.
I have personally tasted some of the best tacos at Velvet Taco. The restaurant's unique approach to taco creation results in a delightful and unforgettable culinary experience. The unexpected flavor profiles and quality ingredients make it a standout establishment for taco lovers.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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2. Broken English Taco Pub
Broken English Taco Pub in Chicago's Loop with a fun atmosphere and delicious tacos

The brisket tacos offered at this establishment are truly delightful, with a burst of flavor that makes them a must-try. The establishment is being highly recommended solely based on the quality of this dish.
Moving on to the other remarkable offering at this place, the guacamole is simply amazing and adds a great touch to the tacos. To complement the excellent food, the service is fast and the staff is friendly, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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3. Taqueria La Zacatecana
Family-owned with recipes from Zacatecas, Mexico

This restaurant offers a variety of delicious and authentic Mexican dishes that are perfect for sharing with friends, such as steak tacos, stewed steaks, and asado. The horchata, a traditional Mexican drink, is also a must-try. The high ratings of this restaurant can be attributed to the friendly and attentive service provided by the staff.
The menu includes several types of tacos, including the Carne Asada Taco with grilled steak, onions, and cilantro; the Al Pastor Taco with marinated pork; the Pollo Taco with chicken; the Chile Relleno Taco with stuffed poblano pepper; the Tripa Taco with tripe; and the Lengua Taco with beef tongue. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, the Veggie Taco with beans, cheese, sour cream, and lettuce is a great choice. Prices range from $4.10 to $6.25.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
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4. XOCO
Friendly staff, communal-style seating, extensive salsa bar

The tacos at this location are delightful, offering a perfect combination of freshness and rich flavors. Every bite is a burst of seasoning, making for a truly satisfying meal. I was particularly impressed with the quality of the ingredients, which were clearly very fresh and enhanced the overall taste.
If you're a fan of tacos, I highly recommend giving this place a try. The flavors are sure to impress, and you can tell that a lot of care goes into each and every dish. From the well-seasoned meats to the fresh toppings, everything works together to create a truly enjoyable dining experience. Overall, I was extremely pleased with the tacos and would definitely order them again.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. Big Star
Live music on weekends, Offers vegetarian and vegan options

Big Star is a well-known spot for tacos and tequila, offering a great selection of both. Its outdoor seating area is particularly enjoyable during summer evenings, making it a popular choice for diners. As a must-visit for taco lovers, Big Star boasts delicious tacos that will not disappoint. Among the best options on the menu are the pork belly tacos, which are highly recommended.
Visitors to Big Star can look forward to tasty tacos and a great selection of tequila. The restaurant's outdoor seating is a highlight, especially during the summer. If you're a taco lover, Big Star should be on your list of places to visit. You can't go wrong with their pork belly tacos, which are a standout choice on the menu. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Big Star is sure to leave a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Mid-Range
6. Taqueria El Asadero
Family-owned and operated, specializing in Mexican grilled meats

The steak tacos at this restaurant are known for their tenderness and rich flavor. The portions served are plentiful, ensuring a satisfying meal for diners. The staff is friendly and provides quick, efficient service, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience.
This restaurant offers a variety of delicious Mexican dishes, with steak playing a starring role. In addition to the savory steak tacos, you can also enjoy carne asada burritos and stewed steaks, all cooked to perfection. Meat lovers will be delighted with the quality and taste of the steak-centric options on the menu.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
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7. 5 Rabanitos Restaurante & Taqueria
Family-owned with homemade recipes; offers lesser-known Mexican dishes

The restaurant is exceptional, offering a satisfying and delicious dining experience. The Cameron's pozole is a must-try dish, with its perfect spice level, juicy shrimps, avocado, greens, and crunch providing a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This dish was especially enjoyable on a cold, snowy day, providing warmth and comfort. The restaurant also offers affordable prices and attentive waitstaff who were helpful with orders.
During the dinner service, a variety of vegetarian options were available. The vegetarian caldo soup stood out with its slight kick, while the vegetable taco was also delicious. The guacamole is a highlight, known for its exceptional taste. To complement the meal, a signature margarita was ordered and appreciated. The overall positive experience has generated excitement for a future return to this establishment.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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8. Mercadito
Features a retractable roof and offers a vibrant outdoor dining experience

Tacos are a popular menu item, particularly during happy hour, at the establishment in question. However, several customers have expressed concerns about the pace of the service. The tacos have been praised for their flavor, which includes a satisfying kick. Yet, there is some debate over the authenticity of the tacos.
In summary, while tacos are a hit with patrons, the service speed has been criticized. The tacos themselves have a spicy taste that is appreciated by many, although their authenticity is questioned.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
9. Flaco's Tacos
Delicious homemade salsas and hand-pressed tortillas

Tacos have been widely praised for their delicious flavor, freshness, and value. Many reviewers have expressed their satisfaction with the taste and quality of the food. However, a few individuals have found the food to be lacking in seasoning and taste.
This Mexican food establishment offers a variety of vegan options such as vegan tamale, tacos, burrito, and occasionally vegan cookies and/or cream muffin. The vegan items have been well received by those following a plant-based diet, providing them with a range of choices that cater to their dietary needs.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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10. Garcia's Restaurant
Family-owned and operated, Friendly service, Colorful decor

The tacos offered at the establishment were a culinary delight, with the tacos al pastor standing out. The dish featured authentic flavors that were skillfully prepared, with the meat cooked to perfection. Each bite was a symphony of taste that left a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
11. Taqueria El Milagro
Family-owned with homemade tortillas

Burritos have been a subject of praise for their delicious and satisfying nature. However, some reviewers have noted a decrease in portion size, which may affect the overall value and satisfaction of the meal. Additionally, there have been instances where orders were not complete or had incorrect ingredients. This level of inconsistency in food preparation and order fulfillment can be frustrating for customers seeking a reliable dining experience.
In some cases, customers have reported missing drinks from their orders. This oversight in fulfilling the entire order can add to the customer's disappointment and dissatisfaction. The absence of a requested item can be perceived as a lack of attention to detail, which can negatively impact the overall perception of the establishment's customer service.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
12. Paco's Tacos
Hole-in-the-wall taco joint with a lively atmosphere and a devoted following

Paco's Tacos is a restaurant that offers a wide selection of taco varieties and a delicious horchata drink. The meat servings are generous, typically requiring just two tacos to satisfy a customer's hunger. The establishment is known for its fast and friendly service. Staff members are quick to respond to customer needs and ensure a pleasant dining experience.
The restaurant is kept clean and has a comfortable atmosphere. The staff's polite demeanor contributes to the positive atmosphere. In summary, Paco's Tacos offers delicious and generously portioned tacos, refreshing horchata, and attentive and courteous service in a clean and inviting environment.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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13. Chicago Taco Authority
Housemade corn tortillas, extensive salsa bar

The new taco restaurant has an appealing appearance and has been highly anticipated by the community. Its selection of quality meats and overall food quality will make it a valuable addition to the area. The CTA theme of the restaurant is a thoughtful design choice. It is recommended that visitors stop by to enjoy the delicious food and beverages offered. The author is excited to frequent this establishment and jokingly mentions the possibility of gaining weight.
The service at the taco restaurant is commendable, with staff who are friendly, kind, and dedicated to providing excellent customer service. Their hard work and attentiveness contribute to a positive dining experience for customers.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. Taqueria Los Comales Pilsen
Family-owned business since 1999, Extensive salsa bar

The shrimp tacos and pozole at the Pilsen location of this restaurant are delicious and highly recommended. The restaurant is a classic taqueria, providing great food in a family-friendly atmosphere. The barbacoa taco dinner is a must-try, with its mouthwatering shredded beef flavor.
This classic taqueria serves delicious food that arrives quickly and stays hot. The barbacoa taco dinner is a standout, with its tender and flavorful beef, while the beef burrito is another satisfying option. The restaurant is popular, but never feels overly crowded, and the service is efficient. The food is fresh and packed with flavor, making this a great spot for a meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
- Dinner
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15. Gordon Ramsay Burger
Collaboration with renowned chef Gordon Ramsay

Gordon Ramsay Burger, located at 2 E Ontario St in Chicago, offers a variety of dishes for its customers to enjoy. The menu includes tasty nachos and dips, cocktails, beer, and most notably, Gordon Ramsay's signature gourmet burgers. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations, these burgers have become a standout feature of the restaurant.
In addition to its delicious food offerings, Gordon Ramsay Burger also receives positive reviews for its atmosphere and service. The restaurant features a modern and inviting ambiance, with knowledgeable and attentive staff to ensure a great dining experience. Patrons can also view the open kitchen and watch as their meals are prepared with care. Overall, Gordon Ramsay Burger is a popular destination for anyone seeking a top-notch burger and enjoyable dining experience in Chicago.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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16. Flaco's Tacos
Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, popular late-night spot

The cowboy burrito and al pastor taco are two popular menu items at this establishment. The cowboy burrito is especially flavorful and satisfying, with its hearty contents of rice, beans, cheese, and your choice of meat. Similarly, the al pastor taco is a customer favorite, with its tender pork and delicious marinade. However, some customers have reported that other dishes can be served cold and become inedible.
When it comes to drinks, the margaritas are a standout. Many customers have raved about the taste and convenience of these popular cocktails. Whether you prefer them on the rocks or frozen, the margaritas are a perfect complement to any meal. Overall, while there may be some inconsistencies in food temperature, the flavorful dishes and top-notch margaritas make this a must-visit destination for any foodie.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Gluten-Free
17. Broken English Taco Pub
Cozy pub atmosphere with a large selection of craft beers

The atmosphere at this establishment is lively and enjoyable, providing guests with a great experience. The staff, including the friendly bartender Manny, contribute to this positive environment.
The drinks at this location are highly regarded for their delicious taste and wide variety. Although a few guests have mentioned that their drinks were on the weaker side, the overall feedback for the bar's drink selection is positive.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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18. Carnitas Don Pedro
Family-owned since 1977, handmade tortillas, authentic Mexican flavors

Trying perfectly cooked taquitos, carnitas, and ribs is a must for any food lover. The tacos are a standout, with the carnitas being a particularly delicious option. The fresh cilantro, onions, and lime that accompany the tacos only serve to enhance their authentic and delicious flavors.
Fresh ingredients and authentic flavors come together to make the tacos at this establishment a highlight. The carnitas tacos are a favorite, complete with fresh cilantro, onions, and lime. These tacos offer a delicious and authentic dining experience that is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
19. La Pasadita
Cash-only, no-frills atmosphere, legendary status among locals

The delivery person from the unspecified restaurant was friendly, prompt, and professional, going the extra mile to keep the customer informed about a delay in their order. This level of communication and service was appreciated by the customer.
In addition to the restaurant, there is a taco shack nearby with a limited menu of only four non-beverage items. The taco options include steak, barbacoa, chile relleno, and cheese. The customer has tried the steak and chile relleno tacos, with mixed reviews. The chile relleno was mediocre, but there was something about the steak that the customer finds appealing and has led them to return for more.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
20. Taco Maya
Family-owned with a focus on traditional Mexican recipes and fresh ingredients.

I recently visited a restaurant located on State Street for the first time after work. The atmosphere was inviting, making it an ideal spot for family dining or a quick get-together with friends. My spouse and I ordered the chicken burrito bowl, steak enchiladas with green mole, and a margarita flight. The food was delicious, and we look forward to returning.
My spouse and I have been visiting this establishment for some time, often taking advantage of Taco Tuesday and happy hour specials. On this particular occasion, we opted to try the chicken fajitas and churros for dessert. The service and authentic Mexican cuisine with fusion options available at this location consistently impress us.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
21. Big Wig Tacos & Burritos
Authentic Mexican street food experience

Steak tacos and steak burritos are popular menu items, with the steak tacos being a particularly favorite choice among customers. The steak used in the tacos is noteworthy for its juiciness and well-done char. The quality of the steak tacos has been highly praised, with some going as far as to claim they are the best they have ever had.
The steak used in both dishes is noteworthy for its juiciness and well-done char. The steak tacos, in particular, have received rave reviews from customers, with some calling them the best they have ever had. The steak burrito is also highly rated, although the steak tacos seem to be the standout dish.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
22. Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco
Homemade tortillas, Spit-roasted al pastor, Wide variety of salsas

The tacos at this location are truly exceptional, featuring fresh ingredients that elevate their flavor. The combination of these fresh ingredients and expert preparation results in tacos that are both delicious and satisfying. In addition to the tacos themselves, the staff at this establishment are both friendly and efficient, ensuring that customers have a positive dining experience.
The friendly and efficient staff at this establishment contribute to the overall enjoyment of the dining experience. They work hard to ensure that customers' needs are met in a timely and courteous manner. The combination of delicious tacos and excellent service make this a dining destination that is well worth visiting. Whether you are a fan of tacos or simply looking for a delicious meal, this establishment is sure to please.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
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23. Zombie Taco
Quirky zombie-themed decor and atmosphere, Full bar with creative cocktails

The Moxy is a hotel where guests have stayed and enjoyed breakfast. Two popular breakfast items are the avocado toast and bacon egg and cheese bagel. These dishes have received positive feedback for their great taste. Additionally, the prices for the meals are reported to be reasonable.
There are varying opinions among reviewers about the food at the Moxy. Some have criticized it for lacking flavor or being dry. However, others have praised it for being a delicious and convenient late-night option. Both sides agree that the food serves its purpose, whether it's as a tasty start to the day or a satisfying late-night bite.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Dinner
24. Taco Lulú
Family-owned, Freshly made tortillas, Homemade salsas

The restaurant's cuisine can be described as Americanized Mexican food, offering a build-your-own taco setup. Opinions on the chicken were mixed, with some guests finding it too salty, while others enjoyed it. The service received high praise, being described as friendly and attentive. The overall atmosphere of the restaurant was delightful, featuring indoor, bar, and outdoor seating areas.
The steak burrito received mixed reviews, with some guests finding it to be decent. However, the dish was missing some key components, as there was no rice included and the only bean option available was refried beans. One of the major drawbacks of the restaurant was the lack of variety in the side dishes, specifically the absence of black beans and rice in some of the main dishes.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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25. Ever Restaurant
Rotisserie for in-house slow-roasted meats, Unique and creative taco combinations

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Celebrations
- High-End
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26. Taco Pros (River West)
Features a ceviche bar and extensive tequila selection

I had a disappointing experience with a restaurant's delivery service, despite the food being delicious. I made sure to tip 20% to the order, and I requested that the delivery be made to the 21st floor of a building. However, when my order arrived, I was disappointed to find that the churros I had ordered, which were listed as plural on the menu, had been delivered as a single churro.
The food was still enjoyable, but the delivery and the incorrect order were frustrating. I had expected better service, given the premium price of the meal and the fact that I had tipped well. The inconsistency between the menu and the actual order made me question the restaurant's attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction. Overall, while I would still recommend the restaurant's food, I would caution against using their delivery service.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
27. La Lagartija Taqueria
Cozy atmosphere, popular late-night spot

Shrimp tacos at La Lagartija Taqueria are a must-try, featuring a delicious combination of crema and spicy chipotle salsa toppings. The restaurant has gained a stellar reputation for its taqueria fare, with al pastor tacos being another popular choice among patrons.
La Lagartija Taqueria excels in Mexican, Latin, and Spanish cuisine, offering a wide range of menu options. However, it's their tacos, particularly the Al Pastor, that have captured the hearts of many visitors. With such a high rating, this place is definitely worth checking out for anyone with a craving for authentic Mexican food.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
28. Taco Maya
Unique salsa bar, Catering service available, Vegetarian and gluten-free options

Taco Maya is a highly recommended fast casual restaurant that offers a delicious menu with standout items such as veggie enchiladas, grilled steak, and a margarita flight, particularly the pineapple flavor. The atmosphere is enjoyable, and the staff, notably Shilpa, are commendably kind and patient. Complimentary chips and salsa are also available, adding to the overall positive experience.
Taco Maya is a delightful spot for ordering at the counter with surprising delicious food offerings. During a walk around the area, my companion and I decided to give it a try and were rewarded with a wonderful meal. The staff were not only nice but also attentive, ensuring that our dining experience was excellent. I personally enjoyed the grilled steak tacos and elotes, which were both flavorful and satisfying. I plan to visit again if I'm in the vicinity.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner