Food & Drink

“Taco ’bout Delicious: 16 Must-Try Taco Joints in Chicago”

Are you craving some delicious tacos in the Windy City? Look no further, as we have scoured Chicago to find the best taco places that will satisfy your taste buds.

From traditional Mexican tacos to fusion creations, these taco spots offer a variety of options that will leave you wanting more.

Chicago is home to a diverse culinary scene, and its taco offerings are no exception. Whether you prefer your tacos with meat, seafood, or vegetables, there is something for everyone.

From street vendors to sit-down restaurants, these taco places offer a wide range of experiences.

But what makes a great taco? For us, it's all about the quality and freshness of the ingredients, the perfect balance of flavors, and the authenticity of the dish.

We believe that a great taco should transport you to the streets of Mexico City or the beaches of Baja California with every bite.

So, get ready to discover the best taco places in Chicago. Whether you're a local or a visitor, you won't want to miss out on these delicious spots.

Get ready to indulge in some mouth-watering tacos that will leave you craving for more.

1. Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant

Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant
1725 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608 (Google Maps)

Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant is a must-try taco place for anyone who loves authentic Mexican food. Their slow-cooked pork dish, known as carnitas, is a mainstay and is definitely worth trying.

The portions are huge and can easily feed two people. The homemade chipotle salsa is a perfect complement to the flavorful meat.

The staff is friendly and welcoming, making for a great dining experience. Although there may be a wait during peak hours, it's definitely worth it.

If you're in the mood for some delicious Mexican street food, Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant is the place to be.

2. Broken English Taco Pub

Broken English Taco Pub
1400 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610 (Google Maps)

Broken English Taco Pub is a hip and trendy spot that serves up delicious Mexican fare and mezcal cocktails.

The menu is simple but satisfying, with a variety of tacos and nachos to choose from.

The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with plenty of artwork and decorations to admire. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.

Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a night out with friends, Broken English Taco Pub is definitely worth a visit.

3. Taqueria El Milagro

Taqueria El Milagro
1923 S Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60608 (Google Maps)

Taqueria El Milagro is a Mexican restaurant that serves delicious and authentic food with a good variety of vegetarian options. The place is always busy for lunch and has limited dining space.

The food is fantastic and very cheap, making it a great option for those on a budget. They offer burritos, tacos, quesadillas, tamales, and more in a cafeteria-style for dine-in or to-go.

The Pork Green Chile Plate with fresh tortillas and warm champurrado is a must-try. The restaurant also offers sweet and savory tamales for sale by the dozen. The service is fast, and the decor is beautifully done.

The tables are arranged like crystal cubicles, which provide privacy for diners. If you're in the area, Taqueria El Milagro is a must-visit for delicious and authentic Mexican food.

4. 5 Rabanitos Restaurante & Taqueria

5 Rabanitos Restaurante & Taqueria
1758 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608 (Google Maps)

5 Rabanitos Restaurante & Taqueria is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant boasts a vibrant and colorful atmosphere, adding to the overall dining experience.

The menu features a variety of meat and vegetarian options, all cooked to perfection with fresh ingredients.

The black beans and rice are a must-try, and the guacamole is simply delicious. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.

If you're looking for a place to enjoy some amazing tacos and other Mexican dishes, 5 Rabanitos Restaurante & Taqueria is the place to be.

5. Taqueria El Jardin

Taqueria El Jardin
1303 W Huron St #1, Chicago, IL 60642 (Google Maps)

Taqueria El Jardin is a hidden gem of a Mexican restaurant that serves up some of the best tacos and burritos in the city.

The food is always consistent, with generous portions and a great selection of toppings. The barbacoa and pastor tacos are particularly amazing, with meat that is marinaded with lots of love.

The prices are also very affordable, making this a great spot for a quick and delicious meal. The owner is very kind and pleasant, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming.

For anyone looking for some authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine, Taqueria El Jardin is definitely worth a visit.

6. Taqueria El Asadero

Taqueria El Asadero
2213 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618 (Google Maps)

Taqueria El Asadero is a cash-only taco joint that offers delicious and authentic Mexican food.

The menu includes tacos, burritos, and homemade chips with salsa that draw crowds to this no-frills spot. The steak tacos are a must-try, with generous portions of meat and flavorful toppings.

The staff is friendly and the service is fast. Although the ambiance is not the highlight of the place, the food is worth the visit.

For those looking for a local gem that won't break the bank, Taqueria El Asadero is the perfect spot.

7. Chicago Taco Authority

Chicago Taco Authority
4219 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641 (Google Maps)

Chicago Taco Authority is a transportation-themed Mexican joint that serves classic and creative tacos. They offer a wide range of tacos, including chicken, steak, fish, shrimp, and brisket.

The salsa bar is a cool touch and adds to the atmosphere. The restaurant is clean and well-organized, with a small seating area.

The service is friendly and accommodating. The food is made with fresh ingredients and is delicious. The prices are reasonable, with tacos ranging from $2.50 to $3.50 each.

The restaurant also offers sides and desserts, as well as Mexican sodas, horchata, and aqua frisca's.

8. Mary's Taqueria

Mary's Taqueria
1901 S Canalport Ave, Chicago, IL 60616 (Google Maps)

Mary's Taqueria is a hidden gem that serves up some of the best Mexican food in town.

The menu boasts a wide range of authentic dishes that are fresh, flavorful, and affordable. The tacos, burritos, and fajitas are all standouts, but the al pastor is a must-try.

The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make for a pleasant dining experience. Don't be fooled by the small size of the place, the food is big on taste and quality.

Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a full meal, Mary's Taqueria has got you covered.

9. Rosaisela Tacos Y Mas

Rosaisela Tacos Y Mas
2551 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (Google Maps)

Rosaisela Tacos Y Mas is a hidden gem that serves authentic and delicious Mexican food. The small, cozy restaurant is family-owned and operated, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

The food is always made fresh to order, and the portions are large and reasonably priced. The menu has a variety of options, including tacos, burritos, sandwiches, and more.

The steak burrito is a must-try, and the chilaquiles verde is also highly recommended. The restaurant has a cute patio area and follows all health guidelines during the pandemic.

If you're in the area or looking for a quick and delicious meal, Rosaisela Tacos Y Mas is definitely worth a visit.

10. Taqueria 5 De Mayo

Taqueria 5 De Mayo
2415 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618 (Google Maps)

Taqueria 5 De Mayo is a hidden gem for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine.

The small, family-owned restaurant serves up deliciously seasoned meat and vegetable selections at affordable prices. The portions are generous, making it perfect for a quick bite or a family meal.

The staff is friendly and the service is great, although it can be a bit slow during peak hours. Keep in mind that this establishment is cash-only, but there is an ATM on site.

Don't miss out on the tilapia tacos or the steak burritos, both of which are customer favorites. Taqueria 5 De Mayo is definitely worth a visit for anyone in the area looking for a taste of Mexico.

11. Chilango Mexican Street Food/ Litos Empanadas

Chilango Mexican Street Food/ Litos Empanadas
1437 W Taylor St ste 1, Chicago, IL 60607 (Google Maps)

Chilango Mexican Street Food/ Litos Empanadas is a must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic Mexican food.

Their fresh ingredients and unique sauces make for a delicious meal. Vegetarians will love their veggie tacos and bowls, and the fish tacos are a standout dish.

The empanadas are a must-try, with flavors like BBQ chicken and apple cinnamon.

The staff is friendly and the service is fast, making it a great spot for a quick bite. Don't miss out on this gem of a Mexican restaurant.

12. Rubi's Tacos

Rubi's Tacos
1316 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608 (Google Maps)

Looking for the best handmade tortillas in town and authentic Mexican food that will leave you craving for more, then Rubi's Tacos is the place to be.

This family-run business offers high-quality ingredients and amazing service that will make you feel right at home.

Don't forget to try their red and green salsas made in-house daily for a flavorful experience.

With big portions, fresh food, and a cool location, Rubi's Tacos is a must-try for all taco fans.

13. Taco Pros

Taco Pros
1959 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 (Google Maps)

Taco Pros is a casual Mexican eatery that offers a wide variety of delicious tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

The food is fresh, flavorful, and made with quality ingredients. The staff is friendly and provides prompt service.

The restaurant has a fast-food aesthetic but the food tastes like it was made just a few minutes ago.

Taco Pros offers excellent value for the price and the portions are generous. If you are looking for a great Mexican meal, Taco Pros is definitely worth a visit.

14. Taco Maya

Taco Maya
22 W Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60654 (Google Maps)

Taco Maya is a modern eatery that serves up classic Mexican cuisine. The staff is friendly and the indoor space is immaculate.

The food is fresh and the meat quality is excellent. The menu features a variety of options including vegetarian and paneer tacos.

The elote is a must-try and the pineapple margarita is incredible. Prices are reasonable and the salsa bar is a nice touch.

Taco Maya is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a delicious Mexican meal.

15. Taqueria Express

Taqueria Express
1232 N La Salle Dr STE. 1, Chicago, IL 60610 (Google Maps)

Taqueria Express is a must-visit for those craving authentic Mexican food.

The staff is friendly and the food is fresh and delicious. The al pastor tacos and elote are highly recommended.

The prices are reasonable and the value is great. The restaurant is clean and the service is fast.

This hidden gem is a great spot for a quick bite or a family meal. Don't miss out on this humble locale for Mexican classics.

16. Taqueria El Primo

Taqueria El Primo
4317 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60641 (Google Maps)

Taqueria El Primo is a must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine.

The menu offers a wide variety of options, from delicious tacos to mouth-watering tortas. The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience a pleasant one.

Prices are affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget. The food is fresh and flavorful, and the portions are generous.

Whether you're in the mood for meat or vegetarian options, Taqueria El Primo has got you covered. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in some of the best Mexican food in town.