Chicago doesn’t just serve up hot dogs and pizza. The city is a goldmine for Mexican food, hidden in neighborhoods bursting with energy and color. From sizzling al pastor cooked street-side to modern takes on classic tortas, Chicago weaves Mexican flavor into every alleyway and avenue. I still remember losing track of time hunched over a fresh plate of tamales in Pilsen—where the scent of masa seemed to follow me home. That’s the thing: here, a simple taco can steal the whole evening.
Finding the best Mexican restaurant in Chicago can feel like searching for a secret password. With so many options, sorting authentic from average takes dedication—and a bit of appetite. Lucky for you, this list goes beyond the expected and highlights spots with depth, character, and a sense of place. Hungry? Good. Let’s discover the flavors worth seeking out.
Where to find the best mexican restaurants in Chicago, IL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best mexican restaurants in Chicago, IL:
- Velvet Taco
- Xoco
- Frontera Grill
- Big Star
- Topolobampo
- Mercadito
- Broken English Taco Pub
- Adobo Grill
- Leña Brava
- Antique Taco
1. Velvet Taco
If you’re after bold flavor without fluff, Velvet Taco puts a fresh spin on the taco scene. Tucked away near the Gold Coast, this spot makes each visit feel a little like breaking the rules—in the best possible way. You’ll notice the vibe first: funky, artsy, and always buzzing with energy.
It’s not your average taqueria. Velvet Taco’s menu travels the globe while honoring Mexican roots. Their paneer taco mixes Indian and Mexican flavors, while the roasted corn elote taco never disappoints. It’s vegetarian-friendly too, offering real variety without sacrificing taste.
I still remember my first bite of their chicken tikka taco, the perfect blend of spice and crisp tortilla. When in doubt, try the fish and pickled avocado taco for something with punch. The range of sauces and toppings set Velvet Taco apart on the Chicago taco map.
2. Xoco
Just off the busy Clark Street, Xoco carves its own lane in Chicago’s Mexican dining. This spot, launched by Rick Bayless, feels as lively as a Saturday market—thick with the scent of fresh bread and spiced chocolate. The inviting space works for a quick lunch or a relaxed evening bite.
What makes Xoco shine is its commitment to fresh, bold flavors. Every torta is baked to order, and the caldos—especially the vegetable pozole—are packed with color and comfort. Watching my chorizo-and-egg torta come hot off the grill felt like a rite of passage for Chicago food lovers.
I recommend the torta ahogada for its smoky depth and the wood-fired caldos if you crave something restorative. Xoco’s menu rethinks classic Mexican street food, making every plate memorable without losing its roots.
3. Frontera Grill
If Chicago has a heart for regional Mexican cooking, Frontera Grill keeps it beating strong. Step inside and you’ll find a lively scene, music floating over tables where the aroma of fresh tortillas meets a swirl of spice from the kitchen. It’s a Rick Bayless classic—easygoing yet rooted in culinary respect.
What sets Frontera apart is its devotion to traditional recipes paired with a taste for invention. Their ever-changing menu sketches a map of Mexico, from Baja’s fresh ceviches to the dark, layered molés of Oaxaca. Sitting with a bowl of sopa azteca here, the pasilla chile broth feels warming even in the depths of Chicago’s winter.
Order the enchiladas a la plaza for a taste that’s both comforting and exciting, or try any seasonal special on offer. Everything at Frontera Grill feels genuine, vibrant, and made to savor.
4. Big Star
There’s something special about grabbing tacos under the string lights at Big Star in Wicker Park. This lively corner is often packed, mixing the hum of conversation with the sound of tortillas sizzling on the griddle. The place feels relaxed yet charged with excitement, perfect for a long summer evening.
Big Star’s secret is house-made tortillas and an unpretentious, flavor-first menu. Each bite recalls classic street food with a bit of urban swagger. I remember my first order of the rajas taco—smoky grilled peppers, fresh cheese, and cilantro. Somehow, simple turns into unforgettable here.
Try the classic taco de papas, bursting with potatoes and salsa, or the seasonal vegetarian specials. The balance of bold and comforting makes Big Star a Chicago staple.
5. Topolobampo
Topolobampo is where Mexican cuisine steps up and suits up. Elegant without feeling stuffy, this Michelin-starred spot dazzles with both creativity and tradition. Every visit feels like a celebration—a place where molé becomes art and masa carries a story.
The attention to regional authenticity sets Topolobampo apart. Each dish spins familiar flavors into something new. I once tried their memela divorciada: griddled corn masa, twin salsas, and a symphony of colors on the plate. Every course invites curiosity and delivers depth.
If you want to taste culinary ambition, order one of their seasonal tasting menus. The tamal colado, with roasted poblano cream, proves that Topolobampo honors its heritage while leading Chicago’s high-end dining scene.
6. Mercadito
River North’s pulse gets a little faster at Mercadito, where classic Mexican dishes get a fresh update. The atmosphere strikes a balance between neighborhood favorite and city hotspot, making it a go-to for after-work bites or lingering evenings with friends.
Here, flavor comes first. The assortment of tacos and guacamole stands out, always arriving colorful and full of texture. My first visit ended up as a group taste test—zesty ceviche, creamy guac, and tacos stuffed to perfection. Each dish felt made for sharing, with flavors that started deep and finished bright.
Try the carnitas tacos for a rich, slow-cooked taste, or the mushroom tacos for something earthy and satisfying. Mercadito marries tradition and innovation, making every order a reason to return.
7. Broken English Taco Pub
+1 312-929-3601
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Broken English Taco Pub shakes up the taco scene with bold colors, street art, and high-energy playlists. Each visit feels like stepping into a friendly block party—no matter which location you pick. The space thrives on creativity, from the murals on the walls to unexpected flavor pairings on each plate.
What’s special here is the unpredictable menu—classic Mexican street tacos alongside new-school twists. My first encounter with their grilled cactus taco blended charred earthiness and a cool salsa that lingered just right. It’s the place for mixing and matching flavors until you find your own perfect combination.
Order the roasted portobello taco or pile up a plate of house guacamole and salsas. Broken English turns any meal into a celebration of Chicago’s dynamic, mashup food culture.
8. Adobo Grill
Adobo Grill in Old Town is a spot where traditional Mexican flavors take the spotlight. The dining room buzzes with warmth, and each table seems to have its own bowl of hand-mashed guacamole, made fresh right in front of you. The ambiance encourages you to slow down and enjoy every bite.
The menu leans into both authenticity and comfort—think sizzling skillets, layered salsas, and baskets of warm tortillas. My most memorable visit featured their signature enchiladas verdes: tortillas rolled around tender fillings and topped with a tomatillo sauce bright enough to wake up your taste buds.
Try their huitlacoche quesadillas for something earthy and distinct, or go for their roasted vegetable tacos. Adobo Grill blends tradition with a sense of occasion on every plate.
9. Leña Brava
At Leña Brava, the kitchen’s secret is a roaring hardwood fire that brings out flavors you can’t fake. The West Loop spot glows with warmth even before you taste the food, and the hypnotic energy of an open flame pulls you right in. It’s the kind of place where smoke and spice hang in the air, stoking your appetite with every sizzle.
Leña Brava stands apart through its focus on Baja-inspired, wood-fired cookery. I still think about a perfectly charred cauliflower served with bright salsa and a smoky finish. Every plate here speaks to Mexico’s coastal traditions, delivered with flair.
If you go, order the wood-roasted sweet potato or grilled vegetable tacos for a taste of Leña’s unique style. Their dishes are layered, bold, and always kissed by fire, making every meal an event.
10. Antique Taco
Antique Taco brings a touch of nostalgia to Wicker Park’s dining scene. With reclaimed wood tables and vintage décor, the space feels as thoughtfully crafted as the food. There’s a cozy, neighborhood vibe that makes you want to settle in and sample everything.
Here, Mexican flavors meet a chef’s sense of creativity. My favorite memory is discovering their sweet and spicy cauliflower taco—crisp, vibrant, and totally unforgettable. Every taco bursts with fresh herbs and unexpected twists.
The garlic shrimp taco is another must, with its bold flavors balanced by citrus slaw. If you’re after something unique, go for the seasonal specials. Antique Taco sets itself apart with locally sourced ingredients and inventive combos that always hit the mark.
More Things to Try in Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Mexican restaurants for vegetarians or vegans in Chicago?
Many top Mexican spots in Chicago offer strong vegetarian and vegan menus. Places like Velvet Taco, Xoco, Antique Taco, and Leña Brava serve plant-based tacos, vegetable-forward dishes, and plenty of gluten-free options.
What should I try at a Mexican restaurant in Chicago for an authentic experience?
Start with fresh guacamole and salsa, then dive into tacos (especially with roasted vegetables or seafood), handmade tamales, and slow-simmered pozole. Many restaurants also offer unique takes on regional Mexican classics.
Is it easy to find a Mexican restaurant with gluten-free dishes?
Yes. Many Chicago Mexican restaurants feature gluten-free options, often thanks to naturally gluten-free corn tortillas and masa-based dishes. Always check with the restaurant to confirm.
Which neighborhoods have the best selection of Mexican restaurants?
River North, West Loop, Wicker Park, Pilsen, and Old Town all have standout Mexican restaurants, each with their own favorites and styles.
Are reservations needed for popular Mexican restaurants in Chicago?
For busy spots like Topolobampo, Frontera Grill, or Leña Brava, booking ahead is recommended, especially on weekends or for groups.