Best Of 28 Tacos Restaurants In Chicago

3 min read 22-12-2024

Chicago's culinary scene is exploding, and nowhere is that more evident than in its vibrant taco landscape. From authentic Mexican street-style to innovative fusion creations, the city boasts a diverse range of taco joints catering to every palate. This list highlights 28 of the best, categorized for easier navigation, ensuring your next taco adventure is a resounding success.

Street-Style Sensations:

These spots deliver the authentic flavors and energy of Mexican street tacos. Expect fresh ingredients, bold spices, and a lively atmosphere.

Taqueria La Tapatia: A Chicago institution known for its generous portions and incredibly flavorful al pastor.
El Milagro: Family-owned and operated, this gem offers consistently delicious tacos at incredibly affordable prices.
Carnitas Uruapan: This spot specializes in carnitas, slow-cooked pork that melts in your mouth. Prepare for a flavorful explosion.
Big Star: While not strictly a taqueria, Big Star's tacos are legendary, boasting high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
Lonesome Rose: A popular West Loop spot, Lonesome Rose offers a slightly elevated take on classic street tacos, with a focus on quality ingredients.

Upscale & Inventive:

For those seeking a more refined taco experience, these restaurants offer elevated ingredients and unique flavor profiles.

Monteverde: This Michelin-starred restaurant features incredibly creative and delicious tacos as part of their larger menu.
Dos Urban Cantina: With multiple locations, Dos Urban Cantina offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu featuring both classic and innovative taco creations.
RPM Italian: While primarily an Italian restaurant, RPM Italian's tacos are a delicious surprise, showcasing unexpected flavor combinations.
Barrio: A trendy spot known for its delicious tacos and vibrant atmosphere, Barrio offers a more upscale experience.
Osteria Langhe: An unexpected entry, Osteria Langhe demonstrates that Italian restaurants can also produce exceptional tacos with a unique twist.

Hidden Gems & Neighborhood Favorites:

These often-overlooked spots deliver outstanding tacos at reasonable prices, showcasing the diversity of Chicago's culinary scene.

Tu Madre: A lively spot known for its excellent cocktails and tasty tacos.
Pequenos: A beloved neighborhood spot with a loyal following.
Cemitas Puebla: Focuses on cemitas (Mexican sandwiches), but their tacos are equally delicious.
La Tapatia II: A slightly different menu compared to its sister location but equally delicious.
Andale Taqueria: A reliable option for classic tacos done well.

Beyond the Traditional:

These restaurants push the boundaries of taco traditions, introducing innovative ingredients and flavor combinations.

The Purple Pig: Offers a creative menu with unique taco options.
Frontera Grill: Rick Bayless' iconic restaurant showcases a more sophisticated and innovative approach to Mexican cuisine, including outstanding tacos.
Topolobampo: Another Rick Bayless establishment, offering an even more elevated take on Mexican cuisine.
Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's popular restaurant features inventive and delicious tacos as part of their ever-changing menu.
Estereo: Known for its creative and inventive cocktail menu, Estereo also offers a unique selection of tacos.

Casual & Convenient:

Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, these spots deliver great tacos without the fuss.

Taco Joint: A no-frills spot with consistently delicious tacos.
La Casa Del Toro: A reliable option for classic tacos at affordable prices.
Chicago's Best Tacos: Lives up to its name, offering consistently high-quality tacos.
Taqueria Durango: A local favorite known for its generous portions and fresh ingredients.
Los Comales: Offers a vast menu with many taco choices.

Late-Night Cravings:

These places will satisfy your late-night taco cravings.

Dimo's Pizza & Tacos: A unique combination offering both pizza and tacos late into the night.
Rito's Tacos: A long-standing Chicago taqueria, open late to satisfy those midnight cravings.
Mr. Beef on Orleans: Not strictly a taco place, but their late-night beef tacos are a Chicago legend.

This list is not exhaustive, and many other excellent taco restaurants exist in Chicago. However, this compilation provides a solid starting point for your culinary exploration. Remember to check restaurant websites for current hours and menus. Enjoy your taco journey!