Chicago's massive Mexican population means incredible authenticity. Pilsen is the heart of Mexican Chicago, but excellent taquerias and restaurants dot neighborhoods across the city.
Pilsen & Little Village
Mi Tocaya Antojeria
$$$ • Logan Square
Diana Dávila's creative Mexican. Outstanding and inventive.
Birrieria Zaragoza
$ • Archer Heights
Goat birria specialists. James Beard recognized.
Carnitas Uruapan
$ • Pilsen
Carnitas by the pound. Cash only, always busy.
Modern Mexican
Frontera Grill
$$$ • River North
Rick Bayless's original. Chicago Mexican institution.
Topolobampo
$$$$ • River North
Bayless's fine dining. Mexican tasting menus.
Leña Brava
$$$ • West Loop
Bayless's Baja-inspired wood-fired Mexican.
Neighborhood Taquerias
La Chaparrita
$ • Pilsen
No-frills taqueria with excellent al pastor.
L'Patron
$ • Logan Square
Tiny spot with outstanding tacos and tortas.
Taqueria Los Gallos
$ • Little Village
Authentic street tacos. Cash only.
Pro Tip: Pilsen's 18th Street is lined with taquerias, bakeries, and murals. Spend an afternoon exploring—it's one of America's best Mexican neighborhoods.