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The 15 Best Al Pastor in Chicago

For those craving the delicious flavors of al pastor in Chicago, look no further. Whether you're a local or just passing through, there are plenty of options to choose from in the Windy City. From traditional Mexican taquerias to trendy modern eateries, Chicago has something for everyone seeking this savory dish.

With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to find the best al pastor in the city. That's where this list comes in handy. Below, you'll find a curated selection of the top spots in Chicago serving up mouthwatering al pastor that will satisfy all your cravings.

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through Chicago's best al pastor spots. Whether you're a connoisseur of Mexican cuisine or just looking to try something new, these restaurants are sure to impress with their unforgettable flavors.

How this ranking works

The order here is based on merit: a business that focuses on this work and has a solid reputation ranks above one that only offers it on the side.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3Full rankingMapTips for choosing

Our 15 local picks compared

El Tragon Taqueria, Chicago#1
What sets it apart
  • If you're wanting a tasty quick Taco this is the place. Overall, would come back and do recommend.

  • great atmosphere! The service was incredibly fast and the food was quick off the grill and very fresh. Everything we ate was delicious. I’ll be back to try the tortas for sure!

  • Went for lunch and had a great experience. Got a variety of tacos to try with the birria, bistec, and pastor. Big fan and will definitely be back.

  • Fast service and the food was delicious. The agua de Jamaica and salsas were also very good. Highly recommended.

El Tragon Taqueria

4.7354 reviews
Gas Station Plaza, 1234 N Halsted St UNIT C Mobil, Chicago, IL 60642, United States

El Tragon Taqueria is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Gas Station Plaza, Chicago. This vibrant establishment offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, and delivery, making it convenient for customers. Known for its delicious comfort food and quick bites, El Tragon Taqueria is a favorite spot for solo dining and family-friendly meals.

Customers rave about the flavorful dishes and friendly service at El Tragon Taqueria:

These reviews reflect the strong reputation that El Tragon Taqueria has built with its top-notch cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. If you're looking for authentic Mexican flavors in Chicago, be sure to visit El Tragon Taqueria.

Chicago Taco Authority#2
What sets it apart
  • We used Chicago Taco Authority to cater our Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Chicago Transit Authority O’Hare location. The owner and his staff were friendly, on time and provided excellent service. The food was amazing. The steak tacos were tender and seasoned to perfection. The fish taco are so delicious and better than any other I have ever tasted. Our vegetarian friends raved over the salad. This restaurant is hands down a 10 out of 10. We at CTA highly recommend you eat here.

  • Tacos? Perfect. Rice? Perfect. Beans? Perfect. The staff is so incredibly friendly, the environment is super cool and great photo spot, and there is amazing graffiti artwork on the side of the building that also makes a great picture opportunity. I highly recommend the Surf n’ Turf taco. I hope to be coming back again very soon. If you need somewhere that is quick and delicious do not hesitate to stop here.

  • A very unique fun atmosphere! Wonderful employees and delicious food! Highly recommend! They also have cool talented art for pictures!

Chicago Taco Authority

4.5868 reviews
4219 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641, United States

Chicago Taco Authority is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, Illinois. They offer a variety of service options like kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Known for their delicious comfort food and quick bites, this restaurant has received an impressive rating of 4.5 stars from 868 reviews.

Big Star, Chicago#3
What sets it apart
  • Fast kitchen and bar service

  • Varied menu options with good drink specials

  • Accommodating and friendly staff

Big Star

4.44,040 reviews
1531 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Big Star is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features to enhance your dining experience. From outdoor seating to no-contact delivery, Big Star ensures customer satisfaction through its diverse service options. The establishment is popular for its fast service and great cocktails, making it an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, or solo dining. With a focus on comfort food and vegetarian options, the menu at Big Star caters to a wide range of preferences. Customers have praised the restaurant for its quick service, friendly staff, and delicious offerings.

Broken English Taco Pub, Chicago#4
What sets it apart
  • Attentive service from welcoming staff

  • Ambiance reminiscent of Mexico

  • Delicious and authentic Mexican flavors

  • Unique and powerful flavors

Broken English Taco Pub

4.43,651 reviews
75 E Lake St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Broken English Taco Pub is a vibrant and cozy Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. With a solid rating of 4.4, it's no surprise that this establishment has 3651 reviews from satisfied customers. The business offers a variety of service options like outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, ensuring flexibility for all preferences.

Known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, Broken English Taco Pub promises an experience worth remembering. The highlights include a sporty atmosphere, welcoming families, groups, and LGBTQ+ individuals. The restaurant caters to a wide audience, including university students and tourists.

Customers have praised Broken English Taco Pub for its exceptional service and delicious food. Some key points from the reviews are:

Don't miss out on the opportunity to enjoy fantastic alcoholic beverages, comfort food, quick bites, and more! Whether you're in for a quick meal or a leisurely dining experience, Broken English Taco Pub has something for everyone. So, head over to this gem in Chicago for a memorable culinary adventure.

Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco, Chicago#5
What sets it apart
  • Great parking options for events or games near the restaurant.

  • Yummy food and friendly service that speak for themselves.

  • Huge portions that are perfect for sharing with friends or family.

  • Best spot for a quick bite with fair prices in Chicago.

Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco

4.4724 reviews
1676 W Ogden Ave, Chicago, IL 60612, United States

Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco is a beloved Mexican restaurant located in Chicago that offers a wide range of services and features to cater to every customer's needs. The restaurant provides options like outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and traditional dine-in and takeaway services. The establishment is known for its fast service and is popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customer reviews rave about the delicious and plentiful food at Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco. Here are some key points summarizing their experiences:

Diners love the authentic Mexican cuisine, especially the flavorful salsas and sizable portions. The atmosphere is described as casual and cosy, making it an ideal spot for families, groups, and individuals alike. Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco is a must-visit destination for anyone craving delicious Mexican fare in a warm and welcoming setting.

Taqueria Traspasada 2, Chicago#6
What sets it apart
  • This place is a hidden gem with delicious tacos and friendly staff.

  • Authentic Mexican flavors shine through in every dish, offering a delightful meal experience.

  • Great prices, tasty al pastor tacos, and a large portion of pozole make this restaurant a must-visit.

  • Visitors love the fresh ingredients, exceptional service, and recommend trying the burrito dinner.

Taqueria Traspasada 2

4.4607 reviews
811 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

Taqueria Traspasada 2 is a beloved Mexican restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features. Customers can enjoy takeaway or dine-in options, making it convenient for any occasion. Known for being popular for lunch and dinner, this restaurant is also great for solo dining. The menu includes comfort food, late-night food, quick bites, and small plates, catering to a range of preferences.

The atmosphere at Taqueria Traspasada 2 is described as casual, attracting a crowd that includes university students. Customers appreciate the cash only payment option and the kids' menu for families. Despite not having toilets on-site, the focus on authentic Mexican flavors and friendly service keeps patrons coming back for more.

Customer reviews rave about the food and service at Taqueria Traspasada 2. Some key points from the reviews are:

Taqueria Los Comales Pilsen, Chicago#7
What sets it apart
  • Customers love the shrimp tacos and pozole - both flavorful and fulfilling.

  • The staff is commended for being friendly and welcoming, enhancing the overall dining experience.

  • The prices are considered affordable for the quality and quantity of food offered.

Taqueria Los Comales Pilsen

4.33,273 reviews
1544 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States

Taqueria Los Comales Pilsen is a beloved Mexican restaurant in Chicago. They offer a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers praise the authentic Mexican street food served here at reasonable prices. The comforting atmosphere of the restaurant makes it a popular choice for solo dining and groups, including tourists and university students.

L' Patron, Chicago#8
What sets it apart
  • The tacos were fresh, made to order, and delicious.

  • The steak, shrimp, fish, and grilled chicken tacos were all delicious, with tasty sauces.

  • Although the food was good, the service was slow, leading to long wait times for orders.

  • Some customers found the prices high and felt that the quality did not match the cost.

L' Patron

4.31,796 reviews
3749 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

L' Patron is a vibrant Mexican restaurant in Chicago known for its delicious food and fast service. The restaurant offers a variety of options such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers have praised the fresh and made-to-order tacos, thick and crunchy chips, and chill vibe of the place. The staff is friendly and the overall ambiance is clean and enjoyable.

With a 4.3 rating and positive reviews, L' Patron is a great spot for Mexican food enthusiasts looking for a tasty meal in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

Taqueria El Mezquite, Chicago#9
What sets it apart
  • Customers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and great food.

  • BYOB option with tasty michelada mix.

  • Reasonable prices with well-served authentic tacos.

Taqueria El Mezquite

4.3713 reviews
1756 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States

Taqueria El Mezquite is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer a variety of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers rave about the fast service and the delicious food served here.

The restaurant is popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it's a great spot for solo dining. The alcohol offerings include beer, coffee, and vegetarian options. The dining ambiance is described as casual and cozy, perfect for families, groups, and university students.

Some customers highlight the great value for the money, the amazing al pastor tacos, and the lovely outdoor dining area. With a solid rating of 4.3 based on 713 reviews, Taqueria El Mezquite is a go-to spot in Chicago for delicious Mexican cuisine.

Tacos El Pastor 53, Chicago#10
What sets it apart
  • Delicious veggie taco with guacamole and pico de gallo

  • Authentic Mexican food with the best salsas in Chicago

  • Great customer service and hearty portions

  • Excellent and friendly staff with tasty salsa and hot sauce

Tacos El Pastor 53

4.3283 reviews
5319 S Hyde Park Blvd, Chicago, IL 60615, United States

Tacos El Pastor 53 is a beloved Mexican restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of service options including kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy their popular lunch and dinner options in a casual atmosphere that is wheelchair-accessible. The restaurant is known for its fast service and delicious offerings such as all-you-can-eat meals, cocktails, and spirits.

Customers rave about their experiences at Tacos El Pastor 53:

Taquería El Pastor, Chicago#11
What sets it apart
  • Fast service

  • Authentic Al pastor tacos with juicy and tender meat

  • Delicious cheese quesadilla and yummy chips

Taquería El Pastor

4.21,960 reviews
4418 W 63rd St, Chicago, IL 60629, United States

Taquería El Pastor is a renowned Mexican restaurant in Chicago that offers a range of service options including Takeaway and Dine-in. Known for its Great coffee, this establishment is popular for serving delicious Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner options, perfect for Solo dining or group gatherings.

With a welcoming and casual atmosphere, Taquería El Pastor provides wheelchair-accessible facilities and a variety of dining options such as Brunch, Dessert, and more. The restaurant accepts reservations, making it convenient for visitors to plan their dining experience.

Customer reviews highlight the fast service and authentic flavors of the Al pastor tacos. One patron praised the juicy and tender meat served with soft and warm tortillas. Another guest appreciated the cheese quesadilla and yummy chips, describing the experience as enjoying good Mexican food.

Tacos El Tio, Chicago#12
What sets it apart
  • Best tacos al pastor in the area with pineapple and avocado salsa.

  • Authentic Mexican food with delicious tacos and burritos.

  • Great service and atmosphere, highly recommended.

  • Delicious gorditas and pambazos, a must-try.

Tacos El Tio

4.1634 reviews
3734 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60651, United States

Tacos El Tio is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of delicious dishes. Customers can enjoy Delivery, Drive-through, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Known for their tacos al pastor and breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, this restaurant caters to all tastes.

Some key reviews include:

Arturo's Tacos, Chicago#13
What sets it apart
  • The service was quick and amazing. The tacos were really good, and the horchata, gorditas, and torta were delicious.

  • First-time visitors had a good experience with pretty good food.

  • Another customer mentioned great Mexican food, quick service, and reasonable prices.

  • Some customers noted pricey items like $4.95 for chips and salsa, but praised the food quality and friendly service.

Arturo's Tacos

3.91,675 reviews
2001 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

Arturo's Tacos is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago. They offer a variety of services such as no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Known for their fast service and great cocktails, this restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. They have a wide range of offerings including alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, comfort food, late-night food, and vegetarian options. Customers have praised the quick service and delicious food at Arturo's Tacos.

La Lagartija Taqueria, Chicago#14
What sets it apart
  • Under new management and coming in swinging with delicious Mexican cuisine near downtown Chicago. Highly recommended!

  • Flavorful and delicious dishes like chilaquiles with awesome service and delectable coffee.

  • Fantastic food with attentive service, fresh and homemade offerings, and a welcoming vibe.

La Lagartija Taqueria

3.9410 reviews
132 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

La Lagartija Taqueria is a charming Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, offering a delightful array of dishes crafted with authentic flavors. The restaurant prides itself on providing a welcoming atmosphere that caters to everyone, from families to solo diners, making it an ideal spot for a delicious meal.

Customers have raved about their experiences at La Lagartija Taqueria in their reviews:

These reviews reflect the consistent quality and dedication to customer satisfaction that defines the experience at La Lagartija Taqueria. Whether you're craving traditional Mexican fare or looking to explore new flavors, this restaurant is sure to impress with its diverse menu and friendly service. So, come on over and treat yourself to a memorable dining experience!

Taqueria San Jose, Chicago#15
What sets it apart
  • Disappointed with moldy chips and poor customer service

  • Unhappy about finding foreign material in the food and unsatisfactory response from the staff

  • Positive experience with quick service, although some dishes were not as flavorful as expected

  • Great food quality, friendly staff, and recommend the place for a quick and pleasant meal

Taqueria San Jose

3.9939 reviews
3253 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States

Taqueria San Jose is a popular Mexican restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. With options like No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, this restaurant caters to different preferences. Known for its fast service, Taqueria San Jose is a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.

Customers have shared their experiences with the restaurant in reviews. Here are some key points summarizing the feedback:

Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a delicious dinner, Taqueria San Jose has you covered. With a variety of offerings like Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, and Comfort food, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, next time you're craving Mexican cuisine, consider giving Taqueria San Jose a try!

The comparison in brief

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1El Tragon Taqueria 4.7354
#2Chicago Taco Authority 4.5868
#3Big Star 4.44,040
#4Broken English Taco Pub 4.43,651
#5Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco 4.4724
#6Taqueria Traspasada 2 4.4607
#7Taqueria Los Comales Pilsen 4.33,273
#8L' Patron 4.31,796
#9Taqueria El Mezquite 4.3713
#10Tacos El Pastor 53 4.3283
#11Taquería El Pastor 4.21,960
#12Tacos El Tio 4.1634
#13Arturo's Tacos 3.91,675
#14La Lagartija Taqueria 3.9410
#15Taqueria San Jose 3.9939

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Map of Al Pastor in Chicago

Craving a taste of Mexico in Chicago? Look no further than the city's vibrant al pastor scene. From food trucks to taquerias, there are endless options to satisfy your cravings for this flavorful marinated pork dish. Check out our map below to discover some of the best al pastor spots in the Windy City.

Tips for choosing Al Pastor in Chicago

  1. Location: Easy access to public transportation.
  2. Price: Affordable options without sacrificing quality.
  3. Taste: Authentic flavors and expertly prepared meat.
  4. Atmosphere: Casual dining or upscale ambiance.
  5. Reviews: Positive feedback from satisfied customers.

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