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The 16 Best Tex-Mex Restaurants in Chicago

Looking for a taste of Tex-Mex in Chicago? Look no further! With a plethora of options to choose from, you can satisfy your craving for delicious and authentic Tex-Mex cuisine right here in the Windy City.

Whether you're in the mood for tacos, enchiladas, or a mouth-watering plate of fajitas, Chicago has got you covered. From casual joints to upscale eateries, there's something for every Tex-Mex lover in this bustling city.

Ready to dig into the best Tex-Mex Chicago has to offer? Check out the list below for the top 16 Tex-Mex restaurants in the city!

How this ranking works

Before ranking this guide we review each business's track record, what its customers say and how clearly it explains its work. The result is an editorial selection that we update as things change.

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 16 local picks compared

XOchimilco Mexican Restaurant, Chicago#1
What sets it apart
  • Customers rave about the chicken flautas and the authentic flavors of the dishes.

  • The friendly service and cozy neighborhood atmosphere make diners feel right at home.

  • Highlights include the tender lamb shank and the unique jamaica Palmer beverage.

XOchimilco Mexican Restaurant

4.8414 reviews
2030 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, United States

XOchimilco Mexican Restaurant is a beloved spot in Chicago that offers a delightful Mexican dining experience. Known for its flavorful dishes and excellent service, this restaurant is a go-to for many locals and visitors alike. The establishment is a great place for groups with the option of BYOB and an inviting patio seating area.

Whether you're craving a classic Mexican dish or looking to try something new, XOchimilco Mexican Restaurant has something for everyone. Visit their website to explore their menu and don't miss out on this local gem!

Mas Alla del Sol, Chicago#2
What sets it apart
  • This is a great spot for Mexican fine dining, with top-tier food and excellent cocktails.

  • Amazing experience with soft and perfectly cooked dishes, particularly the steak fajitas and flavorful enchiladas.

  • Exceptional attention from staff, delicious food that surpasses expectations, and must-try nachos that are worth the drive.

  • Fresh and delicious food, great drinks, and efficient service make this one of the favorite restaurants in the city.

Mas Alla del Sol

4.6771 reviews
5848 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660, United States

Mas Alla del Sol is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, offering a wide range of delectable dishes and exceptional service. Customers rave about their experience, leaving glowing reviews such as:

With a rating of 4.6 and 771 reviews, Mas Alla del Sol is a must-visit destination for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

XOCO, Chicago#3
What sets it apart
  • Simple menu with delicious food

  • Best Mexican food in Chicago

  • Quaint atmosphere with top-notch service

  • Standout dishes like the Spicy Churro Chicken Sandwich

XOCO

4.52,987 reviews
65 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

XOCO is a Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, known for its delicious food and great atmosphere. This restaurant offers a variety of service options, including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy their meal in a casual and cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for families, tourists, and university students.

Some of the highlights of XOCO include fast service, great coffee, and great desserts. The menu offers a range of options, such as vegetarian and vegan choices, comfort food, cocktails, wine, and small plates. With offerings like organic dishes, halal food, and healthy options, everyone can find something to enjoy at XOCO.

Customer reviews rave about the delicious food and good customer service at XOCO. Some key points from customer reviews include:

If you're looking for a tasty Mexican meal in a trendy and welcoming setting, XOCO is the place to be!

Tzuco, Chicago#4
What sets it apart
  • A diner mentioned the urban rustic vibes of the restaurant, the helpful server, and the fantastic meal with creative and gorgeous flavors.

  • Another customer praised the flavors of the food, especially the desserts, and expressed excitement to return for more unique dishes.

  • One patron highlighted the outstanding Valentine's Day experience, with modified menus, exceptional service, and a mesmerizing Rose dessert.

  • Another guest had a delightful experience with exceptional food, particularly enjoying the duck and savory waffle, along with the top-notch service and ambiance.

Tzuco

4.51,699 reviews
720 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Tzuco is a renowned Mexican restaurant in Chicago that offers a unique dining experience. Customers can enjoy a variety of services such as Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. The restaurant is known for its Great dessert options and is popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining.

Some happy customers shared their experiences at Tzuco:

With a rating of 4.5 stars, Tzuco continues to impress diners with its upscale Mexican cuisine, chic ambiance, and top-notch service. Visit their website for more information and make a reservation to experience a memorable dining adventure.

Los 3 Panchos, Chicago#5
What sets it apart
  • Delicious and flavorful dishes

  • Generous portion sizes

  • Convenient quick bite options

  • Late-night food offerings

Los 3 Panchos

4.5512 reviews
1155 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Los 3 Panchos is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. They offer a variety of services and features that cater to all types of customers. From Kerbside pickup to Dine-in options, Los 3 Panchos ensures a seamless dining experience for everyone.

Customers rave about the delicious comfort food served at Los 3 Panchos, highlighting the flavorful dishes and generous portions. The restaurant is also praised for its quick bite options, perfect for those on the go. The late-night food offerings have become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Whether you're a university student looking for a cozy spot to dine solo or a family with kids, Los 3 Panchos caters to all crowds. With a 4.5-star rating and over 500 reviews, this Mexican gem is a must-visit in Chicago.

Texican, Chicago#6
What sets it apart
  • Fresh ingredients and great customer service.

  • Delicious tacos and affordable prices.

  • Wonderful portions and great atmosphere.

  • Delicious food and friendly owner.

Texican

4.5154 reviews
869 N Larrabee St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States

Texican is a beloved Mexican restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services like kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients, generous portions, and excellent customer service.

The customers rave about the delicious food and affordable prices at Texican. They appreciate the owner's personal touch and the friendly atmosphere. Some key points from customer reviews include:

With a rating of 4.5 stars and positive reviews, Texican is a top choice for Mexican cuisine in Chicago.

Big Star, Chicago#7
What sets it apart
  • Exceptionally fast kitchen and bar service

  • Extensive menu variety with good options

  • Accommodating staff with great service

  • Delicious food and refreshing drinks

Big Star

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

Big Star is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, known for its exceptional food and great atmosphere. The restaurant offers a variety of service options including Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers praise the restaurant for its fast service and great cocktails.

Here are some key points from recent customer reviews:

Overall, Big Star delivers an exceptional dining experience for those looking to enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine in a trendy and vibrant setting.

Broken English Taco Pub, Chicago#8
What sets it apart
  • Exceptional service provided by friendly staff.

  • Delicious, authentic Mexican flavors in every dish.

  • Creative and unique menu items like Chipotle Queso made with goat cheese.

  • Cozy and welcoming atmosphere that transports diners to Mexico.

Broken English Taco Pub

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

Broken English Taco Pub is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in Chicago. They offer a variety of services and features including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, dine-in option, and more. The restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Broken English Taco Pub. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

These positive reviews reflect the quality and experience that Broken English Taco Pub strives to provide to all its customers. Visit them today for a delightful Mexican food experience!

Frontera Grill, Chicago#9
What sets it apart
  • Customers praise the quality of the food and the spicy salsas.

  • Many appreciate the attentive and friendly customer service.

  • The churro twists dessert is a favorite among visitors.

Frontera Grill

4.42,929 reviews
445 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Frontera Grill is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features. Customers can enjoy Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its fast service and great dessert. It is a popular spot for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining.

La Cantina Grill, Chicago#10
What sets it apart
  • Best tamale’s ever had, very authentic Mexican food experience.

  • Liberal with seasoning, be cautious if you don't like peppery flavors.

  • Phenomenal drinks with amazing food, pineapple margarita tastes more like a Pina colada.

  • Great service, strong margaritas, and delicious food for a memorable dining experience.

La Cantina Grill

4.42,216 reviews
1911 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

La Cantina Grill is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, IL. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features to its customers. Some of the service options include Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers can enjoy fast service and great desserts in a casual and trendy atmosphere. The restaurant is known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Some of the key points from customer reviews include:

La Josie, Chicago#11
What sets it apart
  • The food was flavorful and presented in a unique way, offering a different take on Mexican dishes

  • The drinks were exceptional, with a variety of rums and creative cocktails to choose from

  • The service was top-notch, providing a great overall dining experience

  • The restaurant excelled in showcasing the depth of Mexican flavors and culinary innovation

La Josie

4.41,503 reviews
740 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60661, United States

La Josie is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, Illinois. The restaurant offers a range of service options like outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. It is known for its fast service and rooftop seating, making it a popular choice for lunch, dinner, and solo dining experiences.

Customer reviews rave about the incredible experience at La Josie. Here are some key points from the reviews:

With a high rating of 4.4, La Josie is praised for its delicious cuisine, welcoming atmosphere, and excellent service. If you're looking for a memorable Mexican dining experience in Chicago, La Josie is the place to be!

Barrio, Chicago#12
What sets it apart
  • Customers rave about the incredible all you can drink mimosa experience at Barrio, praising the insane food and exceptional service.

  • Some reviewers mentioned that while the ambiance and service were top-notch, the taste consistency across dishes was lacking, especially in the Taco Tower and Guacamole.

  • Positive remarks were also made about the delicious food presentation, great customer service, and mouth-watering dishes like steak fajitas and tres leches cake.

  • Visitors appreciated the lively atmosphere, flavorful food, and attentive service, making Barrio a perfect spot for both family-friendly outings and date nights.

Barrio

4.32,148 reviews
65 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Barrio is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in Chicago. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features, including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy fast service and watch sport events while indulging in their delicious meals.

Barrio captures the essence of modern Mexican cuisine, providing a unique dining experience that combines traditional flavors with a contemporary twist. So whether you're looking for a memorable celebration or just craving some delicious Mexican fare, Barrio is the place to be!

Tuco And Blondie, Chicago#13
What sets it apart
  • The complimentary chips and salsa are tasty and perfect for starters.

  • The service is fast and elegant, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

  • The outdoor seating is nicely situated, adding to the overall charm of the restaurant.

  • While the margaritas are delicious, they are not too strong, so guests can enjoy them without worry.

Tuco And Blondie

4.31,214 reviews
3358 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

Tuco And Blondie is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, known for its impeccable food, service, and lively atmosphere. Customers rave about the delicious margaritas, tacos, and fajitas offered. Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

Whether you're looking for a fun dining spot for friends or a place to celebrate a special occasion, Tuco And Blondie promises a memorable culinary experience for all.

Uncle Julio's North Ave, Chicago#14
What sets it apart
  • The food was decent, but there were gaps in the tacos and a lack of meat portion.

  • Server recommended the shrimp fajitas which were delicious, along with the piñata dessert.

  • Customers enjoyed the fresh tortillas made on-site and the friendly service.

  • While the food and drinks were good, some found the prices to be a bit high.

Uncle Julio's North Ave

4.23,361 reviews
855 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60642, United States

Uncle Julio's North Ave is a popular restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features to customers. Some of the highlights include outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can also enjoy great cocktails in a welcoming atmosphere.

Overall, patrons have praised the restaurant for its tasty food, inviting ambiance, and attentive staff. If you're looking for a place to enjoy Mexican cuisine and refreshing cocktails, Uncle Julio's North Ave is a great choice!

Lonesome Rose, Chicago#15
What sets it apart
  • Lonesome Rose offers excellent vegan options with delicious dishes like Crunchy Beefy Quesorito and Vegan Truck Stop Nachos.

  • The restaurant provides a variety of flavorful menu items including Fried Chicken Taco Bowl, Chaco Taco, and Lavender Lemonade.

  • Customers appreciate the cozy atmosphere, great service, and extensive selection of cocktails and liquors.

  • Visitors enjoy the diverse menu options ranging from breakfast tacos to burritos and the savory taco salad.

Lonesome Rose

4.41,388 reviews
2101 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

Lonesome Rose is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to ensure a memorable dining experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its fast service and rooftop seating, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy delicious food in a cozy atmosphere.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.4 stars and positive reviews from satisfied customers, Lonesome Rose is a must-visit destination for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine in a welcoming setting.

Texan Taco Bar, Chicago#16
What sets it apart
  • Came here for a happy hour and loved the deals, especially the buy one get one free quesapizzas and $8 margaritas.

  • Enjoyed the lunch experience with amazing drinks, delicious food, and excellent customer service.

  • While the carne asada tacos were a bit dry, the guac was top-notch. Service was fast, and the overall experience was pleasant.

  • Fast service, delicious food, and a great ambiance. The Texas queso dip and BBQ brisket skillet were particularly recommended.

Texan Taco Bar

3.7354 reviews
942 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Texan Taco Bar is a vibrant restaurant located in Chicago, known for its delicious tacos and Mexican cuisine. The establishment offers a variety of services such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers praise the fast service, great beer selection, and cocktails available at Texan Taco Bar.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

If you're looking for a place with strong drinks, a nice atmosphere, and a Texan twist on traditional favorites, Texan Taco Bar is a must-visit spot in Chicago. Don't miss out on their flavorful dishes and lively ambiance!

The comparison in brief

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1XOchimilco Mexican Restaurant 4.8414
#2Mas Alla del Sol 4.6771
#3XOCO 4.52,987
#4Tzuco 4.51,699
#5Los 3 Panchos 4.5512
#6Texican 4.5154
#7Big Star 4.44,040
#8Broken English Taco Pub 4.43,651
#9Frontera Grill 4.42,929
#10La Cantina Grill 4.42,216
#11La Josie 4.41,503
#12Barrio 4.32,148
#13Tuco And Blondie 4.31,214
#14Uncle Julio's North Ave 4.23,361
#15Lonesome Rose 4.41,388
#16Texan Taco Bar 3.7354

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Map of Tex-Mex Restaurants in Chicago

Craving some Tex-Mex cuisine in Chicago? Look no further! Our interactive map showcases all the best Tex-Mex restaurants in the Windy City, from sizzling fajitas to spicy tacos and everything in between. Whether you're a local looking for your next go-to spot or a visitor wanting to explore the city's diverse culinary scene, this map has got you covered. Bon appétit!

Tips for choosing Tex-Mex Restaurants in Chicago

  1. Wide variety of Tex-Mex dishes.
  2. Quaint and cozy atmosphere.
  3. Fresh and flavorful ingredients.
  4. Friendly and attentive service.

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