JetlyGo
How it worksThings to doToursLocal Friend
My trips
EN
EnglishDeutschEspañolItalianoNederlandsFrançaisBahasa IndonesiaРусскийTiếng ViệtPortuguês中文한국어עברית
→ Sign inSign in
Loading map...

JetlyGo Score

Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant's score is calculated from online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene.

JetlyGo Score

Frontera Grill's score is calculated from online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene.

JetlyGo Score

Big Star's score is calculated from online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene.

JetlyGo Score

Mi Tocaya Antojería's score is calculated from online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene.

JetlyGo Score

Topolobampo's score is calculated from online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene.

JetlyGo Score

Birrieria Zaragoza's score is calculated from online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene.

Chicago boasts a vibrant Mexican culinary scene, reflecting the city's rich cultural tapestry and the significant Mexican population, which is one of the largest in the United States. This presence has led to a diverse array of authentic Mexican restaurants that offer traditional dishes and innovative takes on classic recipes. Among the best Mexican restaurants in Chicago, establishments such as Frontera Grill and Topolobampo, both founded by celebrity chef Rick Bayless, serve high-quality Mexican food that emphasizes fresh ingredients and regional flavors. Popular dishes include tacos al pastor, made with marinated pork and served with pineapple, and mole poblano, a complex sauce featuring chocolate and spices, often served over chicken. Other notable venues include La Chaparrita, known for its affordable Mexican dining, where patrons can enjoy homemade tamales and quesadillas at reasonable prices, typically ranging from $5 to $15 per dish. The historical context of Mexican cuisine in Chicago dates back to the early 20th century, when Mexican immigrants began settling in the city, bringing their culinary traditions with them. This has led to the establishment of numerous local Mexican restaurants, such as El Milagro, famous for its handmade tortillas, which play a crucial role in many dishes. In addition to high-end dining, Chicago offers a variety of popular Mexican spots that cater to different budgets, making it easy to find authentic Mexican cuisine across the city. Neighborhoods like Pilsen and Little Village are particularly known for their concentration of Mexican restaurants, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary diversity that define Mexican food in Chicago. Whether seeking upscale dining or affordable options, the city's offerings reflect the depth and variety of Mexican culinary traditions. The list includes top-rated venues like Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant and Frontera Grill with JetlyGo scores reaching 84. These venues are among the most reviewed Mexican establishments in Chicago, with the top restaurant in this category receiving more than 5300 combined reviews from Google and TripAdvisor.
...
Home›Chicago Restaurants›Mexican
Authentic Cuisine

Top 6 Restaurants in Chicago for Mexican Dining

Explore authentic mexican flavors in Chicago's top restaurants.

You may also like:LatinBarCentral American

Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant

About Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant

Located in the vibrant city of Chicago, Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant is a beloved gem for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine, especially its renowned carnitas.

This cozy eatery, while small and lacking traditional seating, offers a warm atmosphere thanks to its friendly staff who make every guest feel like family.

Diners rave about the melt-in-your-mouth pork, perfectly seasoned and served with fresh toppings like cilantro and onion, all wrapped in soft, warm tortillas.

With a reputation for exceptional value and quality, it's a must-visit for locals and tourists alike, especially those looking for a casual yet delightful dining experience.

1725 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608, USA

Menu |Loading...
84%score

JetlyGo Score

Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant's score is calculated using online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and multiple quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene, enhanced by intelligent AI analysis. You can trust this score to find where to eat, drink, and dine in Chicago.

+1 312-226-2654

✨ HighlightThe carnitas are amazing! The shop is small and there is no where to sit. The staff are super friendly and warm. Vary affordable pricing and food is packed really well. I will definitely be back!→

Mexican
View Details
Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant - Mexican restaurant in Chicago, United States. Photo 1 of 4. Main restaurant view
Frontera Grill - Mexican restaurant in Chicago, United States. Photo 1 of 3. Main restaurant view

Frontera Grill

About Frontera Grill

Located in the heart of Chicago, Frontera Grill stands out as a vibrant culinary gem led by the renowned chef Rick Bayless.

This restaurant has established itself as a favorite among both locals and tourists, thanks to its authentic Mexican and Latin cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds.

Patrons rave about the warm and inviting ambiance, which is complemented by attentive service that makes every dining experience feel special.

From festive family celebrations to casual dinners, the restaurant caters to a wide range of diners, offering something for everyone.

With a stellar 4.4 Google rating and a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor, it's clear that Frontera Grill is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in exceptional Mexican fare.

445 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, USA

Menu |Loading...
82%score

JetlyGo Score

Frontera Grill's score is calculated using online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and multiple quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene, enhanced by intelligent AI analysis. You can trust this score to find where to eat, drink, and dine in Chicago.

+1 312-661-1434

✨ HighlightOne of my favorite Rick Bayless restaurants, the food is always a hit. I ordered appetizers, entrees and drinks and everything was UH-AMAZING. The staff is so kind and attentive. I always come here to celebrate my family’s birthday, graduations etc. Literally one of the best restaurants in Chicago.→

MexicanLatin
View Details
Big Star - Mexican restaurant in Chicago, United States. Photo 1 of 4. Main restaurant view

Big Star

About Big Star

Big Star is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Wicker Park, Chicago, known for its lively atmosphere and delicious street-style tacos.

With a friendly and attentive staff, diners can expect a warm welcome and quick service, making it a perfect spot for casual meals with friends or family.

The patio is particularly popular, offering a great outdoor experience, especially when the weather is nice.

Guests rave about the unique menu items and the fun, laid-back vibe reminiscent of Austin, Texas.

Whether you're stopping by for brunch or a late-night bite, Big Star promises an enjoyable dining experience filled with flavor and fun.

1531 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, USA

Menu |Loading...
80%score

JetlyGo Score

Big Star's score is calculated using online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and multiple quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene, enhanced by intelligent AI analysis. You can trust this score to find where to eat, drink, and dine in Chicago.

+1 773-235-4039

✨ HighlightPretty good tacos but not great. Fantastic ambiance when the weather is warm enough to sit in the patio. Our tacos came out suspiciously quick which probably meant they were mostly ready in the back and just plated to order. Don’t have a problem with that but they were served lukewarm warm and got cold quickly. Our server was great though.→

MexicanSouthwesternLatinBar
+1 more
View Details

Mi Tocaya Antojería

About Mi Tocaya Antojería

Mi Tocaya Antojería in Chicago is a vibrant gem that effortlessly blends a homey ambiance with a lively spirit, making it a fantastic choice for a night out.

With a focus on lesser-known Aztec cuisine and innovative takes on traditional dishes, the restaurant has garnered a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.

Diners rave about the exceptional flavors, particularly praising the creative veggie dishes and standout items like the steak burrito and Tres Leches cake.

The welcoming atmosphere is complemented by a well-curated drink menu featuring impressive margaritas and cocktails.

Whether you're enjoying a casual meal with friends or a romantic dinner, Mi Tocaya promises a delightful culinary experience that celebrates Mexican heritage in a modern setting.

2800 W Logan Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647, USA

Menu |Loading...
75%score

JetlyGo Score

Mi Tocaya Antojería's score is calculated using online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and multiple quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene, enhanced by intelligent AI analysis. You can trust this score to find where to eat, drink, and dine in Chicago.

+1 872-315-3947

✨ HighlightEverything we tried was absolutely delicious! All of the moles were great and the flavors were so unlike the ones I've tried at other Mexican restaurants. The drinks were also so impressive (especially the margaritas)! All in all, a great place to spend a Friday night!→

MexicanLatinCentral American
View Details

Topolobampo

About Topolobampo

Located in the vibrant city of Chicago, Topolobampo is a culinary gem that celebrates the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with a unique twist.

Renowned chef Rick Bayless crafts a dining experience that is as much about artistry as it is about taste, featuring dishes inspired by the diverse regions of Mexico.

The ambiance is lively yet sophisticated, making it a perfect choice for everything from family dinners to romantic dates.

The restaurant boasts a stellar Google rating of 4.5 and is highly regarded on TripAdvisor, where diners appreciate its exquisite menu and attentive service.

With features like private dining, a full bar, and wheelchair accessibility, Topolobampo caters to a wide range of guests looking for an exceptional dining experience.

445 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, USA

Menu |Loading...
74%score

JetlyGo Score

Topolobampo's score is calculated using online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and multiple quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene, enhanced by intelligent AI analysis. You can trust this score to find where to eat, drink, and dine in Chicago.

+1 312-661-1434

✨ Highlight"Oaxaca: The Story of Seven Moles" was a delightful introduction to the Mexican sauce and its variety of flavours. Every dish was exquisite in its own way, and the food-mole pairing was very well done. The wait staff were also patient in explaining each dish, though it was hard to catch as the accent was thick at times, but I see that as a sign of authenticity.→

MexicanLatin
View Details

Birrieria Zaragoza

About Birrieria Zaragoza

Birrieria Zaragoza is a cozy little gem tucked away in Chicago, specializing in mouth-watering goat birria.

With its charming, intimate atmosphere and friendly owner greeting guests at the counter, it's a place that feels like home.

Diners rave about the authentic flavors, especially the freshly handmade tortillas that accompany the dishes.

The restaurant caters to a variety of dining experiences, making it popular among families and friends looking for a casual meal.

With a strong focus on traditional Mexican and Latin cuisine, it has garnered praise for its vibrant flavors and comforting dishes, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

4852 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60632, USA

Menu |Loading...
73%score

JetlyGo Score

Birrieria Zaragoza's score is calculated using online mentions, review volume and sentiment, and multiple quality indicators across Chicago's dining scene, enhanced by intelligent AI analysis. You can trust this score to find where to eat, drink, and dine in Chicago.

+1 773-523-3700

✨ HighlightHad a friend tell me about this place several times and finally made it in to try for lunch. Loved the vibe walking in, it's quaint and cozy. The owner is right at the counter greeting everyone and chatting with customers and staff. We seated ourselves at a small table in the corner which turned out to be leaning on the broken floor tiles, causing the consomme from my order to spill out of the bowl and made eating a bit of a challenge so as to not cover myself in broth. We ordered our food off the provided menus and awaited our food. We were only given one set of utensils to work with and had to ask a couple of times for another set and some more napkins (see the note above about the table leaning). Everything came out fairly promptly and had wonderful flavor. Some of the meat was dried out though and seemed like it had been sitting out or was over cooked before being served. The consomme helped but the meat overall could have been better. Again, the flavor was fantastic though. The cabeza taco also had great flavor and the fresh tortillas are very good. The server kept bringing them out whenever we asked and refilling the warmer. After we left my friend remarked to be that he felt like the experience wasn't up to the usual standards but was still an enjoyable meal. I'll have no issues going back when back in the city.→

MexicanLatin
View Details

Discover more in Chicago

Local attractions, activities and hidden gems

See all things to doCity guide
Planning a trip to Chicago? see the best things to do in Chicago, check whether you need a visa for United States or build a day-by-day plan for Chicago.

Popular Attractions Nearby

Find best things to do in Chicago

Visit Attraction
Spas

Verde Wellness & Massage

★3.0(2)
Visit Attraction
Neighborhoods

Pilsen

★4.5(59)
Visit Attraction
Bars & Clubs

Three Dots and a Dash

★4.5(83)
Visit Attraction
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Mural Be Your Higher Self

★4.5(2)
Visit Attraction
Antique Stores

Modern Times

Visit Attraction
Parks

Wicker Park

★4.5(125)
Visit Attraction
Department Stores

Nakama toys

Visit Attraction
Parks

Algonquin Park

Visit Attraction
Bars & Clubs

Watra Night Club

Visit Attraction
Art Galleries

FESS Graphics PINK INK

Top Places to Visit Near Chicago