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Soup and al pastor in Illinois

A bowl of soup followed by al pastor that is shaved fresh from the spit, not just a pre-cooked afterthought.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Southport Taqueria Dine-in & Take-out image 1
Southport Taqueria Dine-in & Take-out image 2
Southport Taqueria Dine-in & Take-out image 3
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Mexican restaurant with cozy, well-appointed decor and a chill, no-frills vibe. Atmosphere stays warm and welcoming, making it easy to have conversations while enjoying authentic, flavorful tacos. Space fills quickly, creating a lively but comfortable environment.

Chicken tortilla soup stands out with its rich flavor and fresh ingredients. The red lentil soup offers a hearty, satisfying option alongside the fresh salsa and guacamole.

Juicy tacos come with a pineapple kick that stands out. The al pastor offers a better price, size, and taste compared to nearby spots.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is fresh and flavorful."

"You have to try the Al Pastor; it's the best of the bunch."

"I loved the chicken tortilla soup."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos, making it a popular day to visit.

2

Dine-in customers receive free chips and salsa with their meal.

3

The restaurant allows customers to bring their own alcohol, which is a unique perk.

02
Sabroso! Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with quirky warm decor and intimate indoor seating plus a noisy street-side patio. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, with staff engaging in celebrations and live entertainment. Guests often bring their own tequila to complement the homemade margarita mix.

Chicken tortilla soup stands out with its strong flavor and noticeable oiliness. It comes at a moderate price and pairs well with chips and salsas.

Al pastor tacos stand out as a personal favorite with a strong reputation. They pair well with Carnitas and chorizo tacos, often recommended alongside nachos for a solid meal.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be incredibly authentic and delicious."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were unbeatable."

"The chicken tortilla soup was so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

You can bring your own beer, making it a BYOB spot.

3

Expect large portion sizes for the price you pay.

03
Gwacamole Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with cute decor and an intimate atmosphere creates a cozy, chill vibe. The restaurant draws a local crowd seeking authentic Mexican guisados and vegetarian options. Unique layout and attention to detail add to the welcoming feel.

Complimentary fideo soup arrives as a starter, offering a comforting and flavorful experience. Fresh chips come with three different salsas, enhancing the meal's opening.

Tacos feature al pastor with a strong flavor that stands out. Guacamole complements the tacos well, adding a fresh touch.

People are saying

"The salsa here is fresh, flavorful, and amazing."

"I loved the complimentary fideo soup they served."

"I found the Al Pastor tacos to be fantastic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers complimentary chips and salsa while you wait.

2

Portions are generous, often leaving enough for leftovers.

3

There is metered street parking available nearby.

04
El Costeño image 1
Restaurant

Bright colors and traditional Mexican music create an authentic, cozy atmosphere with a family feel. The space is open and sunny, offering complimentary chips and salsa that enhance the relaxed dining experience.

Seafood and al pastor soups stand out with high quality and hearty flavors. Soups with hominy add a delicious, comforting touch, served throughout the day for any meal.

Tacos al pastor stand out with a unique flavor and are never greasy. The Al pastor Gordita and al pastor soup also offer distinct, delicious options.

People are saying

"The cabeza tacos are tender and juicy."

"I thought the tacos al pastor were the best I'd ever tasted."

"The Caldo de Camarón soup had amazing, big shrimp."

Good to know

1

El Costeño closes at 9 pm.

2

The prices at El Costeño are affordable.

3

El Costeño offers vegetarian options upon request.

05
Tacos Y Salsa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with clean atmosphere and about 10 tables seating four each offers authentic dishes like pozole and mole. Live singing adds to the lively vibe while steady pickup orders keep the place busy. Pricing is reasonable, with specials like $1.25 tacos on Mondays.

Soups come in many varieties daily, including caldo de pollo, caldo de res, and seafood soup. The chicken soup stands out as mind-blowingly good. Beef soup tastes good but has not enough meat.

Tacos feature Abuela’s authentic recipe for Al pastor, delivering a distinct and flavorful taste. The Al pastor tacos stand out as extremely good and are a highlight on Monday taco specials priced at 1.75 each.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"This Mexican food, especially the asada torta, is just what I was craving."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos tasted like authentic homemade tacos."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $1.25 on Mondays.

2

On Mondays, they offer 1.75 tacos, including Al pastor.

3

The total cost for three tacos is about $15 after tax.

06
El Nuevo Langostino Inc image 1

Small, cozy restaurant with a chill local vibe and Mexican music playing softly. BYOB policy adds to the relaxed atmosphere, while seafood seasoning and fresh seafood stand out as key features. Space between tables allows for a comfortable, family-like setting without loud distractions.

Beef soup here closely matches authentic Latin-style recipes with a slightly spicy kick. The 7 mares seafood soup comes with garlic bread and offers a fresh, flavorful introduction to their soup selection.

Al pastor comes in both burritos and tacos, with the tacos cooked right on the sidewalk. The burrito often includes pineapple, adding a sweet touch to the savory meat.

People are saying

"The seafood here is seasoned to perfection and so good."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the shrimp and octopus tostadas."

"I loved the Al Pastor burrito with pineapple."

Good to know

1

El Nuevo Langostino Inc is a BYOB restaurant, so bring your own drinks.

2

Be cautious of market price items; they may cost more than expected.

3

The seafood boat is listed as market price but can be significantly higher.

07
Taqueria San Miguel image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with comfortable dining and good music. The place serves authentic tacos and burritos with traditional preparation and modern flavors. Pricing leans toward sit-down restaurant levels, reflecting the quality and care in the food.

Beef soup stands out as a notable dish here. Soups come with a variety of flavors and pair well with tacos.

Tacos feature al pastor with rich, flavorful meat that stands out. They pair well with a cold horchata for a classic combo.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

"I tried the Al Pastor tacos and they were excellent."

"The soup here tasted great and showed quality."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during weekend dinner hours.

2

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited during busy times.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

08
Taqueria Los Flacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers spacious seating with low music that supports conversation. The atmosphere feels family-friendly and clean. Known for best al pastor tacos and flavorful salsas, it draws those seeking authentic Mexican flavors.

Meals come with chips and salsa and a side of chicken and noodle soup. The soup tastes yummy and complements the meal well.

Tacos feature well-charred al pastor with a rich flavor. The al pastor tacos stand out as some of the best around, paired well with tortas and other meats like carne asada and bistek.

People are saying

"I thought the al pastor tacos were the best I've ever tried."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were the best I've ever tried."

"I got a really yummy chicken and noodle soup with my meal."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers shrimp and fish tacos, which are not common at all taquerias.

2

Prices are competitive and considered reasonable for the area.

3

A meal typically comes with chips and soup, adding value to the dining experience.

09
La Cocina De Don Ramón image 1

Cozy restaurant with homey decor and a family-friendly atmosphere feels like eating at a local's house. The vibe is peaceful and neighborly, with regulars known by name and a relaxed pace. It stands out for its authentic Mexican classics and a welcoming, intimate setting.

Chicken tortilla soup stands out with rich flavor. Other soups like chicken soup also impress alongside tacos and burritos.

Al pastor dishes come with super flavorful meat and a noticeable amount of pineapple. Some items like the Burrito De Al Pastor Suizo can be a bit wet and have too many pineapple chunks.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I thought the chicken tortilla soup was incredible."

"The Al Pastor tacos were simply divine."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos and drinks.

2

Prices are reasonable for the generous portion sizes.

3

They offer unique menu items like deshebrada beef tacos and Burritos Duranguense.

10
El Fogon Tapatio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and a chill atmosphere offers flavorful tacos and complimentary soup with meals. The space feels welcoming yet often quiet, creating a relaxed dining experience. Prices are reasonable considering the generous portions and quality.

Small cups of complimentary soup arrive while waiting, often chicken and vegetable. The soup is packed with flavor and brings back nostalgic memories of homemade recipes.

Al pastor tacos often come highly praised for their flavor and quality. Some find them absolutely delicious and even among the best in the area, while others report they can be inconsistent.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and priced well."

"These tacos are authentic and among the best I've ever had."

"I thought the al pastor tacos were absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

El Fogon Tapatio is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

The prices are very affordable for the quality and quantity of food.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making it a great value.

11
Mi Casa Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with brickwork around curved windows creates a cozy ambiance. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, though TV volume can be loud. Food features authentic Mexican flavors with standout salsa and fresh Pico de Gallo.

Complimentary chicken tortilla soup stands out with its rich flavor and is often offered before meals. It pairs well with Al pastor tacos and house-made chips and guacamole.

Al pastor tacos feature flavorful meat with pineapple that adds a sweet touch. They pair well with chicken tortilla soup and house-made chips and guacamole.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos and chicken tortilla soup, is amazing."

"You have to try the chicken tortilla soup; it's amazing."

"The Al Pastor tacos were flavorful and included pineapple."

Good to know

1

The menu lists burritos at $10, with various other options available.

2

The restaurant offers catering services for events and parties.

3

Parking is available, but the lot is small and can fill up quickly.

12
Cielo Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an open kitchen and white linen tablecloths creates a clean, inviting atmosphere. Bright colors and Mexican music add a warm, authentic vibe. The setting balances between casual and upscale, offering a tastefully decorated space.

Tortilla soup stands out with a quality rarely found in the US. The shrimp soup brings flavors reminiscent of Tlaxcala. Soups come alongside other dishes like tacos and fajitas.

Tacos feature perfectly marinated pork with a hint of pineapple that stands out. The Al Pastor meat delivers strong flavor and is highly recommended.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The Al Pastor here is fantastic, perfectly marinated with a hint of pineapple."

"I enjoyed the soup; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable for the portions and worth it.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

3

Convenient parking is available nearby.

13
Mariscos Y Taqueria Chemas 2 image 1

Mexican restaurant offers authentic seafood with handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients in a casual, family-friendly setting. Relaxing music and live karaoke add to the welcoming vibe. Guests often enjoy margaritas and micheladas alongside well-balanced tacos and seafood dishes.

A small bowl of crab soup arrives as a starter, setting a great tone for the meal. The soup tastes delicious and stands out alongside the tacos and mariscos.

Tacos feature Al pastor with a solid flavor profile. The menu includes a taco dinner option combining al pastor and steak, often paired with guacamole.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned."

"The crab soup here is amazing and a great way to start the meal."

"The Al Pastor molcajete is huge and filling."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are always accommodated.

2

Expect a wait time of about 8-10 minutes during peak hours.

3

A 10% fee applies for card payments, so bring cash if possible.

14
Tepalcates image 1
Mexican restaurant

See-through kitchen reveals food preparation, creating an engaging dining experience. Warm, family-friendly atmosphere feels welcoming and joyful, with '80s pop music videos playing quietly in the background. Tables feature hot sauces arranged by heat, adding a unique touch to the meal.

Birria ramen soup stands out with its rich, savory broth. Carne su jugo offers a hearty beef soup experience with deep flavors.

Options include octopus and cauliflower al pastor, which are uncommon elsewhere. The al pastor flavor stands out clearly, even with some numbness. Tacos with al pastor and cochinita pibil come out excellent and pair well with birria.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was outstanding."

"I could not believe how good these al pastor tacos were."

"I found the soup here to be really delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Tepalcates offers unique options like vegetarian pastor and octopus.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food provided.

3

Everything is made fresh in-house daily.

15
Taqueria 5 De Mayo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Wood-paneled walls and stiff benches create a setting like an old hot dog joint. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, mostly attracting older men. Tacos come in generous portions with high-quality grilled steak, making it a standout among Mexican eateries.

Bean soup stands out as a favorite, paired often with burritos. Soups from the special menu, like those tried alongside cauliflower tacos, add variety to the options.

Tacos feature char flavor that stands out, especially on the Al Pastor. Both the quesadilla and Al Pastor tacos deliver consistent quality and are described as very good.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is loaded and packed with flavor."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were very, very good."

"I heard the soup is amazing."

Good to know

1

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

2

The portion sizes are larger than average, especially for burritos.

3

Expect slightly higher prices compared to other taquerias in the area.

16
Traspasada Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a no-frills atmosphere and cozy vibe offers a variety of tacos and burritos featuring handmade tortillas and generous salsa and chips. The setting suits quick, flavorful meals and casual dining. It stands out for high-quality steak and distinctive black salsa.

Dining includes a small cup of soup served with chips and salsa. Soup packaging keeps it hot and spill-free for takeout.

Al pastor tacos come with flavorful meat and salsa to boost the heat. They arrive alongside other meats and toppings like rice, beans, and tortillas for group orders.

People are saying

"The food here is so good and fresh."

"The pozole soup here has tender pork."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were not bad."

Good to know

1

The total cost for a meal is around $10 before tip, which is a good value.

2

Expect a variety of taco options, including quesabirria tacos with consomé.

3

Reservations are not required, making it easy for spontaneous visits.

17
TECALITLAN MEXICAN KITCHEN & MARGARITA BAR image 1

Mexican restaurant with colorful art and a spacious patio offers a clean, bright setting. Atmosphere ranges from lively and festive to more subdued, with a mix of energy depending on the time. Known for authentic Mexican dishes and a variety of margaritas, including a house tequila brand.

Chicken tortilla soup stands out with its homemade flavors that really pop. It tastes especially good with chicken added and suits colder months well.

Al pastor tacos stand out with rich, bold flavors that surpass many others. The Al Pastor burrito packs about 1.5 pounds of pork and beef with lettuce, tomatoes, beans, sour cream, and cheese for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"The Mexican food and drinks here are great."

"I loved the authentic Mexican food and great margaritas."

"The Al Pastor tacos are 10/10, some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 2-for-1 tacos all day, making it a popular choice.

2

Happy Hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

A 20% service charge is added for parties of five or more.

18
Cantina on Madison, Casual Mexican Restaurant & Bar, Voted #1 Tacos image 1

Mexican restaurant with quaint decor and beautiful murals creates a cozy, laid-back vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer a chill atmosphere suitable for relaxing after a busy day. The place stays quiet and welcoming, making it easy to enjoy the surroundings.

Spicy tortilla soup features avocado and plenty of tortilla strips. Flavor varies from rich and lively to average and less homemade, with temperature sometimes on the cooler side.

Al Pastor appears as a taco and burrito filling served with rice and beans. It stands alongside other meats like carnitas and barbacoa, offering a varied Mexican flavor profile.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"The tortilla soup is spicy with lots of flavor."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday features select tacos for $2 each.

3

Live DJ on Saturday evenings creates a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

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