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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Illinois

Carnitas and steak

A meal featuring both carnitas and steak covers every craving for savory, slow-cooked meat.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with toys and books for kids. The vibe is casual and peaceful, filled with the smell of grilled perfection. Known for some of the best tacos in the city, it attracts those seeking quick, flavorful meals.

Michoacán style carnitas stand out with well-seasoned, tender meat. Carnitas tacos come highly praised for their delicious flavor and satisfy alongside steak and pastor options.

Steak here is juicy and tender, often served as actual skirt steak rather than ground beef. The pork and steak stand out as the most tender options on this side of town.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious and full of amazing flavor."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be very delicious."

"The steak here is so juicy and tender."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers catering services for any type of event.

2

During the anniversary, the chef gives away tacos or a rose to customers.

3

They have a special Lent menu available throughout the season.

02
Carniceria Ruiz image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store and butcher offers excellent meat selection with hand-trimmed skirt steak and fresh barbacoa. Atmosphere feels like a true mom and pop shop with authentic Mexican food and homemade spicy salsa. Prices stay reasonable while providing a variety of snacks and essentials.

Fresh homemade salsas complement the delicious carnitas made from a family barbacoa recipe. Weekend visits highlight the best carnitas in the city with a rich, authentic flavor.

Skirt steak comes hand-trimmed and tenderized by the owner. It slices easily and works well for tacos.

People are saying

"Their homemade salsa is so fresh and delicious."

"I found their carnitas and salsa to be very delicious."

"I found the skirt steak here to be hand-trimmed and tenderized."

Good to know

1

On weekends, they offer barbacoa and menudo.

2

The selection of meat is excellent and fresh.

3

Prices for groceries are very reasonable.

03
Tiffany's On Broadway image 1

Small space offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere with comfortable decor and a unique, chill vibe. Loud club music and cartoons play, creating a lively yet casual setting. BYOB policy with a nearby liquor store adds to the relaxed, local feel.

Carnitas egg Benedict offers a filling start. The carnitas sandwich special comes with crispy shoestring fries. Carnitas sliders pair well with a refreshing watermelon aguita.

Steak dishes feature perfect seasoning and precise cooking. Options like the ribeye, flat iron, and skirt steak come with flavorful sauces and sides.

People are saying

"The Steak And Eggs here are delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The steak was juicy and cooked to a perfect medium-rare."

"The Carnitas egg Benedict was extremely good and filling."

Good to know

1

Tiffany's On Broadway is BYOB, and there is a liquor store next door.

2

Expect longer wait times if the kitchen is busy due to limited staff.

3

The food comes out as it is ready, not all at once.

04
La Mera Mera image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern space with cozy vibe and festive decorations creates a welcoming atmosphere. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine featuring standout tacos and freshly made margaritas. Clean, well-put-together interior blends traditional charm with modern flair.

Carnitas come out tender and flavorful in tacos and the el mero burrito. Dishes with carnitas pair well with beans and rice, offering a satisfying meal.

Steak stands out with well-seasoned flavor and consistent quality across dishes like steak nachos and steak fajitas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"I tried the carnitas and they were great."

"The steak here tastes the best."

Good to know

1

The menu features a variety of authentic Mexican dishes made from homemade ingredients.

2

Expect to pay around $4.50 for soft drinks like Coca Cola and Jarritos.

3

Flour tortillas incur an additional charge compared to corn tortillas.

05
Taqueria Diamante image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy, colorful space with a laid-back, Mexican vibe and friendly energy. Casual, cafeteria-style setting feels homey and inviting, with music that complements the atmosphere. BYOB policy adds to the relaxed, local feel.

Carnitas come with fresh flavor and a lot of taste. They stand out alongside barbacoa and pastor in tacos and burritos.

Steak here comes in good quality and tasty cuts. Options include steak plates and carne asada tacos, both well-prepared and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and tasted homemade."

"I loved the carnitas; they had so much flavor and tasted fresh."

"The steak here is good quality and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB and there is a liquor store just a few doors down.

2

The prices are very reasonable, making it easy to try a variety of items.

3

The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

06
Maiz Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall Mexican spot with only two tables and a to-go counter offers a welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly vibe. The place serves authentic tacos and Mexican toppings with fresh, high-quality meats. It stands out for excellent, flavorful dishes in a compact setting.

Tacos come with dried carnitas that stand out among other meats like asada and pastor. Carnitas appear alongside potatoes, onions, and grilled chiles in some dishes.

Steak here features fresh, high quality meat with options like Steak Asada and skirt steak. The Asada tacos stand out for their delicious, fresh taste.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"I thought the carnitas here were the best I had."

"The steak here is delicious and tastes so fresh."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features a rotating $2 taco special each week.

2

The restaurant has limited seating with only two tables for dine-in.

3

Takeout is recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

07
Bryn Mawr Breakfast Club image 1

Spacious restaurant blends rustic and eclectic decor with vintage art and a homey, cozy vibe. Atmosphere stays chill and inviting, featuring quiet music and no loud distractions. Outdoor patio and bar add to the relaxed, community-focused setting.

Carnitas dishes stand out with the Carnitas Skillet and Carnitas Croquet Senoritas both offering rich flavors. The skillet pairs well with chilaquiles and delivers a delicious experience.

Steak comes as a tender skirt cut cooked perfectly alongside eggs. Quality stays consistently high, making the steak and eggs a solid choice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The skirt steak here is tender and cooked perfectly."

"The Carnitas Skillet was delicious and I enjoyed it."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available at the establishment, only street and residential parking.

2

You might have to walk a block to reach the restaurant from the parking.

3

They don’t accept reservations, which could cause some waiting.

08
Steak Burrito Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a clean, bright dining area with a simple, plain interior. Atmosphere feels casual and unpretentious, suitable for lunch, dinner, or takeout. Known for high-quality steak burritos and flavorful dishes that stand out in the neighborhood.

Carnitas show up in several dishes like quesadillas, tacos, and gorditas. They have a solid flavor and pair well with chorizo and chicken in combo plates.

Steak stands out with main character energy and consistently delicious flavor across dishes like fajitas and a la Mexicana. Quesadillas are decent but miss some typical toppings like sour cream and guacamole.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the steak here was delicious and had main character energy."

"I thought the carnitas were good, rated an 8 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 10-15 minutes during busy lunch hours.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of menu options, including vegetarian choices.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $15 per person.

09
Maiz & Barro Mexican Grill - Cantina image 1

Mexican grill with colorful décor and a warm, inviting atmosphere offers a full-service bar and a beautiful outdoor patio. Music plays loudly, creating a lively vibe, while seating includes comfortable booths and tables. Authentic flavors and standout margaritas complement the engaging setting.

Carnitas tacos come with rich, tender meat that holds its own alongside steak and tinga. Each taco offers a balanced flavor that pairs well with other fillings like al pastor and shrimp.

Steak comes with a terrific char while staying tender and juicy. The skirt steak and chicken fajitas arrive fresh with perfect seasoning and flavors, especially when served sizzling.

People are saying

"The food here is seasoned to perfection and delicious."

"I tried the carnitas tacos and they were amazing."

"The steak had a terrific char and perfect seasoning."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect to pay extra for additional items or modifications to your order.

3

The menu features a limited selection focused on tacos and fajitas.

10
Carnitas Don Alfredo Bensenville image 1

Small dining area features handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican meats. Atmosphere feels comfortable and elegant despite closely arranged seating. The storefront has an old school appearance with a focus on cleanliness and organization.

Carnitas tacos come with handmade corn tortillas and stand out for their rich flavor. The platillo de carnitas offers a delicious, well-prepared experience that draws people from far away.

Steak comes tender and flavorful, often served in tacos alongside carnitas and chicken. Meals include rice and beans, making for a hearty, satisfying dish.

People are saying

"I thought these carnitas were the best in the area."

"You have to try the handmade tortillas; they're made right on the spot."

"The steak tacos were tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider takeout.

2

The restaurant offers a deal of $11.99 for a large portion of meat, five tortillas, rice, and beans.

3

Takeout is available, making it convenient for those on the go.

11
Burrito Parrilla Mexicana - Schaumburg image 1

Dining space occupies an old bank building with vibrant, cozy interiors and a casual yet somewhat formal atmosphere. The place stays impressively clean and offers warm homemade corn chips kept in a pizza oven. It attracts those seeking flavorful Mexican dishes in a welcoming setting.

Carnitas appear in burrito bowls with chorizo and beans, and in tacos alongside pastor. Some dishes like the carnita burrito and churros can be oily and have caused food poisoning.

Steak here is consistently premium grade and cooked to medium, matching common preferences. It appears in various dishes like tacos, fajitas, and salads, all noted for being well-prepared and flavorful.

People are saying

"I've never had a burrito so flavorful and huge!"

"The steak here is cooked perfectly to my liking."

"The carnitas tacos here are delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers complimentary chips and salsa with every meal.

2

You order at the counter and they bring the food to you.

3

The meal costs $7.99 for a main dish, with sides starting at $3.49.

12
Lola's Tacos and Tequila image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a colorful and fun atmosphere with dim lighting and lively salsa and reggaeton music at a comfortable volume. Outdoor seating on a quiet, private patio enhances the relaxed vibe. The place features an extensive margarita menu with large drinks and a strong tequila selection.

Juicy carnitas stand out in the tacos here. They pair well with pastor and birria options for variety.

Steak comes well seasoned and tender, easy to cut even with a regular table knife. Steak fajitas offer a generous amount of meat with very good flavors.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and amazing."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be really good."

"The steak here is so tender, it cuts with a regular knife."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is a popular time for drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during happy hour.

13
Los Friends Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small, clean space with removable seats and low tables creates a cozy dining experience. Atmosphere feels welcoming and comfortable, suited for families with a genuine Mexican kid menu. Food truck presence adds a casual, flexible element to the setting.

Weekends feature carnitas that stand out for their flavor. The taco platter with carnitas and arrachera offers a tasty mix, and the carnita dinner pairs well with other dishes like gisoado.

Steak appears in several dishes, including steak tacos that stand out for their flavor. Some steak servings resemble stew meat rather than traditional cuts, offering a different texture and style.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and tastes so fresh."

"I enjoyed the carnitas; they were on point."

"The steak tacos here were very, very good."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back for easy access.

2

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos.

3

They cater for events and special occasions.

14
Taco Maya image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with hand-painted murals and a vibrant salsa bar offering multiple sauce varieties. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and intimate to lively and welcoming, featuring good music and a friendly vibe. Offers excellent tacos and a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

Tacos come with well filled portions and good flavor. Classic carnitas tacos stand out alongside pastor and chorizo options on corn tortillas.

Steak comes in small portions and often feels dry or reheated. The steak taco costs $5 but lacks generous serving and presentation quality.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be the best I've had in a while."

"I found the carnitas tacos well filled and delicious."

"I thought the steak tacos were okay."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers buy 2 tacos, get 1 free.

2

$1 taco Mondays feature a specific taco type.

3

Lunch specials provide good value for money.

15
Carnitas Aguascalientes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with cozy seating and homemade sauces creates a family atmosphere filled with lively activity. The menu offers authentic Mexican carnitas and chicharrón made in-house, drawing those seeking genuine flavors. Tables are limited, often requiring a wait during busy times.

Juicy and flavorful meat stands out with a taste similar to 18th Street Carniceria but offers more menu options. The carnitas come highly praised for their rich flavor and tender texture.

Steak fajitas come with rich flavor and are well-seasoned. Steak tacos tend to be greasy and lack flavor.

People are saying

"These carnitas are delicious and melt in your mouth."

"The salsa here is amazing, with just the right amount of heat."

"I thought it was one of the best burritos I ever had."

Good to know

1

Next Saturday, 2/15, is their second-year anniversary.

2

The store mostly offers carryout, but there are a few tables to dine in.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere, especially on weekends.

16
Guzman y Gomez - Buffalo Grove image 1

Industrial yet modern sleek design creates a friendly atmosphere with bilingual staff enhancing the vibe. Small but clean dining space includes an inviting salsa bar for customizable flavors. $3 frozen margaritas and authentic Mexican beverages add to the experience.

Super tender and extra tasty carnitas stand out here. The Carnitas Bowl has perfectly seasoned meat with moist rice, and the carnitas beat the braised beef in tacos.

Steak comes out cooked to absolute perfection with fresh ingredients. The spice options add a nice kick to steak tacos.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The carnitas are super tender and tasty."

"I must commend the steak, cooked to absolute perfection."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during busy hours, especially at the drive-thru.

2

Prices for meals can be high; two burritos with fries cost $35.64.

3

Vegetarian options are available on the menu.

17
Playas Nayaritas - Chicago image 1
Seafood restaurant

Indoor and outdoor settings combine with beautiful decor and a family-friendly atmosphere reflecting regional culture. Music plays loudly, creating a lively energy. The place offers seafood and carnitas, with some dishes noted for their flavor and quality.

They serve amazing carnitas plates made in partnership with Carnitas Don Alfredo. The carnitas stand out as a popular menu item here.

Steak options include a fresh, thick cut cooked to perfection and a stuffed steak noted for its flavor. Prices vary widely, with some steaks costing up to $160, and occasional issues like a burned steak have been observed.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very good."

"I found the steak to be super delicious and tasty."

"I had the best carnitas in the city here."

Good to know

1

The steak dinner costs $60, which may be high for some budgets.

2

A service fee of $19 is automatically added to the bill.

3

Quesabirria tacos are available only from Monday to Friday.

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.

Carnitas come out moist and flavorful, not dry like at some places. They hold their own alongside other meats like barbacoa and cochinita pibil.

Steak comes in fatty and salty cuts, featured in fajitas and tacos. Options include meals with three steak tacos or mixed meats like shrimp and chicken alongside steak.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"The carnitas here is so flavorful and not dry at all."

"The steak in the fajitas was the best part."

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.

19
Taco Azteca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining room offers a cozy, family-style atmosphere with clean, tasteful decor featuring lively colors. Free tableside chips and guacamole accompany meals, enhancing the authentic Mexican vibe. The place feels like eating in a grandma's kitchen, creating a comfortable and festive environment.

Pork carnitas come well seasoned and delicious. They stand out as a favorite among other meats like barbacoa and chicken.

Generous portions of steak come in the tacos, cooked and seasoned well. The steak tacos stand out compared to other options like carnitas or nachos with steak.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was seriously good."

"I loved the pork carnitas with the green salsa on top."

"The steak here is seasoned so well, it's perfection."

Good to know

1

The price of a steak burrito is now $14.99 after a recent increase.

2

They charge three different taxes when paying with a card.

3

The restaurant offers options for picky eaters, like chicken nuggets and quesadillas.

20
La Guadalupana Restaurante - Berwyn image 1

Large Mexican restaurant with live mariachi music and a spacious dance floor creates a festive and authentic atmosphere. Music volume varies, sometimes loud but generally adds to the lively vibe. Comfortable seating and decorative photo setups enhance the welcoming environment.

Carnitas tacos and a torta de carnitas stand out with rich flavors. The torta sometimes comes with a stew on top, offering a twist on the classic version.

Steak options include a Huarache Steak with fresh veggie toppings and a generous portion. Some steaks come overpriced and can be burnt or lack seasoning.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the birria and consommé, is amazing."

"The steak here is very good and tasty."

"I really enjoyed my carnitas taco and torta."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 8 PM on Fridays, attracting a lively crowd.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere after 8 PM during karaoke nights.

3

Parking is available, but it can be limited during peak hours.

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