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Top picks in Illinois

Chips and salsa spots

A bowl of salsa and a basket of crunchy chips are essential for a snack.

Based on 874 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Taqueria El Grande image 1
Taqueria El Grande image 2
Taqueria El Grande image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small space with an old school vibe offers a cozy, casual atmosphere. Homemade chips are crisp and never oily, paired with warm, spicy salsa full of flavor. Cleanliness shines despite limited light and window ads, making it a welcoming spot.

Homemade chips come out crisp and never oily. Salsa arrives warm with a slightly spicy kick and plenty of flavor, always fresh and hot.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I'd had in years."

"I found the Mexican food to be very authentic and lacked seasoning elsewhere."

"The homemade chips and salsa here are amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky due to shared space with another business.

2

Bring cash to avoid a 4% credit card fee.

3

The restaurant is small and gets crowded on weekends.

02
Tepalcates image 1
Mexican restaurant

See-through kitchen adds engaging dining flair while '80s pop videos create a warm atmosphere. Four types of chips and salsa, especially the verde salsa, offer a delicious start to meals. Hot sauces on tables add a unique, spicy touch.

Four types of chips and salsa come with orders, including a verde salsa that stands out. The chips and salsa are consistently delicious and often served complimentary while waiting.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was outstanding."

"The salsas here are unique and delicious, especially the sesame one."

"The chips and salsa here are delicious, especially the verde."

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.

03
Taco Loco Bar & Grill image 1

Bar and grill offers authentic Mexican dishes with a warm atmosphere and chill vibes. Chips come with mild salsa perfect for kids, and staff quickly add more if needed. Food is carefully prepared, making it a friendly, casual spot.

Chips come with mild salsa that is not spicy, which suits kids well. Staff easily add chips and salsa when forgotten during orders.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is delicious."

"I found the wet burrito bathed in sauce to be very delicious."

"The chips and salsa were not spicy at all."

Good to know

1

The medium margarita costs $19.99, not $13.99 as listed.

2

An extra $1.00 charge applies for flavoring not listed on the menu.

3

Prices are reasonable for the amount and quality of food.

04
Javi Mexican Grill Restaurant image 1

Small Mexican spot offers authentic tacos and friendly vibe with TVs showing music videos. Enjoy free chips and salsa that are fresh and flavorful. Prices stay reasonable with good portions, making it a solid casual choice.

Free chips and salsa come with every order and taste fresh and flavorful. The salsa pairs well with the crispy chips, making a solid starter.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the steak tacos were the best."

"I really enjoyed the tasty chips and salsa here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Parking is free in the lot, making it convenient for diners.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

05
EL TRAGON TAQUERIA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot with homemade chips and fresh salsa that brighten every meal. Vintage decor and family-owned vibe create a warm, casual feel. Tight seating inside, but outdoor options offer a relaxed space to enjoy authentic flavors.

Chips look homemade and come with salsa made from fresh ingredients. The chips and salsa pair well with the tacos and optional sauces.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best I ever had."

"I loved their salsas; the variety added a fun, spicy kick."

"You have to try the chips and salsa; the salsas were so fresh."

Good to know

1

The tacos are reasonably priced but portions are small.

2

Parking is easy outside the taqueria.

3

Food comes out quickly, making it a good option for a fast meal.

06
Iztatl Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with home-made tortillas and spicy red salsa that pack a punch. Chips are fresh and crispy, perfect with meals. Space feels clean but bare, offering a casual vibe with background music for a relaxed dining experience.

Chips come with fresh, crispy texture and salsa offers a balanced, flavorful kick. Both complement meals well and stand out for their excellent quality.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here are packed with amazing flavor, especially the tacos."

"I enjoyed the delicious chips and salsa."

Good to know

1

Parking is non-existent unless willing to walk a quarter of a block.

2

Prices at Iztatl Cocina Mexicana are very affordable.

3

The portions at Iztatl Cocina Mexicana are large.

07
Lily's Taste image 1
Mexican restaurant

Unassuming spot offers handmade tortillas and free chips and salsa with fresh heat. Atmosphere feels family-friendly but can get uneasy when tables shift. Budget prices and indoor seating make it great for social meals.

Free chips and salsa arrive fresh with a little heat. The salsa tastes very fresh and the chips are crispy and delicious.

People are saying

"The homemade tortillas and tamales here are the best I've ever had."

"The green and red salsas were both delicious and spicy."

"The chips and salsa here are fresh and have a little heat."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature special pricing on tacos.

2

The menu includes cecina tacos priced at $5.50 each.

3

Expect a $2 charge for mole sauce with your meal.

08
Tapatio Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot boasts a warm atmosphere with wood accents and lively music. Outdoor seating adds a light vibe while inside stays cozy. Homemade tortilla chips and vibrant salsa make a delicious starter that shines every visit.

Homemade tortilla chips come fresh and crunchy. Salsa tastes vibrant and pairs well with the starter chips. Both are consistently delicious and often stand out as a highlight.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and authentic."

"I highly recommend trying this Mexican food; we will be back."

"I thought the homemade chips and salsa were delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, but no dedicated lot is present.

2

Prices are reasonable, with dinner around $10 and tacos at $3.50.

3

The restaurant is a short walk from the Westmont train station.

09
TORRO MEXICAN CUISINE image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with colorful decor and hanging flowers for a garden vibe. Chips are homemade and fluffy, paired with fresh salsa. Cozy booths and lively music make it a trendy, fun place to relax.

Homemade chips come out fluffy and well seasoned. Salsa tastes fresh and pairs perfectly with the chips.

People are saying

"I loved the steak tacos; they were fantastic and piping hot."

"The dinner here is amazing, especially the tacos and margaritas."

"I couldn't stop eating their amazing chips and salsa."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays offer half-price tacos and half-price house margaritas.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM on Wednesdays and Thursdays with half-price drinks.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere on special event days with large parties.

10
Huatulco Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Minimalist decor and vibrant atmosphere make it bright and joyful. Complimentary fresh chips and balanced salsa arrive quickly. Large portions and varied vegetarian options satisfy those seeking quick, hearty meals.

Baskets of complimentary chips and salsa arrive quickly after seating. The chips are fresh and the salsa has a balanced flavor.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be outstanding and unique."

"The Mexican food service was friendly and super fast."

"I liked the chips and salsa; it was filling."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch special from 11 AM to 3 PM.

2

Prices are reasonable considering the quality and quantity of food.

3

Expect longer wait times during busy hours.

11
Federales Tacos & Tequila - Logan Square, Chicago image 1

Retractable roof and killer patio create a lively space with loud music and energetic DJ sets. Enjoy Tajin seasoned chips with fresh salsa as a perfect starter. Mexican-inspired dishes like vegan tacos and brisket nachos pair well with mezcal margaritas amid a vibrant, social vibe.

Tajin seasoned tortilla chips come with fresh salsa as a complimentary snack. The chips and salsa serve as a delicious, perfect appetizer that stands out for its fantastic flavor.

People are saying

"The tacos here are insane, especially the ribeye."

"The outdoor seating here is great."

"The chips and salsa here are surprisingly amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 6pm Monday through Thursday and 3pm to 5pm on Fridays.

2

Parking can be scarce or tight due to the location.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

12
Cholula's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Colorful dining room sets a festive Mexican mood with a laid-back vibe and friendly energy. Chips and salsa are authentic and crispy, pairing perfectly with margaritas for great value. Seating is comfortable and the space stays clean and authentic.

Authentic salsa pairs with crispy chips that stand out from typical Mexican spots. The combination balances well with margaritas and offers good value.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is delicious; I've never had better fried tacos."

"The chips and salsa here are so yummy and authentic."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special tacos and margaritas every Tuesday.

2

Expect reasonable prices for both food and drinks.

3

The restaurant can accommodate larger groups comfortably.

13
Little Rock Stock Cafe image 1

Small dining area offers a rustic vibe with charming southern belle decor. Free chips and salsa come with meals, featuring multiple sauces for variety. Friendly, nostalgic atmosphere feels like an old-school BBQ joint with a quaint gift shop.

Free chips and salsa come with the meal and taste very good. Multiple sauces accompany the chips, adding variety.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is so tender and juicy."

"The peach cobbler here is to die for."

"I thought the chips and salsa were homemade and delicious."

Good to know

1

They have a wide variety of unique BBQ sauces to choose from.

2

They make their own sausages on-site for fresh flavors.

3

Prices are low for the quality and quantity of food.

14
Taco Azteca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy dining room feels like grandma's kitchen with lively colors and a festive vibe. Free tableside chips and guacamole add to the authentic Mexican experience. Fresh, tasty chips and salsa arrive quickly, paired perfectly with classic taqueria style chips and flavorful rice.

Fresh and tasty chips and salsa arrive quickly at the table. The salsa pairs well with classic taqueria style chips, and the rice served alongside complements the dish.

People are saying

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

"I loved their steak burrito; it was generously filled with meat."

"The chips and salsa here are so fresh and delicious."

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.

15
Bubbakoo's Burritos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican spot serves fresh salsa with crispy chips, making a great start. Large portions of varied burritos satisfy big appetites. Friendly staff add to the welcoming vibe, perfect for casual dining with quality food.

Chips come with fresh salsa that complements them well. Both chips and salsa have a good flavor and texture.

People are saying

"You get so much substance in this burrito, it's huge!"

"I thought the queso was fantastic."

"I thought the chips and salsa were good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a great deal on tacos.

2

The restaurant has large portions that are worth the price.

3

It costs approximately $20 for two people to eat and be full.

16
Los Amigos O’Fallon IL image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with fresh chips and mild salsa that please every time. Bright lighting and comfortable seating create a friendly, festive vibe. Patio offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for cooler evenings.

Fresh chips arrive quickly with a thin style that many prefer. Salsa tastes mild and pairs well, making the combo consistently enjoyable.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and super good."

"I found their Mexican food to be the best I'd ever eaten."

"I loved their chips and salsa; they did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

The menu offers a tremendous variety with many options at reasonable prices.

2

Even with tip, our entire meal was less than $50.

3

There's plenty of parking available.

17
LUCIA'S TAQUERIA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers generous portions and a relaxing vibe with charming decor. Chips and salsa come quickly and taste great, included with every entrée. Fresh margaritas add a balanced drink option to the healthier, cleaner menu.

Chips come in good portions and arrive quickly when you walk in. Ordering an entrée includes chips and salsa with everything, and the salsa tastes pretty good.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is stuffed with meat and delicious."

"The chips and salsa here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Tacos are priced at $5.50 each, which may be considered high.

2

The restaurant offers chips and salsa with every entrée ordered.

3

Portion sizes are generous compared to other local options.

18
Meshico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small restaurant with quaint decor and sombrero lights creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere that is both bright and airy. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed vibe while lively music often fills the space. The environment stays very clean and well-maintained throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I've never had salsa this good; it's possibly the best I've ever tasted."

"The salsa verde here is probably in my top 2-3."

Good to know

1

Meshico is a BYOB restaurant, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to limited indoor seating.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

19
La Taqueria El Primo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy healthy chips and salsa that kick off the meal with bold flavor. Savor handmade quesadillas and well-seasoned meats in a clean, family-run spot. Prices stay reasonable, perfect for tacos and late-night cravings.

Chips and salsa come in a healthy serving and taste delicious. They set a high bar for the rest of the meal.

People are saying

"Their Al pastor and quesabirrias with flavorful consommé are amazing."

"The steak tacos here have fantastic flavor and are juicy."

"I thought their chips and salsa were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

$2 tacos are available on Tuesdays.

2

BYOB is recommended for dining in the restaurant.

3

The portions are generous, so come with a big appetite.

20
Mucha Salsa Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small dining area offers an intimate, family-owned vibe. Chips arrive hot with fresh salsa and all toppings. High-quality meat shines in every dish, making it a standout Mexican spot.

Chips come hot and fresh, paired with enjoyable salsa. They arrive alongside all the toppings, including tortillas, rice, and beans.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and outstanding."

"I'll be thinking about these delicious tacos for days."

"The chips and salsa here were enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but may be recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect longer wait times during weekend dinner hours, especially on Fridays.

3

Takeout service is available for those who prefer to eat at home.

21
Burrito Parrilla Mexicana - Schaumburg image 1

Dining in a vibrant, cozy space inside an old bank offers a unique vibe. Enjoy warm homemade corn chips with a small bowl of salsa that complements the meal perfectly. The spot balances a casual yet formal feel with impressive cleanliness and flavorful Mexican dishes.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive at the table with the meal. The small bowl of salsa pairs well with the chips and adds a nice touch to the dining experience.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved that they had four different kinds of chips and salsa."

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.

22
Que Rico Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with free chips and salsa that kick off the meal. Vibrant sombrero decor sets a lively mood, perfect for casual hangs. Chill patio and a hidden back room offer cozy, vibey seating for any occasion.

Free chips and salsa arrive as a nice touch. They offer a fantastic snack to munch on while checking the menu.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The dinner spots here feel like family, thanks to Patty's genuine warmth."

"The complimentary chips and salsa were a nice touch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available even on weekends.

2

Expect large portion sizes, making it a good value for the price.

3

Free street parking is available on nearby residential streets.

23
El Cortez Taqueria & Tortilleria image 1

Enjoy exceptional chips and salsa with well-seasoned meats in a warm, cozy atmosphere. Portions are generous and flavors authentic, making it perfect for a relaxed, flavorful meal.

Chips and salsa stand out with their exceptional quality and flavor. They serve as a highlight of the meal.

People are saying

"I thought the salsa here was the best I have had."

"I enjoyed the steak tacos and the flavors were just right."

"I thought the chips and salsa were great."

Good to know

1

The total cost for a meal averages around $65 for two people.

2

Flan is currently not available on the dessert menu.

3

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes for all dishes.

24
Taqueria Los Cuates image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy fresh, crispy chips paired with salsa that hits a perfect balance of mild spice and rich flavor. The homey, casual atmosphere with soft Mexican music makes dining relaxed and inviting. Known for well-prepared tacos and reasonable prices, it’s a true hidden gem.

Chips come fresh and crispy with salsa that balances mild spice and rich flavor. Complimentary servings highlight the well-crafted taste without being watered down.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and economical."

"The steak tacos and tortas here are amazing."

"The chips and salsa here are amazing, not too spicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so be prepared to arrive early.

2

Tacos cost $2.90, with a full plate of chilaquiles at $14.50.

3

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

25
Taqueria El Perez image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, intimate spot with authentic Mexican music and a family-run vibe. Chips and salsa offer a rich flavor with a nice kick. Known for mushroom al pastor tacos that bring lively, flavorful energy.

Chips come with salsa that has a nice kick and rich flavor. The combination is better than most and pairs well with other dishes.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and delicious, especially the tacos."

"The service at these dinner spots is outstandingly friendly and attentive."

"The chips and salsa here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Taqueria El Perez is closed on Mondays.

2

The restaurant can cater to parties of up to 20 people.

3

The price is reasonable considering the high quality of the food.

26
Taco Maya image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with a vibrant atmosphere and colorful decor. Warm chips come with a variety of salsas from an open salsa bar. Fusion tacos and margarita flights complete the lively menu.

Warm chips arrive at the table alongside a variety of salsas from an open salsa bar. This setup makes for a fun and delicious starter to the meal.

People are saying

"I loved their fusion tacos, especially the Indian-inspired ones."

"I loved the salsa bar with so many different, amazing salsas."

"The chips and salsa here are warm and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Maya offers $1 tacos on Mondays.

2

Free taco Tuesdays provide a great deal for visitors.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

27
La Amistad Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with fresh salsa verde and crisp chips that keep you coming back. Outdoor seating offers a chill vibe perfect for people-watching. Locals love the reasonable prices and simple, clean space with fancy paintings adding charm.

Chips and salsa verde stand out with their fresh flavor. The combination keeps people reaching for more.

People are saying

"The tacos here are massive and really solid."

"The dinner spots here have huge portions and aren't too expensive."

"I found the chips and salsa verde to be exceptional."

Good to know

1

La Amistad Restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

Street parking is always available near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant has a new online ordering system that is cheaper than delivery services.

28
Ghost Donkey image 1

Upstairs lounge offers a cozy vibe with stunning decor and couch tables. Chips are fresh and crispy with bold salsa. Music is loud and upbeat, featuring DJs and salsa lessons for lively nights.

Chips come fresh and crispy with salsa that packs a bold flavor. The combination is consistently great and amazing across visits.

People are saying

"This bar has a super fun, lounge-like atmosphere."

"The staff made our happy hour experience truly amazing."

"The chips and salsa here were amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from Monday to Saturday 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM and all day on Sunday.

2

Tacos are priced at $2.00 during happy hour.

3

Ghost Donkey gets packed between 6:00 and 8:00 PM.

29
La Catrina Mexican Restaurant image 1

Authentic Mexican decor creates a warm vibe perfect for families. Fresh, flavorful chips and salsa complement every meal. Margaritas offer a perfect tangy and sweet balance, making the experience fun and friendly.

Chips and salsa come fresh and flavorful. They consistently hit the spot and complement the meal well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always good."

"The dinner spots here have delicious steak and al pastor."

"The chips and salsa here really hit the spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not offer lunch or drink specials during the week.

2

Prices at the restaurant are considered high compared to other places in the area.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and has a vibrant atmosphere.

30
Uncle John's Sports Bar & Grill image 1

Small bar buzzes with live music and big TVs for games. Enjoy homemade chips and fresh salsa served in generous baskets. Friendly vibe shines with welcoming hospitality and fun games like darts and Golden Tee.

Chips and salsa come out immediately and in large quantities, with multiple baskets for a group and refills on demand. The chips are homemade and the salsa is consistently very good.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and fresh."

"The bartender Kristen made everyone feel so welcome and right at home."

"The chips and salsa here are homemade and really good."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night is every Tuesday starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Taco Tuesdays feature $1 tacos all day long.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

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