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Tamales and quesadillas in Illinois

A meal where the tamales are as carefully prepared as the quesadillas, rather than one being a lazy substitute for the other.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tamaleria y antojitos chepis image 1
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Small space with limited seating and a long table by the window creates an intimate setting. Warm and welcoming atmosphere suits mostly takeout-focused visits. Known for authentic Mexican tamales and standout birria, it offers a distinct taste experience in a modest environment.

Tamales come perfectly steamed and wrapped in banana leaves, adding a unique flavor. Options like chicken and pork are soft, well-seasoned, and served with flavorful broth, while the red salsa tamale stands out for its excellent taste.

Fried chicken quesadillas stand out with a deep fried twist. Quesadillas de comal offer a classic, crispy texture that pairs well with other dishes like tamales and quesabirrias.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be perfectly steamed and flavorful."

"The birria tacos here are tender and flavorful."

"I tried the quesabirrias and they are glorious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is primarily for takeout with limited seating for about five people.

2

Prices are competitive, with meals averaging around $40 for two.

3

The menu lacks clear pictures, making it hard for newcomers to navigate.

02
El Sazon de Edmar image 1

Small restaurant offers authentic Mexican street food with handmade tortillas and fresh masa-based dishes. Atmosphere is simple and unpretentious, with a limited menu focusing on quality over variety. Food is affordable and consistently fresh, attracting those seeking genuine flavors.

Tamales stand out for their consistent freshness and tasty flavor. They come alongside other dishes like Picaditas and Quezadillas that share the same quality.

Chicken quesadillas stand out alongside chicharrón pupusas and molotes. These items appear consistently as favorites, highlighting their authentic flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always made with lots of care."

"I loved the chicken quesadillas; everything I ate was very tasty."

"I found the tamales to be amazing and always fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early due to limited seating.

2

Prices are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly dining option.

3

The menu features handcrafted items, but the variety is limited.

03
AMMAN KABAB MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small restaurant inside a bustling international market offers a loud, friendly atmosphere with plenty of seating. The space feels compact yet lively, surrounded by grocery store activity. Known for affordable, fresh halal Mediterranean dishes, it stands out for excellent chicken shawarma and falafel.

Soft chicken tamales stand out with their simple, delicious flavor. They pair well with other tasty dishes like soup and falafel.

Birria quesadillas feature buttery meat that melts in your mouth. They consistently earn high praise for flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I found the chicken shawarma wrap to be heavenly with lots of meat and garlic sauce."

"I thought the birria quesadilla was one of the best I’ve had."

"I tried the tamales and they were so delicious."

Good to know

1

On Taco Tuesday, the restaurant offers a buy 2 get 1 free deal.

2

One chicken shawarma wrap costs $7.99 and is filling.

3

Everything is halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

04
Julio’s Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with limited seating and a hole-in-the-wall feel. Atmosphere is cozy and easygoing, suited for quick meals or takeout. Known for authentic, fresh homemade tacos and standout churros.

Tamales come in red and green sauces with options like chicken. They taste very fresh and pair well with other dishes like tacos and burritos.

Quesadillas come perfectly portioned with a generous side of sour cream and guacamole. They are not dry or doughy, hitting a just right balance.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is outstanding; everything I ordered was amazing."

"I thought the tamales here were great and very fresh."

"Their quesadillas are perfectly portioned with generous sides."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos every Tuesday.

2

Seating is extremely limited, so takeout is recommended.

3

Pickup is preferred due to the lack of seating.

05
Taqueria Tejupilco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy space with only a few tables creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels casual and authentic, with a chill, pleasant vibe. Known for authentic Mexican food and affordable prices, it draws those seeking fresh, flavorful tacos in a hole-in-the-wall environment.

Tamales come out very tasty and stand out among other dishes like tacos and tortas. They hold up well in a menu full of varied Mexican options.

Quesadillas come with chorizo, birria, and pastor fillings. The chicken and small quesadillas serve as solid options alongside taco dinners.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious; I'd lick my fingers."

"The chicken quesadilla here was really good."

"I found the tamales here to be full of flavor and authentic."

Good to know

1

The al pastor burrito costs only $10.

2

They offer different sizes of burritos, including a 'junior' size.

3

The prices at Taqueria Tejupilco are very affordable.

06
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.

Tamales come big and meaty, with pork and chicken options. The chicken tamale with green sauce stands out as especially flavorful.

Quesadillas come in large portions that are often shareable. Options include chicken tinga, carne asada, and shrimp, each noted for strong flavor and quality.

People are saying

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

"These tamales are the biggest and most flavorful I've ever had."

"You have to try the chicken tinga quesadilla; it's perfect."

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.

07
Taqueria Mexico 2000 Lombard image 1

Mexican restaurant with an open kitchen and well thought out decor offers a quiet atmosphere and friendly vibe. Unique menu items and authentic flavors distinguish it from other casual Mexican spots. Prices remain great value, especially during special promotions.

Fresh tamales come in red and green varieties with unique flavors. Some tamales could use more meat, but they offer a good mix including red pork tamale and other Mexican dishes.

Cheese quesadillas come in a good size that kids can easily eat. Options include a tinga quesadilla and a quesadilla with chorizo.

People are saying

"The steak tacos here are great and have excellent flavor."

"I thought the quesadilla was very good and authentic."

"These tamales could use more meat inside."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, they have $1.99 tacos.

2

Parking is limited, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, adding a personal touch.

08
Lily's Taste image 1
Mexican restaurant

Unassuming spot with American-style Mexican decor and handmade tortillas stands out for authentic flavors and budget-friendly prices. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and welcoming to slightly uneasy when tables rearrange frequently. Offers a family and social vibe with plenty of indoor seating.

Moist masa stands out with a little spice in the tamales. The Jalapeño Tamale offers excellent flavor and freshness that makes it hard to stop at one.

Quesadillas come with a generous amount of meat and feature a handmade tortilla rated solid 8. Varieties include birria, pastor, and cecina, all delivering strong flavor.

People are saying

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

"The tamales here are moist and have excellent flavor."

"The quesadillas here are amazing with a generous amount of meat."

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.

09
Estrella Negra image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with colorful local art on walls and tabletops creates an intimate, vibrant atmosphere. Loud and lively, it feels like an underground art party with a modern Mexican and Chicano vibe. Busy weekends call for reservations.

Extremely good elote tamales stand out with their delicate masa and lime addition. Creative options include vegan spinach and artichoke and classic pork, all with incredible flavor.

Goat cheese quesadillas offer a flavorful and perfectly cooked option. They pair well with other dishes like the Poblano Surf N Turf burger.

People are saying

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

"The elote tamales are the greatest thing I've ever had."

"I loved the goat cheese quesadilla; it was delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Margaritas cost $7 on Tuesday nights.

2

Estrella Negra hosts lotería and brunch events regularly.

3

Live jazz band plays on the 4th Wednesday of each month.

10
Tamalería Doña Amada image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors from multiple regions with affordable prices and quick-selling tamales. Atmosphere suits families and military personnel, with kid-friendly spice levels and a variety of traditional dishes. Food quality varies, but tamales and quesadillas stand out as highly praised specialties.

Tamales here have a fluffy, meat-filled texture and come in red and green varieties. They sell out fast, so arriving early is key to get the fresh, hot tamales that many find delicious.

Handmade quesadillas deliver a homemade taste with 100% Mexican flavor. Fried quesadillas and options like quesadilla de tinga stand out for their authentic style.

People are saying

"These tamales are the best I've ever had in the USA."

"These tamales are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"I tasted the best handmade quesadillas I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Arrive early as tamales and champurrado sell out quickly.

2

The restaurant offers a full menu beyond just tamales.

3

Prices are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

11
Pupuseria Cheros image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Small restaurant with colorful Latin American decor creates a warm, authentic atmosphere that feels like home. The space is clean and inviting, filled with friendly energy and low-volume music that encourages conversation.

Salvadoran tamales here are authentic and rich in flavor, with the fried corn tamale tasting as smooth as cream. The menu includes classic tamales that hold up well alongside other traditional dishes.

Salvadoran quesadillas stand out with their delicious flavor and pair well with other dishes like empanadas. They offer a great taste that complements the menu's variety.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes homemade."

"These Salvadoran tamales are authentic and rich in flavor."

"I found the Salvadoran quesadilla delicious and felt like I was at home."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Expect a wait for tables during peak dining hours.

3

The horchata contains peanuts, which may affect those with allergies.

12
Taco Moro image 1
Taco restaurant

Small space with vibrant colors and entertaining artwork on the walls creates an intimate atmosphere. Lively 80s music videos play, adding to the warm and welcoming vibe. The place draws people looking for authentic tacos and a comfortable setting.

Corn tamales stand out with rich flavor and great texture. The green tamale offers a unique taste that surpasses many others. Overall, tamales here taste really good and are consistently satisfying.

Birria quesadillas stand out for their rich flavor and size. Options like the quesobirria and steak quesadillas offer hearty, delicious choices.

People are saying

"The steak tacos here are made with real, high-quality steak."

"I've never had a quesadilla this good anywhere else."

"I highly recommend the quesabirria; it was perfect."

Good to know

1

Taco Moro is certified halal, with the entire menu being halal.

2

Dinner costs around $16 for three steak tacos, rice, and beans.

3

Parking is easy with plenty of available spaces.

13
Mix Mex Cue image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining with a friendly, laid-back vibe and a cute back patio. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming for families, creating a comfortable and inviting space. The setting is small but visually appealing, encouraging guests to linger.

Green chicken tamale and steak torta stand out as tasty options. Tamales come with a sour taste that might seem unusual. They are popular enough to be worth taking home.

Juicy and fresh, the quesadillas come in quite large portions. The brisket quesadillas stand out as a favorite, paired well with guacamole and steak tacos.

People are saying

"You have to try the Mexican food; the homemade tortillas are amazing."

"The quesadillas here are amazing and have great flavor."

"I found the green chicken tamale delicious."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is located behind the building.

2

They accept card and have a Zelle barcode.

3

They offer a discount if paid in cash.

14
El Taco Cart image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with fun, festive vibe and unique decor featuring pictures on the walls. Music plays a key role, creating an upbeat energy that complements the candlelight ambiance. Space is small and cozy, attracting a lively crowd especially late at night.

Chicken and pork tamales come with verde sauce and deliver solid flavor. The tamales pair well with other items like taquitos and veggie quesadillas.

Quesadillas come in cheesy, fresh versions and include options like steak and chicken tinga. Sizes vary from little quesadillas perfect for kids to larger ones served like big flour tortilla tacos.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here tastes like Mexico, especially the steak tacos."

"The quesadillas here are cheesy and delicious."

"The pork tamales here are delicious."

Good to know

1

El Taco Cart is open late, making it ideal for late-night cravings.

2

Expect to pay around $5 for a taco, which some consider pricey.

3

The ingredients used are fresh, enhancing the quality of the food.

15
Mariscos San Pedro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, seaside-style interior with thoughtful decor creates a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Loud Mexican and Latin music fills the space, making conversation challenging amid the busy service environment. Tables often sit close to kitchen activity, adding to the lively, energetic vibe.

Duck tamale comes with mole sauce and is served alongside rice and beans. Mole flavor is rich but can overpower the tamale itself.

Quesadillas feature a unique half cheesy burnt crisp texture that stands out. Hot options like the quesabirria and lobster quesadilla come with amazing tortillas and bold flavors.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the dorade and tostadas, is creative and delicious."

"I had what might have been the best quesadilla I've ever had."

"The duck tamale in mole was rich in flavor."

Good to know

1

Monday night deals offer great value for diners.

2

Expect delays if events start later than scheduled.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy nights to avoid long waits.

16
Molcajete Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with limited seating and a takeout-focused atmosphere. Offers authentic dishes like tacos and fajitas with juicy, well-cooked meat and a variety of vegetarian options. The space feels welcoming and warm despite its size.

Soft masa wraps the tamales without overpowering the fillings. Sauces offer a perfect balance that complements the delicious tamales well.

Carne asada quesadillas come fresh and tasty, with options including meat or no meat. Prices range from 9 to 13 dollars, with some dinners like the chicken quesadilla costing close to 30 dollars.

People are saying

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

"The tamales here are served by the sweetest, friendliest people."

"I found the carne asada quesadilla to be good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers discounted tacos, making it a popular event.

2

The restaurant has limited dine-in seating, so arrive early.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to other Mexican restaurants.

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