Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Chips and salsa in Chicago

You judge a place by the quality of its chips and the depth of its salsa.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Tepalcates image 1
Tepalcates image 2
Tepalcates image 3
View all
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.

02
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.

03
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.

04
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.

05
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.

06
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.

07
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.

08
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.

09
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.

10
La Biznaga image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers adorable decorations and a warm atmosphere. Enjoy complimentary homemade chips and salsa with a vibrant taste. Large seating fits families, and tacos come in excellent portions for a lively meal.

Complimentary homemade chips and salsa start the meal with fresh, flavorful bites. The chips are crispy and the salsa has a balanced, vibrant taste that stands out.

People are saying

"You have to try the tacos; the al pastor and nopales are the best."

"I loved the authentic Mexican food, it was delicious and well seasoned."

"The chips and salsa here are top notch."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday evening.

2

La Biznaga is a BYOB restaurant, so bring your own drinks.

3

The restaurant has a 3% surcharge added to the bill for tax and tip.

11
Southport Taqueria Dine-in & Take-out image 1

Mexican spot offers authentic tacos in a cozy atmosphere that feels warm and welcoming. Enjoy free chips and salsa with your meal, enhancing the no-frills dining experience. Space fills fast, creating a lively yet comfortable vibe for easy conversation.

Free chips and salsa come with dine-in orders. Both the chips and salsa taste good and are complimentary.

People are saying

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

"I've never had a burrito this big; it was as big as my head!"

"The Chips And Salsa staff were super friendly and welcoming."

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.

12
Senoritas Cantina On Dearborn image 1

Small Mexican spot shines with fresh housemade chips and salsa that taste vibrant. Enjoy fantastic margaritas in a chill setting with Latin vibes. Quiet street and underrated vegetarian options make it a great find.

Housemade chips and salsa arrive fresh and free with every seating. The salsa tastes very fresh and stands out compared to typical offerings.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and delicious."

"The ambiance is eclectic and vibey, a great spot for photos."

"I loved their housemade chips and salsa; they tasted so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with a 20% discount on drinks.

2

Brunch is now offered on weekends with a special menu.

3

A 3% surcharge applies for credit card payments.

13
Taqueria Mazamitla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers authentic tacos in a family-driven setting with Instagram-worthy tables. Enjoy crispy chips and flavorful salsa served free with dine-in orders. Bring your own drinks and relax like you're at a relative's house.

Complimentary chips and salsa come with dine-in orders. The chips are crispy and the salsa is flavorful, making a solid starter or side.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious, especially the pastor and birria."

"I thought the salsa was the best I've ever had and was hot."

"The chips and salsa they give you are amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking can be limited, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

The restaurant allows customers to bring their own beverages (BYOB).

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.

14
Westso Mexican Steakhouse image 1

Modern steakhouse offers sleek black decor and a friendly vibe. Enjoy homemade chips with perfect salsa that starts the meal right. Steaks and excellent margaritas complete the stylish, casual yet elegant experience.

Small things like chips and salsa get an elevated touch here. The homemade chips come with a perfect salsa that sets the tone right away.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and amazing."

"The steak here is perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful."

"Their homemade chips and salsa were outstanding and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $10 margaritas and unique appetizers.

2

Tacos are $10 for three during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for the dueling pianos event on weekends.

15
El Costeño image 1
Restaurant

Bright colors and traditional Mexican music create an authentic atmosphere with a cozy, family feel. Complimentary homemade chips and salsa taste fresh and balanced. Open, sunny space adds to the relaxed dining experience.

Complimentary homemade chips and salsa arrive at the table. The tortilla chips and salsa taste fresh and are well balanced.

People are saying

"The cabeza tacos are tender and juicy."

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

"The chips and salsa here are so good, I could eat them with everything."

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.

16
Diego Chicago Restaurant | Dinner, Late Night, Weekend Brunch image 1

Mexican restaurant offers heated patio and lively DJ for a warm vibe. Enjoy authentic chips with a standout green salsa trio. Cozy decor and a chill outdoor patio make it perfect for drinks or a date night.

Chips come with a trio of salsas, including a green salsa that stands out. The chips are authentic Mexican style and pair well with all three salsas.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, bursting with flavor."

"The cocktails here pair perfectly with the sunshine on the open roof patio."

"I loved the chips and salsa trio with three different salsas."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM with great food and drink specials.

2

Asada Sundays offer unique dining experiences worth checking out.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for patio seating.

17
Los 3 Compadres de Guerrero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves authentic tacos in a family-friendly setting with a homey atmosphere. Enjoy free chips and salsa that are crispy and flavorful. Prices stay reasonable with large portions and quick service.

Free chips and salsa arrive crispy and light. Table chips and salsas offer addicting flavor and the perfect size for sharing.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best I had in a long time."

"The pastor tacos here are packed with amazing flavor."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer special deals on tacos.

2

Expect a short wait time during peak hours.

3

Prices are very reasonable for the portion sizes.

18
Casa Tulum image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with fresh chips and salsa and great margaritas. Vibrant vibe fueled by a live DJ and fire show keeps energy high. Two bars with TVs add fun to the lively, clean space.

Freshness stands out with complimentary chips and salsa served here. The excellent quality makes them a notable starter.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and perfectly seasoned."

"The service here for Date Spots is attentive and above and beyond."

"The chips and salsa were fresh and noteworthy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 3 PM.

2

Ask for the $10 margaritas special on Mondays and Tuesdays.

3

Street parking is easy to find and free on Sundays.

19
Momento Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vibrant Mexican decor and live mariachi music create a lively vibe. Guests enjoy self-serve tequila stations for a unique drink experience. Chips with frijoles negros and tasty salsas add a flavorful touch to the menu.

Chips come with frijoles negros and a variety of yummy salsas. The combination offers a welcomed treat alongside other dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The service for dinner here is wonderful, especially from Sebastian and Zoe."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Friday night features live Mariachi performances starting at 8pm.

3

The venue plans to host live DJ performances in the future.

20
Los Andanes image 1
Restaurant

Mexican art and hand-painted murals create a cozy, family-friendly vibe. Free fresh tortilla chips and salsa start every meal. Music lifts the cheerful atmosphere, and BYOB policy adds to the relaxed feel.

Free Mexican chips and salsa come with meals. The chips and salsa taste very tasty and make a great start.

People are saying

"The carne asada fries here are an amazing appetizer."

"The rojo enchiladas were tasty and juicy."

"I found the chips and salsa very tasty to start."

Good to know

1

BYOB is allowed, making it a budget-friendly option for drinks.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes, ideal for sharing.

3

There are plenty of vegetarian options available on the menu.

21
Taqueria Moran image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot buzzes with warm atmosphere and lively energy. Enjoy fresh chips and spicy salsa on the house. Savor authentic tacos and sip on $5 margaritas at the casual bar or outdoor seating.

Fresh chips come with spicy homemade salsa at no extra cost. The complimentary chips and salsa offer a tasty start to the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and bursting with flavor."

"I found the tacos to have great flavors and a chewy texture."

"The complimentary chips and salsa were worth trying."

Good to know

1

On Taco Tuesday, select tacos are $2.50 each until 10 pm.

2

Enjoy $5 margaritas on Taco Tuesdays and other select nights.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

22
Zócalo Bar & Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with vibrant decor and a colorful bar that livens up the space. Guests enjoy complimentary chips and fire salsa alongside house guacamole. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed vibe with pleasant house music and a disco ball adding energy.

Tables get complimentary chips and salsa right when seated. The salsa is fire, paired well with house guacamole.

People are saying

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

"The food here is authentic Mexican, just like my mom would make."

"The chips and salsa here are fire."

Good to know

1

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

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos all day.

3

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

23
El Fogon Tapatio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves flavorful tacos in a chill atmosphere with authentic decor. Enjoy complimentary homemade chips and three fresh salsa options. Prices stay reasonable with generous portions, making it a welcoming and relaxed dining choice.

Complimentary homemade chips come with a choice of three salsa sauces. The chips and salsa taste fresh and flavorful.

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."

"The chips and salsa here are so delicious, I ate way too much."

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.

24
Mexico Steak House image 1

Steak house serves homemade Tex-Mex dishes with free chips and salsa that pair well with hot soup appetizers. Atmosphere is comfortable and welcoming with friendly staff. Parking is limited to street spots, and prices vary from decent to expensive.

Free traditional chips and salsa come with every meal. The salsa is very tasty and pairs well with the hot soup offered as an appetizer.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and tastes like home cooking."

"The steak here is so juicy and tender."

"I found the chips and salsa really tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find on weekends.

2

Street parking is the only option available near the restaurant.

3

Expect prices to be on the higher side, with meals averaging around $99 for two.

25
Sabroso! Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot with authentic atmosphere and lively patio. Free fresh salsa and chips kick off every meal. Staff join in celebrations, adding to the warm vibe. Guests love bringing tequila to mix with the homemade margaritas.

Free chips and salsa arrive right after seating. Salsas have fresh, rich spicy flavors that stand out.

People are saying

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

"You have to save room for their incredible desserts."

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

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.

26
Tuco And Blondie image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy unlimited free chips that are crisp and tasty, perfect with the rich enchiladas full of authentic flavor. Gluten-free options use corn tortillas to keep meals safe and delicious. The patio offers a relaxed dive vibe ideal for casual dining.

Unlimited free chips and salsa come out crisp and very delicious. The patio offers a good dive vibe for enjoying these complimentary snacks.

People are saying

"The margaritas are a must-try, super refreshing and well-made."

"The patio is perfect for hanging out on a nice evening."

"The complimentary chips and salsa here are delicious and gluten free."

Good to know

1

Almost everything on the menu can be altered to be gluten-free using corn tortillas.

27
Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, casual spot buzzes with authentic Mexican vibe and lively music. Family-owned charm shines through top-notch margaritas and best tacos. Complimentary chips and salsa add a distinct, flavorful touch to the experience.

Complimentary chips come with two chiles and salsa, all with a distinct taste. The chips and salsa show attention to detail and are enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has great flavor."

"The steak in this Mexican food is outstanding and tender."

"The chips and salsa here were great."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, including a garage with good rates during events.

2

Expect it to get busy on United Center event nights.

3

They charge a mandatory 18% gratuity for parties of four or more.

28
Gordo's Tiny Taco Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with Mexican decor and loud music creates a lively vibe. Free, fresh chips and salsa arrive quickly and taste great. Indoor and outdoor seating offers park views, making it cozy for casual dining.

Fresh, homemade chips and salsa arrive right after sitting down. They serve them for free and keep the flavors very fresh and satisfying.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are seasoned and delicious."

"It's a hidden gem in the heart of downtown Chicago."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $3 tacos, a great deal in downtown.

2

Happy hour runs daily with half-off appetizers from 2-4 PM.

3

Expect a 50-minute wait for large groups during peak hours.

29
Bocaditos Chicago image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot buzzes with authentic vibe and Latino tunes. Chips and salsa pack a spicy kick that pairs well with standout mezcal drinks. Dog-friendly patio adds to the lively, fun atmosphere.

Chips and salsa come with a nice spicy kick that shows attention to detail. They set the tone well and stand out as a decent aspect alongside the drinks.

People are saying

"The Happy Hour food has bold, bright flavors and is outstanding."

"The atmosphere here is colorful and energetic."

"The chips and salsa had a nice spicy kick."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm Monday through Friday with $1 oysters.

2

The happy hour oysters are now $2, up from $1 in the past.

3

Expect a 20% gratuity automatically added to your bill.

30
Taquería El Charro I image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Mexican decor and lively energy from locals. Enjoy generous chips and spicy homemade salsa that start every meal. Prices stay affordable, making it a top neighborhood taquería.

Generous portions of chips and salsa come with the table as a spicy starter. Chips appear premade but pair well with the salsa, making for an amazing combo.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be the best in the city."

"The salsa here has a nice kick."

"I loved their chips and salsa; they're my favorite hands down."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is likely BYOB, allowing you to bring your own beverages.

2

The wait time can be longer than expected during peak hours.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other nearby restaurants.

Discover more

Chicago, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...