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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of LWS, Chicago

Authentic food

Sometimes the only thing that hits the spot is a meal prepared exactly how it is made back home.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
El Costeño image 1
El Costeño image 2
El Costeño image 3
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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.

Mexican cuisine offers authentic flavors and affordable prices. The atmosphere matches the food with a genuine, authentic vibe throughout.

Food here is authentic and flavorful with excellent quality and generous portions. The menu offers affordable prices and consistently delivers delicious Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"The cabeza tacos are tender and juicy."

"The Mexican food here is so delicious and authentic."

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

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.

02
De Luna Taco Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck setting with twinkling lights and celestial motifs creates a magical, relaxed atmosphere. Patrons enjoy authentic Mexican street food with standout steak tacos and flavorful salsas. Cash-only policy and occasional sidewalk lawn chairs add to the casual, inviting vibe.

Tacos deliver authentic Mexican street flavors from Guadalajara with a comforting, genuine taste. The food stays true to traditional recipes and textures.

Food features superb quality and delicious Mexican dishes. The experience includes amazing flavors that stand out in mobile dining.

People are saying

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

"The tacos here are packed with flavor and have a nice kick."

"The Mexican street tacos here are so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

They accept CASH ONLY; bring enough cash to try everything.

2

Prices have increased; burritos now cost $10.

3

I spent around $20 for four tacos, which is a great deal.

03
Mariscos Los Cuates image 1

Mexican seafood restaurant offers authentic coastal flavors with fresh, bold dishes like aguachiles and shrimp cocktails. Atmosphere is colorful and lively with a young band playing, creating a joyful and relaxed vibe. Music can be loud, and the space feels cozy and inviting for groups.

Seafood dishes capture the taste of the Mexican coast with authentic mariscos and a genuine ambiance that feels true to the region.

Food here is consistently delicious and excellent. The cook prepares dishes with amazing flavor and the service complements the meals well.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the seafood like aguachiles and ceviche, is fresh and flavorful."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"The seafood here is fresh and incredibly flavorful."

Good to know

1

Live music is played from 6 to 8 PM on select days.

2

The restaurant is BYOB; bring your own drinks.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes.

04
Urban Treez Chicago image 1

Coffee shop offers a chill atmosphere with comfortable lounge seating and bar-style workspaces. The vibe suits working, reading, or casual chats, supported by good music and WiFi. Space feels cozy but can get noisy when busy.

Coffee offers a true authentic flavor that appeals to serious coffee lovers. Latino-American dishes deliver a real home-style taste reflecting genuine traditional flavors.

Food here offers healthy options with a variety of fresh juices and smoothies. The menu includes many choices that taste great and cater to different preferences.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are packed with fresh, flavorful ingredients."

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

"I had one of the most authentic coffees in a long time."

Good to know

1

Urban Treez Chicago offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.

2

Breakfast is served all day at Urban Treez Chicago.

3

Expect a wide selection of fresh juices and smoothies.

05
QuesaBirria Jalisco Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, authentic vibe with eclectic colorful artwork and old school house music playing loudly. Atmosphere feels like a family home with a hole in the wall charm. Limited seating encourages quick meals or takeout, creating a lively, intimate setting.

Every bite delivers authentic flavor with a blend of spices and seasonings that feels traditional and homemade. The beef birria taco offers a savory taste of Mexico done with care.

Food stands out for its amazing flavor and fantastic quality. Service and price match the high standard of the dishes.

People are saying

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

"The consommé for the tacos is rich, deep, and comforting."

"The authentic consommé is rich, deep, and perfect for dipping."

Good to know

1

QuesaBirria Jalisco Tacos is primarily a takeout spot, with limited seating available.

2

The price is $5 per taco, making it affordable for most visitors.

3

Parking is limited; expect to park a few blocks away on busy weekends.

06
Rubi’s Tacos image 1
Restaurant

Small space with vibrant Mexican decor and loud mariachi music creates a lively, energetic atmosphere. Seating fills quickly and feels communal, resembling a fast-food setup more than a cozy family restaurant. Thick homemade tortillas and authentic Latin flavors define the food experience.

Tacos come with authentic Mexican flavor and tortillas taste truly genuine. The menu stays simple with multiple choices of authentic Mexican food that feels very Latin.

Food features great flavor and stays fresh with a simple menu focused on authentic Mexican dishes. Meals arrive hot and maintain quality even with delivery.

People are saying

"I loved the tacos, especially the homemade tortillas."

"The food here is amazing, especially the homemade tortillas."

"The tortillas are authentic, fresh, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Rubi's Tacos makes chicken pozole on Thursdays, a must-try dish.

2

The restaurant is closed from Monday to Wednesday.

3

Seating fills up quickly, so expect to wait during peak hours.

07
Cantón Regio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic ranch-style decor and live mariachi music that creates a family-friendly atmosphere. The space feels crowded with close tables, making conversation difficult during busy times. Guests bring their own drinks thanks to a BYOB policy that adds to the casual vibe.

Steak tacos and guacamole stand out with authentic Mexican flavors. Homemade tortillas and ranch-style decor add to the genuine experience.

Phenomenal Mexican food stands out with excellent flavors and top notch service. The dining experience combines great food with a welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the food tasted super good and fresh."

"I confirmed the cuisine was truly authentic and excellent."

"The fresh flour tortillas here are like homemade."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash payments; no credit cards are accepted.

2

Bring your own beer or wine, as the restaurant is BYOB.

3

An ATM is available on-site for cash withdrawals.

08
Carnitas Don Pedro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic carnitas with a laid-back, no-frills vibe and enjoyable music. Indoor seating can get hot and busy, attracting a mix of locals who create a smiling, lively atmosphere. Private parking and takeout add convenience to the straightforward dining experience.

Carnitas here are authentic and tasty, with options for white or dark meat and all the sides. The tacos and overall atmosphere feel classic old school Mexican, simple and delicious.

Juicy and tasty carnitas come in generous portions alongside authentic Mexican salsas and tortillas. Classic old school flavors make the food consistently amazing and excellent.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas to be amazing and delicious."

"The food here is amazing, juicy, and tasty."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open from 5 AM to 5 PM and closes when they sell out.

2

They only accept cash, but now also accept credit and debit cards.

3

The wait time is usually around half an hour during busy hours.

09
El Milagro Tortillas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a cafeteria style setup featuring food behind glass and self-service ordering. Atmosphere feels authentic and lively, reminiscent of a local taco shop in Mexico with warm details and historic facade. Popular spot known for affordable, big portions and some of the best tortillas and tamales.

Freshly made tortillas and authentic Mexican food create a genuine home-cooked vibe. The place offers authentic burritos and a clean, caring atmosphere that feels true to tradition.

Food here is authentic Mexican, made with care like home cooking. Fresh ingredients and amazing tortillas stand out in every dish.

People are saying

"This taco is humongous, stuffed with steak and rice."

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

"I found the Mexican food here to be very authentic."

Good to know

1

Get there early as they sometimes run out of tortillas by 11:30 AM.

2

To guarantee tamales, call ahead and pay in advance.

3

Expect big portions at reasonable prices.

10
Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small takeout-only spot with authentic Mexican atmosphere and best carnitas in Chicago. The space feels like a bar and offers fresh, delicious tacos with affordable prices. Owner greets guests with Cajeta lollipops, adding a personal touch.

Carnitas stand out with their authentic Mexican flavor. Tacos and menudo deliver a super authentic taste true to traditional recipes.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions of carnitas. Tacos come loaded, and the overall taste is consistently delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were really good."

"The carnitas here are loaded with rich, fatty meat."

"I found the carnitas here to be delicious and worth it."

Good to know

1

Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant is strictly a takeout-only establishment.

2

They close at 5:00 PM on Saturdays, so plan accordingly.

3

Prices are affordable, with meals under $40.

11
Bacchanalia image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy, family-style Italian restaurant with a warm atmosphere and quaint decor that feels homely and cutesy. Small, tight space includes a bar area reminiscent of Cheers and offers outside seating on the street. The vibe is lively and friendly, suitable for romantic dinners or large parties.

Tuscan dishes capture the heart of this spot with authentic Italian flavors. The setting feels cozy and cute, making it a genuine Italian dining experience.

Italian food stands out with spectacular flavors and consistent quality. The menu offers great dishes that keep diners coming back for over three decades.

People are saying

"The food here is spectacular and delicious."

"I thought the lasagna here was the best I ever had."

"It's an authentic Italian restaurant with a cozy, familial atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to ensure seating.

2

Parking is limited; arrive early to find a spot nearby.

3

The restaurant is not handicapped accessible due to steep steps.

12
Taqueria Los Comales Pilsen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a bustling, family-style atmosphere with authentic decor and an open kitchen. The space feels cozy and crowded, filled with families and friends enjoying late-night dining. Music plays loudly, creating a lively and energetic vibe.

Tacos and other dishes serve up authentic Mexican street food that is fresh and hot. The food offers delicious, genuine flavors and good quality for the price.

Mexican food here is consistently delicious and rivals many well-known restaurants. Both dining in and takeout options offer excellent service and satisfy families and individuals alike.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos and burritos here were the best."

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

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at midnight.

2

Finding parking on weekends is difficult due to the location.

3

Call ahead for carry out orders to minimize wait time.

13
Manjares Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space fills quickly and features live music with a guitarist, creating a loud, energetic vibe more like a club than a quiet dining spot. Atmosphere leans toward family-friendly despite the noise, with traditional Mexican dishes served alongside large, flavorful margaritas.

Homemade dishes deliver authentic Mexican flavors with a home-cooked Chicago style. Plates come full of rich, genuine taste reflecting traditional recipes.

Food here is authentic Chicago Mexican cuisine with homemade, traditional dishes served in generous portions. The flavors stay consistently delicious and true to the regional style.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the Mexican food experience so welcoming."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant has its own very spacious parking lot.

2

They charge for chips and salsa.

3

They charge an extra percentage for using a credit card.

14
La Mejikana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Urban Latino spot with a hidden patio and chic dive bar vibe offers live DJ sets mixing old jams and Spanish music. Indoor space feels dark and loud, especially when music peaks, while patio seating provides a quieter atmosphere for conversation. The place fills up with people enjoying singing and dancing, creating a lively energy.

Authentic cuisine shines through with fresh fruit margaritas and an amazing salsa that complements the dishes. The menu features well crafted Mexican food that stays true to traditional flavors.

Food features amazing queso birria tacos and consistently delicious dishes. Drinks and service match the incredible quality of the meals.

People are saying

"The Mexican food's grilled octopus is tender with a flavorful sauce."

"The food here is really tasty and flavorful."

"The authentic birria tacos are so good, I was in love."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during busy hours.

2

Parking is available on the street next to Ashland, and paid parking is in front.

3

It can get busy after 5 PM, so be prepared for a wait.

15
Taqueria El Mezquite image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a covered outdoor patio offers a cozy atmosphere filled with good music and hustle and bustle. The patio provides a relaxing and clean seating area where people enjoy made-to-order food. The vibe is lively and authentic, attracting a steady flow of guests throughout the day.

Mexican food here features authentic chilango style with flavorful traditional tacos and a great atmosphere. The dishes stay true to classic recipes, offering a genuine taste of Mexico.

Food here is authentic Mexican with a focus on fresh ingredients and great taste. The dishes offer good value and deliver a truly genuine flavor.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing tacos."

"The outdoor seating here has a great atmosphere."

"I found the food, especially the tacos, to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Taqueria El Mezquite is a BYOB establishment, allowing you to bring your own alcohol.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to bills for parties of four or more.

3

Prices for meals can be high, with some items exceeding $20.

16
Sleep Walk Chocolateria & Cafe image 1

Small coffee shop in a former bakery offers a cozy, nostalgic vibe with beautiful artwork and natural light. Music and conversation create a lively atmosphere, while wobbly tables and limited seating shape the space. Plant-filled interior and authentic chocolate aromas add to the unique experience.

Small, cozy spot filled with plants serves authentic coffee flavors from Guatemala and Mexico. The spicy hot chocolate stands out as a genuine treat.

Food options include great coffee and a solid selection of items. Some food and drink items require careful quality checks due to occasional issues like food poisoning from hot chocolate.

People are saying

"The coffee here is incredibly smooth and flavorful."

"The authentic hot chocolate is bold, deep, and unapologetically rich."

"I found the food selection to be great and delicious."

Good to know

1

The café offers a unique 24oz cup for beverages.

2

Menu items are displayed at the cashier, which may require quick decisions.

3

Bring headphones if you plan to work for an extended time.

17
Bobijoa Korean Kitchen image 1
Korean restaurant

Spacious Korean-American fusion restaurant with family-friendly atmosphere and chill, lowkey vibe. Offers casual seating areas overlooking the street and maintains a clean, bustling environment. Known for reasonably priced food and a mix of street food staples with elevated takes.

Food tastes very authentic Korean with most dishes sampled being delicious and true to tradition. Some find the authenticity varies, but the majority of the menu reflects genuine flavors.

Food tastes very authentic and consistently delicious. Dishes rank among the tastiest Korean options around and match their price well.

People are saying

"The Korean food, especially the KFC wings, is delicious and addictive."

"The Korean food here is delicious and authentic."

"I found the Korean food here to be authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is mostly self-service, so tipping is not expected.

2

Prices are relatively affordable for the portion sizes offered.

3

Expect a longer wait time for food preparation during busy hours.

18
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.

Dishes deliver authentic taste with a genuine touch. They offer great value for those seeking real flavors without high costs.

Food bursts with incredible flavor and shows atypical inventiveness. Every dish tastes uniformly delicious and leaves a strong impression.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so fresh and made with love."

"The pozole verde and tacos here are so flavorful and satisfying."

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.

19
A Cup of Joe Pilsen image 1

Small coffee shop with floor-to-ceiling windows and a long bar with stools offers a cozy spot to watch street activity. The atmosphere feels welcoming and vibrant, with colorful decor reflecting local heritage. Outdoor seating and solid wifi support both relaxation and remote work.

The “La toxica” offers a super tasty and authentic flavor, and the horchata stands out with its great flavor. Overall, the authentic taste varies and the service can be below par.

Generous portions and an extensive selection define the food offerings. Pastries stand out as unique and to die for, while prices stay reasonable and quality remains consistent.

People are saying

"I thought the mazapan latte tasted like childhood."

"The food and coffee here are delicious and unique."

"The horchata and cafe de olla combo is super tasty and authentic."

Good to know

1

The small hot mazapan costs about $6.09 after tax.

2

They carry discount bags of less fresh items through the Too Good To Go app.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

20
El Taco Azteca - Pilsen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open-concept Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Offers an elaborate vegan menu alongside traditional dishes and excellent margaritas with diverse flavors. Small space includes TVs for games, creating a dynamic yet relaxed vibe.

Stews have authentic Mexican flavor matching those in Mexico. Dishes combine gourmet presentation with exquisite taste true to traditional recipes.

Food comes out hot and fresh with authentic Mexican flavors that focus on taste over fancy presentation. Vegan options stand out as ridiculously delicious, and happy hour offers great food and drinks.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was amazing and sophisticated."

"I thought the food was amazing and fresh."

"I loved the authentic Mexican food here; the flavor is exquisite."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 7 pm with $5 margaritas.

2

Expect a 75-minute wait during peak hours.

3

The restaurant has a good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

21
Taquerías Atotonilco - Pilsen image 1

Mexican restaurant offers an intimate setting with authentic Hispanic decals and cash-only policy. The atmosphere is casual and clean, with parking available nearby. Tacos come with chiles en vinagre and basic condiments at the table.

Tacos stand out with a unique spin and authentic homemade taste. The restaurant features authentic Hispanic decals that add to the atmosphere.

Flavorful tacos cooked fresh in front of you offer excellent value and consistently hit the spot. The menu includes horchata and other Mexican dishes served with good timing and a nice atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is the best I've ever had."

"I found the food to be excellent and it really hit the spot."

"I thought the tacos were authentic and pretty darn good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash payments, so plan accordingly.

2

Tacos cost between $3 and $4 each, making them affordable.

3

There is an ATM inside for cash withdrawals.

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Lower West Side, Chicago

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