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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in South Lawndale

Mexican food

Mexican cuisine that stays true to its roots instead of adapting to fit a generic mold.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
La Cocina de Irma image 1
La Cocina de Irma image 2
La Cocina de Irma image 3
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Cozy, family-run spot shines with warm hospitality and a homey atmosphere. Tacos de barbacoa deliver rich, tender meat while menudo offers a flavorful broth that nails authentic Mexican taste.

Tacos de barbacoa stand out with their rich, tender meat. Menudo offers a super flavorful broth and tender meat, capturing authentic Mexican taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes homemade."

"I thought the birria tacos were immaculate and incredibly delicious."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and tastes homemade."

Good to know

1

The restaurant allows BYOB without a corkage fee.

2

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

3

The breakfast menu features excellent options for morning diners.

02
Paty's Restaurant Carnitas y otras Delicias image 1

Mexican dishes shine with handmade tortillas and authentic flavors like quesabirra tacos and carnitas. The place feels homey and welcoming, perfect for families or solo diners. Clean, warm setting enhances the homemade aroma filling the air.

Handmade tortillas bring authentic flavor to dishes like quesabirra tacos and huaraches with lengua. The carnitas and gorditas stand out, with pork rind gorditas and birria options being especially delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and tasty."

"The handmade tortillas here are something else."

"The quesabirrias here are made with handmade tortillas."

Good to know

1

The menu is available in both English and Spanish.

2

Everything is homemade, including the tortillas.

3

Expect a wait time of less than 15 minutes during busy hours.

03
Tacos Los Brothers image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers authentic tacos with standout al pastor and spicy mole salsa. Cozy seating for six creates a friendly atmosphere despite the warm space. Locally owned vibe and wide meat choices make it a memorable casual dining experience.

Tacos al pastor stand out with flavorful pork and a spicy mole salsa that adds a kick. The Cecina tacos pair perfectly with a red salsa, while steak tacos come fresh and lean. Tortas and pork burritos also offer solid options.

People are saying

"I thought their al pastor tacos were the best I ever had."

"The salsas here are delicious and on point."

"The al pastor tacos here are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

There is a service fee for credit card payments.

2

The restaurant currently has no restroom available for customers.

3

They accepted debit cards for payment.

04
Lucido's Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic al pastor tacos with tender meat and pineapple. Casual vibe with large TVs streaming live entertainment keeps guests relaxed. Female Latino ownership shines through a small cultural display celebrating Mexican heritage.

Al pastor tacos stand out with tender meat from a rotating trompa and a sweet touch of pineapple. The menu also features tortas al pastor and chorizo with authentic Mexican flavors and a very good salsa.

People are saying

"I thought the al pastor tacos were the best I had."

"The al pastor here is flavorful and complemented by great salsa."

"The al pastor tacos here are packed with meat and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 al pastor and chicken tacos.

2

Friday special includes one soda and one al pastor taco for $3.

3

They only accept cash payments; no credit cards.

05
Antojitos Pozoleria image 1

Small dining area creates a cozy atmosphere with lively energy. Handmade tortillas and large portions of pozole deliver authentic Mexican flavors. Traditional dishes like chilaquiles and menudo add to the old school neighborhood vibe.

Pozole stands out with large portions and rich flavor. Handmade tortillas add an authentic touch to tacos and sope, while dishes like chilaquiles and menudo bring traditional Mexican tastes.

People are saying

"You can’t go wrong with the pozole or tacos here."

"I loved the handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican flavors."

"The pozole here is delicious and filling."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

2

Expect to pay around $30 or less for breakfast items.

3

The restaurant does not serve free water; plan to purchase drinks.

06
Kafecito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, colorful spot offers a cozy vibe and friendly atmosphere. Menu shines with flavorful pastor tacos and tortas hawayanas that add a tasty twist. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great pick for Mexican food lovers.

Pastor tacos stand out for their flavor. Tortas hawayanas offer a delicious twist. Tacos de canasta are available but not yet sampled.

People are saying

"The food here offers a diverse menu for all meal times."

"I loved the delicious breakfast here."

"I thought the Pastor tacos were the best Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Kafecito offers a variety of food options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

2

Healthy options are available at Kafecito.

3

Prices at Kafecito are reasonable but can be confusing due to random postings.

07
Rigos Grocery image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery shines with authentic tamales and high-quality menudo. Atmosphere is straightforward and unpretentious, reflecting its long-standing ownership. Food and vibe blend into a genuine Mexican experience.

Tamales stand out as some of the best in years. The menudo also ranks very good and is a notable offering here.

People are saying

"I found the menudo to be the best I could find anywhere."

Good to know

1

Rigos Grocery offers a wide variety of goods compared to other local stores.

2

The store is family-owned and has been in business for decades.

3

Parking is available nearby, making it convenient for shoppers.

08
Los Candiles Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican spot shines with enchiladas potosinas and authentic mole dishes. Walls show golden age cinema photos, creating a homey atmosphere. Soft music adds to the warm, friendly vibe.

Enchiladas potosinas offer a unique style different from typical enchiladas. Chilaquiles stay crispy and serve as a safe choice. Mole dishes, including beef and chicken enchiladas and huevos divorciados, deliver authentic flavors consistently.

People are saying

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

"I love their unique Enchiladas Potosinas; they're hard to find."

"Their Mexican food chilaquiles are perfectly crisp and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be an issue, especially during events at the church across the street.

2

Catering services are available and can accommodate dietary preferences like vegan and diabetic-friendly.

3

Prices for taco plates range from $12.25 to $13.75, with additional costs for drinks.

09
Zavalas grocery image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store offers fresh produce and a butcher shop with a small restaurant in back. Mexican food shines with tender carnitas and freshly made tamales. Friendly atmosphere makes it a neighborhood favorite.

Carnitas stand out for their tenderness and freshness, especially popular on Sundays. Menudo, tamales, birria, and chicharrón also feature as delicious, freshly made options.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas here to be the best I ever had."

"The food here, especially the carnitas, is amazing."

"The Mexican food, especially the carnitas, is the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Zavalas grocery offers a wide variety of fresh produce and quality ingredients.

2

The butcher shop provides excellent meat options and quick service.

3

Carnitas are weighed at checkout, ensuring you get exactly what you want.

10
Taqueria Gomez image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves generous portions with reliable delivery in a welcoming atmosphere. Tacos shine with good flavor and consistent quality. Friendly people add to the positive vibe.

Tacos stand out with good flavor and consistent quality. Delivery service is reliable, and the atmosphere includes friendly people.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tacos, was the best I've had."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

"The tacos here are really good."

Good to know

1

Delivery is available within the Little Village area at reasonable prices.

2

Portions are generous for the price, providing good value.

3

Takeout options are available for those who prefer to eat at home.

11
Asian Cuisine Express image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, old school spot with a family feel and smoky, messy vibe. Tacos al pastor shine with razor-thin slices and pineapple, matching authentic Mexican flavors. Eclectic decor blends manga figures and body lotions for a unique mix.

Tacos feature razor-thin slices of al pastor charred perfectly with a piece of pineapple in each. The flavor matches authentic Mexican al pastor from Mexico City and Guadalajara, offering a solid 8.1/10 profile that many find among the best in the city.

People are saying

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos here were the best in Chicago."

"I found the Al Pastor Fried Rice to be unique and exceptional."

"You have to try the al pastor tacos; they're the best in Chicagoland."

Good to know

1

On Mondays, they have Al Pastor tacos for $1.00 after 3 PM.

2

Expect a waiting list during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant allows BYOB, so feel free to bring your own drinks.

12
Los Langostinos Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic cuisine with green enchiladas featuring unique salsa and fresh shrimp. Quiet, low-key setting suits family meals despite slow service. Generous portions come at reasonable prices in a run-down interior.

Green enchiladas stand out with a unique salsa that adds a distinct flavor. Tortas and shrimp showcase authentic Mexican cuisine with fresh, bold tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really fresh."

"I loved their shrimp and fettuccine Alfredo."

"The Mexican food here is awesome, with perfect flavor."

Good to know

1

The prices are reasonable and fair for the portion sizes.

2

Portion sizes are generous and not skimped on.

3

They charge the tip directly on the bill.

13
Los Olivos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small takeout-only spot serves handmade gorditas and huge tacos with juicy steak. Portions are generous with well-seasoned rice and beans. Cash-only and closes early, so plan accordingly.

Steak gorditas stand out with handmade dough and fresh fillings. Tacos come huge and juicy at $4 each, alongside steak quesadillas that deliver solid flavor.

People are saying

"These tacos are huge, juicy, and totally worth it."

"You have to try the handmade gorditas stuffed with fresh ingredients."

"I loved the handmade gorditas stuffed with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Los Olivos is only open during lunch and closes at 2 pm.

2

They only accept cash; no debit or credit cards.

3

Customers must call in their order first as it's pick-up only.

14
Ahuevo image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Cozy Mexican spot serves huge portions of breakfast burritos with cheesy, meaty fillings and vegan options. Eggs are perfectly cooked in flavorful sandwiches. Clean space with a live DJ creates a lively vibe from quiet mornings to energetic nights.

Breakfast burritos stand out with cheesy, meaty, and eggy fillings that avoid greasiness. Options include pork sausage and bacon, vegan varieties, and combinations with avocado and tater tots for rich flavor and satisfying portions.

People are saying

"I considered the breakfast sandwich I had to be the best I ever tasted."

"The American Food tater tots here are amazing and complement the burgers."

"You have to try their breakfast burritos; they're hearty and filling."

Good to know

1

Ahuevo operates as a ghost kitchen inside Mi Tierra; order on your phone.

2

Parking is available nearby for easy access.

3

The sandwiches and burritos are well-packaged to keep them warm.

15
Mariscos La Grulla image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant shines with fresh octopus tostadas and a spacious setting featuring two TVs. Guests enjoy generous portions and bring their own beer in a quiet, clean atmosphere. Mix tostadas offer a tasty variety of Mexican seafood flavors.

Octopus and shrimp tostadas stand out with fresh seafood and crisp tostada shells. Mix tostadas combine flavors well and offer a varied seafood experience.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was super good."

"The seafood service here was excellent and the staff were friendly."

"The shrimp and octopus tostadas here are awesome."

Good to know

1

The restaurant allows customers to bring their own beer.

2

There is a great parking area specific for the restaurant.

3

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

16
Taqueria Los Cuñados image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers quiet atmosphere with tight seating and reasonable prices. Al Pastor tacos and QuesaBirria shine with authentic flavors and great portions. Parking is tough and the place stays calm with few people around.

Tacos stand out with Al Pastor and QuesaBirria as highlights, both flavorful and well portioned. Salsas and sauces are consistently very good, complementing the authentic Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the tacos."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were really good."

"The al pastor tacos here are excellent and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Special Taco Wednesday offers tacos for $2.50 each.

2

Parking can be challenging in the area.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food.

17
Gordillas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food shines with large gorditas and a crave-worthy breakfast burrito filled with egg and carne asada. Handmade tortillas add freshness, while a small salsa bar lets you customize flavors. Casual, clean atmosphere offers affordable prices and plenty of seating for a relaxed meal.

Gorditas and burritos come large and packed with ingredients, especially the gorditas de chile pasado con queso. The breakfast burrito features simple but crave-worthy fillings like egg, potato, and carne asada, often enjoyed with red salsa.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here, especially the gorditas, is delicious and filling."

"This breakfast burrito is simple, delicious, and crave-able."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $20 each.

2

The restaurant offers various specials throughout the week.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

18
La Casa del Borrego image 1

Small, family-owned spot shines with authentic tacos al pastor and barbacoa. Quick, grab-and-go vibe suits busy diners. Generous portions come with flavorful red salsa and consommé for a tasty kick.

Tacos stand out with barbacoa, pastor, and tacos de cabeza offering rich, tender flavors. Salsas, especially the red salsa, add a tasty kick to the dishes.

People are saying

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

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

Good to know

1

The barbecue special is perfect for two people.

2

A pound of the barbecue could easily feed three or more.

3

It is a good place to grab and go from.

19
Nuevo Leon Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mural-covered walls and pueblo-themed decor create a lively vibe with live ranchera music. Authentic Mexican dishes like chicharrón en salsa and menudo pair well with classic drinks such as Micheladas. Comfortable seating invites guests to enjoy carne asada and arroz con leche dessert.

Authentic Mexican food shines with well seasoned chicharrón en salsa and delicious menudo. Chips and salsa arrive right away, with dishes like carne asada, chile relleno, torta, and simple tacos served alongside arroz con leche for dessert.

People are saying

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

"They brought out a little rice pudding dessert, which was delicious."

"The cheese enchiladas here are creamy and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on weekends, providing a fun atmosphere.

2

Live music is featured on Saturdays from 2 to 6 pm.

3

The restaurant accepts cash only for all transactions.

20
Don Pepe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot serves authentic birria tacos and fresh enchiladas in a warm, inviting vibe. Spacious and clean, it draws a lively crowd enjoying tasty margaritas and delicious horchata.

Authentic Mexican food shines with birria tacos and basket tacos packed with flavor. Fresh enchiladas, pozole, and delicious horchata round out the menu with care and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with authentic flavor."

"You have to try the birria tacos; they're a must-try."

"I ate the birria tacos so fast, I didn't get a picture."

Good to know

1

The prices at Don Pepe are relatively affordable.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak dining hours.

3

Parking is limited in the area around Don Pepe.

21
Birrieria Patinos Ocotlan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, crowded spot with mom-and-pop charm and a friendly vibe. Known for top-quality birria and authentic flavors in tacos de cabeza and goat birria. Live music and local vendors add to the welcoming atmosphere.

Birria tacos come with a generous amount of meat and rich consommé. The tacos de cabeza and goat birria offer authentic flavors with plentiful portions at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The goat birria here is so flavorful and authentic."

"I found the food to be really good and generously portioned."

"I thought the birria tacos had that special flavor I crave."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash as payment.

2

Expect a 30-45 minute wait during peak hours.

3

Parking is very limited, so arrive early.

22
Osito's Tap image 1

Hidden entrance through a liquor store sets a cozy, intimate atmosphere with dark decor and live mariachi music. Signature dishes like Tlayuda and Lamb Birria Grilled Cheese highlight authentic Mexican flavors. Creative vibe attracts fans of Mexican art and culture in a relaxed, lively setting.

Tlayuda stands out as a signature dish here. The menu also features Lamb Birria Grilled Cheese, Mexican Smash Burger, and pozole alongside excellent mole rosa, guacamole, and quesaditzin.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really delicious."

"The bar staff here is so friendly and passionate about the drinks."

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the mole dip."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred for tips.

23
La Catedral Cafe Little Village image 1

Space feels like a small chapel with colorful murals and Catholic art. Chilaquiles come in bold flavors like Asado and Poblano, paired with Cathedral enchiladas for a true Mexican taste. Music shifts through genres, adding a cultural vibe to the warm, inviting setting.

Chilaquiles stand out with varieties like Asado, Poblano, and Guajillo, each offering distinct flavors and textures. The Cathedral enchiladas also deliver a notable Mexican food experience.

People are saying

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

"I loved the cafe de la olla, it's brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo."

"The food here is so authentic and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy times like Sunday brunch.

2

Free off-street parking is available nearby, but can be hard to find.

3

You must get on the waitlist to enter during peak hours.

24
Las Carnitas Uruapan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic carnitas in three cuts and freshly made tortillas. Traditional decor and a cheerful atmosphere create a warm welcome. Friendly service enhances the experience with dishes like brain tacos and fried tacos.

Carnitas come in three cuts and taste authentically Mexican with some served cold. Freshly made tortillas accompany dishes like brain tacos and fried tacos, all backed by excellent service.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were the best in Chicago."

"The carnitas tacos here are excellent and crispy outside, tender inside."

"You have to try the carnitas; they're the best Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

Parking is not an issue as the restaurant owns two lots very close by.

2

There are lots of free parking options available.

3

The restaurant closes at 4 PM, so plan to arrive early.

25
El Molino Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small family-run spot shines with slow-cooked carnitas and fresh, bold salsas on tacos. Loud music and a comforting vibe keep energy high while the cook dances. Open 24 hours, it blends tradition with tasty Mexican food perfectly.

Carnitas stand out as the main attraction, cooked to a super tasty level and sold by the pound for home enjoyment. Tacos al pastor and tacos con pollo come with fresh, house-made salsas that add bright, bold flavors, making the tacos very tasty.

People are saying

"These carnitas are unbelievably flavorful and practically melt in your mouth."

"I thought the carnitas tacos here were the best I'd ever had."

"The Mexican Food here, especially the carnitas, is unbelievably flavorful and tender."

Good to know

1

El Molino Restaurant is open 24 hours, making it convenient for late-night cravings.

2

The restaurant has been family-owned for decades, ensuring traditional recipes.

3

Expect a casual dining area suitable for enjoying meals on-site.

26
Food Market La Chiquita image 1

Supermarket shines with fresh produce and a clean bakery full of breads. Taqueria serves inexpensive tacos and gorditas with fresh salsa and classic beef broth. Friendly service invites relaxed dining and affordable meals.

Gorditas, tortas, and tacos stand out with fresh salsa and classic beef broth served with vegetables and tortillas. The taqueria offers friendly service and inexpensive prices without rushing diners.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos and fresh salsa were great."

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

"I loved the bakery's wide variety of products."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, butcher products, and prepared foods.

2

Expect higher prices compared to other local markets, especially for bakery items.

3

The restaurant within the market serves affordable Mexican dishes.

27
La Merced image 1
Grocery store

Shop offers quality meats in its carniceria and an indoor taqueria serving carnitas daily. Chilaquiles come with egg, steak, rice, and beans, while tortas have mostly bread and lettuce. Atmosphere fits quick errands and staple shopping for Latino households.

Carnitas sell at an indoor taqueria on weekends and weekdays. Chilaquiles come with egg, steak, rice, and beans. Tortas have mostly bread, lettuce, and sour cream with very little meat.

People are saying

"I believed the Mexican food here was the best in the area."

Good to know

1

La Merced accepts cash, credit, and debit with a minimum required.

2

The carniceria at La Merced offers a quality selection of meats.

3

Parking can be limited, so consider public transport or ride-sharing.

28
El Faro Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright decor and smiling staff create a cozy, family-friendly vibe with lively Latino culture. Tacos with lettuce and tomato shine alongside exceptional salsa. Vegetarian torta de soya offers a solid meat-free choice, while burritos and carne asada quesadillas bring generous, flavorful beef.

Tacos come with lettuce and tomato and stand out as a favorite. Vegetarian torta de soya, estilo pollo offers a solid meat-free option. Burritos and carne asada quesadillas feature generous, flavorful beef. Salsa is a notable highlight, often described as very good or exceptional.

People are saying

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

"I loved the vegetarian and vegan options here."

"The tacos here are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait for a table during peak hours.

2

Prices for quesadillas are around $7 to $8.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

29
Taquizas Don Rafa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic handmade tortillas with dishes like quesadillas and pozole in a cozy atmosphere that feels like home. Seating is simple with old tables, and music volume varies, sometimes making conversation tricky. The vibe stays comfortable and welcoming throughout your visit.

Fresh handmade tortillas appear with many dishes like quesadillas, huaraches, and sopes. Warm, traditional Mexican food includes options like pozole and menudo, with some items available through buffet or kitchen orders.

People are saying

"This buffet is amazing, with delicious, authentic food and handmade tortillas."

"The coffee here is rich and flavorful, just like homemade."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and homemade."

Good to know

1

The buffet runs from Tuesday through Sunday, offering a full Mexican menu.

2

Children aged 1 and up are charged for the buffet, even if they don't eat.

3

There is no parking available at the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

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South Lawndale, Chicago

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