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Loved by locals

Authentic Mexican food in Des Plaines

Made for those who know exactly what regional Mexican flavors should taste like and won't settle for anything less.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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Updated April 2026
01
Sofia's Taqueria image 1
Sofia's Taqueria image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with colorful, authentic decor creates a cozy, comfortable atmosphere accompanied by music. The space feels casual chic and intimate, attracting those seeking real, flavorful tacos and traditional dishes.

Vibrant, cozy decor sets the scene for authentic Mexican flavors. Food delivers a super authentic taste with great service throughout.

Tacos feature perfectly seasoned meats like Al Pastor and Birria, served with fresh toppings and tortillas. The birria matches authentic flavors from Mexico, and salsas and guacamole add fresh, delicious touches.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is seriously delicious and a 10/10."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem with authentic food and taste."

"The tacos here are so delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday special is available every Tuesday.

2

Each taco costs $1.99, but some tacos are priced at $4 each.

3

The restaurant offers catering and takeout services.

02
Arandas Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers a laid back and warm atmosphere with an open kitchen where cooks are visible. It serves authentic, affordable tacos and burritos, with a BYOB policy and reasonable prices. The space suits groups of four or fewer and welcomes wheelchairs.

Food tastes authentic and is homemade with care. Tacos stand out as delicious and true to traditional Mexican flavors.

Birria tacos come with a flavorful consome and stand out for their authentic taste. Tacos al pastor and steak burritos offer fresh ingredients and balanced flavors, all served with handmade tortillas.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the tongue in green sauce."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is exceptionally good."

"I loved the authentic tacos and burritos here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

Expect reasonable prices for all menu items.

3

Parking is available and convenient for visitors.

03
Mariachi's Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic southern Mexican atmosphere with basic outdoor seating that can get crowded. Vibrant vibe includes self-painted walls and windows and family-oriented, friendly energy. Food preparation is traditional, contributing to a genuine, home-style experience.

Menu items deliver authentic Mexican flavor with top notch tacos and comfort food. The atmosphere and staff add to the genuine feel, making it a solid spot for authentic Mexican food.

Tacos come small but packed with flavor and stuffing, especially the chicken and beef varieties. Fajitas with chicken, steak, and shrimp stand out, along with excellent pozole and burritos topped with red sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always well prepared."

"This is a great lunch spot for authentic street-style tacos."

"I experienced authentic Mexican flavors and atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

Pozole is available on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Mariachi's Tacos is a BYOB restaurant.

3

The specials are clear and easy to read, making ordering simple.

04
Los Chapines Tortillería image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant blends authentic Guatemalan and Mexican cuisine with fresh, thick tortillas and large, flavorful tacos. Atmosphere feels warm and homey despite loud noise from multiple TVs. Booths have super high backs, creating a cozy dining space.

Small spot offers authentic Mexican and Guatemalan food with a great atmosphere. Dishes remind of home and deliver genuine flavors.

Big, delicious asada tacos come with thick, fresh tortillas. Tamales use good masa and have a solid size. Chicharron and queso pupusa serve as a filling meal. Chicken tacos, enchiladas, shuco, and chilaquiles with a slightly spicy green sauce add variety.

People are saying

"The Guatemalan food, especially the corn atole, is delicious."

"The Mexican food here is huge and full of flavor."

"I found the authentic Mexican and Guatemalan food delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 25 to 50 minutes during busy hours.

2

The restaurant offers a combination of Guatemalan and Mexican cuisine.

3

Portions are large and reasonably priced.

05
La Marina Mariscos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior features live mariachi music and a live DJ with music videos on large screens, creating a loud, energetic atmosphere especially during karaoke nights. Decor is colorful and inviting, with numerous TVs showing sports. The vibe blends festive Mexican elements with a lively social scene.

Authentic Mexican seafood dishes stand out with fresh flavors and diverse options. The menu focuses on traditional mariscos prepared with care.

Tacos come with handmade tortillas and include options like shrimp and breaded fish filets, though fish tacos can be greasy. Chicken fajitas and strawberry margaritas offer good value, and complimentary starters include ceviche with tostadas and fresh salsa.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the oysters and octopus, is amazing."

"The cocktails were refreshing, flavorful, and had the right amount of liquor."

"The Mexican food here, especially the seafood like shrimp and oysters, is so fresh."

Good to know

1

On Wednesdays, $5 margaritas are available all day with Hornitos tequila.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1.99 tacos, including shrimp.

3

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 5 to 7 pm Monday through Thursday.

06
Taqueria El Gallo de Oro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with detailed decor and a friendly atmosphere. Loud music sets an energetic vibe while the limited seating creates an intimate setting. Known for flavorful tacos and authentic dishes, it draws those seeking genuine Mexican flavors.

Tacos, rice, and beans show authentic Mexican flavors with good seasoning and generous portions. The food stays true to traditional recipes and offers consistent quality at fair prices.

Tacos stand out with tender steak and Al Pastor flour tortillas grilled perfectly. Quesabirria tacos and flavorful quesadillas offer authentic tastes, paired with rice and salsas that have a real kick.

People are saying

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

"The burrito is packed with tender, juicy steak."

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

Good to know

1

Expect a wait for seating during busy times due to limited space.

2

Prices are reasonable, especially with the lunch special available.

3

The lunch special includes only two tacos, which may not be enough for some.

07
La Esperanza Bakery image 1

Small bakery with an authentic Mexican atmosphere and a homey, warm feel. Offers a big selection of baked goods including fresh, delicious bread and traditional pastries. Prices are reasonable and the place feels welcoming.

Offers an authentic Mexican bakery atmosphere with flavors that stay true to tradition without being too overpowering.

Tamales verde wrapped in banana leaf stand out with a unique presentation and flavor. A variety of desserts like churros complement the menu, though some tamales can be a bit dry.

People are saying

"These pastries are soft, fluffy, and not too sweet."

"The bread here is amazing, warm, and delicious."

"The Mexican Food tamales here are out of this world."

Good to know

1

Bring cash to save money, as some vendors may not accept cards.

2

The bakery offers a wide selection of baked goods, including gelatins and tamales.

3

Expect a small space with a limited selection of items.

08
Mexico Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a spacious patio with a relaxed vibe and family-owned atmosphere. The place stays quiet and uncrowded, featuring a good tequila selection and several vegan options. Lighting feels unusual but the back patio provides a pleasant outdoor setting.

Dishes serve authentic Mexican flavors with traditional ingredients and preparation. Meals consistently reflect genuine Mexican cuisine.

Fresh tacos come with steak, al pastor, chicken, and chorizo options. Mole sauce stands out as rich and authentic. Plenty of vegan choices include an impossible burrito and veggie burritos. Salsas are spicy and chips are very good.

People are saying

"I tasted the tradition and passion in every bite of their Mexican food."

"I enjoyed the tasty chicken enchiladas."

"The Mexican food here is really authentic and great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers vegan options for many dishes, including enchiladas.

2

Generous portions are served, but some dishes may seem pricey.

3

The restaurant is family-owned and has been a local staple for decades.

09
Las Asadas Fresh Mexican Grill Taqueria image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with a cozy, family-owned atmosphere and outdoor seating. The space feels clean and simple, with a mom-and-pop vibe. Known for authentic steak tacos and flame-grilled steak dishes.

Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on flavorful steak tacos. Provides genuine tastes without high prices.

Steak burritos and tacos stand out with rich, meaty flavors and tender textures. Al pastor and barbacoa tacos offer spicy and melt-in-your-mouth experiences, enhanced by red sauce and black garlic sauce.

People are saying

"I considered this the best burrito I had ever eaten."

"I found the tacos here to have great flavor and freshness."

"I had the best Super Burrito, it's a perfect ratio."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site for customers.

2

Expect to pay around $4 per taco.

3

The establishment has limited indoor seating.

10
La Autentica Doñita Oaxaqueña image 1

Mexican restaurant with pink walls and colorful decor creates a cozy, family-like atmosphere despite loud music and a busy vibe. The space feels welcoming and offers spots for photos. Authentic Oaxacan food and handmade tortillas stand out as key features.

Food features authentic Oaxaqueña flavors with a focus on traditional Mexican dishes. The menu offers delicious and genuine regional tastes that stand out in the area.

Homemade tortillas stand out as a key feature. Dishes like enchiladas de mole, tacos de asada and lengua, and the molcajete dinner offer authentic Mexican flavors with excellent taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very authentic."

"The mole enchiladas here are really, really good."

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

Good to know

1

Expect a 35% surcharge on your bill.

2

A transaction fee applies for credit card payments.

3

The restaurant charges an 18% service fee at checkout.

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Des Plaines, Illinois

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