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Top picks in Des Plaines

Authentic tacos

Made for those who judge a kitchen entirely by the integrity of its taco preparation.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sofia's Taqueria image 1
Sofia's Taqueria image 2
Sofia's Taqueria image 3
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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, Birria with consommé, and Asada, all served on tortillas that hold up well. Fresh toppings and flavorful salsas complement each bite, making each taco taste home-cooked and delicious.

People are saying

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

"I thought the tacos were super delicious and fresh."

"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
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 stand out here. Chicken tacos and enchiladas also appear on the menu and hold their own.

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.

03
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.

Tacos come with authentic flavors like al pastor and birria, served with consome. Prices stay under $3, offering affordable, no-frills options including chile relleno and tongue varieties.

People are saying

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

"I found the tacos here to be delicious and authentic."

"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.

04
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 with small tortillas but are packed with rich flavor and generous stuffing. Varieties like al pastor, chicken, and steak stand out for their delicious taste and authentic style.

People are saying

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

"I found the tacos here to be extremely delicious."

"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.

05
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.

Queso Birria tacos stand out with tender, perfectly grilled steak cut into small pieces. Street tacos, including Al Pastor flour tacos and shrimp options, offer delicious, satisfying flavors.

People are saying

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

"I thought the tacos here were the best in the area."

"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.

06
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 plump shrimp that taste great. Weekly deals like $2 Taco Tuesdays and half-price happy hour drinks make them a solid choice.

People are saying

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

"I was looking for authentic Mexican meals, and it was delicious."

"The shrimp tacos here are excellent and plump."

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.

07
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.

Tacos here feature fresh meat cooked on the grill with very flavorful bites. Options like Al Pastor, Barbacoa, and steak tacos offer authentic, spicy, and melt-in-your-mouth experiences.

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 found authentic Mexican food here, the real deal."

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.

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.

Steak, chorizo, and al pastor tacos come fresh and flavorful with made fresh ingredients. Mini tacos as appetizers lack seasoning, and individual tacos are kinda pricey.

People are saying

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

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

"I enjoyed the chorizo and steak tacos; they were delicious and made fresh."

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
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.

Tacos come in asada, lengua, and al pastor varieties with prices around $3 each. Some tacos are very salty or over seasoned, and the al pastor can be too spicy for some tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very authentic."

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

"The tacos de lengua and asada were worth it."

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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