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Guide to Joliet

Authentic tacos

You want a taco that tastes like it came from a kitchen where the recipe has been passed down, not invented.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill image 1
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill image 2
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Modern, clean space with a spacious layout and intimate lighting creates a laid-back atmosphere. Latin music and live baseball games add to the upbeat vibe. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican tacos and excellent margaritas in a warm, inviting setting.

Food delivers authentic Mexican flavor with every dish. Tacos stand out for their excellent presentation and genuine taste. Owners show honest hard work through the straightforward, no-frills approach.

Shrimp and steak tacos stand out with just the right heat and fresh flavors. Service is excellent, and the tacos pair well with the lively bar atmosphere.

People are saying

"The steak and shrimp tacos were amazing and flavorful."

"I thought the food here was just awesome."

"I found the food to be authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

Half-price margaritas are available on Thursdays.

2

The restaurant is cash only, so bring cash or use the ATM.

3

They charge a 4% fee for credit card payments.

02
Tonto Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with colorful decor and slot machines creates a lively, cozy vibe. Friendly atmosphere fills the room with good music and ample seating. Regulars enjoy well-seasoned steak tacos and some of the best burritos around.

Mexican food here tastes very authentic with flavors true to tradition. The birria taco plates stand out as especially delicious and genuine.

Birria tacos stand out with rich flavor and come with a flavorful broth. Quesabirria tacos made with chicken offer a very flavorful twist. Fish tacos also deliver a delicious taste.

People are saying

"The birria tacos are amazing, tender, and gooey."

"I thought the burrito here was the best I've ever had."

"I found the birria tacos and enchiladas to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The prices at Tonto Burrito are affordable.

2

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

Breakfast burritos are served all day long.

03
Burrito Guacamole image 1

Restaurant offers salsa and hot sauce bar with a variety of options and a drive-thru for quick service. Atmosphere feels unassuming with simple building design and ample parking. Menu features large portions of authentic Mexican dishes with standout items like steak tacos and quesabirrias.

Mexican food here tastes authentic and delicious. Dishes capture traditional flavors with genuine preparation.

Steak tacos come with great flavor and tenderness on juicy corn tortillas. Options like asada and birria tacos are well cooked and closely resemble authentic Mexican flavors.

People are saying

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

"I thought the tacos here were some of the best."

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

Good to know

1

The drive-through makes it a quick trip for lunch.

2

There is plenty of parking space available.

3

Portion sizes are generous for the price.

04
Mi Rancho Mexican Food image 1

Small, cozy space offers a warm and homey atmosphere with authentic Mexican cuisine featuring handmade tortillas and flavorful steak dishes. The vibe is inviting and casual, attracting those seeking genuine flavors and homemade desserts. Food quality stands out as above average in the area.

Menu stays true to traditional Mexican dishes without much American influence. Flavors come through as authentic with a good level of spice, and food is served hot and ready consistently.

Steak tacos feature fresh corn tortillas and rich, flavorful fillings like carnitas and chicken. Loaded nachos and burritos add variety with hearty, generous portions.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Free chips and salsa are provided for first-time customers.

2

Food is typically ready within a few minutes of ordering.

3

Portion sizes are generous, often enough for two meals.

05
Tacos Maui image 1
Taco restaurant

Small and quaint space with storytelling wall art creates a clean and inviting atmosphere. The crowd is steady without long lines, attracting those who appreciate flavorful chicken and pastor tacos. Pricing stands out as very reasonable compared to portion sizes.

Tacos stand out with fresh ingredients and perfect seasoning. Every bite feels authentic and true to traditional flavors.

Tacos come with excellent, fresh, and authentic flavors. Options like steak, chicken, and Pastor tacos stand out with perfect portion sizes and a delicious taste.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the tacos to be excellent and authentic."

Good to know

1

Tacos Maui offers parking for truckers.

2

You can call in orders at Tacos Maui.

3

The prices at Tacos Maui are amazing.

06
Rica's Carnitas Estilo Michoacan image 1

No frills Mexican restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere and limited dine-in space. Known for authentic Michoacรกn-style carnitas that are hot, juicy, and tender, often considered the best in the area. Prices are affordable, with specials like $1 tacos on Fridays and free sides included with meals.

Carnitas come in a Michoacรกn style, served hot and juicy. The menu offers authentic Mexican dishes that differ from typical Midwest versions, all at a low cost.

Dollar tacos on Fridays stand out with $1 carnitas tacos that offer great value. Homemade taco shells add to the amazing taste and quality.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas to be authentic, hot, and juicy."

"You've gotta try the dollar tacos on Fridays!"

"I found authentic dollar tacos on Fridays here."

Good to know

1

Rica's offers dollar tacos on Fridays.

2

Tacos at Rica's are only $1 on Fridays.

3

They provide a small bag of onions, cilantro, jalapenos, and carrots with each order.

07
La Casita de Los Antojos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a homey charm and authentic flavors. Atmosphere feels welcoming and reflects a mom and pop vibe. Known for delicious tacos, chilaquiles, and burritos that stand out in the area.

True, authentic Mexican flavors shine through every dish. Presentation matches the genuine taste, making the food stand out.

Tacos come overflowing with meat and use fresh, seasoned ingredients. Varieties like asada and grilled tacos stand out for their rich flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and genuinely good."

"The tacos here are delicious and overflowing with meat."

"I found the authentic Mexican taste and flavors here."

Good to know

1

Taco deals are available on Wednesdays.

2

Expect to pay around $32 for two drinks and five items.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean and comfortable environment.

08
Taqueria Los Paisanos #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a modern design and cozy atmosphere offers a family-friendly environment filled with loud music and close seating. The space feels beautiful and comfortable despite tables being tightly arranged. It stands out for its exceptional steak and birria tacos rarely found in suburban areas.

Food delivers authentic Mexican flavor with consistently fresh and delicious dishes. The experience feels like a genuine taste of Mexico, making it a solid choice for authentic Mexican cuisine.

Birria tacos stand out for their rich flavor and freshness. Steak tacos also impress with their quality, alongside tasty Tacos al pastor and burritos.

People are saying

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

"I loved the birria and steak tacos here."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes for the price.

2

Expect a busy lunch crowd if you arrive after noon.

3

In-house made tortillas enhance the authenticity of the dishes.

09
El Molcajete Mexican restaurant image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with loud music and TVs playing American shows in English creates a lively, fun atmosphere. Tacos and margaritas stand out for their authentic, bold flavors. The setting resembles a fast food style spot but offers big flavor in its dishes.

Tender marinated pork bursts with authentic Mexican flavors and crunchy Fritos. Tacos stay fresh and authentic, making the food consistently delicious.

Brain tacos and Barbacoa tacos stand out for their flavor and authenticity. Carne Asada tacos stay delicious even when reheated, and steak tacos come cooked perfectly and fresh.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is really good."

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

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

Good to know

1

Taco Monday and Tuesday offer special deals on tacos.

2

Bring cash to avoid ATM fees, as some vendors may not accept cards.

3

Expect longer wait times during lunch hours on weekdays.

10
Machetes Puebla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers a family-friendly, homey atmosphere with moderate music volume and a cook who sings loudly. The place draws groups for its generous portions and authentic machetes and salsas. It feels like eating at a relative's house, combining comfort with lively energy.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with clear care in preparation. Dishes come full of flavor and maintain a genuine taste.

Tacos come out fast and fresh with a focus on รrabes style. The rice and beans served alongside are also consistently fresh.

People are saying

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

"The Authentic machete is massive and loaded with tender, perfectly seasoned meat."

"This taco is huge and loaded with meat and cheese."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $4.00 each.

2

The restaurant charges an 18% gratuity for groups of four or more.

3

There is plenty of parking available.

11
El Primo Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with casual, authentic vibe and colorful indoor decor featuring a bar and large dining area with heaters. Outdoor seating offers a cute, enclosed space during colder months. The atmosphere stays chill and lively, though music volume can be high.

Mexican food here has authentic flavor that stands out. The atmosphere feels chill and genuine, matching the food's quality.

Tacos come with head and pork, plus steak and pastoral options. Specials run on Taco Tuesday and Thursday with $1 and $1.50 deals. The tacos are consistently delicious and great for business meetings.

People are saying

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

"I found the tacos to be delicious and satisfying."

"You'll love the authentic Mexican food and flavor here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday and Thursday offer $1 tacos and $5 margaritas.

2

Parking is available, but the lot has some big potholes.

3

Lunch specials are available for $8.99, including a steak burrito.

12
Taqueria Los Comales Joliet image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with cafeteria style seating and bright, warm atmosphere welcomes families and friends. Open seating includes booths and tables, surrounded by clean, vibrant decor and ample parking. Music stays low, creating a relaxed environment suitable for casual meals and special occasions.

Dishes come packed with authentic flavors that reflect traditional Mexican cooking. The menu features tacos and enchiladas that taste genuine and fresh in a casual environment.

Steak tacos stand out with authentic flavors and come with a bucket of carrots on the table. Green salsa and tacos arrieros add variety, making the tacos a family favorite.

People are saying

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

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

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

Good to know

1

The establishment accepts only cash payments.

2

Parking can be tricky late in the day.

3

Taqueria Los Comales Joliet is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

13
Taqueria Los Paisanos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with authentic decor featuring old restaurant pictures creates a cozy atmosphere. Food focuses on Mexican specialties like birria and quesabirria tacos, praised for quality and flavor. Prices remain very affordable, attracting those seeking good value in a compact setting.

Gordita de asada tastes homemade and authentic. Pictures of the old restaurant add to the authentic atmosphere. Other dishes lack that homemade feel.

Steak tacos come with fresh ingredients and a well seasoned flavor. Birria tacos are authentically prepared and not too spicy, with a good size and plenty of food.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the steak tacos, is delicious."

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

"I thought the tacos here were the best I had in this city."

Good to know

1

There isn't a lot of parking in the area around Taqueria Los Paisanos.

2

The prices at Taqueria Los Paisanos range from 10-20 dollars.

3

The portion sizes are small but good.

14
Taco Mex Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with chill vibe and family-owned feel offers generous portions and reasonable prices. Interior decoration creates a pleasant atmosphere. Tacos and guacamole stand out as popular choices.

Food tastes consistently authentic with no misses. Horchata stands out as a key sign of genuine Mexican flavor.

Steak on the tacos stands out with a rich, savory taste. Mini tacos come fresh and flavorful, especially the Carne Asada and chicaron varieties. Portions are generous and consistently satisfying.

People are saying

"These tacos are so fresh and savory, I want to go again."

"I thought the tacos here were some of the best I had."

"The food here tastes so authentic, especially the corn tortillas."

Good to know

1

The menu lists gorditas at $5.50 each, but charges may vary.

2

Portions are generous, ensuring good value for your money.

3

Expect to pay around $14 for four tacos and $11 for nachos.

15
Habanero Mexican Fine Cuisine image 1

Wooden chairs and booths with engraved words create a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere complemented by outdoor seating. The place offers authentic Mexican dishes like mole sauce and habanero steak, paired with notable margaritas. The vibe stays friendly and fun with very low background music.

Great, authentic Mexican food shines through dishes like the habanero steak. The vibe lacks a fully authentic Mexican atmosphere, with lighting and music not matching the cuisine's roots.

Pastor tacos and steak milanesa stand out with rich flavors. Crunchy shell tacos, steak sopes, and chicken mole add variety to the menu.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fantastic and well seasoned."

"I loved the pastor tacos; they were the best I've ever had."

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

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from 11am to 4pm.

2

Tuesdays feature half-price house margaritas.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment throughout.

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Joliet, Illinois

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