Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Waukegan

Mexican food finds

Made for those who prefer to bypass the mainstream in favor of specialized Mexican kitchens that fly under the radar.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Forastero's Tako Restaurante image 1

Small, homey Mexican restaurant with beautiful decor and authentic flavors fills the air with the aroma of freshly prepared food. Warm, welcoming atmosphere features friendly staff and a vibrant community vibe. Homemade tortillas and large portions highlight the genuine dining experience.

Authentic Mexican food features freshly made corn tortillas and a wide variety of options like El pastor tacos, chorizo quesadillas, and corn tamales. The menu offers reasonable prices and includes drinks like micheladas.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem with unique offerings that aren't widely known. It draws attention for its distinctive charm and invites people to explore beyond the usual choices.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious tacos, especially the lengua."

"I've never had Mexican food this good; it's the best I've ever had."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the tacos are packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The menu features a wide variety of authentic Mexican food options.

2

Parking is ample across the street from the restaurant.

3

The restaurant only accepts cash payments.

02
Tacos El Vale image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining area offers a cozy atmosphere with a clean storefront and ample parking nearby. The place buzzes with efficient pick-up orders, attracting those seeking quick, flavorful Mexican food. Tacos stand out for their authentic taste and fresh, flavorful meat.

Tacos here are fresh with flavorful meat like al pastor and carnitas. Green chilaquiles and churros offer authentic, tasty options alongside excellent tacos and burritos.

Offers authentic flavors that stand out quietly. Serves as a true hidden gem with a simple, unassuming vibe.

People are saying

"The green chilaquiles here are so tasteful and authentic."

"The salsa here is rich, complex, and full of flavor."

"I found this place to be a real hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer $2 tacos, a great deal for budget-friendly dining.

2

Parking is ample and convenient for easy access to the restaurant.

3

The dining area is small, so expect a cozy atmosphere.

03
Master Sushi & drive thru image 1

Restaurant combines modern design with a clean, cozy atmosphere and a Japanese-South Korean decor influence. It offers a drive-thru option, unusual for sushi places, and plays good music that adds to the welcoming vibe. The space feels bright and well-kept, attracting both groups and solo diners.

Tacos stand out with shrimp tacos featuring an Asian twist and salmon tacos offering unique flavors. The Master Burrito and sides like street corn and guacamole complement the menu well.

Offers a drive thru option for sushi, making it convenient and unique. Recognized as a hidden gem for its quality and accessibility in the area.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and high quality."

"I thought the shrimp tacos were excellent and unique."

"These Hidden Gems offer amazing, fresh sushi with exceptional flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a drive-thru for quick takeout orders.

2

Prices are affordable, typically under $15 for a quick lunch.

3

The establishment maintains a high level of cleanliness throughout.

04
Drip and Culture - Socially Minded Coffee image 1

Coffee shop inside a Mexican grocery store offers a speakeasy vibe with a tiny, cozy seating area decorated in 80s and 90s nostalgic style. Atmosphere feels community-oriented and welcoming, creating a chill space to relax or work. Handmade crafts and vintage games add unique touches that set it apart.

Super fresh, authentic Mexican food comes from a lunch counter right next to the coffee shop. Pairing tacos with perfect lattes offers a unique combo of Mexican cuisine and coffee.

Offers a quiet atmosphere and unique finds that stand out from typical spots. Worth exploring for those seeking something off the beaten path.

People are saying

"I had the best coffee I ever experienced here."

"I was surprised by the authentic Mexican food and coffee pairing."

"You should check out this hidden gem if you're in the area."

Good to know

1

Drip and Culture is located inside the Supermercado Gonzalez, at the back of the store.

2

There is easy parking available in the parking lot in front of the grocery store.

3

The coffee shop offers a wide variety of drinks, including many unique matcha options.

05
Liguez image 1
Restaurant

Modern restaurant offers a clean, cozy atmosphere with tasteful decoration and pleasant vibes. The space feels family-friendly and relaxed, making it suitable for casual dining. It maintains a spotless environment that enhances the overall comfort.

Green and red chilaquiles stand out with bold flavors and a spicy kick. Quesadillas with fresh ingredients like flor de calabaza and chorizo offer solid options. Burritos, especially the chorizo and breakfast varieties, come with rich accompaniments like salsa.

Offers excellent food and service that stand out quietly on 10th street. A spot that feels tucked away yet delivers solid quality.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and well cooked."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the food is incredible and delicious."

Good to know

1

The bathrooms are very clean and well-maintained.

2

Expect longer wait times during busy weekend brunch hours.

3

There is a parking lot in the back with security cameras.

06
La Chuparosa Waukegan's Premier Mexican Restaurant image 1

Stylish restaurant with a modern interior and festive decor creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Live Mexican music and DJ sets energize the space, drawing a crowd that enjoys vibrant entertainment. Communal seating encourages a social vibe, making the experience feel special and engaging.

Offers upscale Mexican cuisine with a sophisticated vibe. Features unique dishes like Korean tacos and Flor de Jamaica tacos alongside excellent cocktails.

Offers a hidden gem experience with unique charm and appeal. Stands out quietly without much fanfare.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and beautifully plated."

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

"You have to try the skirt steak; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drinks at low prices, typically around $8.

2

The happy hour menu features a variety of specialty tacos.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during happy hour with great food options.

07
Super Mercado El Mexicano image 1

Grocery store offers authentic Mexican products and a taqueria with fresh, affordable food including highly rated tacos and tamales. The atmosphere is clean and comfortable with plenty of parking available. Prices are reasonable, making it a popular choice for prepared meals and groceries.

Tacos with carne asada and spicy red salsa stand out for their flavor. The taqueria offers homemade elotes, burritos, beans, and rice at affordable prices.

A hidden gem lies in the taqueria inside the store, offering authentic flavors. The market itself stands out as a hidden gem for its unique selection.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious tacos with carne asada and red salsa."

"I found this grocery store to be a very nice place."

"I found the made-to-order food and tons of options to be great hidden gems."

Good to know

1

The store has a strict no pets policy.

2

The taqueria offers great prices and fresh food.

3

The flauta dinner costs less than $10.

08
Lucky Scottie Restaurant image 1

Historic building with speakeasy-style bar and live DJ music creates a warm, lively atmosphere. Crowd enjoys fresh, flavorful food and a variety of cocktails including superb Negronis and Margheritas. Games and entertainment add to the inviting, fun vibe.

$2 Taco Tuesdays offer a great deal with tasty tacos. Enchiladas and tacos come out delicious and fresh. Complimentary homemade chips and salsa add to the meal experience.

Offers an unforgettable experience with a vibe that stands out in downtown. This spot feels like a true hidden gem tucked away from the usual spots.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The enchiladas here are so delicious and fresh."

"The owners' friendliness makes this place feel like family."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with $5 drinks available.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer $2 tacos, making it a popular night.

3

The kitchen closes early on show nights, so arrive in advance.

Discover more

Waukegan, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...