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Top picks in Waukegan

Taco spots

A taco that tastes like it was made with care, not just assembled in a hurry to meet a quota.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Tacos El Vale image 1
Tacos El Vale image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic tacos like al pastor and carnitas. Quick service suits those craving flavorful Mexican food. Clean storefront and ample parking make visits easy and pleasant.

Tacos here are fresh with flavorful meat, especially the tacos al pastor and carnitas. The tacos and burritos taste authentic and come with well-prepared beans.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the tacos here to be fresh and flavorful."

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.

02
Cemitas Frida Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a homey atmosphere with colorful decor and good vibes music. Tacos shine with al pastor flavor and options like suadero and cochinita pibil. Dishes like pozole and cemitas bring rich flavors and tender meats for a cozy, lively meal.

Al pastor tacos stand out with rich flavor, alongside suadero, tripa, and cochinita pibil options. Tacos come with queso birria and volcรกnitos, offering a variety of tasty choices.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and authentic."

"I found the tacos to be full of meat and flavor."

"The food here is delicious, especially the birria ramen."

Good to know

1

Cemitas Frida Restaurant offers a variety of menu options including Alambre tacos.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food.

3

The restaurant is very clean, including the bathrooms.

03
Master Sushi & drive thru image 1

Restaurant blends modern design with a cozy vibe and Japanese-South Korean decor. Shrimp, Ahi tuna, and salmon tacos offer a fresh, Asian twist with perfect plating. Drive-thru adds convenience, while good music enhances the welcoming atmosphere.

Tacos here come with an Asian tasting spin, especially the shrimp tacos. The Ahi tuna and salmon tacos stand out for their fresh flavor and perfect plating.

People are saying

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

"I thought the sushi here was the best I had ever tasted."

"I tried the ahi tuna tacos; they were super fresh."

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
Forastero's Tako Restaurante image 1

Small Mexican spot offers homemade tortillas and perfectly seasoned meats like al pastor and brisket. Warm vibe and friendly staff create a welcoming space. Bold flavors come from fresh toppings and unique choices like nopales.

Tacos come with perfectly seasoned meats like al pastor, brisket, and lengua, all wrapped in homemade tortillas. Fresh toppings and unique options like nopales and melted cheese add bold flavors to every bite.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so authentic and fresh."

"You have to try the homemade tortillas; they're perfect."

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.

05
La Chuparosa Waukegan's Premier Mexican Restaurant image 1

Stylish restaurant offers juicy tacos with unique flavors like Korean and Flor de Jamaica. Live Mexican music and DJ sets create a lively atmosphere that energizes guests. Communal seating fosters a social vibe, making every visit feel special.

Tacos come in juicy and filling portions with a variety of flavors like Korean and Flor de Jamaica. The tinga tacos offer a delicious and full taste, and happy hour features a tasty specialty taco menu.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and beautifully plated."

"The happy hour tacos and margaritas are excellent and a great price."

"The tacos here are top tier and full of flavor."

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.

06
Taqueria El Primo image 1
Taco restaurant

Small space buzzes with a relaxed vibe and cozy modern design. Authentic Mexican tacos like beef head and asada shine at just $1.75 each. Affordable prices draw a steady crowd, making it a top spot for unbeatable value and great eats.

Tacos here taste authentic and come at a low price of $1.75 each. Varieties like beef head, asada, and pastor stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tacos and quesabirrias, was the best."

"I found the prices here were super affordable."

"I found the tacos and quesabirrias to be the best in Lake County."

Good to know

1

The tacos cost $1.75 each, making them very affordable.

2

The taco dinner costs $7.99 and includes four tacos with rice and beans.

3

Burritos are priced at $5.99.

07
Avocado Express image 1
Brunch restaurant

Brunch spot shines with all-day breakfast and lively atmosphere. Chicken and steak tacos offer rich flavors and great texture. Menu highlights include avocado-based dishes and homemade sauce on chilaquiles, all served fast at fair prices.

Chicken and steak tacos feature rich flavors and a satisfying texture. Tacos come alongside other delicious options like chilaquiles and paninis.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"I thought the Mexican food chilaquiles were the best I've ever had."

"I found the tacos here to be outstanding."

Good to know

1

Avocado Express serves breakfast and lunch all day.

2

The restaurant has a policy to eat in 35 minutes once your dish is served.

3

Prices are reasonable, with a decent price point for the area.

08
Chicken Miche image 1
Restaurant

Colorful decor and spicy salsa bar create a warm vibe. Tacos shine with Quesabirria and steak options, especially on Taco Tuesday. Spacious patio welcomes groups and pets, making it a great spot for casual dining.

Tacos here have fantastic flavor with options like steak, tripa, and Quesabirria. Taco Tuesday features tasty hard shell tacos and specials that stand out.

People are saying

"The tacos de tripa were fantastic and crispy."

"You'll love their salsa bar; it's authentic and spicy."

"It's a colorful and relaxing atmosphere, inside and out."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos, excluding al pastor.

2

The restaurant has a salsa bar and daily specials.

3

Indoor dining is available for guests.

09
La Mexicanita grocery store #1 image 1

Offers authentic tacos with hot, ready-to-eat options and excellent sides like rice and guacamole. Features a small bakery with fresh bread and a food counter serving specials on burritos and tacos. Shelves stock El Milagro tortillas and a variety of fresh produce and homemade salsas.

Authentic Hispanic food shines with tacos that are hot and ready-to-eat. Burritos, carnitas, and tortas come with excellent rice and guacamole, making the taco options stand out.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious, authentic Hispanic food at this grocery store."

"I thought the tacos here were the best."

"The tortillas here are hot and ready-to-eat."

Good to know

1

The store has a small bakery with fresh bread available daily.

2

Expect the store to get busy during peak hours.

3

They offer great specials on various grocery items.

10
Mi Jacalito Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Wide space buzzes with loud band music and a lively vibe. Authentic Mexican dishes shine, especially al pastor tacos with juicy, fresh meat. Cozy corners offer a quiet spot, blending energy and calm for a unique meal.

Tacos come large and fresh with juicy chicken and steak that is not overcooked or fatty. Options like carne asada and al pastor stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

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

"I found the tacos outstanding and so good."

"I thought the pozole's flavor was a perfect 10."

Good to know

1

Tuesday is Taco Tuesday with a great sale.

2

The prices are fantastic and the specials help.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

11
Taqueria Guerrero #1 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cramped space offers a cozy atmosphere with family-friendly vibe and renovated decor adding charm. Tacos shine with tender meat like lengua and carne asada, priced around $4. Unique Micheladas and great music complete the authentic Mexican experience.

Tacos feature tender meat with good flavor and include standout options like lengua and carne asada. Prices run around $4 each, and the tacos pair well with seafood broth and quesadillas.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be the best and most authentic."

"The meat in the tacos and torta is so tender."

"I found the tacos here to be amazing and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 6:30 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Prices at Taqueria Guerrero #1 are reasonable for the quality of food.

3

The menu offers a variety of options, including a kids menu.

12
La Mexicanita Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior and outdoor patio create a relaxed atmosphere with romantic music. Tacos shine with huge quesobirria and fresh steak options loaded with shrimp. Families enjoy reasonably priced authentic Mexican dishes and delicious margaritas in a well-decorated setting.

Steak tacos come huge and delicious with lots of shrimp on some options. Quesobirria tacos stand out as huge and full of flavor, while chicken and asada tacos offer great flavor and freshness.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so authentic, it reminds me of home."

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

Good to know

1

The menu offers a wide variety of options, all reasonably priced.

2

The burrito costs $9.99.

3

They give salsa in a sealed plastic bag instead of a cup for takeout.

13
Live Star Bar Banquet Hall Inc image 1

Banquet hall shines with flavorful tacos cooked perfectly and packed with taste. Lively atmosphere thrives with DJ music and slot machines, making events fun and engaging. Offers incredible value for food and drinks, ideal for parties and gatherings.

Tacos come packed with flavor and are cooked perfectly. They stand out as a delicious highlight on the menu.

People are saying

"It's a great time here for a party or just to hang out."

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

"You've got to try the tacos; they're packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The venue offers great packages for hosting events.

2

Karaoke nights are popular and provide a fun atmosphere.

3

Pizza is available by the slice for quick snacks.

14
The Pink Cactus image 1
Restaurant

Bright, festive decor and traditional Mexican touches create a lively vibe perfect for young crowds. Tacos shine with authentic flavors and a diverse menu including wings and burritos. Cozy, modern space feels energetic but seating is somewhat cramped and music can be loud.

Tacos come with authentic flavors and a diverse menu including wings, burritos, and burgers. The taco dinner pairs well with tropical mules and earns a high rating for taste.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good."

"This Mexican food is a flavor bomb, truly phenomenal."

"I loved my steak taco dinner; it was a 20/10 experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

An 18% gratuity is added to each check without prior notice.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait before placing your order during busy times.

15
Tute's Bakery and Taqueria image 1

Fresh baked Mexican sweet bread and fluffy conchas shine alongside big tacos packed with meat and cheese-filled tacos. Early morning hours offer a varied menu including tortas and menudo. Prices are high but bread and pastries earn consistent praise.

Big tacos packed with meat stand out here. Cheese-filled tacos offer a rich, savory bite that draws people in. The menu also includes tortas and menudo, adding variety to the taco experience.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be delicious and fresh."

"I always came here for their mini pink conchas; they were super good."

"You have to try the cheese-filled tacos; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

Tute's Bakery and Taqueria opens at 7:00 am daily.

2

Prices at Tute's Bakery and Taqueria are considered high.

3

Expect a limited variety of bread options available.

16
El Famous Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves phenomenal steak and meaty burritos in a clean, peaceful space with a patio and drive-thru. Tacos feature juicy meats and homemade tortillas with fresh toppings. Cash-only policy keeps things simple and authentic.

Tacos come with juicy meats, fresh toppings, and homemade tortillas. Options include double meat steak and tongue tacos, all packed with flavor and freshness.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh, well-prepared, and a great value."

"I thought the burrito was the best I ever had."

"These tacos are packed with flavor and juicy meats."

Good to know

1

El Famous Burrito accepts only cash payments.

2

The restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and drive-thru options.

3

There is an ATM on site at El Famous Burrito.

17
Paulina's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot serves handmade tortillas and well-seasoned steak tacos with exquisite sauces. Authentic Mexican flavors shine in a homey atmosphere. Prices stay affordable, making it perfect for casual local dining.

Steak tacos feature exceptional seasoning and stand out for their flavor. Prices stay under $3.00 each, though buying three tacos can total around $19.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic, with handmade tortillas and seasoned steak."

"The food here is delicious, authentic, and well-seasoned."

"The steak tacos here have the most seasoned steak I've had."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost less than $3.00, making it an affordable option.

2

The chef emphasizes fresh ingredients, which may lead to longer wait times.

3

The restaurant is known for its clean environment.

18
Supermercado Gonzalez image 1
Mexican grocery store

Mexican grocery store blends authentic Mexican American theme with a cozy, artistic vibe. Tacos cost $2.50 and come loaded with meat and vegetables like arrachera and milanesa de pollo. Enjoy fresh food in a coffee lounge with tables and a TV.

Tacos offer plenty of meat and vegetables for $2.50 each. Options like tacos de arrachera and milanesa de pollo come with lettuce, tomato, and cheese.

People are saying

"You have to try their amazing tacos and tamales."

"This grocery store has amazing made-to-order meals and authentic Hispanic prepared foods."

"You have to try the tacos; they're packed with plenty of meat."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking in the lot.

2

The supermarket has a decent selection of Hispanic products and goods.

3

It offers a variety of unique and delicious food items.

19
Super Mercado El Mexicano image 1

Grocery store offers authentic Mexican products and a taqueria with fresh, affordable tacos featuring carne asada and red salsa. Meals include rice and beans, plus homemade elotes and burritos. Clean, comfortable atmosphere with plenty of parking and reasonable prices makes it a popular spot.

Tacos come with carne asada and red salsa, served in a dinner with rice and beans for $7.99. Homemade elotes, burritos, beans, and rice complement the delicious tacos.

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 thought the tacos with carne asada and red salsa were delicious."

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.

20
La Fondita Restaurante Mexicano image 1

Cozy spot with a home-like atmosphere and fresh, authentic dishes. Birria tacos are rich and tender, while vegetarian options like squash blossom quesadilla add unique flavors. Quiet vibe makes it perfect for a chill meal with handmade specialties.

Tacos come full of meat and tender, with options like birria, chicken, and shrimp. The birria tacos stand out for their rich flavor and texture.

People are saying

"The handmade tortillas here are amazing with the Mexican food."

"These tacos are amazing and full of tender meat."

"I found the food here to be fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The menu features unique options not commonly found elsewhere.

3

Prices have increased recently, so check the menu before ordering.

21
El Sabrocito Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican spot offers a cozy atmosphere with affordable prices. Tacos are small and sometimes bland, but authentic menudo and posole shine. Ideal for quick, flavorful meals with easy takeout options.

Tacos come in small, plain sizes and sometimes lack flavor, with some meats tasting bland or tasteless. Service includes options for to-go or eating there, but tacos often arrive in a bag unless a plate is requested.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good."

"This Mexican food is really good and well seasoned."

"I thought their tacos were the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant mostly caters for takeout.

2

The burrito only comes with beans and cheese; other fillings cost an extra dollar each.

3

Prices are generally good compared to other restaurants.

22
La Jaiba Mariscos image 1

Cozy spot with homemade tortillas fills the air with authentic Mexican aromas. Fresh seafood like ceviche and seafood boil bring Nayarit coast flavors. Quick, fresh steak street tacos arrive fast, served indoors or outdoors for a relaxed vibe.

Steak street tacos come custom-made and arrive quickly after ordering. They stand out for their freshness and quick service.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be fresh and tasty."

"You can smell the fresh, handmade corn tortillas being made."

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

Good to know

1

On-site parking is limited, but there is a parking garage a block away.

2

Credit card payments incur an extra fee, so bring cash if possible.

3

A 17% gratuity is automatically added to the bill without prior notice.

23
Taqueria El Charro image 1

Offers authentic Mexican tacos with El Milagro tortillas and excellent al pastor. Steak tacos are affordable and tasty. Atmosphere feels rundown with dirty floors and stained ceiling tiles, and some dishes are notably overpriced.

Steak tacos stand out with delicious meat and affordable prices. Regular tacos use El Milagro tortillas and come in both mini and regular sizes.

People are saying

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

"I found the authentic Mexican food here had spot-on flavors and the right spices."

"I thought the tacos here were phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Check your totals carefully to avoid surprises at checkout.

2

Horchatas are priced at $3.50, not $1 as expected.

3

The restaurant does not sell alcohol.

24
Toluca's Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers tacos al pastor known for their tasty flavor and live mariachi music that energizes the space. Spacious, cabin-style decor creates a lively vibe, perfect for casual dinners or gatherings in the banquet hall.

Tacos al pastor stand out with their tasty flavor and are considered the best among the dishes. Fish tacos and shrimp empanadas also offer delicious options, and the green salsa adds a nice touch.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be really good."

"The seafood here, especially the octopus tostadas and shrimp empanadas, is so fresh and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult during busy hours.

2

Menu prices may not match the final bill due to weekly changes.

3

Expect larger portion sizes that resemble platters.

25
El Rey Del Pollo Asado image 1
Mexican restaurant

Narrow space inside an old pizza hut creates a cozy atmosphere with a family-friendly vibe. Flame-grilled chicken shines as a Latin-style specialty alongside seasoned tacos like Al Pastor and grilled chicken. Busy spot, best for takeout.

Tacos come seasoned to perfection with fresh, juicy fillings. The Al Pastor and grilled chicken options offer flavorful, tender meat complemented by sauces with just the right kick.

People are saying

"The food here is really delicious and flavorful."

"The Mexican food here is packed with flavor and seasoned to perfection."

"I found the tacos to be seasoned to perfection and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours; takeout is recommended.

2

The restaurant charges a fee for credit or debit card payments.

3

Lunch specials offer great value, typically around $10 for a meal.

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