Explore Pilsen's vibrant taco scene this summer with these 10 must-visit spots. From authentic carnitas to creative plant-based options, each restaurant offers unique flavors and experiences. Here's a quick overview of what to expect:
- El Taco Azteca: Handmade tortillas, Coca Cola-infused tacos, and vegan-friendly options.
- Taqueria El Milagro: Fresh corn tortillas and customizable tacos.
- Don Pedro Carnitas: Famous for crispy, juicy carnitas and weekend specialties.
- 5 Rabanitos: Affordable tacos with vegetarian options and handmade tortillas.
- Cecina Grill Pilsen: Focus on cecina tacos and scratch-made salsas.
- Birrieria Reyes de Ocotlan: Specializing in goat birria tacos and consommé.
- La Vaca Margarita Bar: 12 taco varieties and a standout margarita menu.
- Rubi's Tacos: Known for smoked tortillas and mole tacos.
- Luna: Fresh, locally sourced tacos with diverse options.
- Canton Regio: Northern Mexican-inspired tacos and grilled meats.
Plan your taco adventure and enjoy the rich flavors of Pilsen's culinary heritage!
FIVE BEST taco spots in Chicago!
1. El Taco Azteca
Located in the heart of Pilsen, El Taco Azteca brings the flavors of Mexico City and Puebla to life with its New Mexican-inspired cuisine. Their handmade tortillas, bursting with color and flavor, set the stage for an unforgettable taco experience.
One standout is the Coca Cola-infused taco, a crowd favorite. Their carnitas tacos, served on freshly made tortillas, reflect traditional cooking methods, while the tofu al pastor tacos offer a creative option for plant-based eaters.
The menu is packed with options for vegans, vegetarians, and pescatarians. Choices like tofu al pastor, potato, and mushroom tacos ensure everyone can find something to enjoy. Their award-winning mole is a key ingredient in several dishes, adding depth and richness to the menu.
If you’re looking for great deals, check out their weekly specials:
| Day | Special Offer |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | All tacos $3.50 (20% off regular price) |
| Thursday | Tacos de Pastor 20% off |
| Daily (2–6 PM) | Happy Hour: All tacos and cocktails $5 |
In 2023, El Taco Azteca gained recognition from Block Club Chicago, Chicago's Best, and the Chicago Tribune for their role in Pilsen's thriving food scene. These features boosted reservations by 20% and increased social media engagement by 15% [3].
Kick off your visit with their mole salsa and one of their agave-sweetened cocktails during Happy Hour. Stay tuned for the next must-visit taco spot in Pilsen!
2. Taqueria El Milagro
Taqueria El Milagro offers a cafeteria-style dining experience with vibrant artwork that reflects Pilsen's lively atmosphere. Their dedication to making fresh corn tortillas every day is a hallmark of their menu.
One standout is their Mexican stew taco, available only on Saturdays. During the rest of the week, their steak tacos, topped with crunchy cabbage slaw and a touch of pickled flavor, are a must-try.
"The possibilities here are endless and very affordable. Anything you order will be good." - Nancy P. [4]
The menu also allows for plenty of customization. You can create your own tacos with options like bistek (steak) or pollo (chicken) platillos, paired with handmade tortillas.
Here are a few crowd favorites:
| Taco Type | Recommended Add-ons | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Mexican Stew | Fresh salsa, lime | Saturdays only |
| Steak with Slaw | Extra cabbage, hot sauce | Weekday lunch |
| Pollo Platillo | Handmade tortillas, onions | Any time |
As a Latinx-owned spot, El Milagro consistently delivers delicious food in a laid-back and budget-friendly setting. Up next, explore another Pilsen treasure putting its own spin on tacos.
3. Don Pedro Carnitas
Next on our Pilsen taco journey is Don Pedro Carnitas, a local favorite known for its expertly crafted carnitas. This spot opens bright and early, around 5 or 6 a.m., and keeps its focus on a few standout dishes rather than an expansive menu.
Their carnitas ($11.99 per pound) are the star of the show. Cooked slowly in pork fat, the meat achieves a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender, juicy insides. Each order comes with steamed tortillas, fresh onions, cilantro, lime wedges, and their signature escabeche - a tangy mix of pickled vegetables and jalapeños.
"Don Pedro is a staple for great carnitas in Pilsen. The meat is cooked in rendered pork fat until it's juicy, crisp and melts in your mouth." - Time Out [5]
Here’s a quick look at what’s offered:
| Day | Special Items | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Monday-Friday | Carnitas Tacos | $4.99 |
| Monday-Friday | Carnitas Tortas | $5.99 |
| Weekends | Birria de Chivo | $19.99/lb |
| Weekends | Barbacoa de Res | $12.99/lb |
| Weekends | Menudo (32oz) | $8.99 |
For the full flavor experience, ask for "a mix of everything" to try both light and dark meat. Pair your meal with their green avocado salsa and red chile salsa for an extra kick.
"There's a limited amount of places in Chicago that specialize in carnitas, but Carnitas Don Pedro is easily one of my favorites." - Dennis Lee, The Party Cut [6]
If you're planning a weekend visit, make sure to arrive early. Seating is limited, and the most popular cuts sell out fast. Keep in mind, this spot is cash-only, so come prepared. A half-pound portion is perfect for a solo lunch, but you might want to grab extra for later - trust us, you’ll be glad you did.
4. 5 Rabanitos
Located at 1758 W. 18th St., 5 Rabanitos serves up bold Mexican flavors, blending traditional recipes with a modern touch. The restaurant's name is a nod to the owner’s Guerrero roots, where he and his brothers once sold radishes [8].
Their tacos, made with fresh ingredients and handmade tortillas, are packed with flavor. Priced at $2.50 each [9], you can also opt for the taco platter, which includes three tacos, rice, beans, and guacamole for $10 [9].
"Just excellent food! The servers were so friendly, and the food was great. I had the chicken enchiladas mole and they were great. I had one taco on the side just to try one, and it was one of the best I've had. The tortilla made a big difference in the flavor, which isn't usually the case. Highly recommend."
– Helene F, Yelp Reviewer [7]
The restaurant stands out by offering options for both meat lovers and vegetarians. Their vegetarian tacos, paired with house-made guacamole, are a favorite among diners.
"Went for dinner. Nice selection of veg options. Had the vegetarian caldo and a veg taco. Soup was great, had just a little kick to it. Taco was great. Their guac is amazing! And of course had their signature margarita - yum! Will def come back again."
– Anglea R, Yelp Reviewer [7]
| Menu Highlight | Price |
|---|---|
| Individual Tacos | $2.50 |
| Taco Platter (3 tacos + sides) | $10.00 |
Before you go, keep these tips in mind:
- The restaurant is BYOB
- Only cash is accepted [8]
- Arrive early during busy times to secure a seat
- Don’t miss the signature guacamole
5. Cecina Grill Pilsen
Cecina Grill Pilsen is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Pilsen's taco scene. Known for its authentic Mexican dishes, this restaurant has been serving the community since 2015.
This spacious eatery offers a comfortable family-friendly atmosphere, complete with a diner-style bar. Their menu highlights include Cecina Estilo Guerrero and Cecina Campesina, with their signature cecina tacos stealing the show. And don’t miss their warm salsa de molcajete - a favorite among regulars.
"This place was unexpected. The food was so good. I loved the molcajete salsa and the cecina with guacamole and pico de gallo was perfect. The hand made tortillas really took it to the next level as well." - Jared D [10]
The taco menu features a variety of options, including chorizo and al pastor tacos, but the cecina taco is the star. What truly sets Cecina Grill apart is their dedication to making everything from scratch, especially their handmade tortillas. This attention to detail reflects Pilsen's deep culinary roots. The Infatuation gives Cecina Grill a solid 7.2 rating, describing it as "pretty good" [11].
"This place never disappoints! Mexican food just how my mom makes it. Salsas are great, hand made tortillas are the best & and you can taste the love in the food. My favorite spot in the city." - Scott A [10]
For a standout meal, try the cecina taco topped with fresh guacamole and pico de gallo - an unforgettable combination.
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6. Birrieria Reyes de Ocotlan
Birrieria Reyes de Ocotlan is all about one thing: birria. This GNR (Great Neighborhood Restaurant) award winner has built its reputation by perfecting goat birria [12].
Unlike places with an extensive menu, this spot keeps it simple and focused. Food critic David Hammond puts it best:
"There's something powerful and classic about a place that has, basically, one menu item... It's a refusal to give into the 'more is more, let's have something for everybody' marketing approach that's practiced by…well, that's practiced by the majority of restaurants everywhere." [12]
Their birria tacos come loaded with traditional toppings - fresh cilantro, diced onions, chiles de arbol, and lime wedges. The goat meat is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Pair your tacos with a side of goat consommé. For just $6, you’ll get a rich, savory soup served with lime wedges and warm tortillas. It’s a meal that’s both satisfying and affordable.
The restaurant’s dedication to quality has earned rave reviews from both critics and locals, with many calling their birria "stupendous" and "excellent" [12]. Ready to discover more taco gems in Pilsen? Keep reading!
7. La Vaca Margarita Bar
La Vaca Margarita Bar promises a getaway vibe with its motto: "When you're at La Vaca you're on vacation" [13]. With 12 taco options, there's something for everyone. Highlights include the La Vaca taco with chipotle carne asada and black bean crema ($4.50) and the Big Boss taco, featuring breaded shrimp and bacon ($4.95). For vegetarians and vegans, the El Green and Vegan tacos ($3.50 each) offer flavorful, plant-based choices.
Their margarita lineup features eight flavors, from the classic lime to bolder options like Strawberry Jalapeño and Pepino. Pricing is as follows:
| Margarita Type | Single | Pitcher |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | $13 | $30 |
| De Primera (Top Shelf) | $16–18 | $36–40 |
If you're hosting a group, the Taco Box carry-out option is a great choice at $60. It includes:
- 12 tacos (choose 3 types)
- 2 sides of rice
- 2 sides of beans
- Churros for dessert
La Vaca Margarita Bar combines bold taco creations with timeless favorites - explore more of Pilsen to uncover even more great eats.
8. Rubi's Tacos
Rubi's Tacos, located at 1316 W 18th St in Pilsen, is known for bringing the flavors of Mexico's Guerrero region to Chicago. They’ve stuck with the same recipes since day one, ensuring every bite stays true to tradition. Their hand-patted, smoked tortillas are the heart of their tacos, setting them apart from the rest [16].
Some crowd favorites include the Al Pastor Taco and the Mole Rojo Con Puerco Tacos. As Evelyn Ramirez Landa shares:
"People would call us 'los de mole' or 'the mole people' when they were looking for us" [16]
"Rubi's continues to stay original, using the exact same recipes that were used the very first day we began to operate" [15]
This dedication has earned them a solid 4.2-star rating on Yelp from 105 reviews [14]. They also offer unique specialty tacos that highlight their diverse menu:
| Specialty Taco | Description |
|---|---|
| Flor de Calabaza | Taco made with squash blossoms |
| Huitlacoche | Taco filled with huitlacoche |
| Steak Taco | A classic option with tender steak |
With both indoor and outdoor seating, Rubi's Tacos is a great spot to enjoy tacos, especially on a sunny day.
9. Luna
Luna focuses on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft its menu. Their tacos are individually priced, letting you mix and match to suit your taste. Here's a look at their taco options:
| Taco Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Pork Belly | $5.50 |
| Fish | $5.25 |
| Carne Asada | $5.25 |
| Cauliflower | $5.25 |
| Al Pastor | $5.25 |
| Pollo Tinga | $4.25 |
In addition to tacos, they serve quesabirria, elote, and flautas. Luna also has a loyalty rewards program for frequent diners. They currently operate in Logan Square, with plans for a third location in the near future.
10. Canton Regio
First opened in 1962 and reintroduced in 2016 as Canton Regio (formerly Nuevo León), this Mexican steakhouse brings the flavors of Northern Mexico to life with expertly grilled meats and a lively atmosphere.
Staying true to Pilsen's roots, Canton Regio blends tradition with creative flavors. Their Sabinas tacos and carne asada tacos are prime examples of their focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
"Solo las personas que conocen la historia, tradición y raíces son capaces de apreciar y saborear los nuevos platillos que el Cantón Regio tiene el placer de ofrecer." - Canton Regio [18]
"I love the atmosphere which is always festive and fun and sure to put me in an amazing mood!" - Joy M K [17]
Every detail of the dining experience reflects their respect for tradition. Whether you choose to sit indoors, relax on the patio, or grab takeout, you'll enjoy a front-row seat to their open kitchen. They also offer a BYOB option with a $10 corkage fee, and their lunch menu is an affordable way to enjoy the flavors.
Canton Regio’s focus on Northern Mexican cooking shines through in their preparation methods and bold flavor combinations. The vibrant environment, paired with their dedication to fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques, delivers a dining experience that feels like a true celebration of Mexican cuisine.
Planning Your Taco Tour
Make the most of your taco journey by planning ahead. For a smooth experience, visit Don Pedro Carnitas during weekdays and aim for off-peak hours to skip the long lines [19]. If Rubi's tacos are on your list, remember their hours: Thursday and Friday from 11 AM to 6 PM, and weekends from 10 AM to 6 PM [19].
Best Times for Taco Adventures
Start your day with a breakfast taco to kick off your exploration. A morning bite sets the tone for a day filled with Pilsen's rich taco options.
Blending Tacos and Culture
Enhance your taco tour with a dose of local culture by following this route:
- Morning: Begin your day near the National Museum of Mexican Art, then head to 5 Rabanitos for their wide variety of fresh taco flavors [1].
- Afternoon: Stroll through 18th Street’s bustling corridor and stop at Don Pedro Carnitas to savor their famous pork tacos [19].
- Evening: Wrap up your tour with dinner and a visit to the second Friday art walk on Halsted Street for a mix of art and tacos [2].
Signature Tacos You Can’t Miss
| Restaurant | Signature Taco | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| La Vaca | La Vaca Taco | Chipotle carne asada, black beans [1] |
| 5 Rabanitos | Al Pastor | Topped with fresh ingredients [1] |
| Rubi's | Al Pastor & Steak | Served with handmade tortillas [19] |
| Don Pedro | Carnitas | Crispy, flavorful pork [19] |
Let Pilsen’s vibrant taco scene take you on a flavorful journey, mixing tradition and creativity at every stop.
Final Thoughts
Pilsen is a testament to Chicago's rich and evolving Mexican food culture. The taco spots here blend classic flavors with modern twists, offering dining experiences that capture the neighborhood's vibrant essence.
This summer, check out ten must-visit taco spots that showcase everything from beloved carnitas to inventive flavor combinations. These places not only celebrate traditional cooking but also bring fresh ideas to the table, highlighting Pilsen's dynamic food scene.
Make your visit even better by stopping at the Pilsen Community and Farmers Market, where you’ll find fresh produce and handmade goods to complement your taco journey [2]. If you can, plan your trip around 2nd Fridays to enjoy special restaurant menus and cultural events [2]. These local touches add depth to the experience, making every taco stop more meaningful.
Each taco spot tells a story, blending Pilsen’s history with modern culinary trends. Through unique recipes and time-honored methods, these eateries honor tradition while embracing new influences.
This summer, every bite in Pilsen offers a mix of heritage and creativity. Whether you’re a taco expert or just starting to explore Mexican cuisine, a taco tour in Pilsen is your chance to savor the living legacy of Chicago’s Mexican food scene [1].
