Come hungry and sample tacos from the following restaurants:
Carnitas Roldan is a vibrant local eatery in Chicago known for its flavorful, traditional-style carnitas. First appearing at neighborhood festivals like the Lakeview Taco Fest, their stall is instantly recognizable with a playful pig mascot and banners celebrating rich, slow-cooked pork. Though they’re newer to the city’s food scene, they’ve already won over fans with juicy, well-seasoned bites served on fresh tortillas. Expect casual street‑food flair, friendly service, and crowd‑pleasing carnitas that blend smoky depth with tender bite—perfect for grabbing a delicious taco at an outdoor event.
Caseras Sabor Real is a vibrant, family-run food truck based in Cicero and frequently seen cruising around downtown Chicago (often near Daley Plaza) serving up homestyle Mexican comfort food . Their menu features crowd favorites like al pastor and asada tacos, quesabirrias (tacos plus dipping broth), tortas, burritos—and freshly blended fruit smoothies that refresh after a spicy bite. With glowing customer reviews—“I had the Al Pastor tacos and I will definitely be going back again.
Banges Mexican Food is a down‑to‑earth, family-run gem that’s been delighting Chicago’s Southwest Side with hearty, home-style Mexican classics. Known for its popular appearances at events like the Lakeview Taco Fest , Banges serves up comforting staples—from tender, flavorful tacos to steaming bowls of pozole—celebrated by locals for its consistency and warm, neighborhood vibe. Whether you’re craving a no-frills meat-filled tortilla or a satisfying, flavorful stew, Banges delivers with friendly service and a sense of welcoming, tucked‑into-a-community charm.
Taqueria Teotihuacan is a family‑run taqueria in Chicago that’s earned its stripes with fresh‑made tortillas, genuine Mexican fillings, and straightforward, flavorful tacos that taste like abuela’s kitchen. Known for highlighting the essence of traditional street tacos—think perfectly seasoned meats, crisp toppings, and vibrant salsas—it’s a reliable go‑to for anyone after authentic, no‑frills Mexican fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Tandoor Char House in Chicago offers a bold fusion twist on tacos with its inventive tikka masala and tandoori chicken tacos—served on corn tortillas and topped simply with cilantro and onions. These Indian‑Mexican mashups showcase richly marinated meats steeped in creamy, spiced sauces and tangy chutneys, delivering layers of flavor in every bite . A go‑to for festival crowds and fusion fans alike, these tacos are a creative, crave‑worthy spin on both Indian and street‑taco traditions.
Prime Tacos: Prime Tacos is a standout Chicago pop-up and weekend food truck helmed by brothers Anthony and Eric Cardenas from Cicero, serving up both traditional Mexican fare and wildly inventive creations like their famed Hot Cheetos Burger—a Cheeto-crusted bun piled with a juicy prime beef patty, cheddar, caramelized onions, nacho cheese, and crunchy Cheetos that has sparked literal lines around the block . Named among ABC7’s top taco spots in town, their arrachera (skirt steak) and cecina (flank steak) tacos have drawn high praise, making it a go-to for authentic, crave-worthy tacos served with real heart and seriously bold flavors.
La Cocina del Carmelita: La Cocina del Carmelita is a local Chicago-based kitchen that has recently started participating in community events (like Rib Fest Chicago 2024) . While details are scarce, this suggests they’re a neighborhood-focused team bringing homemade-style dishes to festivals and pop-ups around the city. If you’re looking to support budding local food ventures with authentic flavors, they’re definitely worth keeping an eye on at future events!
Fernando’s Tequila Bar & Restaurant in Lakeview has been a neighborhood favorite since 1984, known for flavorful Mexican eats, strong margaritas, and a laid-back, welcoming vibe. Popular dishes include birria tacos, queso fundido, and molcajetes, all served in hearty portions. With dog-friendly patio seating, happy hour specials, and a fun bar scene, Fernando’s is a go-to for casual meals, late nights, and festive gatherings.
Enrique’s Place Latin Grill: Whether it’s their beef, chicken or pork tacos, authentic is the name of their game. They bring slow cooked meats and fresh ingredients sandwiched between a tortilla. In addition to great taco, be sure to check out their burritos and quesadillas – which, somehow, take on different flavors with pretty similar ingredients!
Tacos Delicia: At Tacos Delicia, you can sink your teeth into all your favorites: asada tacos, al pastor tortas, chorizo burritos, chicken quesadillas, and much more. With authentic queso and crema, plus rich avocado, here is a meal that’s filling and flavorful, just the way you’d expect from a fine taco truck. Sure to satisfy seven days a week, not just on Taco Tuesday, Tacos Delicia is a fine choice to serve at your next event.
Chicago Prime: This one is new to the scene and very unique! Chicago Pride is a caterer offering the ultimate selection of unique tacos. From chicken to beef to beyond, your tastebuds will go crazy for their meats and sauces!
