Best Regional Mexican Restaurants in Chicago

9 restaurants available nearby

1. Leña Brava

4.8

Exceptional(996)

Price: Expensive

• Regional mexican • West Loop

Booked 14 times today

Stepping into Leña Brava in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a treat for those who adore premium Steak cuisine. The restaurant is renowned for its meticulous live-fire cooking, which brings out the rich, authentic flavors in their hearty steaks. The steaks at Leña Brava are not just meals; they are culinary experiences that reflect the fusion of Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian influences, making each bite a discovery of refined tastes and robust textures. Guests consistently praise the quality of the dishes with remarks like, "Seriously delicious! Food was perfect," highlighting the exceptional culinary craftsmanship under the guidance of Chef Brian Enyart. This spot is a must-visit for steak lovers seeking a meal that promises both innovation and tradition in every dish.

A photo of La Victoria Barra + Cocina Mexicana restaurant

2. La Victoria Barra + Cocina Mexicana

4.6

Exceptional(281)

Price: Moderate

• Regional mexican • Logan Square

Booked 44 times today

La Victoria Barra + Cocina Mexicana in Logan Square, Chicago, is a gem for those seeking a vibrant and authentic Contemporary Mexican dining experience. Praised for its "wonderful food and fun ambiance" and dishes that keep guests coming back, La Victoria sets itself apart by creating a festive Mexican fiesta atmosphere. Guests have raved about the "excellent service" and the culinary delights such as the "best Molé I've ever had" and perfectly seasoned carne asada. The restaurant not only offers a taste of Mexico but does so with flair and exceptional hospitality, making it a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic yet contemporary Mexican meal.

3. Big Star Wicker Park

4.6

Exceptional(38)

Price: Moderate

• Regional mexican • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 13 times today

Situated in the bustling Bucktown / Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago, Big Star Wicker Park is a gem for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine. Known for its vibrant taco-slinging atmosphere and a commendable single barrel bourbon program, this restaurant is a local favorite. Patrons rave about the "exceptional" food quality and the "excellent handmade tortillas" that make each meal memorable. The eclectic menu features standout items like the pork belly tacos and the much-loved vegetarian-friendly walking tacos. Reviewers consistently mention the "great food, drinks, and people watching," making it the perfect spot for a casual outing. The quick and friendly service complements the delicious dishes, ensuring a delightful dining experience. With its great vibes and top-notch margaritas, Big Star Wicker Park is hailed as a "go-to" place for Tex-Mex lovers in the city.

A photo of ISTMO Oaxacan Cuisine restaurant

4. ISTMO Oaxacan Cuisine

4.6

Exceptional(43)

Price: Moderate

• Regional mexican • Lake View

Booked 14 times today

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Oaxaca at ISTMO Oaxacan Cuisine, a gem nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Lake View, Chicago. Chef Carlos Lopez Muñoz masterfully crafts dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of his hometown with a unique twist by integrating neighboring international elements. Patrons rave about the "exceptional" presentation and "exquisite" flavors, highlighting the Enfrijoladas and Papas Bravas as must-tries. Reviews consistently praise the "authentic and delicious" cuisine, with one delighted diner exclaiming, "Made me feel like I was eating in Mexico at a fine dining restaurant!" ISTMO's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a standout destination for anyone seeking a true taste of Regional Mexican cuisine.

A photo of Broken English Taco Pub - Lake Street restaurant

5. Broken English Taco Pub - Lake Street

4.6

Exceptional(672)

Price: Expensive

• Regional mexican • Downtown / Loop

Booked 33 times today

At Broken English Taco Pub - Lake Street, nestled in the heart of Downtown Chicago, the spirit of authentic Mexican cuisine is vibrantly alive. This bustling spot, steps away from Millennium Park, offers a menu that brilliantly blends traditional flavors with a modern twist. Guests rave about the "delicious and plentiful" food, highlighting the "best tacos" and "spicy margaritas" as must-tries. The atmosphere is described as fun and vibrant, perfect for a pre-show meal or a casual night out. With stellar reviews praising both the innovative dishes and the attentive service, especially from servers like Thomas, it's clear why Broken English Taco Pub stands out as a top destination for genuine Mexican delights in Chicago.

6. Ceiba

4.9

Exceptional(31)

Price: Moderate

• Regional mexican • Lincoln Park

Booked 7 times today

Ceiba - Restaurant & Lounge in Lincoln Park offers a vibrant dining experience with a blend of modern cuisine and relaxed elegance. Enjoy expertly crafted dishes and innovative cocktails in a stylish setting that invites both casual gatherings and special occasions. Join us for a memorable culinary journey where every meal is a celebration.

7. Big Star - Wrigleyville

4.5

Awesome(41)

Price: Moderate

• Regional mexican • Wrigleyville

Booked 10 times today

Big Star in Wrigleyville, Chicago, is renowned for its authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, offering an unbeatable combination of delicious tacos and a vibrant atmosphere, especially popular on Cubs game days. Guests rave about the "fantastic and full of flavor" tacos and the "super good tequila options." The restaurant is celebrated for its "great food and even better margaritas," ensuring every visit is memorable. Patrons particularly love the fish tacos, recommending them as a must-try. With its prime location across from Wrigley Field, Big Star is the perfect spot for pre-game dining, providing "fast service" and "amazing pours" of bourbon at fair prices. This spot is a true gem for anyone seeking quality Tex-Mex in Chicago.

8. Cafe El Tapatio

4.6

Exceptional(332)

Price: Expensive

• Regional mexican • Lakeview / East Lakeview

Booked 11 times today

Cafe El Tapatio in Lakeview, Chicago, stands as a beacon of Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, expertly crafted by the Parra family for nearly half a century. This vibrant eatery not only excels in traditional favorites like tacos and burritos but also in unique dishes such as crepas de pollo, inspired by frequent culinary explorations in Mexico. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, with one saying, "the food was BEYOND delicious and reminded me of my mother." The atmosphere is equally praised, described as "fun and festive" with a "HUGE outdoor patio," perfect for enjoying their acclaimed margaritas and churros. Cafe El Tapatio is celebrated not just as a restaurant but as a cornerstone of the community, consistently providing a warm, welcoming experience that keeps guests returning for decades.

A photo of Kie Gol Lanee - Logan Square restaurant

9. Kie Gol Lanee - Logan Square

new

5.0

Exceptional(1)

Price: Moderate

• Regional mexican • Logan Square

Booked 5 times today

Logan Square is home to our second Kie-Gol-Lanee location with the first one being in the Uptown neighborhood, recognized by the Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2020.Kie-Gol-Lanee is a family owned restaurant, ran and operated by the Mendoza Ramos family since 2016. “Kie Gol Lanee” is the phonetic spelling of “Quiegoloani” and the name of the small village in Oaxaca, Mexico where we are from: Santa Maria Quiegolani, which means “piedra antigua” in our Zapotec language. We take pride in offering a dining experience that connects you with our rich Oaxacan culture. Each recipe comes from our grandparents and parents with a touch of our own flavor inspired by watching them cook while growing up. We've have been fortunate to be recognized by the Michelin Guide, The New York Times, Chicago Tribune and Chicago Magazine among others, but our highest recognition comes when our client smiles and nods after taking the first bite. Join us for dinner or brunch and see what the fuzz is all about!

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

D
donaldVIP
Chicago / Illinois •11 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Wonderful food - we had the Scallops for an appetizer- Sea bass for the entry- Potatoes as a side Great tasting cocktails Carlos the owner was great to talk too about his restaurant
More info
ISTMO Oaxacan CuisinePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Lake View
•
4.6
B
Bonita
Baton Rouge / Lafayette •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
The food was EXCELLENT! We will definitely go again with our business clients.
More info
Leña BravaPrice: Expensive• Mexican• West Loop
•
4.8
J
JenniferVIP
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined on Dec 7, 2024
I live around the corner and this was my first time here. I have seen many places come and go at this location. This was so good, had the brunch menu, took my mom and sisters. I want them to make it and THRIVE. It deserves a crowd. The food is the real deal, delicious and comforting. GO!!!!
More info
Kie Gol Lanee - Logan SquarePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Logan Square
•
5

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Chicago

Regional mexican

Best Regional Mexican Restaurants in Chicago

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9 restaurants available nearby

1. Leña Brava

2. La Victoria Barra + Cocina Mexicana

3. Big Star Wicker Park

4. ISTMO Oaxacan Cuisine

5. Broken English Taco Pub - Lake Street

6. Ceiba

7. Big Star - Wrigleyville

8. Cafe El Tapatio

9. Kie Gol Lanee - Logan Square

See what locals rave about

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