The 11 Best Mexican Restaurants in Illinois!

If you’re craving the traditional flavors of authentic Mexican food, you’ve come to the right place. There are several top-rated Mexican restaurants that keep locals coming back to satisfy their cravings for enchiladas, tacos, and other Mexican dishes. The best Mexican restaurants in Illinois offer a wide selection of menu options, friendly customer service, and exceptional flavors. 

Frontera Grill, Chicago, IL

Frontera Grill is best known for authentic flavors inspired by the chef and his wife’s travels in Mexico. You will most likely have to make reservations a month in advance, but the flavors are spectacular and worth the other inconveniences. Expect beautiful presentations and high prices for dishes. But then again, a celebrity chef is preparing the food. 

Casa Romero Mexican Restaurant, Waterloo, IL

For truly extraordinary Mexican food, Casa Romero Mexican Restaurant is the place to go. They offer an expansive menu with favorites including the chips and salsa, which are freshly made, pollo jalisco, chile relleno, and shrimp enchiladas. Casa Romero is worth a special trip. 

Bien Trucha, Geneva, IL

Bien Trucha is a trendy Mexican restaurant with a host of loyal customers. Although the prices are higher than most Mexican restaurants, the quality of the dishes and flavors compensate. Customer favorites includes the Esquites de Championes, Bien Trucha tacos, and Guacamole del Dia. 

New Rebozo, Forest Park, IL

This visually appealing Mexican restaurant offers interesting Mexican creations and very attentive service. The chef has a real passion for food and enjoys going above and beyond to please customers. Customers seem to love the enchiladas de moles, mini burritos, and chile rellenos. 

La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant, Marion, IL

For authentic Mexican delicacies, look no further than La Fiesta Mexican restaurant. Southern Illinois residents love the traditional flavors and rave about the chili poblano, grilled tilapia, and desserts. They also have friendly staff and offer exceptional service. La Fiesta is a local family tradition. 

Mesa Urbana Mexican Fusion, Chicago, IL

Mesa Urban is a gem and worth the visit if you’re craving unique Mexican flavors. This award-winning restaurant offers an extensive beverage menu, sophisticated twist on classic Mexican dishes, and delicious desserts. However, their prices are on the steep side for a Mexican restaurant. 

Adolph's Mexican Foods, East Moline, IL

Known for serving some of the best Mexican food in the quad cities, Adolph’s offers flavorful dishes in a family-friendly environment. Customers rave about their Tuesday Tacos (weekly special) and welcoming service. Adolph’s offers two locations and even serves breakfast tacos Monday through Saturday at the East Moline location. 

Jalapenos, Peru, IL

Jalapenos is a favorite Mexican restaurant for locals and travelers. Located right on the interstate, this authentic Mexican joint offers fresh, delicious dishes and friendly service. Customer favorites include the fajitas, tacos, and guacamole. Check out the daily specials at this family-friendly restaurant, as well. 

Los Charros, Rushville, IL

Experience fresh Mexican flavors with great customer service in an authentic environment. Customers appreciate the fresh chips and salsa, reasonable prices, and expansive menu with vegetarian options. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a refreshing margarita out in the middle of nowhere. 

Taqueria La Penca Mexican Restaurant, North Riverside, IL

Known for the authentic Mexican food, La Penca is a local favorite offering favorites such as the steak, burritos, tacos, and salsa. The restaurant is located in strip mall and it’s rather small, but the flavors make it a hit with locals. Customers also seem to love the horchatas and chorizos. 

Big Star, Chicago, IL

Bourbon, tequila, tacos…sounds like a great time to us! At Chicago’s Big Star, you can enjoy delicious single-barrel bourbon as a complement to your fresh and flavorful taco. For tacos, try their carne asada made with grilled steak, pasilla salsa, chayote pico de gallo, pinto beans, and cilantro. For a veggie option, try the yuba guisado made with yuba tofu, guajillo salsa, white onion, and cilantro. 

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