El Tapatio Cafe   

When i first walked into to cafe el tapatio i really enjoyed the nice environment they displayed for the customer. I was greeted very respectfully by the host as he showed my party and I to our table. The menu wasn't pricey at all and they had many food items to choose from. My mouth drooled with everyone i read. The service was excellent and the food didn't take long to be served. I must say that the food was PHENOMENAL. The best mexican food i have ever tasted. The server also came back numerous times to make sure we were satisfied which we were definetly. I will definetly come back to cafe el tapatio for the great food and fast service they provide. I suggest that everyone has a taste of the best mexican food in chicago,

i have gone to el tapatio and least a few dozen times and always walked out full but never impressed. it was good for a quick bite. one time i found a rubber band in the salsa but the last time my food came out, there was a dead roach in it. the waiter was cool about it and obviously took it back and we walked out. however, our ears overheard him say in spanish to the kitchen staff, to 'check the plates' before sending them out. EWW. never going back.

steve and ciny barf eat there

Authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine, exceptional vegetarian options (the enchiladas de platano en mole, a house specialty, are not to be missed), superb service, delightful atmosphere. The food is just wonderful, the servers are accomodating and extra nice (Eloym and Gustavo are just delightful!), the decor is charming. The vegetarian options are just that -- no hidden lard, chicken broth or any other unwelcome additions, and the waitstaff and kitchen are knowledgable in this area. For meat-eaters, the carne asada is a delicious rendering of a traditional treat, and the guacamole is so fresh, you'd swear they picked the avocados directly from the tree. And with the addition of their sister bar across the street, any beverage option is available. The servers will even go across the street to bring you your favorites if not available at El Tapatio's own bar. This is the one restaurant we return to again and again, our first stop when returning from travel, and our last before leaving, for a taste of Chicago's very best in Mexican cuisine. Top ratings all around! Muchisimas Gracias, El Tapatio -- we love you!