Cafe El Tapatio

“I came here because I saw it on tik tok and it did not disappoint.”

I came here because I saw it on tik tok and it did not disappoint. Food was delicious. Drinks were tasty and strong. Service was fast and friendly.

Janine delgado

Dec 2025

“Staff was extremely friendly.”

Staff was extremely friendly. Food was delicious. Drinks were also delicious! Parking is pretty easy on Ashland or one of the side streets. Can’t wait to go back. Came back three years later and service was absolutely amazing!!! We sat on the outside covered patio that was decorated for Christmas! So cute!

Alex Sandoval

Dec 2025

“Cafe El Tapatio is a gem for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors paired with some of the best margaritas in town.”

Cafe El Tapatio is a gem for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors paired with some of the best margaritas in town. The moment you sit down, you’re greeted with a basket of warm, crispy tortilla chips and a duo of salsas—one bright and tangy, the other rich and smoky. It’s a simple but perfect start, the kind that sets the tone for a meal that feels like a mini vacation to Mexico. Their tamarindo margarita is a standout— smooth and balanced with just the right amount of tartness from the fresh lime. It’s the kind of drink you can’t help but sip slowly. Whether you’re a margarita enthusiast or a lover of real Mexican food, Cafe El Tapatio delivers. Every dish is crafted with authenticity and heart, making it one of those places you’ll want to return to again and again.

Dee Santiago

Oct 2024

“Best Mexican restaurant in Chicago!”

Best Mexican restaurant in Chicago!! 50 years in the neighborhood. Can’t say enough about this place!! Hottest table salsa you will find.

Benjamin Zakaria

May 2024

“Went on a Sunday to celebrate my cousin’s birthday.”

Went on a Sunday to celebrate my cousin’s birthday. The food was amazing and service was great!

Mrs. Rosario

May 2024

“It's a great place, a nice environment and very pleasant waitresses.”

It's a great place, a nice environment and very pleasant waitresses. I ordered tacos DF, and they were really good and tasty. Margaritas are also very goo. I truly recommend this place.

Bernardo Molina

Apr 2024

“Best spot for Mexican food in the neighborhood.”

Best spot for Mexican food in the neighborhood. We had 2 meals and 4 cocktails. Bill came to $100 after tax. I highly recommend the Burro bowl. It’s very filling and has a mix of everything. They have a large patio that is well spaced out so you can easy park a stroller or large breed dog and not feel like you’re taking up the aisle. Our server Magdalena was super nice, attentive, and gave good recommendations when we didn’t know what to order.

Jodi Hill

Aug 2023

“We’ve been meaning to try this restaurant and finally did for a Sunday evening dinner and wow what a delightful dinner.”

We’ve been meaning to try this restaurant and finally did for a Sunday evening dinner and wow what a delightful dinner. The restaurant staff are so friendly and the food was excellent and fresh. The salsa verde was so fresh and tasty and the enchiladas were perfection. Thank you. We will be back!

Hugh Allspaugh

Jul 2023

“We were in town to see Teedra Moses.”

We were in town to see Teedra Moses. One of my girls that's born & raised in Chicago took us here for lunch - Wendy. The service was amazing. The food was authentic, delicious and fulllll of flavor. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!!! I definitely recommend coming here! I can't wait to go back on my next visit! Sooooo gooood!!! Also, right next door you can get freshly fried churros that melt in your mouth and so many options of toppings and dips!

Tien N

Apr 2023

“Tasty brunch (that goes until 3 on Saturday), nice decor, and a great patio gives this place top marks.”

Tasty brunch (that goes until 3 on Saturday), nice decor, and a great patio gives this place top marks. The free chips and salsa was nice and spicy, while staying flavorful and fresh. I got the chorizo mixed with hashbrowns with a side of egg and beans for $12. Attached to the place is a churro spot that is worth a pop-in.

Jackson Salzman

Sep 2022

“If you have ever been to a Mexican restaurant then this place will take the new spot in your favorite list.”

If you have ever been to a Mexican restaurant then this place will take the new spot in your favorite list. They give you free unlimited chips and salsa which tastes so amazing. Definitely the best salsa I’ve ever had at a restaurant. The perfect texture and perfect spice level that is just spectacular. I ordered and breakfast burrito and it was exactly what I wanted and more. It was only 10 bucks and it was HUGE! With potatoes too! I could only eat half so now I have left overs too. Also, we are outside in their amazing patio space that was very spacious. The only negative I could say was they gave my girlfriend cilatro when she didn’t order it on her taco but the waitress literally came out right after and noticed the mistake and gave us a whole new taco free. Just honestly very professional place and super fun atmosphere. I love it❤️

Brayke

Aug 2022

“The quesabirria was amazing.”

The quesabirria was amazing! I also got the arachera but it was a bit too char for me. Their Perfida, Michelada and their Cazuela Tapatia are all excellent! Also the wait staff are super tentative and very helpful. Drove almost an hour to get here and it's so worth it

Lana Tran

Aug 2022