El Cid
Timothy L. Smith · 200 Google reviewsEl Cid — clean, consistent mexican in Logan Square. Traditional preparation with honest flavors. The staff makes it feel personal. [$, patio]
What 859 diners keep saying
What 859 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Super friendly and helpful staff. I went for brunch and they food was tasty and most importantly the staff was super accommodating! We were originally seated outside but there were some wasps that were bothering us so the servers moved to an inside table promptly.”
“The service was good. We were greeted very warmly at the door. I had the skirt steak quesadillas. They were really good. Steak was perfection. My wife had the chili rellenos and loved them. The salsa all have a kick to them but have flavor as well.”
“Terrific place with good food, service, and atmosphere. Owner Juan is fantastic, a great host!”
“I'm not joking when I say these are the best nachos we've ever had. Perfect ratio of fresh ingredients on every chip, prepared individually. The black bean soup is delicious as well. We love coming here!!”
“Step into flavor heaven, because these Mexican tacos and that crunchy, golden sope shot me straight to the peak of authentic Mexican culture—¡olé! The service? Overflowing like a well-loved cup—refilling water with a smile and serving street-style charm that could go toe-to-toe with any taco truck in Tulum. But let me tell you what really hit me in the heart: my Momma been coming here for over 30 years, and one of the owners still remembered her. That’s not just customer service—that’s culinary legacy. That’s love on a plate. Now, the tacos? Flavor bombs wrapped in fresh tortillas—bold, savory, unforgettable. And the sope? Crispy on the outside, hearty on the inside. That crunch caught me off guard—in the best way. Gave the whole dish a texture remix that totally worked. And can we talk about the chips and salsa? Free. Fresh. Fabulous. In a world where they’re charging for air, that’s a classic touch that earns forever fans. I'll be back—probably with Momma in tow. This place doesn’t just serve food… it serves memories.”
“Great food, amazing atmosphere and very welcoming staff. I recommend trying the QuesaBirria it’s fantastic. Margs are strong which is always a good thing.”
“I found this place just by walking and using google for good places in the area as I was leaving the Sunday market in Logan square. It was deathly hot out. So food and something cold to drink to the rescue. Nancy was nice and very patient and helped me to pick some great options to eat. Hands down the cheese and cactus tamal was my favorite. I suggest everybody try it. I could’ve eaten like 5 of those. The salsa was good. I like spicy so it was on point. I would not mind a little more spicy but I understand provided for the masses is important. I also got the chicken chimichanga and side of rice. I loved that the chicken in the chimichanga was well seasoned. That’s important. Rice was moist and flavorful. Check out my photos below! Patio was nice. Tables come with umbrella or there are some that are shaded with trees. Either way it’s nice on the back patio. Some flies around but I think that’s warranted when you’re outside eating. Maybe the owner could spray every now and then to keep them away. But they weren’t too bothersome. I definitely enjoyed my meal and overall experience.”
“I remember the fish tacos being good here years ago, but the other day they were not it.”
“One of your male staff members, possible a manager, grabbed my girlfriend by the arm yesterday night while she was waiting for an order. The place was empty and full of space so not sure why they thought it was okay to grab someone without any consent. When i told the man he had no reason to be touching her, his only response was “what? You don’t like the compliment?” DISGUSTING!! RESPONSE: owner basically said, sorry not sorry it’s a cultural thing.”
Sounds like your kind of place?
Star it — your hit list is where dinner decisions get made.
One email a month — new openings, hidden gems, and where locals are actually eating.
More Mexican in Wicker Park & Logan Square
See the ranking →
In the same lane · Mexican, budget
If it's packed, walk to…
More good rooms in Logan Square, minutes away.