El Costeño
El Costeño — among the best mexican in Pilsen. Flavors stay true to the source. Friendly team that sets the tone, and wallet-friendly. Alice Easton: "The complimentary chips were crispy" [$$]
What 213 diners keep saying
What 213 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Love this place! Authentic food! Try the chilaquiles verdes!”
“Authentic Mexican food, energy, and friendliness! The torta was delicious, but I can’t really recommend it because of the bread… it was pretty soft so fell apart very easily and didn’t hold the toppings well… I had to use a fork and knife to eat the sandwich like it was a salad basically. You are better off getting your food in another form.”
“We ordered the chile relleno (filled with cheese) from the specials menu, which came with rice, beans, and yellow corn tortillas. We also had a nopales burrito, which was very flavorful, and a horchata. The complimentary chips were crispy, with a spicy, smoky red salsa, plus a spicy green salsa and a creamy green salsa at the table. Service was fast and friendly, portions were generous, prices were reasonable, and there was no wait for a late weekday lunch. Several people came in to order takeout while we were eating.”
“Really cool spot with delicious food and friendly staff. We stopped in for some breakfast on the way to a museum and had the best home cooked meal and the lady working the front was super nice and very attentive. Would definitely come back”
“This is a beautifully decorated restaurant. Friendly staff and delicious authentic Mexican cuisine. Can’t wait to return!”
“Somewhat chill spot to get some food. I liked the variety of salsas they had and enjoyed the carne asada taco. Tried the Caldo de Camarón and like the amount of shrimp - they were pretty big as well and they were juicy and not rubbery. The waitress was also really helpful with their menu and explaining their different soups.”
“Always a pleasure and treat to come here!! Food is absolutely delicious and very full of flavor. Service is wonderful and friendly! Nice spot to grab a quick bite and try different types of dishes.”
“We went last weekend when we were in Pilsen and let me tell you it was some of the best Mexican food that I have had and the lady there was very nice”
“This spot is definitely a hidden gem and feels like a true mom-and-pop operation. I decided to step outside my usual go-to places and give this one a shot after seeing some great reviews—and I’m really glad I did. As soon as I walked in, I was warmly greeted by (what I assume is) one of the owners—an older woman who immediately made me feel like I was walking into my grandma’s house. She was so kind and welcoming, which really set the tone. I ordered the green chilaquiles with steak, and when she asked if I liked it spicy, I confidently said yes—probably too confidently! It had a serious kick, but the flavor was absolutely on point. No regrets. I’ll definitely be back to explore more of the menu. Bonus points for how conveniently it’s located right off the Damen Pink Line.”
“I had the torta meal and really enjoyed it. The torta was toasted just right, it crispy on the outside and full of flavor. It came with rice and beans on the side, and both were super tasty. The food overall felt really authentic, and they have an awesome selection of salsas to choose from. Plus, the prices are very reasonable. Definitely a place I’d go back to.”
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