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La Principal — a mexican spot in Evanston. It gets busy, and that's part of the appeal. If you drink, start at the bar.
Dana King
156 reviews
“If you're looking for an authentic and delicious Mexican dining experience, LA Principal is a must-visit restaurant”
700 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202
“I visited La Principal for late lunch on a Sunday and everything was great, from the drinks to the...”
I visited La Principal for late lunch on a Sunday and everything was great, from the drinks to the appetizers to the meal itself. Our server was super friendly and made the visit a very enjoyable one. Will definitely be back. My favorite thing was their queso fundido and steak tacos. Check them out!
Carlos Aréchiga
Dec 2025
“I've been here a few times, sitting both outside in the summer and inside.”
I've been here a few times, sitting both outside in the summer and inside. The decor on the inside is very calming and pretty. The food has always come quickly and is always delicious. I like that I can order multiple different tacos to try different flavors. Everything is plated and presented very nicely. I'll definitely be back again!
Anna Schafer
Nov 2025
“Honestly underrated place.”
Honestly underrated place. The carne asada is so tender and delicious. The waiters are so bubbly and happy and pleasant. And large portions!
Kyleigh Ardoin
Aug 2025
“Loves this place.”
Loves this place! Visiting from out of town, it's always a maze trying to find somewhere everyone will enjoy. The food was outstanding-- not greasy (which is all too common in Mexican cuisine), and a variety of options that were all so unique and quite authentic. As a chef who's visited Mexico, I'd definitely return here! (The service was also quick and friendly, and they have great outdoor seating!)
Anna
Jun 2025
“Great food, interesting drinks, and friendly service.”
Ryan Shea
Feb 2025
“Really amazing variety of tacos.”
Really amazing variety of tacos. All meats were so thoughtfully prepared & slow cooked. Almost everything needed a little salt, or something to brighten the flavors. We ate at the bar and Allie gave us Excellent service!
Xan Fry
Dec 2024
“If you're looking for an authentic and delicious Mexican dining experience, LA Principal is a must-visit restaurant.”
If you're looking for an authentic and delicious Mexican dining experience, LA Principal is a must-visit restaurant. From the moment you step through the door, you're greeted with warm hospitality and a colorful, vibrant atmosphere that sets the mood for an unforgettable meal. The menu is packed with traditional Mexican dishes, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, which burst with flavor and authenticity. Whether you're in the mood for classic enchiladas, mouth-watering tacos, or sizzling fajitas, LA Principal has something for everyone. And the drink selection? It's just as impressive, with an extensive range of tequilas, margaritas, and other refreshing cocktails to choose from. The service and staff are second-to-none, providing attentive and friendly service that ensures you feel right at home. Overall, LA Principal is a top-notch Mexican restaurant that truly captures the spirit and flavors of Mexico, and is sure to leave you satisfied and wanting more.
Dana King
Jul 2023
“The cocktails are amazing.”
The cocktails are amazing! The food was sooo good. We don't have a single negative thing to say. Service was quick too. Keep up the good work!
Ben
Feb 2023
“Get those tacos and flan .”
Get those tacos and flan ! They have some unique style tacos including cow tongue which was well seasoned and prepared. Apart from the tacos, their elote (prepared corn) was delicious as an appetizer. You can also finish off your meal with their pumpkin flan which was silky and uniquely buttery, covered in salted pumpkin seeds and Carmel.
Andrea Celleri
Jul 2019
“This was a great birthday treat.”
This was a great birthday treat! My Dear friend brought me to her favorite taco place in Evanston and my can i say i was impressed! The flavors were mind blowing and the service was impeccable! I can't wait to return to try everything on the menu!
Lasheria Murphy
Dec 2018
“We had 1- Chips and guacamole ( Perfect), 2- 5 different Kansas kind of Tacos, all of the were great.”
We had 1- Chips and guacamole ( Perfect), 2- 5 different Kansas kind of Tacos, all of the were great! 3- we had churros for dessert, which was ok. 4- we had Mararita( the classic one) which was great!!! In general nice people, great environment :)
Nastaran Shojaee
Feb 2018
“We come here at least one Friday a month for happy hour.”
We come here at least one Friday a month for happy hour. Their tacos are all amazing, and all $2 during happy hour. Short rib and Pescado are my favorite, but the Carnitas and Al Pastor are close seconds. For starters, the Elotes and warm Queso are spectacular. They have great Wisconsin-made hot sauces, especially the pineapple one! And you can purchase them to takeaway too. Rodrigo the bartender has a muddled Old Fashioned of his own creation that's amazing if you like to taste your liquor. For dessert, the Churro is out-of-this-world amazing with dark chocolate dipping sauce. And the pumpkin flan is spectacular as well. You can't go wrong here. Evanston's best taco joint, by far.
Joshua Stroud
Nov 2017
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