The Ultimate Taco Bucket List In Illinois Will Change Your Life
You know when that certain craving hits that won’t stop until it’s cured? There’s no doubt that Mexican food is one those things in America we just can’t get enough of, and Illinois is one of the best places to quench that “thirst.” This taco bucket list showcases the best places to beat that craving.
This ethnic-inspired delight has been an American staple for decades. Keep scrolling for the best tacos in the state.


East of Champaign, near our border with Indiana, sits this hole-in-the-wall Mexican food joint that locals love to call home. The environment and staff are friendly, and the menu includes tortas, burritos, and quesadillas in addition to tacos.


This fun and festive tapas bar serves some of the best tacos you can find in the Chicago suburbs. It offers small plates, street food delights, and more tequila than you can handle. It is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.


Get this restaurant to the top of your taco bucket list if you love classic fare. Chicken, pork belly, fried fish, beef, and lamb are used. Patrons may also enjoy takes on street food like the Walking Taco.


With locations in Coal Valley, Rock Island, Moline, and East Moline, this casual eatery has been around for over three decades. It offers daily taco specials as well as other favorites like enchiladas and burritos.


Offering carry-out and delivery, this food truck serves the best tacos in Central Illinois. Fresh ingredients and time-honored cooking traditions go into each dish. Get nachos, tortas, and other classic Mexican fare here.


Open daily, this fast and casual dining spot serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are additional locations in Stone Park, Addison, Elgin, Elmurts, and Oak Brook, so hungry locals can find this eatery anywhere.


This incredible eatery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and breakfast and lunch hours include an immaculate buffet. In addition to making your own tacos, you'll also find tamales, gorditas, and a plethora of other Mexican favorites.


Open Monday through Saturday, this dynamite restaurant has been around since 2004 and is known for the freshest cuisine around. You'll definitely want this place on your taco bucket list if you enjoy steak, chicken, pork, tongue, and chorizo.


Though this place is best known for its burgers and other classic American fare, it's worth a stop in your taco adventure. Get them hard or soft with grilled chicken inside. You'll also find nachos and Mexican fries to curve your craving for spice.


This affordable little taco stand is family-owned and -operated and features a colorful, festive interior. Locals enjoy large portions of Mexican classics that can't be beat. You'll be hooked after one bite.
Bonus: One more great place to get delicious food is this unassuming town in Illinois with the best Mexican restaurant.
Which restaurants should be added to our taco bucket list? Extend the list by sharing your favorites below!