There’s Nothing Better Than This Mouthwatering Taco Trail In Illinois
Though Illinois isn’t known for its Mexican food nationwide, we Illinoisans know that our state boasts some amazing food from our neighbor to the south. We love all types of Mexican food, but it’s tacos that have us wanting to drive all over the state to find the best of the best. We’ve made an Illinois Taco Trail with eats that are downright dreamy!
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Starting off this Illinois Taco Trail, we head to Bien Trucha in Geneva. You truly cannot go wrong at this beloved spot in the Chicago suburbs or with their tacos. Order a duo of the Bien Trucha which has grilled skirt steak, chorizo, and roasted tomatillo-serrano salsa. These may be some of the best tacos in Illinois. Yum!
Taking inspiration from his mother's cooking, this restaurant's Mexican-American owner brings incredible tacos to locals. If you're looking for something a little different, order the Tacos Al Pastor with marinated pork cooked with pineapple or the Hawaiian Tacos made with grilled steak cooked with bell peppers, onions, and pineapple. We think this place is a great addition to the Illinois Taco Trail.
A favorite of college students in the area, this taco spot is quick, inexpensive, and one of the most authentic Mexican restaurants in Illinois. Tuesdays are the best days to stop in because the special of the day is amazing: two tacos, rice, beans, and a drink for $6.99.
This restaurant has been serving up amazing Mexican food since 2007. Check their Facebook page for daily deals, and try to go when the carne asada tacos are on special.
Our Illinois Taco Trail ends here at Tres Hombres, a place where locals may come for the drink specials, but they stay for the tacos. Bring your appetite and come on Taco Tuesday, which is clearly the best day of the week!
Address: 901 N Main St, Bloomington, IL 61701, USA
Address: 230 Broadway Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938, USA
Address: 1222 Central Park Dr, O'Fallon, IL 62269, USA
Address: 119 N Washington St, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Tacos In Illinois
February 07, 2021
Melissa Mahoney
What are the best Mexican restaurants in Illinois that aren’t on this trail?
Some of the best Mexican restaurants have the most authentic cuisine. Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant in La Grange is frequented by locals and is known for its excellent food, service, and margaritas. Also known mostly to locals is Hacienda Cantina & Grill in Pekin. Its traditional family recipes and colorful decor will transport you to Mexico City. Martinez Tacos Restaurant in Kankakee is a hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant that everyone needs to visit. Its authentic home-style cooking will make your tastebuds believe you are in Mexico, as will the charming decor.
Where can I find the best margaritas in Illinois?
Many Mexican restaurants across the Land of Lincoln have incredible margaritas, which are a great compliment to a delicious taco (or other Mexican dishes). If you are looking for size, both Don Reales Mexican Restaurant in Champaign and Toro Loco in Urbana offer up margaritas in giant glasses. For hotter days, a frozen margarita at Huaraches Moroleon in Urbana may be a good idea. There are many more we could list but if you are in the mood for the famed tequila-based drink, check out our previous article: Drink Your Way Through Illinois On The Margarita Marathon.
Are there any other food trails in Illinois I should take?
Illinois has such an amazing food (and drink) scene and we have put together many of our own trails for you to follow. Be sure to check out our ice cream trail, cheeseburger trail, and pizza trail for some incredible meals and treats. The Prairie State is truly a paradise for foodies!
Address: 410 W State St, Geneva, IL 60134, USA
Address: 3939 16th St, Moline, IL 61265, USA
Address: 4387 Venture Dr, Peru, IL 61354, USA
Address: 901 N Main St, Bloomington, IL 61701, USA
Address: 230 Broadway Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938, USA
Address: 1222 Central Park Dr, O'Fallon, IL 62269, USA
Address: 119 N Washington St, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
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