I have very high standards when it comes to Mexican food, because my parent's original recipes are always top notch. I went in for happy hour and had the ensalada without the cotija cheese or tortilla strips, but they added more grilled veggies! The house margaritas were refreshing and tart, by far some of the best margaritas I've had in a while. Loved the decor and graffiti on the walls. I was sitting at the bar but was tended to and all of my questions were taken care of. All in all a wonderful first time experience, I highly recommend. read more

Broken English Taco Pub - The Loop - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Love tacos and this is not my kind of food. Place seems to have all the workings for good food. Quality is good and delivery is good but I happen to like super authentic Mexican. I am not one for fancier tacos but glad they do exist. I still recommend it for really good fancier tacos! read more

Awesome!!! Ask for Winter J. He's such a great server. We were here the day before and were blown away by the drinks and the quality of food. We reconciled ourselves to the fact that the girls were not that great at service(except the black young lady we saw today on the outside seating.. so sweet!) we looked at reviews and they were pretty consistent about service. But!!! Winter was awesome. Ask for him! The food is really delicious. The bartender and drinks are clean and rock!!!! There are a few throughout downtown Chicago. Winter is a server at the Loop location. Wonderful!!! You won't regret it! We live in Naperville, Illinois. I wish they would open a restaurant there! read more

Seriously this place is disgusting. The music is obnoxiously loud. The chairs are uncomfortable and the food is terrible. It's like they never change their oil and everything they clean off the floor is cooked in it and served to you. I've been here twice with two different groups of friends and both times everyone has gotten sick from this place. It's either the greasy food or the unsanitary conditions, but we have all left disappointed we spent triple the price for an inauthentic, poorly executed meal. One positive: The staff offered to remake a dish that was too spicy, but then charged us for both dishes. read more

This is going to be a mixed review, as this was my second visit to Broken English. I really wanted to leave 2.5 stars, but that was not an option. The service is good, quick, and friendly. Regarding my first visit, the margaritas were good, not great, but really enjoyable. I had the Broken English version of an Old Fashioned, also. That drink was exceptional. The tacos were extremely flavorful, and quite filling. Fast forward two months, We happened to walk in during "Happy Hour". The service and atmosphere were still very enjoyable. We really wanted to spend some time there, drink margaritas, enjoy more delicious tacos, etc. However, the margaritas were hardly palatable. We finished the first, then reluctantly ordered a second after voicing concern, of the quality, to onour server. Two sips is about all we could handle. We did not eat, due to the bad taste left behind by the margaritas. I did notice others ordering tacos. They looked appetizing, but appeared to be smaller than the standard menu items. We may try Broken English again, but it will definitely not be during the "Happy Hour". I understand the concept of cheap drinks/food and high volume. But, when the quality is lacking, the concept has failed. read more

Great happy hour location in the Loop. Drinks: I ordered a HH margarita and was pleasantly surprised with its strength. The amount of tequila in it definitely made it a great deal (I think $5). My fiance stuck with Mexican beers (I think $2), and obviously enjoyed them and the price. Food: We each ordered three tacos and we split an order of chips and salsa. The tacos were good: some were better than others, but all of them were tasty enough to eat and enjoy. The chips and salsa, on the other hand, was not good. The two kinds of salsa came out in tiny containers, not nearly enough for the price (especially coming from a Texan, where our restaurants always serve free chips and salsa). Neither salsa was spicy or flavorful. I wouldn't recommend the chips and salsa. Overall, cool ambiance and lively crowd for HH in the loop. Slow-ish service, but fine enough for happy hour. We will definitely return. read more

I would drive to Chicago just for this restaurant! I'm a sucker for a little taco joint and this is exactly what I was looking for. We got classic margarita and sampled just about all of the tacos they had. I would have to say the beef taco was my favorite, but my husband really enjoyed the pork belly. We sat outside on their little patio area, but the ambiance of the inside of the restaurant was really cool too! read more

Broken English Taco Pub - The Loop - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We have been here a number of times and the service has always been good. The food and drinks were on point as always. However, tonight was exceptional service! Our server was Donya. She was so engaging with me and my friend and her dog. She is so knowledgeable, professional and great! Donya will bring us back over and over again. Thank you! read more

Based on previous experience decide to host a 3rd happy hour at this venue. This time was not as pleasant, the server when asked to put 2 tables together told me "this is not your house" rudeness!! $2 tacos now don't include all the menu, only select tacos are part of the happy hour special, understandable but put in in writing on your menu so people aren't confused with the madness this place brings during happy hour. The quality of tequila this time around was questionable. And be advised when you have a party and gratuity is added, it is added based on the menu price, not the happy hour price. This made sense once I closely looked at the bill, it seemed like we were always short, nope our $40/$50 difference was based on the TIP!!! We didn't have small bills, won't be bringing business back to this place. read more

Maybe I was too old for this place after a long day T a trade show. My wife and I met our nieces there on a recent trip to Chicago. Decor and lighting was pretty cool. Music was unbearably loud and very seattle grunge rock. Food was just okay. Service was slow but he was swamped. Marguerites were very good but at 42 a pitcher they should be. Not a place for a tired 60 year old so consider my bias. read more

If you like great tacos and margaritas, Broken English is the place to go! And appreciate Kayla M - super friendly & helpful - She's a Superstar!! read more

Strolled in the other day and was happily greeted by Kayla M, who was so kind and friendly. It made for a wonderful experience here!

Do you like tacos? (answer: who doesn't?) Do you like Mexican beer? (Por supuesto!) What about the two together? This joint is centrally located, in the heart of downtown, a stone's throw from the goodness of North Michigan Avenue. And púchica, their happy hour is a steal! $3 Mexican beer, and not just Corona. Negra Modelo, Tecate, sentirás en casa! Plus, you've got $2 tacos. Bomb. Ass. Tacos. Guey. You like al pastor? You like chorizo? You like carne asada? Check all the boxes compadre because they've got you covered here. The bright colors and decor contribute to a sunny, Mexican feel that instantly wicks away the bitter cold of Chicago winter and drops you somewhere in the middle of sunny Sinaloa. read more

Popped in yesterday as we were headed to Millennium Park and realized, HEY we're hungry. One person in our group shouted, what about Tacos as she saw the neon 'Taco' sign. So, reluctantly in we stroll honestly not expecting much, but hey who the heck doesn't like tacos right. Man when they say, "Never judge a book by its cover" they are spot on. It really doesn't have ANY 'Curb Appeal' to it, but upon entering you step into Taco Nirvana!!!!!!!! DAMN, just DAMN. The tacos are very very reminiscent of 'street tacos' in NYC. There are quite a few choices but our favorites were the Fried Chicken (OMFG), the Pork Belly (HOLY ) and the Carnitas (). ABSOLUTELY amazing!!!!!! We also had their shrimp and carne asada and although very good those were the 3 that we all L O V E D... so much so that we are headed back tonight in a couplea hours. Drinks were good and strong too... could easily get me to "The Finish line" with ease. Broken English, I'm sorry for almost walking right past on a 1st impression. read more

Daniella's service was amazing! Food and drinks were great, and she was super helpful with the menu. Highly recommend

Me and my hubby stop there before our show at Chicago theater... being from Mexico City i really loved the atmosphere.. everything was really nice!... except the food was not amazing just ok, and bottle salsa!!! Come on!!.. for tacos?? ... to me it was a little over price... I will still hunting for the authentic street tacos from MX read more

Broken English Taco Pub - The Loop - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Came in for lunch as was surprised by all the great deals they have weekly. Dani the bartender took care of us and made us such a cute paloma. With an edible flower lol. read more

I've been coming here for the past 3 months. Food has always been amazing, margaritas have always been strong. 10/10 will recommend.

The Al Pastor de Pollo and carne asada tacos were pretty delicate and yummy! But they could do better with the portions next time around. I digress. It's very loud in this place. As a matter of fact, it's primarily caused by the music rather than the crowd. I don't believe that one could be triumphant in attaining a proper chinwag while inside because of the noise. I wouldn't recommend to do that here, obviously. Just eat, blabber and chill... yes? Conveniently located in The Loop, their atmosphere is out-and-out buoyant. The striking artistry which graces the walls and ceiling puts the exclamation point to it. Additionally, I was provided with a friendly and timely service. A visit here indeed fits the bill. I'd perhaps come back when I'm Hank Marvin for some good tacos. read more

food was absolutely delicious. i recommend getting the brisket taco it has so much flavor! atmosphere is good too and overall it was an amazing experience. read more

The $4 rose for Happy Hour was nice. Unfortunately, the service was slow and sporadic. Their regular salsa is ginger-based and odd. The street tacos aren't generous portions. read more

They didn't serve us chips and salsa.. when a Caucasian ady walked in they rushed to serve her... they immediately told me how much the chips were when I asked for some...and then told us that the only sauce they had was what was in the container on the table.. glanced over to see the white lady with little cute complimentary cups for her salsa... Asked for the steak to be well done... Blood was running from the meat... sent it back and the cook burned it... first and last time eating at the Broken English taco pub... read more

I loved this taco pub and 100% plan to return on my next trip to Chicago! The hip, fun crowd definitely drew us in and the guacamole is incredible with a little kick to it. Everything is fresh and worth the price. We shared the shrimp and chicken tacos which were delicious until the very last bite, and also enjoyed their house margaritas which were also unique and flavorful. A great spot for a dinner or late lunch with a group! read more

Broken English Taco Pub - The Loop - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Broken English is nice to have in the Loop but prices are kind of high and none of the staff appears to have been trained to work in a restaurant/wait tables. Menus are difficult to read and seating is uncomfortable at best. Feel free to grab anyone to order more food/drinks as you will probably never see your server after the initial order. If you do go stick with the basics-tacos! I recommend the pork belly, Al Pastor de Pollo, and carne asada. DO NOT order the shrimp salad (disappointing). If you have a taste for something sweet DO order the churros (surprisingly good). read more

I made a reservation for 6 people, for their opening. I was called early that day to confirm my reservation, and I arrived early with my whole party, just in case. I was told that other tables were "camping out" and that we should only have to wait for a couple minutes. Ten minutes past our reservation, I checked back in, and was told that there was no change, but I would be called when a table was ready. Thirty minutes after that, we stopped back in and I was delighted to find the hostess staff taking selfies. It took me 2 minutes to get their attention, and I was told once again, that tables were " camping out" and we were in for a long wait. I asked the hostesses to call me when a table opened, but never received any call/text. Luckily for us, we were able to easily grab dinner/drinks at another venue. Finally, my reservation through OpenTable was cancelled, as though I never even showed up at the restaurant. I am so disappointed by Broken English's lack of preparation, and lack of respect for customers. I would have been completely understanding if I had just been told that there was an error in the reservation system, or that they had overbooked. Especially since my group waited for 45 minutes in the cold, without ANY recourse. The lack of follow-up thereafter only made it worse. read more

This is the BEST PLACE BY FAR IN CHICAGO! We've been to Chicago a few times and this is the best service/food/drink hands down! The staff made accommodations for my allergies! We greatly enjoyed their solarium! read more

Broken English Taco Pub - The Loop - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I'm really confused by the low ratings... This place is really good! At first I was hesitant to patronize a place called "Broken English", but I learned the backstory, and went ahead to visit the place. It was raining, so I wasn't expecting the place to be packed, but it was Taco Tuesday so there was a 40 min wait for tables. I immediately grabbed a spot at the bar where Matthew explained the specials for me. $2 tacos?? No wonder so many people showed up. I can't even find $2 tacos in Pilsen... Anyway, I pigged out and tried six tacos. Both al pastor tacos were really good, but my favorites were the barbacoa & picadillo. I thought the calabazas (braised squash) was really flavorful and competed well with the meat options. The margaritas were $5. I assumed it was gonna be some weak, watered down beverage, but it wasn't AT ALL. It was strong, and I had to stop at three (I probably should have stopped at two but *Kanye shrug*) I don't drink beer but it was only $3, and the shots were $2, I think. Anyway, this place is relaxed and laid back. Mostly after work crowd, co-mingling with a few folks on dates. Don't come here if you're gonna be fussy. Really chill vibe that makes taking the edge off after work that much easier. Highly recommend. read more

This is a great spot for happy hour! Margaritas, Sangria, beer and tequila shots for $8 or less AND they have $2 taco specials. The music they play is good, the waitstaff is attentive....and it's s fun ambiance. It does get super busy for happy hour but we were seated outside after just waiting 15 minutes. I loved the Mexican decor everywhere. I'll be back for sure. read more

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Went on a Friday Night to their Lincoln Park location. Very loud music playing. Seated in a corner spot. Our waiter got us some water. We placed our order. 6 tacos for $20......seems pricey to me. The tacos arrive and we have no plates to eat them on. Try and flag down a server after a few minutes we finally get plates. Shouldn't we have gotten those with our Guacamole order?! At no point does our waiter come back to refill our water. Very disappointed. He eventually comes back and literally says "oh I forgot about you" Yeah ya did! Then ask if we'd like more water? We are finished with our meal at this point. The food is good if a bit overpriced. Service is definately lacking! read more

Happy hour with a co-worker. The margaritas were $5 and the pork tacos were $2 each- small corn tortillas. It was good. The waitress was nice to accommodate my request for veggies and guac instead of chips and the service was excellent. We sat outside and enjoyed some people watching. I got the shrimp tacos- the house hot sauce was awesome, lots of flavor not just heat. I would come back for happy hour :) read more

Every time I go to this place I have a great time! I always sit at the bar. The bar manager Maxwell is pretty awesome and makes the best drinks! The tacos are super yummy and the guy is perfect! They are open late so if you are Looking for quality during the late hours this is your spot! read more

The happy hour special cannot be beat. All food ordered was awesome (tacos, corn fritters, nachos) +3 stars Couldn't get service at the bar? Nor did they seem to care we were sitting there -1 star Once we found a table, our waitress was really nice and attentive +1 star For sure coming back and would try out other locations! read more

Definitely a solid choice for a margarita. It was pretty crowded even at 5pm but we were able to find a seat and the service was incredibly fast. It's definitely loud so be prepared for that. Would be a great place to start a night out. It's lively and isn't short on tequila. My margarita was delicious but really I don't think you can go wrong with any of the drinks. read more