The restaurant is a no frills family institution in a parking lot of a gas station. But lack of atmosphere is no match for the affordable quality food with a great friendly staff. We were outside with our dog - only two tables - and had terrific friendly wait staff. It's clear this is popular with locals. read more

Finding a place that hits the trifecta of great prices, high quality ingredients, and friendly service is not easy, but El Tragon Taqueria really delivers. The restaurant is spotless, and you can tell they aren't cutting corners with quality or freshness. I ended up trying four different tacos, including the asada, bistec, al pastor, and birria. Every single one was incredibly flavorful. At this price point, the quality is honestly hard to beat. To wash it all down, I grabbed their housemade horchata and jamaica. Both drinks were super refreshing and not overly sweet. On top of the food, the staff here is incredibly welcoming and made me feel right at home the second I walked in. If you are in the immediate area and craving solid, authentic tacos, this place is absolutely worth stopping by. 3.81 stars overall. read more

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This place is a hidden gem. It's a small, family run restaurant, and while it's modest in appearance, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. We were greeted by an adorable little kid who I assume is the owner's son, which added a personal touch to the experience. The menu is fairly simple, but every item we tried was packed with flavor. We ordered one of each taco: chicken, carne asada, and pork. All three were excellent. The food came out quickly, was fresh, and tasted incredible. Between the friendly service, family atmosphere, and delicious food, this has become my favorite taco spot in Chicago so far. Highly recommend giving it a try. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I've been wanting to try this place for so long and it definitely hit the spot. I loved the tacos here. The quesabirria was so yum and I liked the bistec (Jake's fav) and al pastor was like nothing special. We got asada chiliquiles and the chips and sauce were really good. Would probs get birria for meat next time for it. But next time I wanna get a birria burrito. It's cute inside too, just in a gas station and the workers were really nice. read more

Dare I say this is the #1 spot for the best torta you'll ever have in Chicago? Yes, I dare say it. This is a local taqueria located next to a gas station - an unassuming place that makes for the best hidden hole in the wall you could imagine. I mean it when I say their al pastor torta was the best torta I've ever had. The service here is phenomenal too - they are sooo on top of it in terms of cleaning, helping, and being welcoming. Free cups of water as well and when you dine in you get 3 salsas at the table for you to use. I can't speak highly enough. Just GO!!! read more

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Located in the plaza of a mobile gas station, this little taco shop is a gem in the neighborhood. Recommended by some friends who joined us for dinner, we ordered the asada and al pastor burritos. Both were delicious! read more

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I've eaten so much Mexican food in Chicago, and it's all great, but this burrito was fantastic and unique for several reasons. The beans were not refried; they were whole. The vegetables and chile were also fresh and didn't seem canned. One of the best parts was the rice they threw in which actually added some crunch to the middle of the burrito. It was 10am and I wasn't even that hungry but knew I wouldn't have time to eat later. It was so good; will definitely be back. I was looking for a bite to eat in the area and found this on Google Maps. I'm always skeptical of restaurants attached to a gas station, but I can assure you that once you step inside, El Tragón is a world of it's own. They have beautiful murals, serve food on big platters, and make you feel at home with the tío (uncle) you never knew you had. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Burrito / carne asada - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The services was so quick! I ordered the rice beans with three tacos. I chose asada, pollo and al pastor. My favorite was the pollo taco it was flavorful. The place is small and will not be accommodating for parties larger than 4 people. The employees were all so kind and welcoming. Muchas gracias por el bien servicio read more

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Best Mexican in the city. If you're looking for tacos or anything then look no further. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Best tacos in Chicago, no competition! Truly a hidden gem and a place I take a lot of pride bringing friends and family to, all who absolutely love it! You cannot go wrong with anything on their menu, the quesabirria and the carne asada tacos are my favorite though. And don't skip on the horchata! The chips and guacamole are a good to share. The staff is very kind and welcoming. There are only several tables inside. I have never had an issue getting a spot to sit but be prepared to take your food to go if it gets too busy! Also check their hours before you go as they close early on Saturday (4PM) and are closed on Sunday. Don't skip this place, I always wish I found it sooner! read more

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This little taco shop isn't really a "hidden gem" as it's wildly popular but it's definitely a gem! Packed with flavor everything was delicious and very reasonably priced. Would recommend if you're in the area for a quick to go option. If you want to sit down they do have a few tables inside but it's pretty small inside though! read more

Staff so nice and welcoming!! Food was delicious, loved the asada burrito and all of the salsas were tasty. Clean restaurant and servers took plates when we were done and checked on us often. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - ASADA BURRITO - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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After hearing great things about El Tragon Taqueria and seeing its high ratings, I decided to give it a try for dinner. I ordered the chicken burrito along with chips and salsa. The chips were really good. They were crispy, fresh, and had that authentic taste but the portion felt a bit small. The salsa was clearly homemade and had a fresh, vibrant flavor, which I appreciated. As for the burrito, it was solid. It wasn't the best I've had in Chicago, but it definitely hit the spot. The ingredients were fresh, and the flavors were well-balanced, but it didn't quite stand out compared to other burrito spots I've tried in the city. Overall, El Tragon Taqueria serves up a good, satisfying meal. While it didn't blow me away, it's still a worthwhile spot for a quality burrito. I'd go back for sure. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - POLLO BURRITO - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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An absolute hidden gem! Would recommend 10/10. The food is so tasty and fresh, and the people that work here are incredibly sweet! A family run business that we are so happy is in the neighborhood. Must visit for the best burrito in Chicago! read more

Stopped in while on the road working. It was quite strange looking east from this location because the last time I was here I was serving the Cabrini Green residents in a public service role , and the big building is jo longer there. Great food , I had a burrito Great prices Interesting location and atmosphere. In a gas station strip mall. You'd never know it but it's amazing. This is a Chicago must stop for sure Looking forward to our next visit Thanks for a trip down memory lane while making my tummy smile read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Menu board - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Great food, fast service, kind staff Get the asada burrito or anything Birria ... this place will most likely become a staple of mine if I'm craving classic Mexican. Loved it. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Assad - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Best birria I've had in Chicago. Family run, very inviting. Chips are awesome too. Fairly priced, nice interior, and sneakily some of the best views of the skyline in the city. read more

I loved this place so much and I need to come back again! They have all day chilaquiles and I need to make sure I try those. Overall, the service was very fast, the food was amazing, and the staff is so attentive and kind. The seating inside is a little limited but perfect for a quick dinner. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Inside - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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The flavors pack exactly the punch you want- quick, friendly, family service. Tacos, burritos, guacamole, rice and beans all fresh and authentic. We will definitely be back! read more

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For the best tacos in Chicago - look no further! We were blown away by the food at El Tragón. The quesabirria and carne asada were outstanding, and the salsas were insanely good - I will be dreaming about them until I can come back! The service was also above and beyond. This is the perfect spot to hit before a show at the Salt Shed. Cannot wait to go back! read more

El Tragon Taqueria - ASADA TACO - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Oh my god. Oh, my god. What a great find. Can't wait to go back. El pastor and the veggie taco were superb. Everyone there said to get the brisket, but they were all out. Tortillas seem homemade. read more

I ordered through uber eats giving this place a chance without having gone since some online have recommended it. They charge almost $6 a taco and the portion size is laughable. They also are nothing special taste wise. The pastor and the asada tacos both were just okay. Never ordering from here again. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Very VERY good tacos, fresh, super authentic and great friendly family service. I can't wait to go back!

I never thought a taco spot inside of a gas station plaza would slap this hard. I definitely will come back! I loved the decor and vibe inside even though it's a small space. You can tell this place is family oriented. My food came out super fast - like less than 5 min! For the chips n salsa, you get your own personal tray and individual mini bottles of sauces which I liked because you don't have to share with anyone. I also got an horchata that was refreshing. My asada burrito was delicious and I have no complaints about it. You can really observe & taste the quality of their food! Can't wait to come back! read more

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What amazing food that had here! Quite possibly the best burritos I've tasted in the city which I know may seem blasphemous or crazy because we're talking about Chicago. My wife and I each had a burrito. I had the asada, she had the chicken. And we switched halfway through. The meat had so much flavor it was pretty insane. The service was quick and the staff was super friendly. It's an unassuming place from the outside but the inside had a really cool Mexican mural as well as awesome photographs. The tables had the feel that you're in a nice little taqueria in Mexico. Will definitely return! P.S. the horchata was pretty dope! read more

Solid tacos! Great service, super quick and friendly staff. I got the tacos to go, and they were reasonable priced and filling. They lacked a bit of flavor, and the consume for the Birria also could use more flavor. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Today was the day to see what the hype was about. The hype is well deserved and then some. Now my experience would've been better had I eaten there as I did a to go order and just ate 3 tacos in the car. I ordered their Asada, Pastor and Pollo (plain - I'll explain later). My preferences are arranged in that order as I couldn't remember I had great cuts of Asada. That was some quality skirt steak and cut kinda thick!! I also ordered a Torta de Asada and some guacamole as my eyes were hungry vs my stomach. I did not eat the Torta or had any guac but will tomorrow. I ordered the Pollo tacos to be plain as it was supposed to be for my 2 year old but opted not to give it to him as it was a tad spicy but juicy as hell!! I would def come back here especially to have that green salsa in person and try their Aqua de Horchata! Parking is limited but I lucked out at 2pm on a Friday afternoon. read more

Lived up the hype. Located on the side of a gas station. Don't let that fool you. You're in for a treat with authentic, delicious Mexican food. The chicken al pastor tacos were insanely flavorful, stacked with meat. I ordered three and I'd say that's a good serving. The burritos are even better. Massive. A delicious mix of meat, rice, beans, cheese and sour cream. The guac was solid. The chips really good. Service was super fast and our order was ready for pickup in about 10 mins. Will be back here often! read more

Amazing!!!! Just the best . Great Burrito! Go here! Forget the Mobil station. Just so delicious and authentic read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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When a restaurant operates out of a gas station a little off the beaten path, you know it's going be fantastic and El Tragón Taqueria is no different. The tacos here are outstanding and the price is just right. I'd go so far as to say they are among Chicago's best tacos. The service was also outstanding with food coming out very quickly while everyone was polite and excited. I can't wait to come back. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - QUESABIRRIA (crispy, cheesy taco) - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Hype is real. Food is delicious. I feel like I didn't fully indulge as I didn't use the sauce & I ate my meal in the car while driving but nonetheless I still enjoyed it. Albeit no sauce the proteins still had flavor especially the chicken. The tacos are on the smaller side so I think a minimum of three is needed. One of the highlights was the price point. I'm also willing to rank this amongst Chicago's best tacos. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Beef BIRRIA TACO (NOT QUESABIRRIA) - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Delicious tacos in an unassuming location! It gets packed pretty quick since the place is small but the food comes out hot and fresh. The price is also great for what you get. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - BIRRIA TACO (NOT QUESABIRRIA) - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Awesome tacos, chilaquiles, and great customer service. Very friendly. They just might be the best tacos in Chicago.

It was okay. I will give it another try. I don't understand all the hype. My food was fresh. I really wanted the tacos.

Friendly staff, delicious flavors, and reasonably priced! Carnitas burrito was on the spicy side - luckily I like spice. We will definitely return! read more

Some of the best tacos I've had in Chicago. Both the quesabirria and pastor were cooked perfectly and so flavorful. The salsas are also great. Elotes, chips, quac, and horchata all . Seating is limited but they turn over quick. BYOB. Will def be back. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I thought this place was pretty good! It was busy on a Friday night around 6:30 but not so busy where you couldn't get a table. There are tables inside as well as tables outside, but you're in a gas station parking lot so can't say the outside ambiance is too great. I got two tacos -- the al pastor and the asada. I liked both! I also liked the variety of the salsas. The green and lighter red one were good but I didn't care for the taste of the darker salsa. I would come back to try the birria! read more

We got takeout, but unfortunately don't think we ordered the right thing. The birria taco was super mushy, so the tortilla fell apart. Flavors were okay- nothing special. Salsa was also nothing special in my opinion. Chips were great though. I'll have to give it another try with some different items! read more

El Tragon is a certified flavor wizard. The owner personally delivered to The Mousetrap, and we paired everything with a killer beer lineup. Beer for Lounging tops my list. Every taco slapped me silly. The burrito was a work of art and made me feel 10 yrs younger. Honestly, if El Tragon catered my funeral, people would leave full and happy. Pro tip: come hungry, bring friends, steal bites. 10/10 would eat until I question my decisions again. read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Nice place to eat some delicious tacos and killer burritos! - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

great place to stop for a quick bite! we got the birria tacos w queso, carne asada tacos, and rice&beans overall everything was great, the tortillas were so soft and fresh, yet sturdy enough to not break while eating. the birria tacos were a little lacking in flavor but not bad overall. the service from the ladies up front was lovely & very welcoming. also added bonus of canned gatorade! i still prefer the plastic bottled version more because the flavor is stronger but i've never seen canned gatorade before so i enjoyed it for novelty sake! read more

El Tragon Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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