Riobamba

PSA: there's a kids' menu available now! See pics. $9.95 includes rice and beans and a soft drink…read more The kid quesadilla is quite tiny though. PSA #2: OpenTable reservations available! And you might need it. The restaurant was FULL at 6pm on a Friday, and almost every table had a kid, toddler, or baby at it, so I think 1) families (or parents lol) must like Mexican food, and 2) reservations would definitely be helpful! Complimentary chips and spicy salsa are available. I still petition for tortas to be on the dinner menu! My first petition for a kids' menu worked! Lots of offerings including burritos, bowls, tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and other entrees. My burrito was pretty ginormous, but it lacked a little flavor and mostly tasted like cheese and beans. Husband didn't complain about the enchiladas, but I think the serving was a little light for him. Because it was so busy, the waitress told him he could only choose one meat type. Satisfactory mojitos. Energy and atmosphere is very lively! Service was a bit slow, as I think the waitress was bouncing across many tables.

Didn't take any picture. Food was ok. Had the steak and egg tacos for brunch. They were a…read morelittle greasy for me. Service was not good. Took 20 mins to get a drink order. There were 6 of our food came out at all different times over the course of 15 minutes. They seemed really disorganized.

Churros

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Taco Verde

4.1(47 reviews)

2.5 mi

It's a small hole in the wall restaurant, but the service is top-notch and the food is excellent…read more What was really nice of having some outdoor seating on a very nice evening. I'm definitely coming back for the Birria tacos, out of this world. The churros were absolutely delicious: hot, fresh and crispy.

I wish I didn't wait so long to try their food. I had been snoozing on it for some years despite…read moregood reviews from friends. There's a grocery store next door that I visit from time to time. Checked them out the other Sunday after church. Ordered chilaquiles with over easy eggs and a taco plate with different proteins. Rice and beans were extra and you should note their beans are whole black, not refried. Hence, their being certified Halal. The food is fresh, plentiful and bursting with flavor. Wish, wish I could have gotten the chilaquiles home sooner or just stopped somewhere to enjoy them hot. Green salsa had good flavor and the meal was seasoned well. Had asked for over easy eggs but turned out they made them hard. Bummer. I truly enjoy yolks mixed in. The tacos were good, two birria and one shrimp. During this cold season it's always grand to sip a birria consome. The shrimps contained within the taco were medium sized. I figure a two taco plate with rice and beans would be plenty of food. I'd definitely check them out again.

Interior

Birria Pizza

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EATACO

4.3(228 reviews)

3.1 mi

Eataco hit the spot when we rolled in with four hungry kids and a strong craving for nachos. I…read moreoriginally picked the place based on pictures of their nachos online, and they did not disappoint. The presentation was spot on, and every layer was generously coated with toppings. The only minor drawback was that the added protein felt a bit sparse, so I would likely skip paying extra for that on the next visit. As for the kids, they completely devoured the chicken quesadillas before I even got a chance to try a bite, which is a ringing endorsement in itself. The tacos here diverge from traditional street tacos. Instead of a light balance, they pack in a much higher meat-to-topping ratio. We tried the barbacoa and chicken tinga, both of which were expertly prepared and packed with rich, delicious flavor. However, because they are so heavily loaded and juicy, the tortillas simply could not maintain structural integrity. It was impossible to pick them up and eat them like standard tacos, but attacking them with a fork solved the problem easily enough. A special shoutout goes to the house-made salsas. Both the red and green options were outstanding and elevated every bite. Overall, the atmosphere and quality land right in that sweet spot--an upgraded, elevated step above a chain like Chipotle, while still being more casual than a sit-down, traditional Mexican restaurant. Paired with exceptionally friendly staff service, it was a great experience and a spot we would happily return to. Great outdoor seating.

The food did not disappoint! They offer a great selection of vegan options, and our server was…read morehappy to point out which tacos I could order. Everything came out fresh, flavorful, and delicious. It's a fun, trendy little spot in the heart of Northbrook. I was catching up with a friend, so we stayed for quite a while, and the restaurant became very busy. Unfortunately, it seemed like they were a bit understaffed. Our server checked on us only occasionally, so service wasn't as attentive as it could have been. Overall, though, the excellent food made for a very enjoyable experience.

Small bar

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Part of the small dining room

Taco Maya

4.1(663 reviews)

3.3 mi

Locally owned & operated

9 years in business

The paneer fajitas and Mexican pizza were delicious. It's a cute restaurant spot that's very close…read moreto the airport that makes it easy for travelers to grab a quick bite. The service was great!

Solid Mexican place with delicious food and decent service. I thought the salsa bar was kind of…read morecool and the place itself has the most beautiful murals. You can order at the front or on an app at the table. They don't have servers/waiters. They also have a drink bar and free refills which was great. Plenty of free parking. Food was yummy and very filing. Great portions and good price point. I love the to-go bags too! Minus one star- wish there were paper towels in the bathrooms.

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Taqueria Los Comales

3.4(319 reviews)

3.5 mi

Time and time again, the food here is consistent and delicious. Our go-to is either the steak,…read moregrilled chicken or El pastor tacos if we'll feeling meaty. I go with their fish and shrimp tacos when I'm feeling like seafood. There are tortas and their burritos are great choices as well. I usually top my meal with an horchata. The service is quick and the workers are attentive.

The food was absolutely disgusting. After taking one bite my 9 year old son noticed something was…read moreoff about the steak. After every bite I took of the steak it was worse and worse. You could tell the beans were canned and the rice was bland and flavorless. The best part was the chips and salsa and that was decent and VERY spicy. Save your time, money and taste buds and just cook at home.

Carryout and pickup area

Great salsa! Just like Maria's...

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Dining area

La Taquiza Y Mas

4.1(137 reviews)

2.9 mi

The food was absolutely amazing!! I had a whole assortment of tacos and they were all delicious…read more All the food was cooked fresh and timely and you could definitely tell in the flavor of everything. The person taking my order was super helpful and had phenomenal recommendations. The restaurant is super fun and clean. Definitely recommend this place.

Stopped by this location for lunch. It's just up Willow Rd. from I-294. The place was…read moresurprisingly clean for a well-worn taco shop with little charm but that provides quick and decent basic tex-mex food. We ordered at the counter and picked up our tray when the food was ready. My wife and I shared a reasonably sized single portion of chicken fajitas. After two cans of soda, tax and tip the bill came to $32. Overpriced for a lunch that was no better than Chipotle. They don't even include chips and salsa. The cashier and the cook were both pleasant and quick enough in preparing our lunch. The men's room was clean too.

Inside restaurant

Chicken enchiladas

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Cute saying

La Taquiza

4.0(291 reviews)

2.0 mi

Great food at a great price. Very friendly people. Also got an awesome couple of burgers from…read moreZippy's next door; same owners.

Was craving tacos so i thought id give this place another chance. But no... the quality of tacos at…read morethis place is just laughable. The meat smelled and tasted funny. Zero taste. Actually glad of the tiny minuscule portions because the quality was so bad. And to add the workers or owners of this place is incredibly rude and unprofessional. Over priced too

Birria tacos with a side of rice

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Greenwood Grill

4.3(165 reviews)

2.5 mi

Food is amazing here! The mix between American and Mexican cuisine is superb. The portions are…read morelarge and the prices are very reasonable! Quality of the food is top tier, and the service is fast and friendly. Got the first order of the *Birria Skillet* because it was just added to the menu. It was phenomenal and exceptionally filling. Overall, I recommend this place to anyone that enjoys great breakfast and/or Mexican food. 5 Stars!

We continue to be regulars are Greenwood Grill. Located in Glenview off Glenview Road, it is a…read morediner with great breakfast/brunches, lunch, and dinner. The service has always been outstanding. They know us there and greet us when we come in, and if our usual table is available, they seat us there. Their prices are very reasonable, and the food is consistently good, as is the service. I generally go with my elderly mother who lives not too far from the Grill. She usually orders something simple. I try to select different things on the menu when I'm there, but if I get anything more regularly, it would be their taco dinner. But I've had breakfasts and various lunches there. We've never been there for dinner. If you have not tried the Greenwood Grill, give it a try!

Flan

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Los Azares Mexican Grill

4.6(49 reviews)

5.8 mi

If you're searching for the best Mexican food in Des Plaines, look no further than Los Azares…read moreMexican Grill. Their Mixed Fajitas are one of the best meals I've had--perfectly seasoned shrimp, steak, and chicken with fresh veggies, plus all the sides you could want. Everything tasted fresh and authentic. I'll definitely be back again soon!

Food has always been good here but when you go in and order to go and the person taking your order…read moreis more interested in her conversation with another employee and gets the order totally wrong that is a problem... we ordered a chicken taco salad with no onions add avocado and have had this many times... instead got a grilled chicken salad with a lot of onions and no avocado and got charged for it too... there were no other customers in the establishment. We will not be back which is a shame because I love dining local....

Counter and front of house where you order. They bring your food to the table. Very friendly and welcoming service!

Steak and shrimp fajitas. Great flavor and fresh veggies!

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The seating area is huge and so clean!

El Tradicional

Must admit, after reading reviews was a bit nervous to try. So glad we didn't pay attention to the…read morebad reviews! Had quite the opposite experience. Food was great. Drinks amazing. One of the best tequila bars on the north shore. So many great tequila choices not available anywhere in the city, and at reasonable prices. For food, We had nachos, queso fundito, tacos, skirt steak fajitas, made with prime steak, delicious. Churros that everyone raved about. Place was mobbed and service was outstanding. There were 10 of us, had small kids with us, made us feel so welcome. Highly recommend. Can't wait to go back!

My son and I had 40 minutes to grab dinner before seeing a movie at the Landmark Theater. I gave…read morehim a bunch of options in the Glen and Mexican was the winner! It appears that this is the last week they will be in this location, but they are moving to a larger location right in the Glen. However, we were able to get seated right away on a Saturday evening in this smaller location. We let our sweet waitress know we were in a little bit of a rush before a movie and wanted to place our orders right away. I ordered the shrimp fajitas and my son ordered the nacho entree with chicken. While waiting we munched on complimentary chips and salsa, although my son had plenty of chips coming. The chips were tasty- not too salty like i find many tortilla chips to be at Mexican restaurants. Ten minutes after ordering our entrees arrived. The nacho entree was absolutely huge, but that didn't stop by 9 year old from devouring every last bite. It wasn't the healthiest of meals although he did get plenty of chicken and veggies. I've never really met a fajita entree i didn't like until this one. I tried a little bit of it all- the shrimp, rice, beans and veggies...and all just incredibly bland. I ate a few shrimp so i wouldn't be starving and indulge in too many movie popcorn or sweets, but it just wasn't very good. If i were to give this place another chance I'd order something else next time and its likely we'll be trying it again (in their new location) because my son really liked those nachos.

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Interior

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26 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Mario S.

2 years ago

Riobamba claims to offer Ecuadorian-style tacos, but according to an actual Ecuadorian native, the food doesn't even come close to earning that title. The tacos we ordered--chimi chicken, birria, and carnitas--were all under-seasoned and dry, a far cry from the bold flavors they promised. I opted for a taco bowl salad, which came with beans, rice, cilantro, and chicken, only to discover the beans had a rancid, old taste. At $16, this overpriced salad was more of a disappointment than a meal. The $7 taco de birria, supposedly 1/4 lbs, arrived cold and overly dressed with cilantro, lacking the onions it should have had. The presentation was a mess. The taco de carnitas didn't fare any better--it looked ghastly, with too much carne overwhelming the dish, completely missing the mark of what tacos are supposed to look like. To make matters worse, when I informed the cashier about the dirty floor and requested it be cleaned, the janitor--who also helps in the kitchen--cleaned a nearby table for another customer but completely ignored our messy area. It was a clear sign of poor service and attention to detail. Anyone claiming that this place focuses on Ecuadorian cuisine is far from the truth. The only thing I can compliment is the bathroom--it smelled nice, but that's where the positives end. read more

Brendan M.

10 years ago

BYOB. Brought a bottle of a nice tequila to wash down some good latin food. My wife had the Bamba Burger with fries (with Chipotle Ketchup!) This is a huge Burger! I had three shrimp tacos, two pork, one chorizo and a side of hominy and potato cakes. We definitely ordered to much but we finished it all, you know.. the way heros do. Best tacos around, no question! The shrimps were large and well seasoned, the pork was just outstanding( my favorite)! The Chorizo you can tell is made in house, great flavor and "healthy" portions! The choice of salsa is a nice touch, my wife and I prefer really hot salsa! So the Habanero salsa is perfect! The potato cakes had a peanut sauce and fried egg. It is a combination you dont consider but really good! I already tore into the potato cakes by the time the rest of the food came, sorry for the half eaten image lol. The fountain drinks were different too, I really liked the grapefruit Izze and even mixed in some tequila for a delicious cocktail! Awesome hidden ( truely hidden, a little hard to see from the road) gem of Glenview. Will return! read more

Jay W.

288

5 years ago

Tucked WAY in the back of a strip mall and pretty much devoid of all decor is this place.... but what they lack in ambience they make up for in quality and flavor. I had the pork and the cod, both were excellent. Rice and pinto beans as well as the tamale were pretty much standard fare. The winners here are the meats. I was impressed. Some things are pricey - a steak tack is $5.50 which I've never heard of or seen before. Still, the "regular" meats will do. Taco with 1/4 lb of meat is $3.50 which is not bad. I didn't have the chicken (roasted and pulled thighs) but my co-worker did, he said it was excellent. The pork was moist and fresh, the fish ($1 upcharge) was flavorful and flaky, served with slaw for an interesting flavor combo. Definitely coming back to try the homemade chorizo and some other meats like the lamb. Their HOT salsa is not that hot, it's pretty darn good. They're going the extra mile for quality and it works. read more

Jessica P.

Elite 24

142

323

223

8 years ago

Just moved in, and we needed a local fast food, not fast food joint. So pleased to see that this has been added to the area recently! Love the food, it's super fast, they are able to prep things to pickup. The salsas are delicious, I recommend the avocado tomatillo. There aren't too many vegetarian options, but you can mix and match and get enough to count as a meal. The shrimp taco is delicious. Highly recommend. Also, they serve fountain Jones Sodas! That's kinda sweet, love me some sugar cane when I will go ahead and drink soda. They're a little hidden in the back there, but there's additional parking around to the southeast of the building. read more

Daniel J.

10 years ago

I found this place through yelp and it is a really nice low key spot for tacos. The food tasted Amazing!! This was my first time I ordered so I ordered the bamba burger, which seemed like a good choice for me. Now this thing was huge. I was barely able to finish it, but dang it tasted amazing. I'm looking forward to trying some new entrees on the menu. I really need to bring my wife here sometime. read more

Todd W.

7 years ago

I drove past this place several times on my recent stay in the city and was intrigued, but after skimming Yelp reviews I thought maybe it was a bad idea. That was until I actually READ the reviews, Fortunately for me, I stopped in here to enjoy a lunch while my fiance took care of the business she was attending in town , If for some reason I'm ever in the area again, I'd gladly stop by Riobamba. read more

Cristel M.

Elite 26

334

1108

3 years ago

I attended a party that catered food from Riobamba, and everything was delicious! The spread included salad with avocado, guacamole, and a taco bar with chicken, fish and shrimp, along with all the toppings. This was my first experience with Riobamba's food, and I'd like to visit the restaurant to try more! read more

Tom X.

6 years ago

I love their tacos! Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome read more

Liz S.

10 years ago

The yucca fries are my favorite item in the menu. It is funny as I have never seen a menu like they have yet it is unique and the Bamba burger is out of this world! The people that work there at great and we have never ordered a bad item. Excellent!!!! read more

Sam G.

9 years ago

Hands down, my favorite Mexican food. If you haven't been here yet, please go. It's fresh, tasty, and comes out quite quick! I love coming here when I am hungry for a little snack, or even a big one! read more

Meredith M.

9 years ago

The choices on the menu are plentiful and delicious! Best tacos I have had in quite some time. The staff is friendly and I enjoy the Latin music playing in background. This place is quite a gem! read more

Steven B.

9 years ago

I went this place for the first time last week, and it was really great experience! Food was excellent, especially for steak tacos. It was really awesome! I will definetly come again! read more

Guel L.

8 years ago

The specials now are fantastic! The cod melted in my mouth and my wife enjoyed the picadillo taco (not quite here, but excellent never the less)! read more

Mal C.

5 years ago

Great good served with expertise and speed. Family owned and their influence is shown throughout the business. Great Latin cuisine. Go see them. read more

Rachel W.

5 years ago

I have been here with my family many times. The food is delicious. The owner is really nice guy. You should check it out!

Simone M.

10 years ago

Yum, yum, yum! Love the food, customer service, and privacy. Prices are very reasonable. highly recommended.

Rusty S.

6 years ago

Fantastic food, always prepared well. Try to do take out since the delivery companies take so much off the top.

James C.

6 years ago

We ordered take out to try something new. Food was fresh and tasty. Liked the sauce and new to me flavors.

Conner L.

3 years ago

Tacos are amazing here you much try them Highly recommend wonderful experience kids love this place

Bella C.

4 years ago

Really good tasty tacos been here a few times after work Yuca fries are so tasty delicious read more

Riobamba - tacos - Updated August 2026

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La Taquiza Y Mas

4.1

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Fondita Miguel

4.7

(15 reviews)

When it comes to Mexican food, the term "authentic" is commonly overstated but not here. This is a…read morereal gem fueled by passionate owners who are serious foodies. The menu is limited and for good reason as the focus here is placed entirely on the food...as it should be. The tacos are basically large street tacos and they explode with flavors and some heat. The tortillas? Freshly made with a splendid corn earthiness. I had the tinga chicken tacos and my spouse had the birria tacos and both were excellent. In Winnetka all the pleasant surroundings might prop up the food a bit so it's very refreshing to put all that aside and experience a level of Mexican food culture that is rarely enjoyed this far North of the border.

I was walking by and saw this restaurant finally opened so I had to try it. The people working here…read moreare really nice. I'm glad more restaurants are opening up as this spot has gone been through two other restaurants. I'm rooting for you! Overall, I thought it was just ok, but I need to order more things. Mexican rice - good Pastor taco - just ok. Potato flautas - it was soggy by the time I got home (I highly recommend you ask for the sauce on the side so your food can stay crispy). Overall, just ok. Being from California, we get a lot of great Mexican restaurants. In San Diego, they have rolled tacos that are delicious. This place does not have a wide selection on the menu compared to La Taquiza or Guanjuanto but I want to come back and try some other things. The elote salad looks good.

La Taquiza

3.8

(73 reviews)

I'm so happy this place is open and very busy! Inside of the restaurant is beautiful not to mention…read moreservice is very friendly. But the flavors are crazy good! Everything on the menu is so fresh! I'm very picky when it comes to seafood. But those fish tacos are gold! Definitely will be back soon, my stable lunch spot in Winnetka!

Quick to order, and fairly timely to receive the food which was fresh. The chicken enchiladas were…read morepretty dry, but the shrimp burrito was delicious and we liked the beans and rice. Portions/amount of food though is a bit small for the price.

Taco Nano

3.9

(394 reviews)

Best tacos. GOAT fish tacos. This is the pace…read more You can tell made with good and fresh ingredients. Probably order 1-2 times per week. While I understand and have read some of the more negative reviews it makes me sad. No person or place is perfect and these are all occasional one-offs so take that into account. Pablo in particular has been outstanding. We had a mistake Oman order and he made it right without any suggestion and personally stopped at our home. Who does that anymore!!! Forget the haters and enjoy this place.

Hands down best Mexican spot on the north shore. Everything is good. I love their tacos and my…read moredaughter loves their burritos. My personal favorite is the crispy camarones (shrimp), the combination of all the ingredients create this happy harmonious taco. Truly my favorite taco ever. I also like the chicken taco salad. Fresh high quality ingredients. A bit pricy, but worth every penny. Service is good. As busy as they can get, they are efficient. Everything is made to order.

The Trendy Taco

3.9

(118 reviews)

This is my favorite taco shop. I go every week with my kids. We get chicken tacos, al pastor or…read morebeef. I love these tacos. Cash only so stop by the Chase on the way.

Service was awesome and the burrito was exceptional. Absolutely delicious. Just have to say in the…read moremonth since I've been back to this area, I would have eaten here at LEAST five more times if they took cards!!

La Taquiza

4.3

(36 reviews)

Honestly... I feel blessed to live at the walking distance to this place!!!!!!!!…read more I could not believe the quality of the fish in fish taco, and grilled shrimp taco was match made in heaven! Everything taste so fresh! & steak taco is god... especially when you are hungover.... And the fat ass burrito is all you need when you are ready.... All staff are very welcoming and friendly I think I'm addicted...

You can't beat their $2 taco Wednesdays, it has to be the best deal in Winnetka. Salsa is help…read moreyourself out of the cooler (verde es muy bueno) and they have Negra Modelo tall boys. Eat inside, eat outside, or take to go, the choice is yours.

Tamales Mexican Restaurant

3.6

(241 reviews)

Awesome cooking great service would definitely be back when we're in the area. Patio area was very…read morecomfortable. Sit at SERVICE was very attentive.

These positive reviews must come from retirement folks with no taste buds but this place has…read morepossibly the worst "Mexican" food in the area. There was a time Pre-Covid when this place served decent food but that time has passed. Sure the owner is super nice but the food is just plain bad and he should know better! He served me a steak that was probably taken from the back of the freezer bcoz it was rank and tasted like spoiled meat. That did it for me! You know once you get food poisoning anywhere you just can't go back. Tables and floors are sticky and need a deep clean. I can only imagine the condition of the kitchen. If I had to compare Tamales with Taco Bell, TB offers more authentic food. Plus you'll come away more satisfied (even with their lettuce recall ) and less change outta ur wallet. Go there instead!

El Burrito Bronco

4.3

(58 reviews)

Small location in a strip mall, didnt seem like much. Entered and was greeted by a personable…read moreworker who took our order. I got a few steak tacos and my wife ordered the chorizo and eggs breakfast. We both got some Mexican Cokes and waited at a seat for our order. Unfortunately we did not get any chips and salsa or anything so we sat disappointed for a bit waiting for our food. The food came out and was tasty. Limes on the plate (which is a plus in my book hate when I dont get or have to ask). Food was tasty from both of our orders. Worker checked in on us a few times. Overall the food was good, but not enough to warrant us coming out of our way (about 20 min drive for us) to eat here. If we were in the area looking for a meal, it would definitely bee in our roladex of options. Keep up the good work and service. Maybe add free chips and salsa to tempt me to come back more, lol :P

Went here for lunch on a random Tuesday and was pleasantly surprised! The owner was the nicest and…read moredirected me towards the burrito lunch special + a horchata. The food was great and was everything I wanted when I picked out the restaurant. Definitely will be back!! I would go here over La taquiza as it doesn't break the bank and is delicious.

Los Mogotes De Michoacan

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Was hoping and rooting that this would be a win, but unfortunately not. They charge you for the…read morechips and salsa that they bring you to start but you won't discover this until they bring the check. Average meal price point is $20-ish. Any piece meal is priced in eaches, so $8 for 1 sopa. Solamente uno. The fish tacos were meh. The truffle quesadilla had a lot of corn and was over salted. Running a small business is tough, but so is living these days. Choose wisely.

This is my besties fav place. I loved it! Steak was so good, rice and beans were just like my moms…read more The mojito was delicious! Friendly service and the atmosphere is fun and festive. The decor is really cute. Definitely want to come back!

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