Cancel

Open app

Search

Tacos El Norte

3.5 (146 reviews)
InexpensiveMexican, Cocktail Bars
Open 9:00 am - 10:00 pm

Order Tacos El Norte Takeout or Delivery

Tacos El Norte Photos

Business Info

TACOS EL NORTE ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Casual
Moderate noise
Good for kids
Good for groups

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - Tacos El Norte

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Entrance
Eduardo D.

It was a Tuesday and you all know what day it is!!! We had a Volleyball game to go to and were too lazy to cook so we decided to go to Tacos El Norte! We decided to order takeout and when we walked in, we were immediately greeted. We were given menus to look at and we ordered when we were ready. I saw roasted poblano pepper tacos. I was in the mood for a torta so I asked if they can make a roasted poblano pepper torta. She responded, "hmmm, never was asked that before and it sounds good!" I also ordered fries well done! I ordered a Horchata to share as well! The rest of the family ordered various tacos. We ordered a taco dinner (2 tacos, beans and rice), 4 individual tacos, torta, fries and horchata. The food came out pretty quickly and the fries were well done as asked. The horchata was mixed with perfection of sweetness and cinnamon. The torta was delicious and seasoned well. The ingredients included beans, lettuce, and cheese. The fries were well done as done requested. Overall, food was good and everyone was satisfied. They did forget one taco but I called and they provided a credit for the future.

Chimichanga
Dessa R.

Food was deeelicious and service was friendly and prompt. Great spot to have a few margaritas (one got me nice and relaxed). I got the chicken chimichanga which was massive and there was a large layover of friend cheese on top yummmyyy!! The tacos were also delicious and wonderful tortillas. High restaurant good for groups of all sizes. Coming back when I'm in town!

Flan
Liz B.

This restaurant was my go to for 15 years; however, for the past several everything tastes like the adjacent laundromat. The last straw was a horrific case of food poisoning. It's a cute place and many of the servers have been there forever. Unfortunately, I need to find a new spot.

Tortas (Mexican Sandwich)
Amy D.

I really wanted to like Tacos El Norte because the staff was energetic and place seemed like it had been a staple in the area for years. Unfortunately, my visit wasn't the best. The place was extremely crowded at the front (not a great waiting area) and the food did not meet expectations. Everything at the restaurant seemed muted and almost watery. - Chips arrived cold with thin salsa that seemed to be from a can - Frozen Margarita was airy and lacking in flavor (and actual tequila) - Huevos Rancheros was watery with a rather tough steak to go with it, also lacking flavor I've heard only good things about the place. Unfortunately, I wouldn't go back. - AT

It is the best get away for my husband and I because we know it's always going to be the best flavors. Our favorite is the Molcajete!! Such a great price and so many flavors and textures.

Margarita
Diana G.

I was looking for some authentic Mexican food to carry out and thought I'd try Tacos El Norte. I had a steak burrito and it was good. I ordered 2 kids meals, 1 cheese quesadilla and 1 steak taco. Both were good. I also ordered a "to go" margarita, it was excellent!

Corn tortilla chicken tacos with onions and cilantro
Tim A.

First time at TENP today. Waitress started us out with the complimentary chips and salsa. The chips were homemade and very average, as was the salsa. I had the chicken tacos (corn tortillas) with onions and cilantro. Overall it was dry and nondescript - bland with no distinct taste. Plenty of good taco places in the area to choose from. Would not be able to recommend TENP to family or friends in good conscience : (

My Huber receipt showing restaurant
Richard G.

I placed an order through Uber and what was sent was not what I ordered. Instead of making things right this restaurant claims they only use Grubhub and that I didn't order from them. I ordered a burrito not a plate because the plate comes with things that are restricted to me like the rice. The plate was sent and it was received ice cold. See the photo attached which shows this order was clearly ordered here. They don't care enough about their customers to correct a wrongly filled order instead they deny the existence of the order. When I told them I was going to leave this review their response was Do what you have to do we don't care.

Guava margarita

See all

4 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

9 days ago

One of my favorite Mexican restaurants. The food is very good and very authentic! Highly recommend this restaurant

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

14 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

9 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Lori N.
22
71
2

10 months ago

I liked their vegetarian fajitas, and the platter of guacamole queso elote corn and really enjoyed the salsa.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Liz B.
45
100
207

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

9 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Very good food and service . good prices clean place. one of the best mexican restrunte i ever went to

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Alex G.
5
311
63

2 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Thank you Alex for your kind words and we hope to see you again!

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Consistently great and amazing. The food is the best you can find in Palatine. Been coming for years!

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Always the right place to go to. Excellent pozole in the colder months. Big portions.

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Jay D.
0
32
22

3 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Love the food here! This is my second visit and it's still very good and the service is excellent ! Highly recommend

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Liz B.
14
77
18

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Bob R.
319
1195
2567

11 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Yobany M.
800
10
9

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Lisa R.
0
69
62

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of CJ S.
424
18
2

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Phenomenal Food, Phenomenal Service, & Phenomenal Vibras I would highly suggest this place everytime!

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of AJ B.
38
5
0

3 years ago

Great food, friendly, staff,, easy to order, fast service, convenient carry out, great margaritas, love the cheese fundido

Business owner information

Photo of Mauricio L.

Mauricio L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 4

Ask the Community - Tacos El Norte

You might also consider

Bar Salotto

Bar Salotto

4.5
(133 reviews)
3.5 mi

We had a really nice time last weekend at Bar Salotto. While they do not take reservations, we did…read morenot have a wait - and it was an enjoyable experience in the back room. We were able to snag a back table so not loud and we can hear the whole table. We started with the Hearts of Palm salad to share. It was perfect to share with three people as a starter and we all loved the lemon vinaigrette. For entrees - I got the thin crust Garden Pizza special - artichokes, pesto, pine nuts, other veggies. I thought it was delicious and it reheated very nicely the next day. Others at the table - got the salmon, sausage pizza and spicy vodka pasta. Everyone enjoyed. Our server (AJ) was fabulous and joked with the table - he made the experience enjoyable as well as the atmosphere of the restaurant. While we're not in Arlington Heights often, it is a place I would recommend.

The evening began with the sort of optimism that has historically led men into bankruptcy, war, and…read moresecond marriages. The hostess appeared wearing a blue-and-white striped sweater hanging off one shoulder like she'd stepped out of an Italian perfume commercial. Around her neck was one of those little cornicello pepper necklaces, dangling just enough to suggest fate had finally decided to throw me a bone. Blue eyes. Not "blue." The kind of blue sailors used to abandon families over. She laughed at one of my jokes. That was all the encouragement my diseased brain required. I immediately conducted a full tactical assessment of the restaurant. The P.O.A. Index... ...was approaching DEFCON 1. Every direction I looked was another devastatingly attractive waitress carrying Aperol Spritzes with effortless confidence. It was like wandering into a government-funded supermodel relocation program. Then... A shadow fell across the table. A man. Our waiter was a man. Christ Almighty. The emotional whiplash nearly snapped my neck. It's like going to the zoo hoping to see lions and discovering the enclosure has been replaced with an accountant named Kevin. There are beautiful women everywhere, and somehow I'm discussing pasta recommendations with a guy who probably knows three different olive oils by taste. Cruel. Absolutely cruel. To his credit, the b@5tard was outstanding. Friendly. Fast. Knew the menu inside and out. Kept the drinks full. Never interrupted. The s.o.b. gave me absolutely nothing to complain about, which only deepened my resentment. The food, meanwhile, was infuriatingly good. The pizzas arrived looking like they'd been blessed by an Italian grandmother carrying unresolved anger from 1947. Thin crust. Fresh mozzarella. Just enough char to remind you that ovens are supposed to flirt with fire, not electricity. The pasta had that unmistakable handmade texture that makes Olive Garden feel like a felony. The cocktails disappeared with alarming speed. By my third Negroni, I was convinced I could hear Dean Martin narrating my life. Walking out, I glanced back toward the hostess one last time. She smiled. For approximately three seconds I considered abandoning my entire life to become a part-time sommelier with absolutely no qualifications. Then reality returned. The male waiter handed me the check. Four stars. The food was phenomenal. The cocktails were dangerous. The hostess should be classified as an Italian national treasure. And our waiter deserves a raise... despite committing the unforgivable crime of existing between me and the waitresses.

Photos
Inside
Inside
Spicy Vodka Pasta with Meatball
Spicy Vodka Pasta with Meatball
Wagyu-Veal Meatballs whipped ricotta, pomodoro sauce, crispy parsley and grated parmesan Very good!

See all

Wagyu-Veal Meatballs whipped ricotta, pomodoro sauce, crispy parsley and grated parmesan Very good!
Gatsby's Pizza & Pub

Gatsby's Pizza & Pub

3.6
(173 reviews)
2.6 mi
$$

Quite a marvelous discovery in the local AH area. I ended up here for the first time last fall…read morewhilst looking for a place to catch a cubs playoff game with my girlfriend. Gatsby's was a short drive away so it seemed worth checking out. The main parking lot was full by the time we arrived, but I suppose thats a good thing. At first look, the inside definitely checked the boxes of a local establishment. Sports memorabilia, photographs, neon signs, etc. It did take a little bit to be greeted, but honestly I forgot pretty quickly since I was focused on the ball game and because our server was really friendly. I wish I could remember his name, but he defintly made night go smoothly. The food/drinks came out at seemingly reasonable pace for as busy as it was. We didn't really venture too much into the menu since we were there mostly for the game. I got a few apps to try from their big menu. They have quite few things to try from. The french fries were good. Nothing special, but they came hot and just right. I got some mozz sticks that were good also, again nothing else to write home. The marina was a great pairing for sure. The highlight though was for sure the cheese curds. They were succulent and very delicious. Classic Wisconsin curds friend to golden perfection. The cherry on top was the homemade ranch. Oh man, was that perfect! I went a second time about a month (ish) later, this time with a friend to catch a hawks game. Again, we were both pleased with the overall service and felt they had great consistency. This time, I tried a thin crust pizza, while my friend had the Texas BBQ Burger & Saganaki. I quit enjoyed the pie. It was pretty good quality for a bar pizza. Crust and flavor was excellent. My friend seemed to like his burger and appetizer, though he didn't finish it all. Truly an awesome place to hang at. I hope to back soon to try some more things.

Hamburger delicious. I did pick up and it was all ready. Love all the TVs with all the sport…read morechoices.

Photos
Gatsby's  Pizza & Pub . Sport Bar etc.  427 E Rand Rd, Arlington Heights, IL
Gatsby's Pizza & Pub . Sport Bar etc. 427 E Rand Rd, Arlington Heights, IL
Gatsby's Pizza & Pub
Sports bar with lots of TVs available to watch different sports events.

See all

Sports bar with lots of TVs available to watch different sports events.
Jimmy D's District

Jimmy D's District

3.9
(99 reviews)
2.9 mi
$$

Our Burger Club finally made it's way to Jimmy D's back in December of 2025. It was a Monday night,…read moreand kinda cold outside. There were seven of us and we all converged from Buffalo Grove and Vernon Hills. Jimmy D's doesn't come up on your normal burger place lists in and around the area, but we saw a post somewhere and knew we had to check this place out, especially if it ended up being across from the future home of the Chicago Bears. We'd probably end up hanging out there and wanted to make sure it was a good enough place to hang and be a part of the action, whilst not paying for said action. Anyhoo, we all pulled up to find a nice parking lot next to/behind the restaurant. It's a cool place with a couple entrances (one in the lot and the other from the street). It's a nicely adorned building and has the requisite sports decor on the inside with plenty of televisions to watch many games at once. There was plenty of seating for our group as it was quite empty on a Monday night and there wasn't any game of note when we were there. We called ahead letting them know our numbers and they accommodated us with a reserved table. They were attentive and constantly refilled out waters and sodas and brought more beer when needed/requested. The service was friendly and attentive. We were there for the burgers of which there are four options: the House burger, the Fried Egg Burger, the Mac Daddy, and a Black Bean burger. However, stipulations for being in our club is that you can only order a red meat-based burger. We did order the buffalo sauced wings as an appetizer to share. They were sauced nicely, not too hot, and quite good. I would definitely recommend getting them if you visit. I also ordered the cream of chicken soup. It was a perfect option for the cold night and I rank it among one of the better cream of chicken soup options in the suburbs. While not a sommelier of cream of chicken soup, I do rank it quite well: I think it matches Jameson's Char House for quality, thickness, and flavor. Mama clearly knows what she's doing with her soup. I opted for the Mac Daddy burger. It's prepared with: black angus beef, boom boom sauce, house mac n' cheese, bacon, fried onions, sliced jalapeños, toasted brioche. I normally don't opt for the special/signature house sauces as I've been burned before by these so-called "recommended" house sauces (I'm looking at you, Lucky Burger, with your terrible "dijonnaise" sauce - ugh, don't get me started on THAT sauce). However, I was told it's a hot sauce for the burger and figured it wouldn't overpower everything else on the burger. The mac n' cheese was a tad creamy, but so what, the bacon, fried onions, jalapenos, and boom boom sauce cut into the creaminess a bit and it worked. And it didn't overpower the flavor of the burger, which I thought it would, but somehow didn't. I really liked this burger, the bun held up, the bacon stayed crispy, and jalapenos and sauce added a nice kick but not overwhelmingly so. I would get this again. The sandwiches come with housemade fries or tots, but I know that if tots are offered, you can (generally) never go wrong with tots (I'd point out Puck's Pub but they closed and did the world a favor in doing so). Everyone generally liked their burgers and would return again. In our 5 point scale, Jimmy D's District got a 4.25. They have a nice brunch menu and drinks to match and I want to try them out someday. Let me know if you're going and I'll meet ya there if available.

Talk about a hidden gem! Jimmy D's sits in Arlington Heights - a Northwestern burb of Chicago…read more Having a heavy Greek influence, Jimmy Ds was started by Demetrios "Jimmy D" Demarakis, after he migrated to America from a small village in Greece back in 1968. In 1986, Jimmy D's was born. Food & drinks I tried: Buffalo mac & cheese Cream of chicken with rice soup The Mac Daddy Burger with Greek Fries Apple Walnut bread pudding Espresso martini Mapleberry breeze The Mac Daddy Burger deserves respect lol It comes with their boom boom sauce, mac & cheese, fried onions, bacon and sliced jalapeños on a brioche bun! The buffalo mac & cheese truly surprised me. It's covered with an ale cheese sauce that is full of flavor and on top, there are buffalo chicken crisps! So good! The Greek Fries were my other favorite! It has a roasted garlic aioli, crumbled feta and oregano. I could eat an entire plate of it with no problem! On Fridays and Saturdays in the evening, there is live music but outside of the live music, the environment is lively, the service from everyone was pleasant and attentive, and there are TVs everywhere, like literally! I can totally see why this place is a neighborhood favorite and if you visit, you'll understand why too! Stop by and tell em that Bri from Planes and Plates sent you!

Photos
Inside Jimmy D's District. Sport Bar . Cool!  1718 W Nw Hwy, Arlington Heights, IL
Inside Jimmy D's District. Sport Bar . Cool! 1718 W Nw Hwy, Arlington Heights, IL
Jimmy D's District
Jimmy D's District

See all

Big Shot Piano Lounge & Restaurant

Big Shot Piano Lounge & Restaurant

3.3
(193 reviews)
4.0 mi
$$

Big Shot Piano Bar has been my go-to spot for years, and it never disappoints! After a nice dinner…read moredate with my girlfriend, we ended our night here with some drinks and a big slice of tiramisu the perfect finish. The prices are always fantastic, the drinks are consistently delicious, and the atmosphere is unmatched. The live piano music creates such a fun vibe, especially since you can make requests and sing along. Every time I've been here, the crowd is full of people just looking to have a good time. It's rare to see so much dancing, singing, and pure enjoyment from a group of well-respected, upbeat people all in one place. Whether it's for a date night or just a fun evening out, this is hands down one of the best places in town. I'll keep coming back as often as I can!

The food was ok, but really nothing to write home about. We ordered crab cakes, but they were not…read moreput together well and way too many shells. The BBQ chicken pizza was pretty good overall. The service was amazing! Amber kept all of our 11 checks separate and did an awesome job with meeting our drinks filled and food coming. She was super patient with us. The person playing piano first was really hard to understand, but the second player was outstanding. It's just hard to hear any talking at all in that place... Also, the floors were pretty sticky, and that was gross.

Photos
Big Shot Piano Lounge & Restaurant
Chicken skewers (meh)
Chicken skewers (meh)
Cocktail menu

See all

Cocktail menu

Tacos El Norte - mexican - Updated July 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...