Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Mexican street tacos can be a healthy option, depending on the ingredients used. They are typically made with fresh, whole ingredients and lean proteins. However, like any food, the nutritional value can vary greatly. It's always a good idea to consider portion sizes and balance your meal with a variety of food groups for the best nutritional benefit.

Absolutely! Chicago is known for its diverse food scene, and tacos are no exception. You can find some of the best tacos in the city, with a variety of styles and flavors to choose from. From traditional Mexican tacos to innovative fusion creations, Chicago's taco scene is a culinary adventure.

The most popular street taco in Chicago varies depending on personal preference, but many locals and tourists alike rave about the al pastor tacos found in various street food stalls across the city. These tacos are made with marinated pork, pineapple, and a variety of spices, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Chicago is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, including its Mexican cuisine. While it's subjective to say whether it's the 'best' in the US, Chicago certainly offers a wide range of authentic and delicious Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and more. Each restaurant has its own unique take on these classic dishes, making the city a fantastic place for food lovers to explore.

The world's most expensive taco was sold at the Grand Velas Los Cabos Resort in Mexico. It included ingredients like Kobe beef, Almas Beluga caviar, black truffle brie cheese, and a salsa made from dried Morita chili peppers, civet coffee, and tequila. It was served on a gold flake-infused corn tortilla. The price? A whopping $25,000!

The most original taco would likely be the traditional Mexican taco, which is a small hand-sized corn or wheat tortilla topped with a filling. The fillings can be a variety of things, but traditionally they are made with grilled or fried meat, fresh salsa, onions, and cilantro. However, the beauty of tacos is their versatility and the ability to get creative with fillings.

While it's subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences, many consider Mexico City to be the taco capital of the world due to its wide variety of tacos and rich culinary history.

Texas is widely known for its breakfast tacos. This Tex-Mex staple typically includes ingredients like scrambled eggs, cheese, bacon, and potatoes, all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. It's a beloved breakfast item throughout the state, especially in cities like Austin and San Antonio.

Traditional Mexican tacos are often garnished with fresh ingredients like chopped cilantro, diced onions, lime juice, and salsa. The type of salsa can vary, but salsa verde, salsa roja, and pico de gallo are common choices. Some might also add a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. However, it's important to note that the toppings can vary by region and personal preference.

Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish that typically uses beef, goat, or lamb. The meat is slow-cooked until it's tender and flavorful, often with seasonings like dried chilies, garlic, and spices. In the U.S., barbacoa is often made with parts from the heads of cattle, such as the cheeks. In some regions, barbacoa is also made with pork.

In Spanish slang, a burrito is often simply referred to as a 'burro'. However, slang can vary greatly from region to region, so it's always best to use the standard term when unsure.

A street taco is a type of taco that originated from the street food culture in Mexico. They are typically smaller than regular tacos and are served on corn tortillas. The fillings are usually simple but flavorful, often consisting of grilled or fried meat, onions, cilantro, and fresh lime juice. They are designed to be easy to eat on the go, making them a popular choice at food trucks and street food stalls.

Traditionally, Mexican tacos do not include lettuce. They are typically garnished with fresh ingredients like chopped cilantro, diced onions, lime juice, and salsa. However, it's important to note that toppings can vary by region and personal preference. The use of lettuce as a topping is more common in American-style tacos.

Al pastor, which means 'in the style of the shepherd', is a type of taco filling that is made from thinly sliced pork. The pork is marinated in a combination of dried chilies, spices, and pineapple, then slowly cooked on a vertical rotisserie, similar to how shawarma or gyros are made. The result is a flavorful, tender meat that is a favorite in Mexican cuisine.

Yes, type 2 diabetics can enjoy tacos, but it's important to make mindful choices. Opt for tacos with lean proteins, plenty of fresh vegetables, and whole grain tortillas. Avoid high-fat toppings like cheese and sour cream, and be mindful of portion sizes. 

A typical Mexican lunch, known as 'la comida', is the main meal of the day and is usually eaten between 2 and 4 pm. It often starts with a soup or salad, followed by a main dish such as tacos, enchiladas, or a meat dish, and ends with a dessert. The main dish is often served with sides like rice, beans, and tortillas. However, the specifics can vary greatly by region and personal preference.

Both Velvet Taco and Antique Taco shine when it comes to vegetarian options.

• Antique Taco offers creative vegetarian-friendly tacos featuring ingredients like roasted sweet potatoes, queso fresco, and unique sauces.
   
• Velvet Taco has a rotating, internationally inspired menu with vegetarian standouts like the Paneer Tikka Taco or Falafel Taco.

Bonus: Many spots in Wicker Park are happy to customize meatless versions — just ask!

While Antique Taco and Big Star get all the headlines, Taqueria Los Comales is a low-key neighborhood staple that consistently delivers. It's affordable, authentic, and family-friendly — perfect for those who want tacos without the hipster crowd.

Taco Tuesday is popular for several reasons. Firstly, it's a fun and catchy phrase that's easy to remember. Secondly, it's a great excuse to enjoy delicious tacos, often at discounted prices. Lastly, it's a social event that brings people together over a shared love of food. Whether you're in Chicago or anywhere else in the world, Taco Tuesday is a weekly tradition that many look forward to.

The exact location of the Taco Fest can vary each year, but it's typically held in a popular neighborhood in Chicago. We recommend checking the official Taco Fest website for the most accurate information. The festival usually features a wide range of taco vendors, live music, and fun activities for all ages.

While this can be subjective and depends on personal preferences, Mexico is often considered the birthplace of the taco and offers a wide variety of delicious and authentic tacos. From the classic carne asada to the unique tacos de chapulines (grasshopper tacos), Mexico's taco offerings are as diverse as they are delicious.

This is subjective and can vary greatly depending on personal preferences. However, cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, Austin, and of course, Chicago, are often praised for their exceptional taco scenes. Each city offers a unique take on this classic dish, reflecting their diverse cultures and culinary influences.

Yes, there is a difference. Traditional tacos are usually served in a restaurant and can come with a variety of fillings, including beef, chicken, fish, or vegetables. Street tacos, on the other hand, are typically smaller, served on corn tortillas, and filled with simple, fresh ingredients. They're designed to be eaten on the go, often from a street vendor or at a food truck.

This can be subjective as it depends on personal preferences. However, states like California and Texas, known for their strong Mexican influences, are often praised for their authentic tacos. But don't forget about Illinois, where Chicago's diverse food scene includes some truly amazing tacos!

In Mexican Spanish, 'taco' is pronounced as 'tah-ko', with a short 'a' sound similar to the 'a' in 'father' and the 'o' as in 'top'.

Tacos can be a healthier option compared to some fast food items, especially when they're made with fresh, whole ingredients and lean proteins. However, like any food, the nutritional value can vary greatly depending on the ingredients used and the preparation method. It's always a good idea to consider portion sizes and balance your meal with a variety of food groups for the best nutritional benefit.

Mexicans often use two corn tortillas for tacos to provide extra support for the filling. Corn tortillas can be more fragile than flour tortillas, and using two helps prevent the taco from falling apart while you're eating it. Additionally, it adds an extra layer of corn flavor to the taco.

In Mexico, what we often refer to as 'hard tacos' in the United States are actually called 'tacos dorados'. This translates to 'golden tacos', a name that comes from the golden color the tortillas take on when they're fried. They're also sometimes referred to as 'flautas' when they're rolled tightly around the filling.

In Mexico, taco meat is often referred to by its specific type, such as 'carne asada' for grilled beef, 'pollo' for chicken, 'pescado' for fish, and 'carnitas' for fried pork. The term 'taco meat' as a general term for ground beef seasoned with taco spices is more commonly used in the United States.

Street tacos are often considered better due to their authenticity and fresh ingredients. They are typically made on the spot with fresh tortillas and filled with well-seasoned, freshly cooked meat. The toppings are simple, allowing the flavors of the meat to shine through. Additionally, eating street tacos offers a unique cultural experience, as you get to enjoy your food right there on the street, often in the company of locals.

Lime is a key ingredient in Mexican cuisine and is often used as a garnish on tacos. The acidity of the lime juice can help balance the richness of the meat and other ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor of the taco. Additionally, a squeeze of lime adds a fresh, citrusy aroma that complements the other flavors in the taco.

The most popular street taco varies from place to place, but some common favorites include tacos al pastor, carne asada tacos, and carnitas tacos. In Chicago, many locals and tourists alike rave about the al pastor tacos found in various street food stalls across the city. These tacos are made with marinated pork, pineapple, and a variety of spices, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

When ordering at a Mexican restaurant, opt for dishes that are rich in lean proteins and fresh vegetables. Grilled fish or chicken, vegetable-based dishes, and bean dishes can be healthy choices. Avoid dishes that are fried or heavy in cheese and sour cream. Also, consider portion sizes as restaurant servings can be quite large.

Yes — especially if you’re new to Chicago or exploring Wicker Park for the first time. Antique Taco combines creativity with quality ingredients, making it a standout in the modern taco scene. Their tacos are not your typical street-style — they’re gourmet, photogenic, and often come with unique flavor twists like sweet & spicy chicken or seasonal slaws.

That said, if you're craving more authentic, no-frills tacos like lengua or al pastor, Taqueria Los Comales nearby offers a more traditional experience. We recommend trying both — one for flair, one for authenticity.

For late-night taco runs, your go-to is Flash Tacos — a walk-up window right by the Damen Blue Line station. It's open into the early morning hours and is a favorite among locals leaving bars or shows.

• Fast, affordable, and satisfying.
   
• Best enjoyed with green salsa and a side of nostalgia.
   

Pro tip: Cash is king here. And the line moves quick, even on busy nights.

That title likely goes to Big Star. Their al pastor is flavorful, smoky, and balanced with fresh pineapple. Pair it with a margarita on the patio and you've got a Wicker Park classic combo.