Chicago’s Best Taco Restaurants

"When his employer shut down during the pandemic and the world stood still, chef Sergio Pérez decided to keep moving.  He opened his namesake taquería in 2020 in suburban Oak Lawn. Fast forward a few years, and “El Pérez” is abuzz with praise. Nicely marinated and kissed by the grill’s flame, go straight for the asada tacos. Next, dive into the chile relleno tacos. The poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and bundled up in a light and crispy batter are as much about the heat as they are about the heart. nThere is a twinkle in chef Sergio’s eye when he talks about the surprisingly flavorful mushroom tacos. Inspired by tacos al pastor, the mushrooms are marinated in complex salsa and garnished with cilantro, onion, and pineapple. Do not miss the red salsa, made with chile morita. It is mildly spicy and brings the smoky flavors forward with the perfect amount of heat. For a delightful weekend treat, swing by Taquería El Pérez early on Sundays to try their Menudo." - Brenda Storch, Serena Maria Daniels