Machetes Big Quesadillas

"It’s hard not to be even a little impressed in the presence of a 20-inch quesadilla. And that’s exactly what you’ll find at this casual Mexican spot. While part of the fun is the novelty of working through a massive griddled corn tortilla full of cheese, the namesake machetes (called such because they look like a sword) are actually delicious. Each one comes with at least two toppings, and everything from chicharron with salsa verde to squash blossom is great. But they also have smaller junior and baby machetes if the full-grown, adult machete is too intimidating. Make sure to also stock up on salsas and fresh garnishes at their sauce bar." - john ringor, adrian kane

"It’s hard not to be just a little impressed by a 20 inch quesadilla. And that’s exactly what you’ll find at this casual Mexican restaurant in Albany Park. While part of the fun is tackling a giant griddled corn tortilla full of cheese, the namesake machetes (called such because they look like a sword) are actually delicious. Each one comes with at least two toppings, and everything from chicharron with salsa verde to squash blossom is delicious. But they also have smaller junior and baby machetes if the full-grown, adult machete feels like too much. Make sure to also stock up on salsas and fresh garnishes at their sauce bar." - John Ringor

"Astrid Perez, co-owner of Machete’s Big Quesadillas, which recently opened in Albany Park after operating two locations in Archer Heights on the South Side, sees the festival as a way to introduce her restaurant to the neighborhood." - aimee.levitt