Taqueria El Perez

Taqueria Perez is hands down one of the best spots I’ve been to in a long time! The food was absolutely delicious—everything was fresh, flavorful, and made with care. You can really tell they put pride into every plate. What really stood out, though, was the service. The staff went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of, and the owner himself came out to check on us and make sure everything was perfect. That kind of personal touch is rare these days and made us feel so welcomed. Stopping by every-time I’m in town!

When we first came in, it was full. We were offered to sit at a bigger table for six, but it was only two of us. Thankfully, someone happened to leave when we arrived, so the staff immediately cleaned off the table (and dried it, which I appreciated because I hate wet tables) and moved us over per our request. We appreciate their responsiveness. The chips and salsa were good. The salsa has a very faint kick to it, which was nice. I got the taco dinner the following way: 1 Asada Taco with Cilantro 1 Chicken Taco with Lettuce 1 Al Pastor Taco with Cilantro Hubby got the taco dinner all plain with: 1 Asada 1 Al Pastor 1 Chorizo We were hungry and hoping to try variety, so we also got a torta de milanesa with no tomato. I loved that the torta was not swimming in a bunch of toppings. It was simple, but we appreciated the focus on the milanesa and avocado flavor. Think of a less is more situation. With a touch of green salsa, it made it perfect. All in all, this place did not disappoint. The food came out hot, correct and delicious. These are some of the best tacos we’ve had. The steak was juicy, cooked perfectly. The al pastor was perfectly seasoned and not greasy. Chicken was flavorful and juicy. The service was amazing, and the staff were kind and efficient. We had everything we needed, and we didn’t even have to ask. Straws, napkins, salsa, utensils, etc. were ready for us before the food came. The owner even came to check in on every table at the restaurant, which I always appreciate. The place itself was small, but it was cute. I liked the vibe, and we will be coming back soon since it is difficult to find good authentic Mexican food out south. ¡Gracias por la excelente atención y experiencia!

One of my favorite restaurants in the suburbs. I have been here about 4 times now and i am never been disappointed. The food that i have tried is delicious. On top of the good food, the staff is also very friendly and professional. The owner also came out during one of my visits to see how i enjoyed the food which rarely happens at other restaurants i have been to. You can tell that they genuinely care if their customers are having a good experience in their restaurant which is very rare.

The owner Sergio is so attentive and welcoming. Feels like we’re family. The staff is always friendly and efficient especially Micheal. The food was very savory, delicious, and flavorful. It’s reasonably priced. Definitely recommend this place!

One of my favorite restaurants, and my go to for Mexican food. Of all the times I’ve been here, I’ve never had a bad experience. The food is flavorful and fresh (highly recommend the birria & fajitas)! The staff is attentive, friendly, and gives great recommendations. The atmosphere is authentic and the owner is very nice. Highly recommend checking them out. They even offer catering!

Well let me tell u, I’m a visiting nurse, from Rockford to south Bend I work in different areas, for 18 years plus I keep coming back to this small restaurant where flavor and prices are one of the best, the difference is the owner is chef. Perfect mixture flavor price and presentation vegan hongos tacos oh the best just perfect 👌 four thumps up

Taqueria El Perez and Chef Sergio are the best to do it in Chicago. If you haven’t been yet, you’re missing out. Try the vegan hongos tacos, birria, and chilaquiles. Birria Team

Incredible! Everything we had was delicious. The steak taco dinner was FILLING! The tortillas were fresh, the meat tender, and the onions and cilantro crisp. The beans and rice had good flavor. The chips and salsa were also better than most- I loved that salsa so much! The horchata was also great! AND on top of everything the staff was so kind. We’ll definitely be back and can’t wait.

Seating is limited in this restaurant. However, the food is well worth it. The tacos are not shy on portion size and everything was tasty and well worth the price. I will be back to this establishment.

Yes, the smallest of dining rooms ever. Yes, way too many seats for the space. But who cares...the food is amazing and totally worth it. Service is quick and efficient. The food!!!!

Great food, Great service, Best Mexican food in Oak Lawn. Very good steak tacos very generous portions. Husband said their Chili Relleno taco is very good.

After the gym my friend and I stopped by Taqueria El Perez after seeing it on TikTok. Unless they have a back area I didn't see this is a small restaurant with Mexican flair and totally work the visit. The service was excellent. I asked our waitress to repeat the drink options 3 times and she did it with a smile then offered samples to help us choose which flavor was best. She checked in on us and made sure we had everything we needed but on top of the owner went around the restaurant making sure everyone was happy and the food was good. Ohhh and it was delicious . I ordered the vegan mushroom tacos since they didn't serve seafood and they were seasoned to perfection. So yummy. Even though I tend to stay away from dairy I ordered the elote and it was sooo worth it! My friend ordered the birria tacos and she couldn't stop talking about how good they were. The chips and salsa were also bomb! Salsa had a little kick to it. I ordered the mango drink and my friend ordered the Fresca. Both so good and refreshing. This place is a gem .

Yuuuuuuummmmy!! Whenever I visit my close friends in Oak Lawn, we tend towards Mexican food. Maybe because I trust their opinion on good Mexican food since that's their background and they're always up for a torta? At any rate, it's good for me because it's my favorite cuisine and they know the good places. Taqueria el Perez is no exception. My friend told me that the chef was on a cooking show, though unfortunately I cannot remember what one. But I wouldn't be surprised because the food was delicious! I'm a woman whose life changed a little when I first had a sope a few years ago, so that's my go-to when I'm at a restaurant that has them. They were so delicious. We got chips and guacamole too, and I tried not to gorge myself on it because I've come to love guacamole. I'm really glad to have another option for great Mexican food in Oak Lawn, and I'm sure we'll be ordering from Taqueria el Perez again in the future.

Amazing food I would come back again I had the Cali burrito really good food. Service was fast

The staff is always so nice when we order from them. I like how they upgraded the restaurant with better tables and other additions that make it look like an authentic place. The food is good, but I hope they add some more items to their menu soon.

Always fresh and delicious. Wish they would be open later. Food is always . I love their tacos de hongo, taste just like pastor. The interior decor reminds me of Mexico. Sergio Perez is an amazing cook!

Awesome food and great prices. Friendly staff. Well with the trip from CHIRAQ :) they close early at 8pm so get some before they close.

Amazing, authentic taqueria in Oak lawn! Stopped in for the taco lunch special on Monday and the value for what we received was on point. Will definitely stop by next time I'm in town.

Reviewing as I eat! Service was fast, friendly and efficient. Prices were reasonable. Can't ask for more than that with takeout. I got the 3 taco dinner with traditional al pastor, the mushroom al pastor with pineapple and shredded chicken. The mushroom al pastor was more flavorful than the pork one! Surprisingly my fav out of the 3. For the chicken, I had a few juicy bites but a few chewy. That's typical with shredded chicken. I may try diced chicken next time to see if there is a difference. Overall, good enough to come back and try more things.

The food here is always great! Cashier, idk his name (young guy) but he was great. Greeted everyone as they walked in. Thanked everyone for their business. Maintained a smile and crushed the small talk. After seeing his interactions with other patrons and noticing how he kept his composure I got back in line and bought a desert and a drink just so that I could leave a tip. I am glad I did too because now I know that they offer catering! Keep up the great work!

Food is fresh and tastes amazing and the service is always perfect! Birria tacos and quesabirria are delicious, but everything I've had has been terrific!

Took my family there for Mother's Day. The food was absolutely AMAZING!!! Julian, our server was absolutely AMAZING!!! I had a party of 6 . We sat in the middle table. The ambience is clean and bright. I am not a cheap person. The food should absolutely cost a little bit more for the quality of it. This is our new spot for authentic Mexican food

Go. Go today if you can. This place blew me away. I think my mouth is still watering just thinking about their food. I tried their guac - Ah-mazing Chorizo queso dip - ah-mazing Steak tacos - tender and delicious!! Chicken flautas - ah-mazing Chicken was tender on the inside of the flauta and super crispy fried to perfection on the outside. There are A LOT of options in the area and this one is the best so far. The owner came out and greeted everyone to make sure all was well. Regulars fist bumped him and praised the food! Make this your new local hang out and enjoy the food!

Not that great. Room for improvement. Location is kinda sleazy and no drive thru service.

I ordered a steak torta. I was expecting beans and avocado in it but it was steak, lettuce, tomato and either sour cream or mayo. The steak could have been better seasoned. The bread was excellent, lettuce and tomato were fresh and crisp. The green salsa wasn't spicy but it did pack a punch of taste. To drink, I ordered agua de Jamaica that consists of a packaged mix with ice water. It's not freshly made so it's super sweet. The restaurant is a hole in the wall and the dining area is tiny. There are large booths and a table in the center of the dining area. When walking to exit you are walking very close to other guests. I used the bathroom to wash my hands and it could use more attention. I will not be back. I expected a better establishment and tastier food. The wait staff was attentive and quick.

The food is very delicious. The service is friendly, and welcoming. The tacos are seasoned well, and will make you come back for more.

The chicken and Al pastor tacos were delicious. The steak and chorizo tacos were not good. The steak was chewy and the chorizo was over cooked and burnt. I tried the restaurant based on the reviews. The waitress was friendly and helpful.

Always searching for the best of the best vegan foods in the Chicago suburbs & the Mushroom Al Pastor Tacos here are unreal! I've been here twice in 48 hours! By far the best mushroom I have ever put in my mouth & I don't really love mushrooms. My non vegan brother even ordered some after trying mine. Chef Perez was on Master Chef Latino and I can see why. Nicest owner and staff in the restaurant business. *Salsa are fabulous! *beans are vegan *rice has chicken stock Chef Perez mentioned adding some more vegan options in the future & I really hope he does!

Had such a delicious dinner at @taqueriaelperez in #oaklawn @taqueriaelperez has fantastic food! We started off with Queso Fundido with mushrooms. I loved this appetizer. So much #cheesy goodness and a delicious taste. It's so large, you must share, in fact, we could not finish it. Take a look at that cheese pull! Next we had the Carne Asada Tampiquena plate. (It's skirt steak with 3 large scallions, sliced potatoes, jalapeños, 1 enchilada, rice, beans, salad, and guacamole). This is also a large plate, so, either share it or make sure you bring your appetite. The meat is char grilled and the skirt steak literally melted in my mouth, it was sooo delicious! The third course was the 2-Quesabirria plate (Served with a 3 oz cup of consome with cilantro and onions on the side). These are the best Birria tacos I've ever had. Absolutely fantastic! We then had 2 different amazing tacos: A Pastor Mushroom Taco (yes, mushroom!) I highly recommend these especially for vegans, so delicious A Pumpkin Taco (yes, pumpkin!) Sooo good! These are not currently on the menu, but just ask for them. Also great for vegans. To drink we had an Horchata and a Pina colada (non-alcoholic). We ended our meal with 2 mimi flans for dessert. Chef Sergio is the owner and he warmly greeted us, explained the menu, and even delivered our food! He couldn't be nicer! He was on Master Chef Latino and has worked at some of the best hotels downtown. The location is deceiving, at first look it seems just like any other Mexican taco joint. But, the food is what makes it stand out from the rest. This is definitely a destination restaurant for foodies and everyone else! You must try this restaurant, you will really enjoy!

I haven't dined in yet, but they're great for pickup orders. My favorite is the chicken milanesa torta dinner, and their red salsa is delicious. Stick to the green sauce if you don't like heat. The tacos are also good, and the nachos with carne asada are great for movie nights. Take advantage of the online ordering and try a little bit of everything. No issues with food quality or customer service. They've been on point so far.

Went for lunch today, Everything was so fresh and delicious. Service soo good Totally recommend this restaurant.

My daughter and I ventured here after viewing a video on Instagram. We didn't know the names for any of the dishes. We just had to pull out our phones and show them the video. Once we showed them the videos they knew what we wanted and brought everything out I wanted. The dishes was like loaded nachos instead of tortilla chips. They used fries and the meat was Birria oh my God, it was so good and reminded me of a very meaning consistency. Almost like a pot roast. We both shared it. It had fries of course cheese, peppers or guacamole sour cream. It was loaded. Another dish that we also had was the taco platter or the Taco dinner which three any variations of tacos that you wanted which I appreciated it. I got one shredded chicken, one chopped chicken and my daughter got the steak. My daughter devoured her state taco and less than 60 seconds. For drinks. My daughter got the horchata. I got a traditional soda and front dessert. We got the best dress leche caramel cake I've ever had in my entire life. When I bit into the cake I literally gasped. It was amazing what the whipped cream with caramel was the right consistency and not too soaked in the milk. It was heaven. We enjoyed ourselves. What are two entrees plus or to go order and the dessert? The bill was around $50 plus tax which wasn't too bad. It is in a strip mall so it's very unassuming but they definitely got something on their hands here. It's a diamond

Love coming here! It's the best authentic Mexican food in the area! Tampiqueña dinner or steak tacos are my go to!

The food from appetizers to dessert were so good. Sergio and the staff are so attentive and friendly. Highly recommend to all.

Really great food! All the employees are amazing and very helpful. Space is a little tight but still a great place.

This place doesn't look like much from the outside, but it's a charming little taqueria that does not disappoint. The owner apparently was a contestant on one of those cooking shows, there's pictures and clippings on the walls. The food is legit Mexican cuisine cooked perfectly. The tampiquena steak is excellent. Salsas are spicy and fresh. Nothing we had missed the mark. The young workers are polite and organized. We were missing a good taco place in this neighborhood and we will definitely be coming back!

Quac or salsa, which is better - trick question they are both amazing!!!! Best part - that's just the start. Tried this place on the recommendation of a friend and it was amazing!!! The service was great, inside was clean bright and comfortable . Ordered tacos, enchiladas & a few other things in chicken & steak and they nailed every one. The best part is if it wasn't spot on I could have told the chef who popped out to make sure we were happy with everything We will be coming back to try everything else - we just found our new regular spot!!!

Outstanding! From the second we walked in we were warmly welcomed and seated. It's a small place so I am sure there are times that it's difficult to get a seat. Quite a few take out orders occurred while we sat. We tried 4 different tacos and a sope. My wife had birria and steak. I tried grilled chicken and Al pastor for my tacos. My sope was carne asada. All the items were filled well. All the meat was tasty. The Pico de Gallo and the salsa verde were excellent. The chips were fresh and salted well. I like the option to get my chicken grilled or shredded. There is lots on the menu to try and we will expand when we go back again. Service was outstanding.

Such a disappointing experience. Husband and I drove from a different city because we saw how people were raving about it on TikTok. However the place was underwhelming and the only good thing here was the service.. not sure if that would have been an issue as there was only two other tables occupied. Honestly how does a taco place get even the chips and salsa wrong... Now with our entrees, we both got the carne asada plate.. both were unseasoned and just tasted like iron and the aguas frescas tasted like the instant packages you can get at a grocery store . This place left a sour taste in our mouths. Now I know why the owner didn't win Master Chef

This restaurant never fails to fill me up with contentment and satisfaction. This restaurant is close by home and located in a strip area. Although small, the flavor is mighty. There is not much seating but lucky I was able to snag the last table. I was greeted by the waiter, who was patient enough to come back a few times after much deliberation on what I was going to choose for my entree. There was chips and salsa that was brought out and it had the perfect amount spiciness. For the entree, I got the quesabirria dinner that included rice and beans. I would to say that I am a birria critic and I have had a lot of mediocre birria but this is NOT one of them. It was flavorful and filled with the meat. The shell was crispy and had a perfect crunch. The rice was good along with the beans that was excellent. The beans were thick and flavorful and runny like some restaurants. I really have zero complaints and to go I got the tres leches and that was so thick, flurry, and moist. I have that the tres leches cake before and it never disappoints. The owner even came out and greeted us and we told him how delighted we were with our meal. I hope this place continues to be in business for a very long time.

I saw this place on Instagram best tacos near Chicago post decided to give it a try. This is definitely a hidden gem. Place is a bit small but a great dine in or take out spot. I ordered the chicken enchiladas verde. The chicken was very juicy and well seasoned. The verde sauce was perfect not too spicy. The rice and beans were also delicious. Also ordered the birrea tacos delious the cheese pull was there. My partner said the al pastor tacos was the best he tried. Overall I would go back and I recommend. FYI restaurant is small it may or may not be a wait. No alcohol beverages just coke products.

Honestly the best mushrooms tacos I have had yet . I stumbled across this place by accident but I'm so glad I did worth every penny and it's nice to have an option as a vegan. The staff here is friendly and this is a spot I will keep supporting. The spot feels very homey I definitely recommend it .

Good quality meat. The quality of meat makes or breaks a mexican restaurant. 5 stars!

Oh my God, the food at this place is delicious. The tacos are amazingly delicious. The steak, the grilled chicken, the shredded chicken, and the vegan taco with mushroom & pineapples, yum yum yum. The Birria taco are super delicious. I still have so much to try including the tortas, and burritos, but I am sold on this being the best tasting Mexican restaurant I have had in my 50+ years. There is not a large sitting area. There is room for about 4 or 5 booths and a couple tables. You have to come before lunch time or after certain times to get a seat, but if you are ordering to go, you are fine. There will be a wait during the busy times, but it's worth every second. I had the Queso Fundido Con Chorizo as an appetizer when I dined in. It's amazingly delicious. The seasoning, and the spices just all work together on everything that I have tried. The chef, and the family that prepares your food are great people. They are so friendly, and they offer great customer service. This is a must try so don't miss out if you are on this side of town, and even if you are not close to this place, you must visit!

Great authentic Mexican food... you will not be dissatisfied. The employees are very welcoming and the environment is cozy. I love their new eat in tables and chair. We ordered chilaquiles that were ready fast and delicious.

Great food and service. Waited a bit because it was full but worth it. Tried the red velvet tres leches cake. Was really good and I'm not really a fan of red velvet. Will definitely be back

Giving them 5 stars food was great fast service too and really clean place. The chef came out to check on every table wow now that's service at its finest seriously. Then he made sure we were all ok and asking questions about the food. 2 thumbs up for him and his business. Definitely come I get back and spreading the word out for sure. The 3 leches pistachio cake was really good, lived that it wasn't too sweet just perfect. The tampiqueña was amazing tasting and the cut was super fine!! The chiken was also good sopes de poyo a la parilla. Great place to eat for sure. Loved it.

I came here with my cousin for the first time yesterday. We came based solely on Yelp reviews and it was fantastic! The food was great, prices were good and the customer service was so warm, kind and welcoming. Please go, you won't regret it.

Dining area is small but nicely decorated. Be patient, thankfully this isn't taco bell, food will get to you soon and it will be delicious, plentiful and presented very nicely. Waitress was extremely pleasant though I can't recall her name, but very polite, hard working and smiling all the time. Overall a very pleasant dining experience and we will be back.

I've been here multiple times and I'm never disappointed. Their food is always delicious and fresh.

The steak tacos are nasty. I asked my boyfriend to pick up food from this restaurant since I've heard good things about it. He got me a steak taco dinner and I could barely finish the first taco, I just gave it to my boyfriend to eat. Even he said that the tacos were just okay. The steak had no flavor whatsoever and tasted charred like they grilled the steak. If you like grilled steak that's fine but me not so much. The green salsa also tasted watered down. All I ate was the beans and rice.

We were very surprised with this gem. Food was amazing, staff was even better. We were treated like family our first time there. Definitely recommend them 11/10

excellent food !!! great customer service. will tell all my friends. owner said he is expanding will continue to go

I had the steak burrito and the chips. The best steak burrito I've had in a long time . The steak was so tender.

First time here love it!!! Truly fresh and authentic. Praise the Menudo delicious!!! Torta was great too love the bread they use. And the meat seasoning really yummy..... but the best part of it all if you get a chance enjoy a dine-in. The service was awesome very nice and humble servers. Will definitely be back!!

So glad to have found such a great Mexican restaurant close to home. The chef came out to greet us and deliver our meals. These are by far the best quesabirria tacos I've had. From the meat to the consomé and salsas! I will definitely be back!

i have been looking for a good taco place in my area since i moved here, and this is the ONE!! The service was great, the chef came to check up on us which was really sweet. the owner was on a cooking show before and i aww how he won. i ordered the pastor and asada tacos, both were great. my sister ordered the queso birria tacos, and those are phenomenal. i have to come back and get some for myself. i didn't like that they charge extra for limes and other condiments but other than that everything else was great