Christian Jackson
Google
Alright, folks, retract everything I said about needing a magnifying glass! It turns out the "baby tacos" at the fantastic Taqueria El Tapatío in Hermosa are not some sort of adorable, single-bite wonders. Nope. They are FIVE, perfectly normal-sized, soft-shell tacos... and they are INCREDIBLY delicious! My apologies for the wild, miniature-taco-fueled tangent. Clearly, my brain took a vacation to Lilliput.
So, let's set the record straight because Taqueria El Tapatío deserves all the accolades for their truly outstanding food and service.
Taqueria El Tapatío: A Hermosa Hero for Authentic & Delicious Tacos! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you're anywhere near the Hermosa neighborhood of Chicago and have a craving for genuine, flavorful Mexican cuisine that won't empty your pockets, make a beeline for Taqueria El Tapatío. This place is an absolute gem!
The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, adorned with really cool Mexican art that adds a fantastic local vibe. It's the kind of spot where you instantly feel comfortable and ready to dig into some serious goodness.
Now, let's talk tacos – specifically the "baby tacos." Forget any preconceived notions of tiny, fleeting snacks. These are FIVE wonderfully satisfying, soft-shell tacos filled with incredibly flavorful steak (in my case!). They are the real deal – delicious, perfectly seasoned, and exactly what you want when that taco craving hits.
Beyond the surprisingly substantial "baby tacos," the rest of the menu is equally impressive. The chorizo dip is a must-order – rich, cheesy, and utterly addictive. And their selection of multiple salsa flavors? Each one is a winner, bursting with fresh ingredients and the perfect level of spice.
What truly sets Taqueria El Tapatío apart, though, is the exceptional staff. They are genuinely kind, attentive, and go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. I was so impressed that they remembered my drink and order preferences on my return visits! That level of personalized service is truly rare and makes you feel like a valued member of their extended family.
And the best part? Taqueria El Tapatío is incredibly budget-friendly. You can enjoy a fantastic and filling meal without breaking the bank – a huge plus in Chicago!
Here's the real scoop:
* Delicious & Authentic Food (especially the "baby tacos" - which are NOT small! - and the chorizo dip): ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
* Fantastic Variety of Salsas: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
* Warm & Welcoming Atmosphere with Cool Art: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
* Incredibly Friendly & Attentive Staff (who remember their regulars!): ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
* Unbeatable Budget-Friendly Prices: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My revised recommendation? Run, don't walk, to Taqueria El Tapatío in Hermosa. Whether you opt for the surprisingly substantial and delicious "baby tacos" or any of their other fantastic dishes, you're in for a treat. This is a local spot that truly deserves all the love.