So good. Fajitas weren’t the worst things on earth. Honestly all kinda reminded me of chilis which is such a guilty pleasure that I’m embarrassed to admit to.
Out of curiosity, why is it dreaded? We did go to it a couple of times, it was too loud, but other than that, the food was perfect. They got a reputation for something?
Man there was an Uncle Julios that opened in eastern PA of all places and I -loved- going there - for lunch I could get chips, salsa and tortilla soup for under $10. It closed several years back due to lack of business.
All the classics (tacos, enchilada, fajitas, etc) are good but I really love their whole section of dinner entree plates. Just pick your fav protein and go from there!
No mention of Mis Moles, on Elston just north of Addison? They bring out chips with FIVE different mole sauces for you to sample, while you decide on an entree (for which you can of course select one of the sauces). They're all unique and put a smile on my face every time. One of the better burritos in Chicago, but a very full menu to explore outside of that.
Más Allá del Sol is more upscale, but it is absolutely worth going for the table salsa alone. I mean, all the rest of the food is also delicious, but the salsa is crazy good
They've been temporarily closed for a while now. Really hoping they open again
edit: I was referring to El Garcia on Western near Howard, I think the original comment is about a different restaurant
The one on Lawrence (it was across from the Dunkin’ Donuts and Golden Nugget) is permanently closed, sadly. That was our go to for years, they used to have amazingly powerful and delicious 5.50 margaritas However they have another location on Western just north of the brown line station, almost on western and Lawrence. I know their mole is the same because my husband is obsessed with it.
I can find the address if you want just say the word my friend
There is a restaurant on Western (it is closer to Howard) called El Garcia that is the location I was referring to. I used to go there a lot, but it's been temporarily closed since the summer I think. Maybe we're talking about different places
No need to apologize, we all enjoy different things! Is there a place you’d recommend instead up north? We are always looking for someplace new and delicious
Coculas cermak and Cicero. It’s in cicero a few blocks from the border. Best chips and salsa hands down. Many years ago I realized there are more than one cocula restaurants but I’ve only been to the one at cermak and cicero
Pancho Pistolas, 31st/Union (Bridgeport). They have the best homemade salsa and fresh chips plus I crave their carne asada. I know it’s not located north like you requested, but it’s well worth the drive.
Taqueria El Asadero on Montrose across the street from Wells Park has award winning chips and the salsa is good too. Food overall is real solid but the chips and salsa are 🤌🏽
Never dined in there, so unsure if they’re complimentary for dine in, but the chips and salsa negra is outstanding at Traspasada. Legit the best salsa I’ve ever had the pleasure of eating.
I know people will knock it because it’s a dreaded chain restaurant, but the chips and salsa at uncle Julio’s is absolute fire
Came here to say this. I could drink that salsa and those chips are thin and airy the way I like them to be.
So good. Fajitas weren’t the worst things on earth. Honestly all kinda reminded me of chilis which is such a guilty pleasure that I’m embarrassed to admit to.
Try the chicken soft tacos. They are great.
Out of curiosity, why is it dreaded? We did go to it a couple of times, it was too loud, but other than that, the food was perfect. They got a reputation for something?
It’s a national chain
Thanks! :)
Uncle Julio's is a chain based in North Texas. I'm also from North Texas and no one I know goes because there are *so* many better places.
Very best chips and salsa!
Also great option for those looking for Tex-Mex queso.
It’s our favorite guilty city pleasure. Great chips. Omg.
I second this! Thin and crispy! So good.
Man there was an Uncle Julios that opened in eastern PA of all places and I -loved- going there - for lunch I could get chips, salsa and tortilla soup for under $10. It closed several years back due to lack of business.
this makes sense as the chips and spicier of the two salsas at chi-chis were also incredible
Damn, that takes me back.
Cafe El Tapatio!
Came here to say Tapatio. My favorite Mexican restaurant. Been going there since my 3rd date (with my now husband) in 1997.
i work right by this place and i’ve never been. will have to check it out asap! any favorites you’d recommend?
All the classics (tacos, enchilada, fajitas, etc) are good but I really love their whole section of dinner entree plates. Just pick your fav protein and go from there!
Everything is fresh and tasty. Good drinks too!
Fire margs and patio when open too🍹
I love this place with my whole soul
The most wonderful spot on earth
Irazu. They will bring as many baskets of house-made chips as you want.
Old Pueblo. Their chips are flaky and delicious. Great salsa too
For 20 years I've enjoyed this at El Cid.
I used to go to the old location every week back in the late 90s early 00s when I lived around the corner on Rockwell.
I went here and it was one of the worst burritos I’ve ever had it tasted like tortilla and lettuce
No mention of Mis Moles, on Elston just north of Addison? They bring out chips with FIVE different mole sauces for you to sample, while you decide on an entree (for which you can of course select one of the sauces). They're all unique and put a smile on my face every time. One of the better burritos in Chicago, but a very full menu to explore outside of that.
I have eaten everything on their menu. Definitely fire. Its one of my favorite restaurants in the city.
Taqueria el Asadero if you dine in (cash only). They have the best tortilla chips ever.
Traspasada on California. They bring chips and salsa and soup!
Their salsa is amazing, it’s made with blackened tomatoes and peppers
El Mariachi - I love their complimentary freshly made tortilla chips and the two different salsas they provide.
Agreed! I prefer the smaller shop on Boradway vs the larger one up the road
Maria’s Mexican restaurant hands down has the best chips and salsa. You won’t be disappointed and the food is great!
XOchimilco Mexican Restaurant has become my goto- a little nicer than standard Mexican fare but not so nice that I can’t go a few times a month.
Old Pueblo cantina
Irazu
Also old Pueblo
Taqueria El Asadero
Taconazo Cermack
Love Taconazo. I forgot the name of the salsa but the one that's not blended all the way is my fave.
Más Allá del Sol is more upscale, but it is absolutely worth going for the table salsa alone. I mean, all the rest of the food is also delicious, but the salsa is crazy good
Traspasada will bring you chips, three salsas, and a cup of soup when you sit down.
Sabroso on Ashland.. place is legit
Garcia’s on Western! Their mole sauce is so good too
I love their quesadillas, but the salsa is only pretty good for me. Def cilantro in it haha
Is their chips and salsa free? Saw a charge for it on the menu and couldn’t tell if that was just for takeout or on dine-in too…
It is free. During covid they were charging for chips and salsa but they stopped. Not sure about for take out, but definitely free dining in
Amazing, thank you!
They've been temporarily closed for a while now. Really hoping they open again edit: I was referring to El Garcia on Western near Howard, I think the original comment is about a different restaurant
Since when? They are open now it seems.
The one on Lawrence (it was across from the Dunkin’ Donuts and Golden Nugget) is permanently closed, sadly. That was our go to for years, they used to have amazingly powerful and delicious 5.50 margaritas However they have another location on Western just north of the brown line station, almost on western and Lawrence. I know their mole is the same because my husband is obsessed with it. I can find the address if you want just say the word my friend
There is a restaurant on Western (it is closer to Howard) called El Garcia that is the location I was referring to. I used to go there a lot, but it's been temporarily closed since the summer I think. Maybe we're talking about different places
Yeah I think we must be. I used to live up there in Roger’s park I’m sad I missed El Garcia then. Hope you have a good day, and stay safe neighbor
Garcia's is terrible, sorry. Everything is bland. I don't think I've ever had a good meal there
No need to apologize, we all enjoy different things! Is there a place you’d recommend instead up north? We are always looking for someplace new and delicious
Garcia’s is terrible.
Buena Vista in Lakeview on Broadway I don't know if they do, I've only done takeout, but La Biznaga 2.
Came here to say La Biznaga 2. They are so nice, and they have a great smoky salsa
Yes they give you free chips and salsa. Great place. Unbelievable tres leche cake
Love this place.
Garcia's in Lincoln Square!
It’s long gone- but bullhead in Humboldt had the world’s best chips and salsa.
Coculas cermak and Cicero. It’s in cicero a few blocks from the border. Best chips and salsa hands down. Many years ago I realized there are more than one cocula restaurants but I’ve only been to the one at cermak and cicero
Blue Agave is a sleeper. Their salsa is top notch
La Costa on ashland
Mother’s Old Recipe in Jefferson Park. It’s a spicier orange sauce. Little more expensive than your standard place.
Pancho Pistolas, 31st/Union (Bridgeport). They have the best homemade salsa and fresh chips plus I crave their carne asada. I know it’s not located north like you requested, but it’s well worth the drive.
I haven’t eaten there in a long time, but I love the chips and salsa from Fiesta Mexicana in Uptown.
La Fuentes in Lincoln Park
But their food is so bland and overpriced. The only thing going for this place is their patio.
North North "side", Wholly Frijoles
I love Wholly Frijoles! I haven’t been there in awhile.
Are their chips homemade?
Overpriced. Hard pass. Go across the street to El Publito if you want the real deal.
To each their own
It’s Americanized Tex mex, but I love Tuco and Blondie for margaritas with chips and salsa. It’s a low spice, pretty fresh tomato salsa.
Tuco & Blondie on Southport. Everything is great including the chips
Coyotes is my favorite salsa. Not sure that is what you are looking for flavor wise, though, because it has cilantro. Also, it's Pilsen.
El Taconazo on North Avenue
La biznaga in lakeview
Taqueria El Asadero on Montrose across the street from Wells Park has award winning chips and the salsa is good too. Food overall is real solid but the chips and salsa are 🤌🏽
El Gallo Bravo
Never dined in there, so unsure if they’re complimentary for dine in, but the chips and salsa negra is outstanding at Traspasada. Legit the best salsa I’ve ever had the pleasure of eating.
Buena Vista on Broadway is great.
Little Lazo’s
Traspasada has great black salsa. I hate the concept, but los federales has amazing chips.
Mezcala in Logan Square - the exact salsa you’re describing and amazing food
La Biznaga