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the Outpost Mexican Eatery
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
the Outpost Mexican Eatery
8.0
A low-key, office-corridor Mexican counter by the Old Post Office that’s strongest when you treat burritos like the main event: fresh fillings, solid salsas, and quick pickup-friendly pacing. It’s a smart rotation spot for Loop regulars—order one burrito, one side, and keep it moving.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor burrito, Steak burrito, Horchata
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: A tucked-away Loop-area Mexican counter with burritos that travel well.
Who should go: Loop workers who want burritos without the chain feel.
When to visit: Weekday lunch, before 12:15pm.
What to order: Al pastor burrito, steak burrito, horchata.
Insider tip: Ask for salsa on the side—keeps the burrito tight for takeout.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated parking. Limited metered street parking nearby; garages in and around the Old Post Office are the most reliable option during lunch hours.
Dress code: Casual and work-friendly — office attire, jeans, and sneakers all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — counter-service buzz, but generally easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — primarily a weekday lunch spot and may be closed on weekends.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes before noon; lines can stretch to 10–15 minutes after 12:15pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — veggie burritos and bowls with beans, rice, grilled vegetables, and cheese.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with beans, rice, vegetables, and salsa; confirm no dairy in tortillas or rice.
Gluten-free options: Limited — burrito bowls are the safest option; tortillas are not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional first date — it’s counter service with a quick pace — but fine for a casual, workday lunch if you both value speed over ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations. Seating is limited and first-come, so arrive before noon if you want to sit.
Is it kid-friendly? Neutral — simple burritos work for kids, but there are no kid-specific menus or amenities and the weekday lunch rush isn’t family-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Reliable, non-chain burritos that hold up well for takeout and fit cleanly into a Loop lunch routine.
Skip if: You want a sit-down Mexican meal, margaritas, or a relaxed dinner atmosphere — this is built strictly for fast weekday service.
the Outpost Mexican Eatery
7.9
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Business Lunch Power Players
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Hidden Gems Heaven
A downtown Mexican counter that’s best when you treat it as a taco-first lunch stop—quick ordering, straightforward builds, and enough punch to break up a workday. The birria-style options are the move when you want maximum flavor per bite, especially with consomé in the mix.
Must-Try Dishes:
Barbacoa (Birria) Tacos Combo, Birria Taco Regular, Al Pastor Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Birria-style tacos with consomé that keep lunch exciting and fast.
Who should go: Birria fans and downtown lunch regulars
When to visit: Weekdays before noon for the smoothest line
What to order: Birria taco, birria tacos combo with consomé, al pastor taco
Insider tip: Go for the combo so you get consomé for dipping—biggest upgrade.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and time-restricted in the Loop; nearby public garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual workday attire—office wear, jeans, and sneakers all fit comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate—counter-service energy with background chatter, but conversation is still easy.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—primarily a weekday lunch spot with limited evening demand.
Weekday lunch: Short waits are typical; lines move quickly even during the noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian-friendly taco and bowl options are available.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with plant-based fillings and modifications, but not a dedicated focus.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and bowl-style builds make gluten-free ordering straightforward.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better as a casual daytime meet than a romantic date—fast pace and counter seating keep things informal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there’s no reservation system, and seating turns over quickly thanks to the counter-service format.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids who enjoy tacos; there’s no kids’ menu, but portions are approachable.
Best For
Better for: Birria-style tacos with consomé when you want bold flavor fast during a workday lunch.
Skip if: You’re looking for a relaxed sit-down Mexican meal or a broad menu with extensive vegan options.
Hours
Monday9am - 7pm
Tuesday9am - 7pm
Wednesday9am - 7pm
Thursday9am - 7pm
Friday9am - 7pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed