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El Paisano Tacos
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
El Paisano Tacos
7.9
El Paisano Tacos sits on the Division corridor serving steak, al pastor, and breakfast-style plates in a casual, family-oriented room. It’s the low-key option for neighborhood residents who want a sit-down taco dinner without heading to the bars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Taco, Al Pastor Taco, Huarache
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Casual sit-down taqueria with full plates and late-night service on Division.
Who should go: Families and friends wanting relaxed, affordable taco dinners.
When to visit: Evenings and late nights when Division Street is active.
What to order: Steak Taco, Al Pastor Taco, Huarache with your favorite meat.
Insider tip: Check hours before late visits; kitchen closes earlier than some nearby bars.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Division and nearby residential streets; easier earlier in the evening but can fill up late night.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are totally fine.
Noise level: Moderate — usually conversational, but can get livelier during busy late-night hours.
Weekend wait: 5–20 minutes depending on peak hours and group size.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — look for veggie tacos and meat-free plates.
Vegan options: Limited — customization is usually needed, and options depend on toppings.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are typically gluten-free, but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, low-pressure hangs than a romantic date — think comfortable and relaxed rather than polished.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only and tables usually turn quickly, even at peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly with simple menu items and a relaxed environment. Best for school-age kids and up.
Best For
Better for: Laid-back, affordable sit-down taco dinners where you can unwind without bar-scene energy.
Skip if: You’re looking for chef-driven tacos, cocktails, or a trend-focused dining experience.
El Paisano Tacos
8.1
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Late Night Legends
El Paisano Tacos is a family-run taqueria that has been serving Division Street since 1992, with a menu that runs from breakfast plates to three-taco combos and barbacoa by the piece. It’s a dependable choice when you want classic tacos, rice-and-beans platters, and big burritos that stay comfortably in weeknight-dinner pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Three Tacos, Barbacoa Taco, Super Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Decades-old, family-run taqueria bridging Wicker Park and Humboldt Park.
Who should go: Families and locals wanting classic, filling taco plates.
When to visit: Evenings and late nights when you need comforting tacos.
What to order: Three Tacos plate, Barbacoa Taco, Super Burrito.
Insider tip: Use the three-taco combo to sample multiple meats without overspending.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking nearby; usually easier on side streets but can be tight during peak dining hours.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are totally fine.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational but can get lively during late nights and weekends.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours; often no wait for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with quick counter service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — options like veggie tacos, quesadillas, and rice-and-beans plates.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with bean or veggie tacos if you skip cheese and crema.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are typically gluten-free, but the kitchen is not dedicated gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual dates than special occasions — it’s relaxed, affordable, and unfussy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only, with quick table turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly with simple plates, counter service, and relaxed seating. Great for school-age kids and up.
Best For
Better for: Classic, filling taco plates at fair prices with a true neighborhood taqueria feel.
Skip if: You’re looking for chef-driven tacos, cocktails, or a trendier sit-down experience.