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Mr. Salsa

1025 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
$
Mexican

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Master Critic Review

Mr. Salsa 7.7
Uptown
A low-key neighborhood Mexican spot that works best as an everyday takeout or quick dinner play—tacos, burritos, and classic plates with a steady local following. Keep it simple with tacos plus one comfort entrée for the most repeatable meal.
Must-Try Dishes: Al pastor tacos, Chiles rellenos, Grilled quesadillas
Scores:
Value: 8.3 Service: 7.6 Consistency: 7.8 Food Quality: 7.8 Atmosphere: 6.3 Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Neighborhood Mexican comfort that stays reliable when ordered tight.
Who should go: Locals who want fast, affordable Mexican
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for quick pickup
What to order: Al pastor tacos, chiles rellenos, grilled quesadillas
Insider tip: Pick one protein across tacos for the cleanest consistency.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking nearby; usually manageable on weeknights but tighter during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy conversation, even with families dining.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at most; takeout orders move faster than dine-in.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — veggie tacos, cheese quesadillas, rice-and-beans plates, and sides work well.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with rice, beans, tortillas, and vegetable fillings if ordered without dairy.
Gluten-free options: Some options — corn tortillas and simple plates, but no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date — it’s more practical than romantic, better suited for casual hangs than impressions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s mostly walk-in friendly, and many customers opt for takeout instead of dining in.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu items, fast service, and a relaxed environment make it easy with kids.
Best For
Better for: Affordable, no-frills Mexican when you want speed, value, and consistency over atmosphere.
Skip if: You’re looking for standout salsas, destination-level tacos, or a sit-down dining experience.