Best Cheap Eats Mexican Restaurants in Near North Side
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Burrito Beach
A Chicago-born Mexican grill balancing speed, customizability, and fresher ingredients.
Notable Picks
8.4
Burrito Beach’s Ohio Street location is a fast-casual staple for toasted burritos, bowls, and tacos built with fresher-than-average ingredients. High-volume lunch lines from nearby offices and hotels speak to its role as Streeterville’s reliable, customizable Mexican grill.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toasted Burritos, Beach Bowls, Crispy Quesadillas
What Makes it Special: A Chicago-born Mexican grill balancing speed, customizability, and fresher ingredients.
Worthy Picks
7.8
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Beat Kitchen Cantina brings locally run taco-bar energy to Navy Pier with smoked pork belly, jerk pork, and chicken fajita tacos plus strong margaritas. It’s a counter-service option that feels more independent than most pier choices, trading polish for hearty portions and quick bites between attractions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Fajita Taco, Smoked Pork Belly Taco, Chips and Guacamole
What Makes it Special: Independent taco counter at Navy Pier with bolder fillings than most tourist options.
7.5
Vibes:
Sweet Treats Escapes
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Churro Factory at Navy Pier focuses on fried-to-order churros, dipping sauces, and other sweet snacks rather than full meals. It works best as a quick Mexican-style dessert stop for families and visitors walking the pier.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Cinnamon Sugar Churros, Filled Chocolate Churros, Churros with Dipping Sauces
What Makes it Special: A dedicated churro stand serving freshly fried churros along the pier.