Best Late Night Legends Mexican Restaurants in River North

Opened in 2017 by River North Hospitality, Big Wig is the neighborhood’s high-volume, late-night taco counter built around grilled skirt steak and customizable vessels. With thousands of app ratings and steady bar-traffic demand, it’s the reliable move for fast tacos, burritos, and nachos before or after a night out.

Hidden beneath Clark Street, Bar Sótano is an agave-focused speakeasy with a serious small-plates kitchen. Mezcal-heavy cocktails meet tlayudas, aguachiles, and bar bites that feel more chef-driven than typical bar food, making it ideal for nights that start with drinks and end as dinner.

Ghost Donkey is a mezcal-and-tequila lounge modeled after Mexican speakeasies, known for neon-pink lighting, party energy and a happy hour built around margaritas and nachos. With a focused snack menu and strong cocktail program, it’s more of a drinks-first stop than a full dinner but functions as a high-energy happy hour destination.

Operating out of the Moxy Chicago Downtown, Zombie Taco is a nearly all-day, late-night counter for tacos, burritos, and breakfast items. It’s more about convenience and fun flavors than purist tacos, but long hours make it a reliable option after bars or before early flights.