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Flaco's Tacos (Water Tower)
ZipPicks Awards
Best Tacos in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville
Best Late Night Mexican in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville
Best Cheap Tacos in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville
Best Happy Hour Mexican in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville
Master Critic Review
Flaco's Tacos (Water Tower)
8.5
Flaco's Tacos is a fast-casual taco counter just off the Mag Mile, turning out house-marinated steak, al pastor, and chicken tacos with margaritas at student-friendly prices. Open since 2011 in this Gold Coast/Near North stretch, it’s the most broadly validated taco-specific stop in 60611 for a quick, satisfying plate.
Must-Try Dishes:
House-Marinated Steak Taco, Ancho Chicken Taco, Al Pastor Taco
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Local mini-chain spot where the focus is straightforward, well-seasoned tacos and margaritas a block off Michigan Avenue.
Who should go: Mag Mile workers, students, and visitors craving fast tacos.
When to visit: Weekdays 11am–2pm or early evening to avoid lines.
What to order: House-marinated steak taco, ancho chicken taco, chips and guac.
Insider tip: Build a two- or three-taco plate, then add chips and salsa instead of overloading with sides to keep the meal under $15.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in this Near North/Mag Mile stretch; expect paid garages and metered spots nearby with better luck on side streets after 6pm. No valet.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, tees, and everyday wear are totally fine.
Noise level: Moderate — counter-service hum with music; you can hold a conversation but it’s not quiet.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes at peak times; orders move quickly once placed.
Weekday lunch: Short counter line around noon, usually under 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — beans, veggie fillings, and customizable tacos and bowls.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of build-your-own options if you avoid cheese and crema.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas available, but this is a shared-prep kitchen with potential cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure bite than a romantic first date — it’s counter-service with quick turnover and a practical feel.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — reservations aren’t used here. Seating is first-come counter style; during busy periods you may wait a few minutes for a table to open.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals with older kids — simple tacos, chips, and quesadillas work well, but seating is limited and there’s no high-chair or play-space setup.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable tacos near the Mag Mile with consistent seasoning and build-your-own flexibility.
Skip if: You want a sit-down Mexican dinner with table service, cocktails, or broader regional specialties.