ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Tacos in Elmhurst
Master Critic Review
Tacos El Chilango
7.5
A late-hours Broadway Ave taco stop that leans into trompo-style energy and fast, direct service. The smart play is to keep it simple—one pastor-focused order and one supporting item—so you get the best of what they do without chasing the whole menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor (trompo-style), Taco trio (one protein lane), Gringa-style quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Late-night tacos built around a pastor-first approach.
Who should go: Late-night eaters who want fast tacos
When to visit: Late night for quick turnaround
What to order: Pastor tacos, one gringa, one extra salsa
Insider tip: Stick to pastor for the tacos, then add exactly one gringa—don’t overbuild.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots along Broadway can be tight late evening but turn over frequently.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, hoodies, and streetwear all fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate—order-counter energy, fine for conversation but not quiet.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes late night; faster if ordering to-go.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—cheese-based items like quesadillas are the safest bet.
Vegan options: Very limited—possible to customize but not the focus.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas available; cross-contact likely in a fast taco setup.
Best For
Better for: Pastor-focused tacos when you want speed, value, and late-night reliability.
Consider Alternatives If: You want variety, vegetarian depth, or a relaxed sit-down meal—look to full-service taquerias nearby instead.