El Norteno
Mexican Restaurant
$
4.2
(857)
El Norteno is renowned for its authentic Mexican food, drawing customers back with its rich flavors and long-standing presence in the community. Many patrons appreciate the genuine taste of traditional tacos, although inconsistent service and varying atmospheres have been concerns for some visitors.
Restaurant website: Website
Phone number: (219) 944-9326
Address: 5708 W 5th Ave, Gary, IN 46406, USA
Opening hours
Photo gallery
Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)
**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**
" This was my first time at El Norteno and while I had high expectations due to their reputation, I was only mildly impressed. The staff was friendly but seemed overwhelmed during my visit. The tacos I ordered were tasty, but I wouldn’t say they stood out as special. I’m more accustomed to a larger variety of meat options, but El Norteno specializes mainly in pork and beef. Overall, a decent experience but not necessarily worth driving across town for when there are plenty of good taco joints nearby. " (*Curated Review*)
" Took my family to El Norteno this past weekend and we were all quite pleased! The tacos were just what we hoped for—authentic, hearty, and delicious. My only gripe was that the service was a bit slow, but considering how busy they were, it was understandable. Prices are reasonable, and the portions are very generous. It reminded me why they have been a staple in the community for so long. We’ll definitely come back again soon! " (*Curated Review*)
" If you are serious about good Mexican food, El Norteno is a must-visit! This place is an absolute gem, standing the test of time with its amazing offerings. I brought my family last week, and we ordered a variety of their tacos and the infamous taco salad. I was blown away by the freshness of the ingredients. The prices have gone up over the years, but the quality of the food really justifies it. The staff was busier than usual, but they still managed to serve us promptly and with a smile. The only downside was that it got a bit chaotic inside, but I guess that’s a good sign that people love this place! I can confidently say we will be back very soon! " (*Curated Review*)
" Absolutely mouthwatering tacos that take you straight to the streets of Mexico! El Norteno has truly captured the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine. I particularly loved the variety of pork offerings. Each taco was generously filled with meat and complemented by fresh toppings that enhanced the flavors beautifully. The cash-only policy was a bit of a shock, but honestly, it was worth every cent. The ambiance is casual and feels warm, perfect for a quick bite. The only complaint I have is with some staff members who seemed less enthusiastic. Overall, I definitely recommend giving El Norteno a try if you’re craving authentic tacos! " (*Curated Review*)
" Honestly, I had high expectations based on the reviews, but my experience didn't match the hype. The tacos were good, but I've definitely had better elsewhere. The service was various, with one lady seeming a bit overwhelmed which put a damper on my mood. The cash-only rule is convenient for the business but a hassle for the customers. It’s a decent place if you're in the area, but sadly, I wouldn’t travel across town just to eat here again. " (*Curated Review*)
Archived Reviews (687)
" Let me just say, when it comes to taco cravings, El Norteno is my go-to spot! Their pork tacos are perfection—juicy, packed with flavor, and make you want to savor each bite. Sure, the place could use some sprucing up, but it has that authentic taco stand vibe which I absolutely love. It’s a bit busy at peak hours, but the quick service more than makes up for it. The prices are reasonable given the portion sizes, and I’ve never had a bad experience with the staff. Very happy with my visits here, and I can’t recommend it enough! " (*Curated Review*)
" I've been coming to El Norteno since I was a child, and I have to say, it’s still as amazing as I remember! The tacos are just the right mix of crispy and soft, and the flavors burst with authenticity. Every bite takes me back to my childhood in the neighborhood. My favorites are the pork tacos; I always get a couple extra because they are just that good! I also love how they manage to keep that local community vibe. However, I do wish they would expand their hours a bit. Sometimes, I find myself craving their tacos only to arrive and see they are closed. Still, I'll keep coming back every time I'm in Gary! Highly recommend a visit if you're nearby! " (*Curated Review*)
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