Carmela's Taqueria

Mexican Restaurant $ 4.4 (497)


Carmela's Taqueria is renowned for its authentic Mexican food, particularly its Al Pastor tacos, which many customers praise highly for their flavor and freshness. The establishment provides a cozy, low-key atmosphere where diners can enjoy quality meals at reasonable prices.

Overall:

4.7

(409 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

3.8

Service:

4.1


Restaurant website: Website

Phone number: (773) 275-5321

Address: 1206 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, USA

Opening hours

Monday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available
  • Delivery Available

Offerings

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert

Good for

  • Good for Children

Payment options

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • NFC Payments

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!**

" What a delightful experience at Carmela's! The homely feel combined with the bright, vibrant flavors made my lunch perfect. The Al Pastor tacos were juicy and full of punchy flavor. The service was pretty attentive, and I appreciated how friendly the staff was. While the place is small, it adds to the charm rather than detracts from it. If you're in the area, do yourself a favor and make a stop—this place does not disappoint! " (*Curated Review*)

" Amazing spot for tacos! The Al Pastor tacos here are to die for. The meat is tender and flavorful, complemented by their spiced salsas. I must say, if you enjoy authentic Mexican flavors, this is the place to be. The staff are incredibly friendly, and while the atmosphere can get a bit cramped—a common characteristic of popular food joints—it's all part of the charm. I would easily recommend Carmela's to anyone looking for satisfying and delicious tacos in a casual setting. " (*Curated Review*)

" This little taqueria is a must-visit. If you're in the mood for authentic tacos, look no further! I had the Al Pastor, and every bite was full of flavor and seasoning. The space is narrow and can feel busy, but the ambiance is still welcoming. I'd recommend it if you're seeking straightforward and tasty tacos " (*Curated Review*)

" I was really looking forward to trying Carmela's Taqueria after hearing all the good things, but I left a bit underwhelmed. The food was decent and authentic, but it didn’t blow me away. I felt the carne asada was overcooked and could have used more flavor. On the other hand, the Al Pastor was pretty good and definitely tasted fresh. I think I just expected a bit more based on the hype surrounding this place. Still, I wouldn’t totally write it off; maybe I just need to try different items on the menu. " (*Curated Review*)

" My experience at Carmela's Taqueria left me with mixed feelings. While I was impressed by the authenticity of their Al Pastor tacos—juicy, well-seasoned, and served with just the right toppings—the service was a little off during my visit. It seemed like they were overwhelmed that day, resulting in longer wait times. The tacos themselves, however, made up for it completely. If you're patient and appreciate good food, this place is well worth the wait. I left with a smile and a satisfied palate! " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (399)

" Carmela's Taqueria deserves all the love it gets! The authenticity of their Al Pastor tacos is undeniable. The first bite brought a wave of happiness—so well seasoned and paired perfectly with their salsa. I was also impressed by the staff's friendliness and prompt service. While the atmosphere is not fancy, it’s a classic neighborhood spot where you feel at home. I can’t wait to come back and dive into more of their delicious offerings. Oh, and the guacamole? To die for! " (*Curated Review*)

" Carmela's Taqueria is great for those looking for quick bites and fresh Mexican food! The tacos are on point, especially the Al Pastor, which really stood out to me. While the crowd can be overwhelming at times, it's totally worth it for the delicious food. If you enjoy authentic Mexican flavors, this should definitely be on your list. " (*Curated Review*)

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