The search for great tacos in McHenry County always brings a little suspense. Around every street corner, tucked into strip malls or small houses, there are spots who take their tortillas seriously. Some have been rolling out fresh corn tortillas since “Taco Tuesday” wasn’t yet a catchphrase, while others have only recently started making locals question their longtime loyalties. I found myself testing horchata between bites, weighing crisp fillings against slow-cooked, spicy ones, knowing only one thing for sure: the best taco is the one in your hand right now.
Over time, my notebook filled with scrawled address notes and unusual salsa combinations. Each place brings a different mood and mouthful. Whether you crave something classic, feel like hunting for food-truck magic, or don’t mind a quick drive-through, McHenry County has a taco that will fit. Let’s get you started on your own taste journey—and just maybe reveal where I ended up going back for seconds.
Where to find the best tacos in McHenry County, IL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in McHenry County, IL:
- Tacos El Norte
- Main Street Station
- Taqueria La Placita
- El Niagara Mexican Restaurant
- Fastacos
- Mixteca
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Isabel’s Family Restaurant
- Taco Bell
- El Burrito Restaurant
1. Tacos El Norte
Tacos El Norte is one of those places where locals seem to know one another and newcomers are greeted with easygoing warmth. When I slid into a booth here, it was clear—the staff take pride in each plate. The tortillas are soft, homemade, and piping hot, the sort that bends but never breaks under the good stuff.
If you ask what to try, the steak tacos are impossible to beat. They come out with just enough char, topped with onions and cilantro. Sometimes, I go for the grilled chicken—tender and full of flavor—but the fish taco surprises too, crisp and bright.
For a quick bite or a long lunch, Tacos El Norte reliably delivers what McHenry taco cravings demand.
2. Main Street Station
Main Street Station is a true McHenry staple, merging old-school diner charm with a fresh approach to comfort food. I slid into a red vinyl booth on a rainy afternoon, half-expecting the usual, but the menu tempted me into taco territory. Their ground beef tacos bring nostalgia and crunch in equal measure, with just the right amount of seasoning.
For something a bit lighter, the veggie tacos are worth a look. They arrive bright and piled high with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy salsa. Each bite has a homemade touch that stands out from typical diner fare.
Don’t overlook their grilled fish tacos if you spot them on the day’s specials. It’s the kind of extra that keeps you coming back, rain or shine.
3. Taqueria La Placita
Hidden right off the square in downtown Woodstock, Taqueria La Placita will tempt you with the aroma of grilled onions before you’ve even opened the menu. My first visit was an easy choice after a friend described their tacos as “seriously authentic.” They weren’t exaggerating. The carne asada tacos are packed with smoky, tender steak and set off by bright cilantro.
Every order comes with a trio of salsas, so you can tailor each bite—always a good sign. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the nopales tacos. The cactus is cooked just right, tangy and fresh, and a rarity in the area.
This is a spot where simple ingredients get elevated. If the weather’s nice, grab a seat near the window and watch the square while you eat.
4. El Niagara Mexican Restaurant
El Niagara Mexican Restaurant, right in the heart of Woodstock, has a knack for drawing a steady crowd all week long. My go-to move is to settle into a cozy table with a friend and watch as colorful plates land on every table. What reels people in are the al pastor tacos—fiery, slightly sweet, and loaded with grilled pineapple.
For those who lean classic, the chicken tacos here are juicy, never dry, and topped simply with onion and cilantro. Each taco comes with a side of house-made salsa that packs enough heat to wake you up but never overpowers the flavors.
El Niagara stands out for its balance between family comfort and bright, bold taste. Consider it your Woodstock taco touchdown.
5. Fastacos
Fastacos is the answer when hunger and impatience strike at the same time. Step inside and you’re greeted by the steady sizzle of the grill, a promise that your meal will hit the table fast—but never rushed. My first time here, the cashier suggested their signature steak tacos, served street-style. Order them with onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for the perfect bite.
The tortillas hold up impressively, loaded but still easy to eat with one hand. There’s a clear focus on fresh toppings, and nothing feels pre-made or tired. Veggie lovers aren’t left out, either. Their grilled veggie tacos are bright and satisfying.
For those days when minutes matter but you refuse to settle, Fastacos delivers quality in a hurry—no shortcuts.
6. Mixteca
Mixteca brings a lively energy to Woodstock with its colorful décor and generous plates of food. I stopped in for a late lunch and found myself drawn to the taco platter. Each taco arrives hot and well-stuffed, with fillings like carne asada, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables.
The standout here is the shrimp taco. It’s tender and fresh, set off with just the right amount of spice and crunch from sweet cabbage. If you’re dining with friends, the sampler lets you try a range of flavors—a fun way to discover your new favorite.
Mixteca blends reliable classics with a few surprises, making it a top pick for anyone craving variety in their taco experience.
7. Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle Mexican Grill is the quick stop for those who like to customize every bite. Reliability is their trademark—you know what you’re getting, and you get it fast. I’ve found that the atmosphere is always upbeat, perfect for lunch on the go or takeout for dinner.
The three-taco combo shines for anyone who likes options. You can mix fillings like sofritas, grilled chicken, or steak, topped with cilantro-lime rice and fresh pico de gallo. Order yours with black beans and fajita veggies for extra flavor and texture.
It’s the kind of spot where control is in your hands. Choose your salsa heat, keep it classic, or get creative. Chipotle keeps it simple and satisfying with tacos built just the way you like.
8. Isabel’s Family Restaurant
Isabel’s Family Restaurant is a true blend of comfort and community. The atmosphere is easygoing, with regulars chatting over coffee and families sharing big tables. My first time here, I was drawn in by the lively buzz and the aroma drifting from the kitchen. It’s their breakfast tacos that caught my attention—warm tortillas layering eggs, potatoes, and a kick of salsa.
Lunch and dinner bring classic steak and chicken tacos. Each one is piled high with fresh lettuce and tomatoes, a little more Midwestern flair than most, but always satisfying. Everything here feels homemade and unhurried.
If you want homestyle flavors with a personal touch, Isabel’s delivers, especially when you order those tacos hot off the grill.
9. Taco Bell
Taco Bell is the spot when you want familiar flavors, tight budgets, and late hours. It’s somewhere most of us have ended up after a road trip or between errands. On one late-night taco run, I found the Crunchy Taco Supreme hits the mark for something quick, crisp, and customizable.
Order the soft taco with beans and load up on lettuce, tomato, and their tangy sauces. The beans are creamy, the tortillas warm, and the orders come out fast, whether you’re dining in or in the drive-thru.
Taco Bell may be a national chain, but it fits into local routines with ease. It’s dependable for a fast, meat-free taco fix any day or night in Woodstock.
10. El Burrito Restaurant
El Burrito Restaurant in Crystal Lake is a spot where loyal regulars are always bringing a friend for their first taste. My first visit landed me in a lively dining room filled with clinking glasses and the aroma of sizzling peppers. The carne asada tacos stand out—packed with juicy steak, grilled onions, and fresh cilantro.
Each taco comes perfectly wrapped in soft corn tortillas, letting the quality of the main filling shine. The salsa bar is generous, so you can experiment until you find your perfect match. For something lighter, the grilled veggie tacos deliver big flavor without being heavy.
El Burrito’s simple, classic approach to tacos always manages to impress, making it one of Crystal Lake’s trustiest bets for taco cravings.
More Things to Try in McHenry County, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best tacos in McHenry County, IL?
You’ll find top-notch tacos at spots like Tacos El Norte, Taqueria La Placita, and Fastacos. Each offers its own style, from classic steak to fresh fish and veggie options.
Are there vegetarian taco options in McHenry County?
Absolutely. Many restaurants, including Mixteca and Isabel’s Family Restaurant, offer vegetarian tacos with grilled vegetables or beans.
Which Mexican restaurant has the best authentic tacos?
Taqueria La Placita and El Burrito Restaurant are favorites for those looking for real-deal flavors and homemade salsas.
Can I get tacos for breakfast in McHenry County?
Yes, Isabel’s Family Restaurant has breakfast tacos that pair fluffy eggs with potatoes and salsa for a morning treat.
Are there fast food or chain options for tacos in the area?
Chain restaurants like Chipotle and Taco Bell offer a quick fix for taco cravings, especially when you’re on the go or need something customizable.
