Best Tacos in Old Town
Updated June 16, 2026 · Ranked by combined rating and review volume
Where to find the best tacos in Old Town
Velvet Taco offers a unique, globally-inspired taco experience in a lively counter-service setting, perfect for both a quick lunch and late-night cravings. While not claiming authenticity, their creative menu features standout options like the Buffalo Cauliflower and Nashville Hot Tofu tacos, alongside classic chicken tacos and crispy tots. Guests appreciate the consistent quality, fast and friendly service, and the fun atmosphere, complemented by great drinks including margaritas.
El Tragon Taqueria is celebrated for its truly authentic and delicious Mexican food, often hailed by patrons as having some of the best tacos in Chicago. This spot excels with fresh, flavorful options ranging from classic carne asada and al pastor to birria and quesabirra, all made with quality ingredients. Located in a plaza with ample parking, it's a fantastic choice for both quick takeout and a casual dine-in experience, offering a menu that consistently satisfies even native Californian palates.
Don Pez Fish Tacos stands out for its incredibly fresh and flavorful seafood tacos, including highly recommended coconut shrimp and Baja shrimp varieties. Beyond tacos, the ceviche and micheladas also receive high praise, all served in a fun, cozy atmosphere with friendly staff and an inviting outdoor patio. This spot is a must-visit for anyone craving vibrant, punchy flavors and a lively dining experience.
This low-key spot is a hidden gem in Old Town, offering generous portions of traditional Mexican staples alongside unexpected delights. Patrons rave about the flavorful al pastor tacos, noting the perfectly griddled corn tortillas and ripe avocado. Beyond tacos, their burritos are praised for being filling and delicious, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying takeout meal.
This vibrant, health-conscious eatery offers a paradise for vegetarians and vegans, providing an extensive menu that goes far beyond typical meat-free options. Guests consistently praise the "chik'n" sandwiches and other innovative plant-based dishes for their delicious flavor and tender textures, proving that plant-based food can be incredibly satisfying. It's also noted for its cool vibe, great music, and full bar, making it a unique dining experience.
Contenders
Places submitted by the community. The top contender with more points than #5 gets promoted.
How we ranked the best tacos in Old Town
Every place on this list is scored by a Bayesian weighted formula combined with a volume bonus. It rewards consistent positive feedback at scale, not just a high average rating — a 4.9-star place with 12 reviews ranks below a 4.6-star place with 800.
score = (v / (v + m)) × R + (m / (v + m)) × C + γ × log₁₀(v)
The prior m adapts to each neighborhood: it's the median review count among local candidates. So 200 reviews counts as “small sample” in dense markets like the West Village, but “solid” in quieter neighborhoods. Places with extreme review volume that clearly dominate their peers are promoted to #1. No paid placements — every spot earns its position via the public data.
Frequently asked about Old Town tacos
What is the highest-rated taco in Old Town?
EL TRAGON TAQUERIA has the highest Google rating in our list of the best tacos in Old Town, with 4.7 stars across 706 reviews.
Which taco in Old Town has the most reviews?
Velvet Taco has the most reviews of any taco on this list — 4,501 ratings averaging 4.6 stars on Google.
How are the best tacos in Old Town ranked?
Each place is scored using a Bayesian weighted formula that combines its average Google rating with its review count. This pulls small-sample places toward the local mean — so a 4.9-star spot with 12 reviews is ranked below a 4.6-star spot with 800 reviews. Volume and consistency matter, not just an inflated average.
When was this ranking last updated?
This ranking of the best tacos in Old Town was last refreshed in June 2026 using the latest Google ratings and review counts. Restaurants and bars change constantly — always verify hours and current status before visiting.
Why isn't my favorite taco on the list of best tacos in Old Town?
To be considered, a place needs enough Google reviews for the rating to be statistically meaningful (at least 5 reviews, ideally 25+). Newer or hyper-local spots can be excellent but score lower until enough people review them. Boundaries also matter — a spot just outside the Old Town area may show up on a neighboring ranking instead.