That craving for perfectly seasoned carne asada or a refreshing margarita just hit, didn’t it? If you’re in Plano, Illinois, you’re in luck! While Plano might be known for its strong community and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s also quietly building a reputation for its diverse and delicious Mexican food scene. Forget the chain restaurants; this guide will take you through the best Mexican restaurants in Plano, offering everything from authentic family-run spots brimming with time-honored recipes to modern takes on classic dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey south of the border, right here in Plano!
Before diving into the recommendations, it’s important to acknowledge the wonderfully broad spectrum of what we consider “Mexican food.” From traditional family recipes passed down through generations to innovative modern interpretations, Mexican cuisine is wonderfully diverse. This means you’ll find everything from strictly authentic preparations using centuries-old techniques, to the Tex-Mex influence we’ve all come to know and love, and even innovative chefs playing with fusion concepts. Whether you’re searching for the most genuine flavors of Mexico or a contemporary twist on a classic, Plano’s got something for you.
Authentic Flavors Abound
Let’s start with places that prioritize the heart and soul of Mexican cooking: restaurants where family traditions and authentic ingredients take center stage.
Abuela’s Cocina
Located on Park Boulevard, Abuela’s Cocina is exactly what its name suggests: a culinary homage to grandma’s cooking. This unassuming eatery is a local favorite for its consistently flavorful and comforting dishes. Stepping inside feels like walking into a family kitchen, with warm colors and the aroma of simmering spices filling the air. Key dishes to try? Absolutely the Mole Poblano. This is not your average mole; it’s rich, complex, and perfectly balanced, a testament to slow cooking and carefully chosen ingredients. Another must-try is their Tamales, each one handmade with love and bursting with flavor. Abuela’s Cocina truly provides a genuine taste of Mexico, without leaving Plano.
- Address: Park Boulevard, Plano, IL (Check online for specific address and contact details)
- Price Range: Entrees generally under twenty dollars
- Ambiance: Casual, family-friendly, incredibly welcoming.
- What Makes It Special: The feeling of genuine home cooking and time-honored recipes.
- Sample Review Excerpt: “This place is a hidden gem! The mole is the best I’ve ever had.”
La Esperanza Taqueria
Don’t let the simple exterior fool you; La Esperanza Taqueria on Main Street packs a serious flavor punch. This is a no-frills, authentic taqueria where the focus is entirely on the food. The star of the show is undoubtedly their tacos. From Carne Asada to Al Pastor, each filling is perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Served on warm, soft corn tortillas with your choice of toppings, these tacos are a true delight. Be sure to try their Horchata, a refreshing rice milk drink that perfectly complements the spicy flavors. La Esperanza offers a truly authentic experience that transports you straight to a Mexican street food market.
- Address: Main Street, Plano, IL (Check online for specific address and contact details)
- Price Range: Inexpensive, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
- Ambiance: Casual, bustling, authentic taqueria atmosphere.
- What Makes It Special: The consistently high-quality tacos and authentic street food flavors.
- Sample Review Excerpt: “Best tacos in town, hands down! Simple, authentic, and incredibly delicious.”
Tex-Mex Favorites for Comfort Food Cravings
Sometimes, you’re just in the mood for those familiar, comforting Tex-Mex flavors. Plano has you covered there too.
Casa Grande
A Plano institution, Casa Grande on Route thirty-four is known for its generous portions, friendly service, and classic Tex-Mex fare. This is the place to go when you’re craving fajitas sizzling with peppers and onions, enchiladas smothered in cheese, or a heaping plate of nachos. Their Fajitas are a crowd-pleaser, and the portions are large enough to share (or not!). Don’t forget to start with their delicious Queso Dip and a round of margaritas. Casa Grande is a reliable choice for a satisfying and enjoyable Tex-Mex meal.
- Address: Route thirty-four, Plano, IL (Check online for specific address and contact details)
- Price Range: Moderate, good value for the generous portions.
- Ambiance: Lively, family-friendly, classic Tex-Mex decor.
- What Makes It Special: Large portions, consistently good food, and a friendly atmosphere.
- Sample Review Excerpt: “Great food, great service, and always a good time. The fajitas are a must!”
El Ranchito Mexican Grill
Another long-standing Plano favorite, El Ranchito Mexican Grill on Center Street offers a broad menu of Tex-Mex staples, from burritos and chimichangas to tacos and enchiladas. They are particularly well known for their lunch specials which provide a satisfying and affordable meal. Be sure to try the Pollo Loco – grilled chicken breast smothered in cheese and sauce. Also highly recommended are their generously sized Burritos, filled with your choice of meat, beans, rice, and cheese. El Ranchito offers a classic Tex-Mex experience with plenty of options to choose from.
- Address: Center Street, Plano, IL (Check online for specific address and contact details)
- Price Range: Moderate, with particularly good lunch specials.
- Ambiance: Relaxed, family-friendly, comfortable atmosphere.
- What Makes It Special: Wide variety of Tex-Mex dishes and excellent lunch specials.
- Sample Review Excerpt: “A solid choice for a Tex-Mex fix. The lunch specials are a great deal!”
Modern Twists and Fusion Flavors
For those looking for something a little different, Plano also has a few spots that are pushing the boundaries of Mexican cuisine.
Cactus Moon Cantina
Located near the heart of downtown Plano, Cactus Moon Cantina is a popular spot for its stylish atmosphere, creative cocktails, and modern take on Mexican classics. While they offer familiar dishes, they also experiment with unique flavor combinations and presentations. Try their Spicy Shrimp Tacos with mango salsa for a refreshing and flavorful twist. Their Margaritas are also a highlight, with a wide variety of flavors and premium tequilas to choose from. Cactus Moon provides an upscale dining experience with a modern Mexican flair.
- Address: Near downtown Plano, IL (Check online for specific address and contact details)
- Price Range: Moderate to higher end, reflecting the upscale atmosphere and premium ingredients.
- Ambiance: Stylish, contemporary, lively bar scene.
- What Makes It Special: Creative cocktails, innovative dishes, and a trendy atmosphere.
- Sample Review Excerpt: “Great atmosphere and delicious cocktails. The spicy shrimp tacos are a must-try!”
Don’t Forget the Margaritas!
No discussion of Mexican food would be complete without mentioning margaritas. While many of the restaurants listed above serve excellent margaritas, a few stand out:
- Cactus Moon Cantina (again): Deserves a second mention for its extensive margarita menu and expertly crafted cocktails.
- Casa Grande: Offers classic, generously sized margaritas that perfectly complement their Tex-Mex fare.
Happy Hour Hunting?
Many of these restaurants offer happy hour specials, but it’s always best to check their websites or call ahead for the latest deals.
For a Quick Bite on the Go
La Esperanza Taqueria is your best bet for authentic street tacos to grab and go.
A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering
While not exclusively Mexican, many locals rave about the Mexican-inspired dishes at the Plano Diner, which offers unexpected flavor combinations.
Conclusion
Plano, Illinois, offers a surprisingly diverse and delicious Mexican food scene. From the authentic flavors of Abuela’s Cocina and La Esperanza Taqueria to the comforting Tex-Mex staples of Casa Grande and El Ranchito Mexican Grill, and the modern twists of Cactus Moon Cantina, there’s something for every palate and preference. The quality of Mexican food in Plano is on the rise and it’s time you explored! So, the next time you’re craving perfectly seasoned tacos or a spicy margarita, head to one of these Plano gems. And be sure to let us know your favorite Mexican spot in the comments below! Don’t be afraid to try something new, and remember the best Mexican food experience often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone to explore Plano’s many offerings. Your taste buds will thank you.
