If you love Mexican food like me, you are always on the lookout for good restaurants in the suburbs. Is your palate beyond cheesy burritos and heavy bean/rice side dishes? (not bad stuff, just not "inspired".) You know what I mean - the type of Mexican restaurant that does "fusion" or "nuevo" or whatever you wish to call it.
Winnetka, alas, does not have its own Mexican restaurant, but Northfield, Wilmette, Glencoe, Highland Park, Evanston and Skokie do. No chains here, just good, fresh and innovative Mexican fare.
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Guanajuato - located in a strip mall just north of the Winnetka border, this little gem is known for its tequila bar. Excellent margaritas, fresh food, and crispy chips.73 Green Bay Road, Glencoe. 847-242-0501
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Depot Nuevo - is housed in an old railroad car in downtown Wilmette. Nice cozy interior, beautiful outside patio dining, and food that is touted as "a melding of Latin American sights and flavors." 1139 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette. 847-251-3111
That Little Mexican Cafe - I love this bustling place in downtown Evanston. Great vibe, the best guacamole I've ever had (prepared tableside) and delicious authentic food. 1010 Church St., Evanston. 847-905-1550.
TacoNano - this is basically a takeout place with just a few tables to eat-in. Their specialty? Tacos - nine different tacos and few sides. But they pack a ton of flavor and include such choices as turkey picadillo, pork al pastor, blackened or battered tilapia or shrimp and even a vegetariano. Oh, there's also some killer fried plantains. 1743 Orchard Lane, Northfield. 847-386-7159
La Casa de Isaac - two locations in Highland Park although the newest is called La Casa de Isaac & Moishe. Very busy spot with early closings on Fridays. Great food, fun atmosphere - a genuine place with unique authentic dishes. 431 Temple Ave., Highland Park. 847-433-5550
Yolo Mexican Eatery - a BYOB in Skokie that delivers intense flavors and a mole negro that has over 30 ingredients. Small, so make reservations. 5111 Brown St., Skokie. 847-674-098
Don Juan's - okay, I'm cheating a little. This great eatery is not in the North suburbs - it's in Edison Park, a north western area of Chicago. My absolutely favorite place - been going there for over 20 years.
Have I missed any of your favorites?
