Mystery Diner: Chorizo tacos and more please the palette at Taqueria Guerroero

On a Friday afternoon I strolled in to Taqueria Guerroero #1 in Waukegan to meet my friend for some good conversation and Mexican faire.

Craving some Mexican staples like tacos, tortas and more I knew immediately after walking in the door I had come to the right place.

Its diners seemed to be regulars, and as a first-timer I quickly realized it’s a ‘seat yourself’ type of place. I later learned that the eatery is family-owned, and I felt no different than if I had been coming here for years.

I chose a booth near the window that overlooks the corner of Water and South Genesee Street in downtown Waukegan.

Table and bar seating is also available in an adjoining room.

The  main room boasts colorful walls and a large television, which was playing a Spanish soap opera at the time. I was told that the family-friendly eatery is also a place where one can pull up a chair to watch coverage of the latest soccer game.

Once my friend arrived, we ordered. She had chorizo (Mexican sausage) tacos with cilantro and onion. I opted for an avocado torta, a type of Mexican sandwich that included refried beans, sour cream, slices of onions, avocado and jalapeno.

Tacos are $1.70 each and include refried beans. All tortas cost $3.95, except for what appeared to be the king of tortas, the Cubana. For $7.95 the Cubana includes ham, pork leg, steak, Mexican and cheddar cheese and breaded beef steak.

We were attended to by whomever was free at the time and service was prompt.

A variety of sauces were placed on each table. We both enjoyed the verde sauce, a homemade spicy mix of jalapenos, onions and other secret ingredients.

My friend frequents the restaurant and said it is one of her favorites in the area.

The portions were large and the food was tasty and fresh. I even had enough left over to take home.

My friend said that the servers are even kind enough to help her when she wants to practice speaking Spanish.

“The friendly waitstaff are always smiling and hilariously patient with me when I want to practice Spanish instead of just pointing to [the menu],” she said.

Luckily for both of us, the menu items have their English translations listed as well.

Although I didn’t order off their seafood list that time, they have nearly 20 seafood dishes, including coctel de ceviche, a lemon-flavored fish cocktail with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, hot peppers and avocado.

My friend also swears by their cheesecake, which I look forward to trying next time I visit.

Taqueria Guerrero's casual atmosphere and fresh food make it a great place to catch up with friends or enjoy a reasonably priced Mexican meal with family members. The eatery also prepares food for pick-up, which can be great for those who work in the area and are busy on the go. Maybe during the next televised soccer match you'll catch me here.

Taqueria Guerroero #1

Taqueria Guerrero #1
205 Water St.
Waukegan, IL
847-244-9051