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Name: El Cid 2
Address: 2645 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL, 60647
Telephone: (773) 395-0505
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.51

El Cid 2

2645 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL, 60647

(773) 395-0505
Store is closed

El Cid 2 Menu

Antojitos Mexicanos - Appetizers

Queso Fundido

Sincronizadas

Guacamole

Nachos With Guacamole

Mini Vegetarian Chimichanga

Quesadilla Grande

Tostada De Ceviche De Camaron

Tostada De Ceviche De Pulpo

Ostions En La Concha
Caldos - Soups

Black Bean Soup

Menudo

Pozole

Res

Pollo

Camaron

Pescado

Camaron Y Pescado

Delicioso 7 Mares
Ensaladas - Salads

Taco Salad

Vegetarian Taco Salad

Garden Salad

Low Calorie Chicken Salad

Ensalada De Pulpo Y Camaron
Especialidades De Casa - House Specialties

Carne Al Carbon

Bistec A La Mexicana

Fajitas De Carne Asada O Pollo

Tampiquena

Costillas De Res

Costillas De Puerco

Fajitas Mixtas

Guisado De Puerco

Pinchos Vegetariano

Pinchos De Pollo

Pinchos Mixtos

Chuletas De Puerco

Fricasse De Pollo
Desayunos - Breakfast

Huevos Con Bistec

Huevos Con Chorizo

Huevos Rancheros

Huevos Con Jamon

Huevos A La Mexicana

Chilaquiles Plain

Breakfast Burrito
Sandwiches

Steak

Grilled Chicken

Cuban

Miami Sub

El Cid's Sub
Delicious Choice Of Fillings!

Delicious Choice Of Fillings!
Mexican Favorites

Traditional Tacos

Traditional Taco Dinner

Taco De Papa

Taco De Pescado

Taco De Arrachera O Lengua

Quesadillas Dinner

Burrito

Burrito De Arrachera

Burrito Vegetariano

Burrito Suizo

Chimichanga Burrito

Sope

Torta

Torta De Arrachera

Tostada

Milanesa De Res

Enchiladas Suiza

Flautas Dinner

Combination Plate
Mariscos - Seafood

Coctel 'vuelve A La Vida'

Coctel 'la Atomica Del Cid'

Coctek De Camron

Grilled Salmon With Garlic Sauce

Fajitas De Camaron

Camarones Empanizados

Huachinango A La Veracruzana

Pescado Vagre Frito

Camaron A La Plancha

Tostadas De Pulpo O Camaron

Camarones Rellenos

Mojarra Frita

Tilapia
Pollos Rostizados - Roasted Chicken

1/2 Pollo

1/4 Pollo

Pollos Para Lievar - Solo

Pollos Para Lievar
Side Orders

Papas Fritas

Tostaditas

Pico De Gallo

Enchilada

Chile Relleno

Crema

Frijotes

Arrpz

Platanos Fritos

Quesadilla

Cabollitas

Mini Vegetarian Chimi

Tamales
Bebidas - Beverages

Aguas Frescas

Soda - Coke

Soda - Sprite

Soda - Orange Fanta

Soda - Iced Tea

Coffee

Espresso

Cappuccino

Jarritos

Jugo De Zanahoria

Jugo De Naranja

Licuados De Frutas Naturales

Healthy Meal suggestions for El Cid 2

Antojitos Mexicanos - Appetizers

Queso Fundido [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sincronizadas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Guacamole [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Nachos With Guacamole [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mini Vegetarian Chimichanga [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Quesadilla Grande [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tostada De Ceviche De Camaron [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tostada De Ceviche De Pulpo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ostions En La Concha [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Caldos - Soups

Black Bean Soup [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Menudo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pozole [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Res [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Camaron [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pescado [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Camaron Y Pescado [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Delicioso 7 Mares [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Ensaladas - Salads

Taco Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegetarian Taco Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Garden Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Low Calorie Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ensalada De Pulpo Y Camaron [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Especialidades De Casa - House Specialties

Carne Al Carbon [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bistec A La Mexicana [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fajitas De Carne Asada O Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tampiquena [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Costillas De Res [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Costillas De Puerco [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fajitas Mixtas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Guisado De Puerco [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pinchos Vegetariano [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pinchos De Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pinchos Mixtos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chuletas De Puerco [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fricasse De Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Desayunos - Breakfast

Huevos Con Bistec [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Huevos Con Chorizo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Huevos Rancheros [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Huevos Con Jamon [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Huevos A La Mexicana [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chilaquiles Plain [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Breakfast Burrito [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sandwiches

Steak [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cuban [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Miami Sub [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

El Cid's Sub [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Delicious Choice Of Fillings!

Delicious Choice Of Fillings! [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Mexican Favorites

Traditional Tacos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Traditional Taco Dinner [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Taco De Papa [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Taco De Pescado [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Taco De Arrachera O Lengua [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Quesadillas Dinner [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Burrito [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Burrito De Arrachera [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Burrito Vegetariano [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Burrito Suizo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chimichanga Burrito [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sope [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Torta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Torta De Arrachera [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tostada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Milanesa De Res [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Enchiladas Suiza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Flautas Dinner [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Combination Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Mariscos - Seafood

Coctel 'vuelve A La Vida' [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coctel 'la Atomica Del Cid' [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coctek De Camron [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Salmon With Garlic Sauce [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fajitas De Camaron [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Camarones Empanizados [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Huachinango A La Veracruzana [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pescado Vagre Frito [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Camaron A La Plancha [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tostadas De Pulpo O Camaron [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Camarones Rellenos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mojarra Frita [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tilapia [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Pollos Rostizados - Roasted Chicken

1/2 Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

1/4 Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pollos Para Lievar - Solo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pollos Para Lievar [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Side Orders

Papas Fritas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tostaditas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pico De Gallo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Enchilada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chile Relleno [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crema [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Frijotes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Arrpz [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Platanos Fritos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Quesadilla [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cabollitas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mini Vegetarian Chimi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tamales [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Bebidas - Beverages

Aguas Frescas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Soda - Coke [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Soda - Sprite [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Soda - Orange Fanta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Soda - Iced Tea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coffee [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Espresso [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cappuccino [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Jarritos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Jugo De Zanahoria [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Jugo De Naranja [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Licuados De Frutas Naturales [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

MmeMorticia D.

My friend has raved about her favorite pit-stop across the Blue Line so after a long night we decided it would be a perfect spot for good Mexican food. We walk in to the first floor and take a seat at the standard booths. Our waiter comes over and insists that we check out the newly renovated second floor and his enthusiasm was cute so we did. Wow! Suddenly we were transformed to a Gold Coast restaurant with a fireplace, bar and a plush communal wall of couches and tables. The ambiance and decor is very nice but from working on Michigan Ave, we wanted a break from the norm so we quietly went back downstairs. Same waiter rushes over with a shocked look on his face saying "What happened?? You didn't like it??" lol. Au contraire, it's gorgeous up there and we are already thinking about renting it for summer outings but we just wanted a no frills evening. As always my first test are the chips and salsa that are typically brought out stale and watered down, respectfully. Not here. Even at that hour the chips were crisp, light and fresh and the salsa had so much flavor and such a bite. I knew the rest of the dinner would go well and they did not disappoint! I wish I could've strapped a continuous iv flow of their agua de horchata. I can't wait to go back, esp when it's warm enough for outdoor seating!
(4)
Kelly R.

Tamarind Margaritas! You can feel confident the beans do not contain any animal products. Consistently enjoy every visit. Good service and great outdoor patio in back. If you're a cheese eater, you must have the cheese and cactus tamales!
(4)
Katie R.

First off, tasty chips and salsa. The chips were not greasy and I thoroughly enjoyed the choice between a green salsa and a pico de gallo-esque salsa. As for my meal, I loved my combination plate. Broken down: Ground beef taco. The ground beef has potatoes in it which I adore. And the taco overall was tasty. Vegetarian tostada. They put beans, rice AND guacamole on it. Fantastic. Usually you get beans and that's about it... Cheese enchilada. Green sauce = perfect. Enchilada wasn't too greasy, it was just delicious. I was seriously impressed. I'd eat that same meal again in a heartbeat.
(5)
Kean M.

Lets get this out of the way, when I'm sick, i love the shrimp soup take out. But, for the restaurant not so great. Used to be ok, now heading somewhere not great. Last meal was cold, not exciting, cooking olives in the martini!. Table was too small upstairs (stools, tall tables). If you can't seat for dinner, don't!. Rest of menu same old same old, try Las Palmas for some completely different Mexican menu items!
(1)
ryan w.

One day this summer I dressed up like Eurotrash for fun and met up with my buddy Josh and his family here for lunch. Josh's 5 year-old daughter kept saying "weird" and "silly" and laughing at me (as did his wife, come to think of it). When the check arrived I feigned urinary incontinence then bailed to the men's room. When I got back, Josh had paid for my meal and pitcher of margaritas. He casually mentioned that tuition was due for his kid's school in a few weeks, but I let that slide, because I've known him since college and I'd hate to let his lousy manners spoil almost 15 years of friendship. Anyway, I like their patio, fish tacos and soups.
(5)
Kelly S.

Tonight was the second time I have been here. Last time I sat upstairs. For some reason, the second floor was closed tonight. No Biggie. Just sayin.. The place was busy but not slammed for a Friday night. In the hour and 1/2 we were there, there were always a few tables open. It is dimly lit and has both booths and tables with chairs. We sat in a booth. I had the fish tacos... YUM! The dinner plate comes with rice and refried beans. The rice and beans were pretty standard and nothing to rave about. The tacos were super. Lots of small bits of fish topped with onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. My friend enjoyed a tamarind margarita while she waited for me to arrive. She really like it. We shared a pitcher of regular margaritas. Our waitress was terrific. Every time she passed by she would fill our margarita glasses. I deducted one star because we felt a little pressured to hurry up and order then to pay and leave. Although... we did get wrapped up in conversation and 1.5 hours passed very quickly. I will have to come back to El Cid to enjoy the patio and beer garden in the warmer months.
(4)
Poof A.

Really delightful. We went here last-minute with a larger group (14?) and they were really graceful about accommodating us. The drinks kept flowing (strong margaritas!); chips were replenished without us ever having to ask; and they made meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans alike very happy. They even have veggie-specific items, so you know you're getting lard-free beans! This place is nothing fancy but it has a lovely atmosphere and the service is great. The portions are large and the food is tasty! A good bet for a Mexican meal.
(4)
Eric B.

Gringos, step right up and empty your wallet. I used to frequent here until I had one and half bad episodes. 1/2: The upstairs lounge: Nice setting, especially on a cold winter's night, but please explain me to why it's the same menu with higher prices? Not cool. 1: I usually would never boycott a restaurant after one bad experience. I always figure that everything and everyone gets three strikes in my world. However, this was a beyond repulsive moment. I had the typical semi-above average burrito (I'm fine with that) and when I received my bill I realized that they had overcharged me. When I pointed it out to the waitress she seemed hesitant to change it but I was all smiles and sugar. How could she resist? When I returned to my table my roommate said, 'We are leaving no tip and let's get out of here now.' Puzzled, I followed him out and, Deo gracias, my Spanish speaking roommate informed me that the waitress said something derogatory about me to one of her coworkers. Nice. So, gringos, take a Spanish course at CCAC before entering here, or as I do, walk right past their doors, reserve your judgement, and head directly to one of the many other Mexican joints within walking distance.
(2)
Rene N.

You get knocked down hard for not opening your back patio on a fucking Saturday afternoon with no clouds in sight and temps in the 70's. Also, you're overpriced and getting a little too full of yourself.
(1)
Anthony B.

Great food, reasonable prices, and they are open rather late. I love having them in Logan Square. The fish tacos are amazingly authentic, the breakfast burritos are a personal favorite, and a late night El Cid sandwich after work is very satisfying. If you haven't been... I recommend it.
(4)
Walter P.

The first things that strike me about this place are that 1. It's across from the Logan Square El stop and 2. Its name. El Cid was the name of Spanish military leader who fought against and with the Moors around the Early 11th century. I learned all of this because it was in Age of Empires II, a video I was obsessed with when I was in middle school. See video games can be educational! Well anyway, history lesson over. I've been here twice and both times have been really pleasant. I ordered vegetarian fajitas and a raspberry frozen margarita (veggie fajitas are usually the metric I use to test the quality of a Mexican restaurant). The margarita was tasty - fruity but not overly sweet. At first I thought my margarita didn't have much alcohol, but boy was I wrong later on after I had drank mine rather fast.Thank god the food came just about the time when the booze kicked in or I would have been in trouble! The fajitas were good (or as Homer from the Simpsons would say "they were groin grabbingly good!) The had just the right amount of seasoning and the broccoli was a nice surprise. I normally don't find that in veggie fajitas in my experiences eating at Mexican restaurants. I think what makes the food really good was that El Cid really uses quality ingredients. Often times I feel like Mexican fare really tastes all the same everywhere and each dish really is a variation of a single flavor (as John Stewart pointed out). But here, I felt that El Cid stood out on its own. The flavors didn't seem "authentic," but were good nonetheless. Reading the reviews from other yelpers though gives me the impression that this place may have a problem with food quality consistency.... The prices are moderate so look to put down $10-15 bucks for the entree. We sat on the patio and it was a gorgeous night outside so that really was added to the experience. The clientele here seemed overwhelmingly white and youngish. Is El Cid trendy? Mmm, not trendy as in pretentious, but definitely trendy in that the restaurant caters to a certain crowd and palate. Mainly the yuppie/hipsterish crowd I would say. I dunno, maybe I'm wrong. I think they have special nights like a night with pretty cheap wine bottles or something like that. Since it's like 3 blocks away from my house, I'll definitely be back for more.
(4)
Debbie C.

Two words: Fish Tacos. These are not the fried fish tacos you get anywhere else. These are fresh, clean, unfried fish tacos that taste amazing. They're a healthy alternative to anything else out there. If you don't like fish, though, you can't go wrong with anything else on the menu. Love their carne asada tacos, too. And the margaritas, well, I'd come here just for those!
(4)
Kimberly L.

I'm in between three and fours stars for El Cid. We ordered a variety of tasty treats: fish tacos, chicken tacos, a cheese and cactus tamale, a cheese empanada and a chicken empanada. Pretty darn good. My dining companions enjoyed margaritas and proclaimed them to be delish. The chips and salsa...meh,,,just okay. The service was efficient but not exactly warm and friendly. I'd probably come back but only if I'm in the neighborhood.
(3)
Diana F.

I hate giving bad reviews...I really do. I'm the girl that feels guilty for killing flies and I understand that running a business can be hard..but good lordy....the food is terrrrrrible....and i think that was the consensus. I went there recently for a going away party. Money not an issue...let's find a good cocktail, a pitcher of margarita.....a mojito...a beer....SOMETHING that tastes good. The "candy-ritas", as one co worker referred to them, were like koolaid...and overload of sweet and sour mix and not even the slightest hint of a tequila taste. Were these made with wine? Tell me it was just a bad batch! We ordered two pitchers...they sucked so bad! A few people switched to beer , which one complained that the beer was totally flat....we ordered a mojito in which the bartender claimed they were out of....OUT OF?! Is this pre made Mojito mix? Disgusting....because are you really out of Rum, simple syrup, lime , soda water and mint? It looks like you have the majority if not all of the ingredients right there in front of me....I guess she only knew how to pour mixes. Later she said they all of a sudden have more mojito and served this brownish olive green drink to us....that tasted indescribable and not in a good way. That is just the drinks.Now for the food. Three of us got different burritos. They were so unsatisfying...not filling wise....I mean..a huge flour tortilla is going to fill anyone up. The burrito lacked any fresh or tasty ingredient. The chips and salsa..... Tell me, someone...do they make their Pico with Ketchup? We all agreed that it had to be ketchup in it....though both the pico and what i'm assuming was the tomatillo salsa were both unnaturally sweet with an aftertaste of something really terrible. So really......trust me....unless you really have NO taste in mexican food or tex mex.....or good food in general this place is absolutely disgusting! Go to Arturos for half the price and amazing food. Lazo's is better....Sol del sur had way better burritos....NEVER AGAIN!
(1)
Jenny z.

My last three or four visits have been HIGHLY unsatisfactory. It's still good, it's just not...as good. I've always loved the fact that you could count on a well prepared meal here, but it has become very, very inconsistent. Let me put it this way - I've actually sent food back to the kitchen. The fish tacos have become...questionable....Sob. Oh, beloved El Cid, what has happened to you? I'd actually bump this to a 3 on the food, but I'll give it a 4 as the staff is so nice, the patio is great, and IF they get it right, the food can be quite good. Still a great place for a snack and a drink, but no longer on my list of favorite dinner places.
(4)
Brooke T.

LOVE El Cid! The food is wonderful! i love the margaritas also. There are 4 different seating areas. 1) Main ground floor (indoor) - casual. More family oriented and authentic mexican looking. 2) Outdoor seating in front of the restaurant - they have some of the high metal tables that dont give you much room. i would think they are more for just having a drnk. 3) upstairs which is a more loungey going out for a drink and dinner iwth your girlfriends or on a date type area. Very nice up here. They play more loungey music. Have really nice bathrooms up here. 4) back of the restaurant beer garden. This is the party spot! Love sitting in the back. The food is so good here! I had a mango margarita that was fabulous! My Favorite dish is the Tampiqueno. Which is steak with Enchiladas on top. Love it! The location is great. It is directly across from the train station or there is street parking. Right in the circle of Logan Square.
(5)
Brian R.

Sour cream in your guacamole = bad, bad Mexican food. Any Mexican who works here should hang their head in shame. Serving guacamole with sour cream in it is an abomination against Mexican food generally and the creamy natural deliciousness of the avocado in particular. I haven't had guacamole this bad since ordering it in France, but at least they used creme fraiche and at least it was totally my fault for going into a "mexican" restaurant in Champagne. I don't know what came over me that day and I take all the blame, but decent mexican food in Logan Square should not be a stretch. The rest of the food and the margaritas are bad, the guacamole will change your life - it will sap away just a little joy, just a little fulfillment, just a little hope. Stay away.
(1)
Matt B.

I love El Cid. In addition to redoing the upstairs they recently got new furniture for the main room. Much better than they patio furnature they had before. As mentioned several times their patio is great when it is warm. As for the food, it is your above average typical Mexican fare. There are certainly better places in the city but this is one of the best in Logan Square. Their Margaritas are excellent as well. The waitstaff are always courteous and attentive. They don't shun us gringos like some places in the area. All in all, this is a great place for a lazy day. When it is warm give the patio a try and grab a pitcher of margaritas with you and your friends.
(4)
Jennifer D.

Ok, I have to start out by mentioning that although the food is very good, it *is* overpriced for what it is. And yes, there are plenty of Mexican restaurants in Logan Square with just as good grub. HOWEVER... El Cid 2 gets my vote for being: 1) Uber-convenient. It's right across the street from the Logan Square blueline/ Diversey and Milwaukee bus stops. 2) Having a great atmosphere both in the summertime (back patio), and now, with the renovation of the upstairs lounge, in the wintertime, too. The fish tacos and the cheese enchiladas are my favorites, and I like their margaritas despite the fact they're generally a bit weak. El Cid 2 is often bustling but never without an available table and always has friendly service. I recommend!
(4)
Carmen A.

I ADORE THIS PLACE!!! Friends and i have been guests of this restaurant for many years because of their Mango Margaritas. They are delicious! The service is definetly a 3 out of a 5 when it comes to the waitresses but the owner normally deals with us personally and he is extremely personable! The food is good here as well but the best part is the outdoor oatio seating. It is great for a nice warm evening with music and cold margaritas outdoors. Why not the last star? The waitresses just seem to be forced to do their jobs sometimes and i never really leave happy about their service.
(4)
D Q.

I had high hopes for this place. A lot of my friends swear by it. The ambience was nice and the waitress seemed friendly. I ordered a chicken burrito and took a bite... RANCID. Seriously, rancid, rotten chicken. I was afraid that maybe it was just me so I asked my friends to take a bite. They agreed- the chicken had long since gone off. Ok. It happens...I guess. I ordered a replacement meal... Beef enchiladas. Hesitantly, I took a bite. THE FIRST BITE, and there was a hair about 10 inches long. In my mouth. Oh my god. I almost puked right there. I sent it back again. The waitress asked if I wanted something else... Um. No. I requested to at least get my two margaritas for free, and the waitress said no. I politely asked for the manager, and she refused! She said I should be grateful that I got my meal for free... The meal I had to send back twice. The meals I had take a bite out of and had to spit out! I'm fairy certain she did not want to get the kitchen in trouble. Safe to say, I'm never going back.
(1)
Shelden E.

Probably the best Mexican restaurant in the Logan area near the stop. The food is good and soooooo are those margaritas. You can get some nicely sized margaritas that are tasty and strong! Good times with those for sure. Like said, the food there is very good, though not at all the best Mexican in the city. For sure beats that awful place El Puebla though, up on Milwaukee and Sawyer. That place is just waiting to cause an upset stomach. El Cid however is satisfying. It's totally gotten better too since they've redone the place with the more lounge-like area upstairs. And in the summer it's great to be sitting outside in the back patio and drinking some margaritas. In fact, let's get this winter over with already so I can hop to that.
(4)
John H.

Great utilitarian mexican food at great prices. We live in Logan Square and love coming here when we want a quick taco, tamale, or burrito. The chicken tacos are a little bland, but easily modified with their amazing salsa. Also, the fountain soda always tastes a little off at both El Cid restaurants, so stick to water or alcoholic beverages. In summary: OK food, quick, cheap, easy, great location
(3)
nellie l.

I have a love/hate relationship with El Cid. I go here out of convenience and habit more than anything else. The upstairs and the back patio are both great. The vibe is good, the atmosphere is festive. The downstairs is shabby and completely out of place with the rest of the restaurant; it just doesn't jive. The service is good; the owner is friendly and determined to please his customers. Sadly, the food is mediocre. Fish tacos might just be my favorite dish in the entire world, and theirs are rather "ehh" and bland, despite the framed article next to the downstairs bathroom which claims otherwise. The enchiladas are yummy, and the pico de galo might be the best in the city. Charges accrue for extra chips and pico, however, and the wine servings are incredibly stingy. The margaritas are great, but pretty expensive, as is everything, really. I wish I could love you, El Cid, I really do, but I need a little something more...(more spice, more umpf, something...)
(3)
Adele S.

Went here with friends last night because we went to high school w/ the owner. No room upstairs, though we'd have preferred it. The chips were very fresh; didn't try the pico de gallo but went straight for the green salsa which was nice and hot. We had an appetizer of grilled shrimp wrapped in bacon, stuffed w/ cheese...not bad. I had a tamarind margarita which I quite enjoyed, didn't care for the house martini, which was horchata-tasted too vanilla-y. My friend had a salad with squid and shrimp that she said was very good; her hubby didn't touch his entree so I don't know about that. My chicken mole enchiladas were good. I've had better food overall, but service was good, water glasses always full, the food was fresh and we got free tequila shots(ok, I turned mine down) All in all, not bad and I'll probably go here again.
(3)
Eric M.

I was really impressed. This review is based on the upstairs, which is swankier than the first floor. It's nicely laid out - it would be a great place for a private party, actually, and has an outdoor deck for warmer days. I had their whole bass, which was quite good. Nicely seasoned, cooked perfectly with crispy skin but still moist and flavorful meat. My dining companion had one of their skirt steak preparations, and it was very tender and flavorful, really nice. It was the really thin style of preparation like is done in more authentic sorts of places, compared to the thicker ones you get in tex-mex or American restaurants that serve skirt steaks. Service was very good, attentive and friendly and very accomodating. I'll be going back even though it's pretty far out of the way for me.
(4)
Nina T.

Absolutely amazing place! The food is outstanding and the customer service is the best! I just had a surprise party for my boyfriend there for about 25 people. The owner, Jose, was so accomodating and helpful! This is my absolute favorite mexican food restaurant! Thank you guys!
(5)
Mike P.

AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME! That's how I describe my first visit to El Cid II. Just a great traditional Mexican restaurant. It's everything I look for in a good Mexican place: diverse menu that includes many of the old stand-bys and great prices. I started dinner with a mojito. It was very well balanced, not a rum avalanche, like so many can be. Nor did it have an overkill of mint leaves to clog the straw. HANG ON! CALIFORNIA LOVE JUST CAME ON MY IPOD. I HAVE TO GO BREAK DANCE WITH MY CATS! OK, I'm back. So my dinner...Fish tacos. Many time's I've ordered the Fish tacos in our fair city and gotten a Fillet-o-Fish taco. But this offering was grilled talapia. Expertly prepared and so tender and moist. Fresh onion and cilantro were added, as well as cheese. They were wrapped in the best flour tortilla I've had outside of New Mexico. BETTER THAN UNCLE JULIO'S! But the gold stamp of approval came from my Mexican wife when she gave her blessing to the rice and beans. As she will tell me, they are the standard by which you measure a place. If they suck, it doesn't matter how good the main course is. Luckily, she approved the arroz y frijoles and we can return to El Cid II. This is good news, because my folks visit us next week and they love Mexican food.
(5)
Holly M.

Back when I lived in Logan Square, I went to this El Cid a few times with my roommates for margheritas and dinner. From what I recall, the drinks were never anything spectacular and the menu really wasn't very appealing. The first time I went with my friends, we sat on the back patio, which was a bit small but very bright and festive. I ordered a bowl of chicken soup which was, much to my dismay, filled to the top with chicken chunks and bone. I don't know if that's normal...but the sharp bones and entire severed chicken wing was painful and nauseating to consume. Along with the soup, the air that night was filled with the heavenly scent of rotted garbage. The fence that surrounded the back patio apparently stood back to back with the restaurant's garbage cans and every time the breeze kicked in, the diners were assaulted with wave after wave of putrid back-alley trash. I made the huge mistake of going there on Cinco de Mayo once. I believe we had a group of five people...which after the three hour wait boiled down to three. Finally being seated on the back patio, two very hungry girls and an extremely agitated guy waited quite some time for our waitress. After ordering, we waited an hour and a half for our food, noticing how many tables around us had already been served when they had arrived after us. At one point, our waitress hurried past, saw the three of us, gained a wild-eyed look of shock, and sprinted into the kitchens. Our food was quite cold when we finally got it. At the end of Cinco de Mayo, we sat on the back patio quite unhappily, our night ending with a huge fight between my two friends and absolutely no comment from the staff about the hours of waiting or the fact that the waitress had forgotten our food. From my experience in Logan Square, I definitely do not miss El Cid.
(2)
Jean C.

I came here on a Friday night with two of my girlfriends before going to a birthday party near the lake. No reservations? No problem. It was such a gorgeous night we decided to head on back to the patio. What a fabulous space! From the front, you would never guess that they had such a spacious patio in the back. Our party of three sat down and waters immediately followed. Chips and dip came to the table while we perused the menu. We all ended up getting the same entree, enchiladas suizas in addition to the guacamole. I order that at most Mexican restaurants and this didn't disappoint! You had a choice of 2 or 3 and 2 is more than enough. Beans and salad come on the plate as well. Overall, the place is great for sitting out back in the patio and enjoying good food. The bill was reasonable for guacamole, three entrees, 2 margaritas, 1 beer and one coke. About $50. No free refills though. :-(
(4)
Mark S.

i want to give this place more stars but i can't. they are good. not great. not spectacular but good. i'm not fond of places that use premade things like refried beans and tortilla shells. it may take a bit more man hours to make refried beans but the effort is worth it. they have items on the menu that they have not carried for at least a month or two. when i've asked the servers what a dish on the menu is, they tell me what the menu says. i can read, i already know that. i want you to "tell" me about the dish. all that aside, they make a good margarita and i like the carne asada though i wish they had chimichurri for it. my companion loves the chile rellenos (even though i think they are store bought.)
(3)
Kasey M.

Love this place....friendly waiters, great patio, authentic food, quality ingredients. Octopus tostada is one of my favorite things in the world. Its an appitizer, and I'm always tempted to just order 2 and call it a night. Fish tacos were unimpressive....bummer. if you feel like a fish taco, however, order the snapper dinner that comes with tortillas and you will be glad you did.
(4)
Rebecca H.

Wow! My husband and I were on our way to a Yelp event and the most convenient meeting point was the Logan Square Blue Line/Diversey Bus stop. We were starving and in a hurry, and you can see this place from the bus/train plaza so we decided to give it a shot. The back patio was really cute, and the food smelled great - we were already getting excited while waiting for the hostess to find us a table. The tables were so close to each other that we could hardly even sit in our chairs without elbowing the people at the tables next to us. (As it turns out, the food at this place is so bad that it wouldn't kill them to remove a table and make some breathing room). We ordered a pitcher of margarita. We were brought chips - and just in time since I was about to starve to death! But the salsa really wasn't very good - quite bland - and after we scarfed down one plate of chips they took away the salsa (I like using it on my entree :( - and I could have eaten another plate of them). At this point, it just felt stingy. I ordered the enchiladas with mole sauce. AWFUL. The mole was sweet and bland and there wasn't much of it. The corn tortillas were dry and the chicken inside was barely seasoned. The mexican rice was worse - it looked like they threw a bag of frozen veggies in the rice and then let it sit all day (the edges of the lima beans (wtf?) were crusty and dry). My husband had a burrito which wasn't half bad. The 2 stars go for his food as I would give it a 0. The service was slow and the people around us that sat after us received their food before us. It took a long time to get our order taken and for the food to show up. The wait staff kept trying to clear our food plates before we were done eating. If you're in such a hurry to get us out of there - man, this place stinks. There's so many good Mexican places in this city, so I see no point in ever going back.
(2)
Lindsey B.

I really liked this place. We came here one night and it was a really nice warm night out so we sat outside in the back. The service was a little strange, the waitress must've been in training because there were two of them. One just watched. She took our order and reconfirmed that she had it right, but I ordered no sour cream and I still got sour cream. Oh well. I ate it anyway. We also ordered a pitcher of margaritas. We figured for $13 it was the right price. Well let me tell you, I was buzzed by the time we left. I only had 2 margaritas! That's always nice! The one thing I found weird was the fly strips. There were those sticky fly strips everywhere and dead flies stuck to them. GROSS!! Also, there was a weird tree back there that had been painted to match the stucco in this weird salmon color. Overall good experience. The food was good eventhough it came with a little extra :) I'll try it again.
(3)
Steve J.

This crappy review is for the margaritas. I'm not sure what's happened here in the past year, but they're getting worse and worse. 22 bucks for a pitcher, a small pitcher that barely filled 3 very small glasses filled to the top with ice, not too mention, the pitcher was half filled with ice. Still, after three very small margaritas, one would expect to feel something. I don't believe there was more than one shot of cheap tequila in the entire pitcher, I felt NOTHING! And it's obviously some store bought mix, not home made, cause it didn't even taste good. If you want a 22 dollar pitcher of bad lime juice, this is your place... I'll still order some tacos for takeout, because they're pretty good, but I'm not going to waste time or money dining there anymore.
(2)
Kim W.

my spirit animal loves their chimichanga burritos. my mascot loves their fish tacos, though.
(3)
Felicia M.

I always go here when I want some really good Mexican food. It super close to my house and right across the street from the Logan Square blue line stop. I love the margaritas and I'm super crazy about the horchata. The food is always delicious. I have never ordered from El Cid and been dissatisfied.
(5)
Joseph R.

I have been going here for 3 + years now and never again. Ordered a large Menudo and the bowl was the size of a small...when I asked about it the girl states that it is the large and it has been like that for a year now. I let it go but in the end of the meal I was really dissatisfied with the dollar amount for a bowl that is not large by any means. When leaving we stopped off at the kitchen and wanted to see the size of the small bowl out of curiosity. (not much bigger then what they serve salsa in) The waitress at this point was walking into the restaurant and questioned us with an attitude and wanted to know if we would like to speak with the owner who was not even around. And don't be fooled by the Thursday sidewalk sign special on draft beer...who runs out of numerous brands of draft beer @ 6pm? If you do please take your sign down...
(1)
Paul S.

Went there a few months ago, and really liked it. Good food, nice staff, good times. The meat was seasoned really nice, not over spiced or salted like some places I have been to. Good drink menu, great location right in the middle of things, and a nice vibe all around make this a good place to hit on your average Friday night. Good times.
(4)
Matt M.

Great Salsa!! The Pico here is really good. I know what you're thinking, really? The Pico? Anyone can make good Pico.. it's true.. good Pico is not difficult, but REALLY GOOD PICO? Now that's something. In addition to having really good salsa, they have good Mojitos and a good fried pork taco plate. The fish tacos are good too. It's not fried fish, it's baked, which is unusual, but better. They also have outdoor seating, but it's across from the bus station.. sooo.... it's loud, but you get to see bus people.. and depending on how many of the mojitos you have had, that could be fun.
(4)
Anita M.

Excellent service here at El Cid! My friends and I came in just for some margaritas and appetizers. The server was really accommodating when I asked to change seating from the bar to the tables once one was available. We took a little longer to decide on the menu since we were waiting for some friends who were meeting us. Turns out they did not come so we finally ordered and not only was our server understanding, I got a free birthday shot when my birthday was mentioned! Great apps and drinks. I look forward to updating about their food next time!
(4)
Shayna N.

Back again for Friday night dinner. Place was packed, service was friendly, margarittas were delicious. Sadly, food was disappointing. Salsa not spicy enough (and tasted like sugar was added?) Encheladas were dry, rice was bland and so were the beans. eh. I would go back for a steak tacos and margaritas the BACK PATIO is awesome but that's about it.
(3)
Maia H.

yay! I'm totally into this place. The last few times I've been there the food has been subpar, but I've also had some great meals there as well. I personally think its the long winter that is drying out the cooking staff, but once warmer days appear, this place's meals can hit the spot right and knock your socks off...the Margaritas are super yummy. I'm looking forward to seeing the outdoor part open up, and the truly exceptional cooks coming back and making me another fine meal.
(4)
Frank W.

One of my friends said that being upstairs reminded him of a sushi restaurant. With electronic music, small tables and dark lighting I guess he had a point. The menu is divided in three with fancier entrees, cheaper texmexish fare, and delicious (at least in our case) appetizers. I went with a steak burrito which was on the cheap side of things at $6.95, but turned out to only be ok. I've had better burritos in NYC. GASP!!! Fortunately, our appetizers (bacon and ham wrapped shrimp and veggie chimichangas with guacamole) were rockin' awesome, and so were our (unfortunately a tad overpriced) organic margaritas. The first round of margaritas were perfectly balanced and full of the taste of delicious fresh lime juice. The second round was oddly stronger which elicited mixed reactions, since it was a weeknight and some were planning to accomplish work of some sort the next day. The service I should mention was very friendly and good, apart from an incident with a fork, and it'll sound more intriguing if I just leave it at that.
(4)
Molly B.

I get cravings for El Cid when I'm home in England or in some other part of the USA... it's those darn mini chimmys. Yum tum tastic! Chips and salsa are delivered as soon as you sit, a MUST for any solid mexican eatery. I like that the level of spicy in the salsa is always an unknown, it adds to the fun. This place has the friendliest staff and those little sweets administered after payment are tasty (mmm grape). Speaking of payment, El Cid is very reasonable.
(4)
Guadalupe E.

props go el cid in logan square went there last night with my sister's and had a great time.the ambiance,good food and excellent service..hightlighting the manger(jana)the mostpleasant you could ever encounter.it had been years since i we ate this restaurant and i was very satisfied..they are best known for their fish taco's in buisness for 18 years keep up the good work.................:) :)
(5)
ryan h.

I've been here twice in the last month. The fish tacos are reeeeaaaalllllllyyyyyy good. They remind me of the Fish Tacos that I was used to eating when growing up in California (Wa-hoo's Fish Tacos anyone?). The staff is really attentive and are just generally nice people. Aside from the good food I think that the best part about this place is the back patio and the live music on Wednesday night. Great place to go on a date or with a group of people. It is definitely worth a trip to Logan Square to check this place out, but please don't go on Wednesdays. . .the back patio is starting to get crowded. Seriously. Please don't go there on Wednesdays.
(4)
Christina L.

The service is fast, the margaritas are big and the food is consistently pretty damned tasty. Not the best taco I've ever had, but I am hard to please in this arena (hence, the four stars). The patio has nice atmosphere during the warmer months, and the upstairs seating area is nice otherwise. Would definitely recommend!
(4)
Marie C.

I stumbled across here one night looking for a late night tapas place and also coming off the train from the blue line. So convenient for after work bite to eat and drink. The food is amazing here. Since then I've come back plenty of times w my mom, daughter, girlfriends etc. The girls all know me & my daughter by name and they give the BEST service. Margaritas are on point and I LOVE the Chicken Breast dinner and the Pinchos de Pollo. My fave spot in Logan Square to eat :)
(5)
Kathy P.

Meh. My veggie burrito was not what I would consider muy espectacular. It didn't help that I had to wait for an hour (What do you have to cook for a veggie burrito? Isn't it just wrap and roll?) or that they forgot the guacamole. Service was very friendly, but friendly only goes so far when you are doubled over with hunger cramps. Chicagoans are fortunate to have a plethora of exquisite Mexican restaurants to choose from, from holes in the wall to fine dining, so don't waste your time at El Cid.
(2)
Saira C.

This was the grossest food I can ever remember eating in Chicago while expecting something at least mediocre. The margaritas are okay, but nothing to write home about. I had chicken quesadillas...nothing tricky, I just wanted something easy to take home and reheat. That chicken was all yellow and covered in black spots. Not to mention dry. It was 9 bones for rotten chicken and a really small amount of cheese then three inches or so of tortilla. And thank god for that because it was all I could eat. My friend got the empanadas. She took a bite and left the rest. For real I NEVER complain, but this was straight gross. Not even coming from a 4am burrito place. Sick. Worst food ever.
(1)
Michael F.

You can choose between four distinct dining areas at El Cid. You can people watch those going to and from the Logan Square blue line on the sidewalk cafe. You can go the large outdoor area in the back. You can eat in the normal indoor dining area on the first floor, or you can go up to the modern, sleek upstairs bar/dining area. The food is good; I would recommend the fish tacos. The service is excellent, but the one drawback is that the margaritas are a bit weak.
(4)
Elaina B.

Oh yum! Margaritas on a Friday night right on the patio. This is a great spot to meet with friends and share stories over a couple of margaritas & super tasty food. The service is great and the food is good. The salsa is the right kind of picante. I'll definitely be coming here again to try their other dishes but if you're looking for a relaxed vibe with good service & drinks, this is your place.
(4)
Stef B.

OMG I had no idea this place had a beer garden! We stopped in yesterday for burritos and a few drinks outside. We were all psyched to sit out front at a little table and enjoy it... and then they walked us to the back. We were in AWE!! It was serene, cute and spacious. We now know where we are frequenting this summer, and we're totally psyched about it being so close. Check it out!
(5)
Big R.

This place is ALMOST as bad as the EL CID on milwaukee next to Congress. ALMOST. The food is not very good, the salsa is like tomato sauce. No kick whatsoever. The portions are smaller than many other places, and the service often leaves a bit to be desired. And, yet, it's always packed at night and on weekends just because they have a good location and out door seating. What a shame.
(2)
Lorie M.

Okay... I have hesitated on my review. I have been going to El Cid for over two years. Living very close to this restuarant, I felt a certain sense of obligation to give it a really fair chance. They have worked so hard on updating the restaurant which has turned out nicely. Unfortunately... the quality of their food has declined as the atmosphere has improved. Last week was my last visit to El Cid... unless I just go for chips and a margarita. My friend and I always order the steak flautas. For the last 4-5 visits the meat has been chewy, fatty and overcooked. The guacamole that they put on the side is good. The rice tastes stale. The service has always been just fine. The food is just below average for an above average price. My new place is Zacatecas at the corner of Richmond & Diversey. Not as hip as El Cid, but better food. Flautas are excellent!
(2)
Riley C.

Fish Tacos. Margarita. Repeat.
(4)
shoshana r.

Towards the back of El Cid, on the first floor, on the wall of the hallway across from the bathroom, there is a framed piece of paper. Upon this paper is written a love letter to El Cid. I did not write this letter, as I am not a five year old girl, but it encapsulates everything I love about my favorite Logan Square Mexican joint. Unfortunately, I can't remember the text verbatim because I was a little tipsy from their stellar margaritas, but it went something like this: "oh my goodness El Cid is soooooooooo good, I love the burritos and the servers and the patio and the music and did I mention the food and sometimes I think El Cid is made of unicorns and puppies and happiness." Little girl, you are correct. El Cid is indeed made of unicorns and puppies and happiness. And in seventeen years or so, you'll also see that it is made of sweet, sweet liquor.
(4)
Lee B.

The reason this place even merits going to is because of strong drinks and a nice back patio for warm summer nights. Otherwise, the food is pretty bad. Both my food and my wife's came out room temperature and my combo fajitas had rather shrivelled, sickly looking, flavorless meat. If you want good Mexican food stay away from this place and go to a more authentic place such as Tecalitlan in West Town. The prices aren't even cheap, and the portions are nothing to write home about.
(2)
josie w.

Probably the most expensive buritto in chicago-you know those frozen burritos you buy at Jewel? Ok not the 99 cent ones but the $2.50 ones? That's what you get for $6.95 here...
(2)
Kristin D.

With the patio and the newly remodeled upstairs, I can honestly say this place is a destination regardless of it's convenience. Their Pico de Gallo has always been fantastic, and they've made some menu changes that make it pretty above average. The price is right, and the staff are generally cool. Might not be worth venturing into the cold to go to, but on a beautiful night, take a walk and grab a margarita on the patio. You won't hate yourself.
(4)
Kymberlee Kaye R.

El Cid is the most AMAZING summer spot! It is a hidden gem and we LOVE going there on a warm summer night. Their guacamole is to die for their mojitos are fabulous!!!!
(5)
Christel A.

Well not much more to add to the 300 other posts... chips & salsa + tacos (chicken and fish!) + patio are the way to go. About 12 bucks a person (includes one drink). Delic!
(4)
Anna B.

Always liked el Cid, very close by and convenient. The food is tasty and well priced. The margaritas are excellent! Never had any complaint until recently. They have opened an upstairs section, (was a good idea since they were often buisy), but now it's very chaotic as far as service goes between the floors. We showed up a few times and the staff was in the middle of re-arranging for a large group. It took 4 wait staff to do this. One did the work and the other 3 watched. More chaos and confusion. This went on for 15-20mins until they noticed that we were waiting, then sent us upstairs, where we waited again for awhile the confused and dazed wait staff to find us a seat. It felt like waiting in the middle of a very busy intersection. Same story the next time we went there, although the food came out fast. This makes it hard to come back. Food is great, but they need to get their act together with the expansion.
(4)
Robin W.

Average. The guacamole is pretty good and the lime margaritas were tasty, but I know there has to be better Mexican food in Logan Square. My fajita dinner was just eh. I've made better fajitas myself at home! The service was really good though. Overall I don't see myself running back here. Way too many other places to try!
(3)
Angie M.

It's ALL about the patio, folks. Everything else about El Cid is mediocre all the way. So the patio: It's a little urban oasis in Logan Square. It sits in the back yard of El Cid. Adorable little tables, greenery, cozy, comfortable. It's really the best place to sit back and have a cocktail and a taco. Everything else? Nothing special. The ritas are sugary sweet and more than likely come from a bottled mix. You'll have to work pretty hard to get hammered off of these babies. You're probably better off ordering Coronas. The menu is just ok, too. You'll see all your standard Tex-Mex favorites and not much else. I was not wowed by my food, but I also wasn't completely turned off. Unexciting, but certainly not offensive. The one thing that was good was the steak taco filling had that nice, kind of crispy sear on the meat. The one thing that was bad was the table salsas really aren't palatable. The pico de gallo is way sweet for some weird reason and the green salsa is just boring. I suppose it helps cut back drastically on your pre-dinner chips and salsa consumption. So why the 4 stars, Ang? Well, it's all about the ambiance. I like sitting on a patio and feeling fabulous, even if the food is boring.
(4)
Shauna D.

What's better than a nice patio on a summer afternoon? One that is not out on a sidewalk, but hidden away!! Yes they do have outdoor seating out in front, but they also have a really great patio area in back that I have never had a problem being seated at right away. I have had better margaritas, these taste like the pre-mixed stuff. The food is ok, not bad, but it doesn't inspire any kind of "I need to go back and get that again" cravings. Service has been hit or miss. There are times when not only our server was attentive, but the owner made the rounds and talked with everyone. Unfortunately it hasn't been that consistent. If you aren't picky about authenticity, and you aren't looking for gourmet adventurous twists on old favorites, El Cid does deliver on portion size and price.
(3)
Steve F.

I've been here only for lunch, on a couple of occasions while visiting a friend who lives nearby. He eats here regularly. Service is mixed. Food is okay (meat not the highest quality), portions are ample, including fresh-squeeze orange juice. If you're hungry, but not terribly picky, this is your place.
(3)
Sheri F.

I have been here multiple times over the years since it's close to my church. My favorite ismthe nachos with chorizo. Now im a huge chorizo fan and not everyone's chorizo is good but I really like theirs. I've also had the steak chimichunga, tostads with chorizo, steak, and chicken, and also their rice and beans. Their entrees are really good. Very cheesy and flavorful. The horchata is also very good. The place is bi-level. I prefer the upstairs level.
(4)
Jakob E.

Went here a while back, and thought the place is great, but I was back today and wasnt impressed with the size of the portions and the overall taste. Its now just ok, and i wouldn't recommended it as a first choice.
(3)
Zoby S.

I've been going to El Cid since they were a hole in the wall down the block from Congress Theatre. This location opened up and I started going with my family. Not bad, decent and reasonably priced. However, a recent lunch experience left me sticker shocked. A carne asada for $18.95 with a sliver of retried beans and stale day old rice. No salad - I had to ask for it & waitress told me "new menu" but brought me a little plate with 3 mushy tomatoes and lettuce that was not dressed. I didn't bother asking for oil & vinegar. Didn't want to push my luck with the "new menu". Now to the carne asada which was the D list star of the plate. Is Bland a new seasoning they are trying out. El Cid - thanks for the memories but I won't be going back.
(1)
Bryan C.

I mean, this place deserves five stars on its space alone. The outdoor back patio is amazing. Especially with a live band, authentic tacos, and a delicious pitcher of margaritas. The service was excellent. Everyone was happy and friendly. This will definitely be my new go-to-margs-and-guac joint. The food was great, the drinks were great, it was cheap, I love everything that happens in Logan Square. That is all. Happy Cinco de Mayo.
(5)
Nykol T.

So it's finally summer and my chance to try out that patio... I was a tad disappointed. The patio itself was fine - don't get me wrong - but the service was so very slow. My friend and I came in on a beautiful Sunday afternoon looking for a quick drink (the morning after his 21st birthday, mind you). We were right down the street when I remembered what a delight El Cid is. We went back to the patio and were instructed to pick any table. After sitting at a somewhat clean table in the back, we waited for a considerable amount of time to be greeted. It didn't look crazy busy... But I usually give the benefit of the doubt. After finally receiving some menus, waiting another 15 minutes for a different server to come buy, we ordered two bloodies. I let her know we were just there for a quick drink. After that, we had to have been waiting for about 25-30 minutes before the drinks came. I was pretty bummed; I was thinking maybe they forgot about us. I even overheard the two servers apologizing to other tables about some type of confusion... So I assume something had to be going on. Who's to say... Anyway, I had to knock a star off from my previous review. I will still come back though, the drinks were good and cheap.
(4)
Alex N.

Prices have nearly doubled, but food quality is getting worse. Just went to El Cid since it's conveniently near me in Logan Square and ordered my usual burrito. The burrito's never been particularly good, nor awful either, but I'd buy it because it was $6, which seemed about right for what you get. This time, I was surprised to find that despite the website still advertising a $6 burrito, when I arrived, they charged me $10! Not only is it poor form to advertise one price online, then charge another in person, but this was no $10 burrito. This one was cold and a lot more shell than filling. A notch above Taco Bell, but it's no L'Patron, Big Star, or even Chipotle for that matter. Sad to see this place deteriorate, but it's not what it used to be. And with so many better options in Logan Square, I won't be ordering from here again.
(1)
Migzie S.

This place has gone down hill a lot! I was here with a few of my friends and we had the worst service. The waitresses here are rude and try very hard to up sell on food that you don't even want. Let's try this, can I please have my glass of water filled first when it is empty? I never knew that you had to request those sorts of things especially when there are two behind the registers talking to each other. The food was greasy, bland and way over priced for the lack of quality that you get. We didn't even dare to order any drinks at that point. To top it off for the bill, I wanted to break a 10 into 2 fives for the bill and a tip. They said it was not something that they do. Just another reason I guess to carry exact change. I really use to love coming here but never again. I had experienced cold food and food that had wood chips from the grill in my eggs. I thought it was just because the place was having a bad day. Guess that's just how it is. The only thing working for them is their location. Never going there again. Girls night can happen somewhere else. This place is not even worth any stars or being on the map for that matter.
(1)
Dustin G.

My husband and I were bumming around Logan Square when we came upon El Cid 2. He used to eat there five years ago when he lived in the neighborhood so we decided to pay them a visit. We sat out back on their patio under the trees. It was nicely cool on a hot day. We got a pitcher of tamarindo margaritas and that really hit the spot. I ordered the fish tacos and hubby had the steak burrito. The tacos were fresh and delicious. I wouldn't call them amazing, but I would order them again. The steak burrito was amazing. I've never had steak that tasted to fresh and well-seasoned in a burrito. Next time I think I'll order that. I would definitely recommend anyone try this place the next time you're in Logan Square. The prices are really low for lunch and dinner.
(4)
Susy R.

We go here once a month. At least. I love the platano enchiladas with green tomatillo sauce. My husband always gets the steak. Consistently great food. Service is exceptional on the weekend. We went once during the week and were ignored but we've always had a Great fine besides that ONE incident. The a symmetrical hair cut waitress (fabulous cut) is our fav!!!!
(5)
Stephanie G.

This place is great for lunch, they are fast and the food is fresh and delicious! I had grilled fish tacos. There were three of them, don't forget to squeeze lime on them! They were just what I needed - healthy tasting mexican food. The server was prompt and attentive. El Cid, you rock!
(5)
Amy M.

So, my ladies and I hit up El Cid last night for dinner. I love me some mexican, so I was hoping to have my mind blown (something that has really yet to happen with Chicago mexican food). Eh. It's pretty gringo food, but it was decent. Fish tacos were okay (I've had better) and I was not impressed with the margaritas at all. Where is the great Mexican in Chicago?
(3)
Alex T.

Ordered two dishes with the lady. The recommended fish tacos were tastless but the nachos were pretty good. Nice outdoor seating might make it better for happy hour margaritas instead of dinner.
(3)
Kelsey K.

We rode our bikes over here in search of fish tacos and margs and we found them! My husband hasn't spent any time in Logan Square despite living here for the last 5 years, so now he gets it. ALTHOUGH, I would really love to give it 3 1/2 stars, but that's not an option. I'll give it 3 since Danielle gave it 4 so it all works out. The long and short of it is that it's WAY better than the taco places on Western and the margaritas are legit. We had a great time here and we'll definitely be back, I just don't know that I'd run to bring guests here.
(3)
Amanda F.

I came here with my friend and my dog - they allowed my dog on the patio - ALWAYS a plus when they do that! I didn't get to sit on the back patio though (no dogs allowed back there) but I looked at it and it's very cute, definitely want to go back and sit back there! The margaritas here are great!! (Kind of pricey in my mind, I believe the basic one was $10) - so I thought that was a little steep, but it was good! I got chicken tacos, they were decent. All in all it was a fun experience but I thought it was a tad over priced for Mexican food. For two people (with two margaritas) our bill was almost $50, which I thought was very high for what we ordered). But it was good and I will probably be back at some time!
(3)
Ramona Z.

Great food and great service!
(5)
Erika G.

Pretty good Mexican. I had the skirt steak, which was a bit overdone. Also had a raspberry margarita, because apparently my drink choices default to "sorority girl" when confronted with a bunch of fruit flavors and Tequila. I think this place would be better when it's warm, and the outdoor patio is in effect. In the colder months, it's simply another pretty good Mexican joint.
(2)
Kensey W.

yet another place tried just because of the wait at longman. some friends and i came here after putting our names in and it was pretty good! we got the fish tacos and regular steak tacos and they were both really good. the fish taco is as good as everyone says - get it! it's juicy and squishy and hot, just the way you want it to be. this is coming from someone who usually doesn't enjoy cooked fish. the other taco was normal in a way that was also good. on a whim, we got margaritas and a pina colada too. i had never had a pina colada with booze in it since i try to avoid sweet boozey drinks, but it was pretty good. i tried my friend's margarita, and it didn't make me gag, which is the most i can say for anything with tequila in it. the chips and salsa are really good, and the salsa verde is notable. i told myself i wasn't going to eat a bunch of chips (to save room for the main event) but it didn't work out because the salsa verde was too addicting. three of us were downstairs in a booth when two other friends decided to join us. we started pulling up a chair for our fifth person but the people working ran over and told us we couldn't move the chairs in a really panicked way. not sure what that was all about - maybe they had just gotten some kind of fire code violation thing for something similar? that was a real turnoff since we then had to squish into the booth we were already in. an explanation would have been nice. overall, the service was okay and the most of the food was fine. good for decent cheap snacks, and definitely better than the place next door for waiting.
(3)
Mathew J.

Some of the worst Mexican food I have had in the city, just so bland tasting. Overpriced and with no flare or love at all, school dinner quality. The Margaritas were awful, truly tasteless, the service was fine and we got a table when every restaurant in the city seemed rammed, which should have been a warning, we were lazy and should have gone to a fav place, we will NEVER return here. The Fajitas were terrible, plastic plates, no dressings or green stuff anywhere! For 3 people out check was $65 but we wanted to pay $20!!!!
(2)
Lisa M.

I came here at midnight with 3 friends last night since we wanted a little snack and this is my friend's favorite Logan square Mexican place. The downstairs section was completely empty and we were invited to sit anywhere upstairs or outside. We chose upstairs since we were concerned it might get a little cold outside. Our waitress described herself as "fried" after a long day, which we could understand since it was st Patrick's day, and we appreciated that she was upfront with us. We ordered drinks (sangria and mango margaritas), and they took longer to arrive than we would have liked, but she stopped by to let us know the delay was because they had run out of sangria and were getting more. We all liked the drinks, and since we'd gotten the smaller size (still decently sized), they were only $4.75 each. We also order some snacks - I got one mini steak enchilada with mole sauce (only $2 and super delicious!) and one chicken taco (only $1.95). Both were kind of small as you'd expect for the price and if I were there again, I'd skip the tacos and go with enchiladas instead since they were covered in cheesy goodness and the taco just wasn't as exciting, although the chicken was juicy and flavorful. After we all told the waitress our orders, she repeated it back to us to make sure she'd gotten it right (we wondered why she didn't just write it down). When the food arrived, the order was correct except my one friend received a steal instead of chicken taco. When she told the waitress, she immediately took it back and brought the correct taco out soon. There were, of course, free chips and salsa. They brought out two kinds of salsa, pico de gallo and some green sauce. I only ate the pico de gallo since I'm not into spicy things, and even that was a little spicy for me, but everyone else seemed to like the salsas, especially the green one. My other friend got a tostada and it was pretty much the same size as the tacos but on a hard shell rather than soft tortilla and it also had refried beans, cheese, lettuce, and tomato while the tacos only had meat, onions, and cilantro. The tostada cost $3.50 or $3.75 or something like that. Overall it was good food for a good price. And it was a nice environment to sit in an easy for us to talk since it wasn't super crowded. The full dinners cost what you'd expect ($8-12 on average) but its seems like an even better place for a late night snack/drink. I'd go back here for sangria or a margarita and enchiladas if I were in the area.
(4)
Michelle D.

My first time here. A few advices: Great Lime Margarita, great traditional taco. FANTASTIC salsa comes free with chips to each table. Wouldn't recommend the tamales, but lovely service and fun ambiance.
(4)
Rebel R.

The patio and margarita pitchers make for a good time. I don't like the steak here - so now I stick to chicken. Tacos. Can't go wrong with tacos.
(3)
Jackie P.

Yummy yummy in my tummy! Since I was craving Mexican food and we had to take a walk anyway someone suggested that I would like El Cid and I liked it very much! Sooo yummy, soo good! I got the nachos with beef, beans, and quac. super yumm-o! The pate was huge! I was afraid I wouldn't even make a dent in the actually meal but Actually as I sit here and write this review my mouth is watering! I wish this place was closer to me because I would frequent it every chance I get. But alas I will have to wait for the next time I am in L Square to get some El Cid.
(4)
Mel D.

I have been to El Cid twice now and I wanted to throw up a review so that others can go enjoy this place! The first time I went there I wanted to sit outside but it was a little too chilly out so I was able to go back the other day and sit out back and it was perfect! Both times I shared a few pitchers of lime margaritas (yummmm!) $22 will get you a pitcher which I think is just fine, you can actually taste the tequila and lime, unlike some places that will charge you $30 and you do not feel like you are even drinking alcohol. The first time I went we shared chips and guac and I got the steak flautas for my entree. Sooo good. The second time I went we shared chips and guac and some appetizers....again, I cannot complain about the food. The first time the service was terrible, as our server was not attentive and I had to look around for her and even though other servers could tell that I was searching for my server, they did not stop to ask if I needed anything or to let her know I was looking, which I thought was rude. The second experience was much better and our server was very attentive. The second time around, the manager stopped by our table to check on us and chat for a few minutes. She was SOOO friendly and welcoming, it made the experience. It just shows more hospitality and that they actually care about their customers and I appreciate that. If you want yummy food and drinks and lets talk about this back patio for a second...AMAZING! You feel like you stepped out of the city for a minute, its relaxing back there and I definitely would go back for the outdoor space.
(4)
John W.

U
(4)
Alpha P.

One f the best fish tacos. Veggie taco salad were great but recently is getting smaller and smaller - disappointing. Decent chicken fajitas. Friendly service and life music on Wednesday. One of the best spots in Logan Square. But please -don't mess with Taco Salad. Last time it was my biggest disappointment.
(4)
C. P.

I've been here a few times now, their food and drinks are sub par - good - not spectacular.... But to be quite honest its the atmosphere on the second floor and the kind hospitality that keeps me coming back - they've got a great staff.
(3)
Angelica S.

Yummy Margaritas! Seriously, so good! The food here is pretty good. The nachos are probably one of my favorites I have ever had. It's a big plate so it is a great dish to split between people. The dinner courses are big too. I had the fish tacos, they come with a ride of rice and beans. All very tasty. Service is great too. Very friendly. The back court yard is a nice place to sit, most people are out there. Inside is meh looking. But the outside is pretty cool. Will have to come back again.
(4)
Angie D.

I love this place. I've been here a few times, and decided to have them cater my event that I held at home. I worked with Jose, and he was phenomenal!! Very attentive, and helped plan an awesome menu. All of my guest raved about how great the food was!! You've got to give this place a try! I'm definitely a fan!
(5)
Johnny R.

Short: Great Mexican place for those eaters who need 'mericanized Mexican food because they have kids who won't eat anything experimental. Long: I'm guessing it's pretty difficult to go out to eat with me, my poor lovely wife. My suffering friends. I'm a foodie. I want authentic everything. I don't want Americanized anything. I want salsa with obscure ingredients, little old ladies with visible gold teeth making my food, serving it, or double bonus points, making and serving my food. I like the restaurants that are filled with folks of that given nationality... Mexican, Korean, etc. And being from the East coast, which I constantly remind people even though I moved here in the late 80's, I of course only like thin crust pizza from a select few places (3 actually in all of Chicagoland if you were wondering), none of which deliver to my house. But I also have two kids under the age of 7. My kids don't seem to very picky about where we eat, so long as they can either have (a) a kiddy cocktail, (b) crayons and something to color on, and/or (c) desert they are happy. Hitherto this has limited my options. I've done what I can to introduce edgier places but they don't like it when I bring my own crayons. Congratulations El Cid, you guys made the cut, I like your food and my kids did too. Watching my youngest happily work his way through some cheese quesadillas and a plateful of refried beans made me almost tear up... I now have a Mexican place that the crew likes. I liked the steak fajitas, a very safe choice, but resolve to try other items on the menu next time. I'll try to signal my desire for the real experience, you know, something much spicier and funky, preferably served by a surly grandma who pretends not to understand English even though she's been here since the 70's. But for now, huzzah! Your upstairs is nicely appointed. My inner foodie in me yearned for rickety tables and faded linoleum, but my outer dad in me silently applauded. My wife liked it too. She's not a fan of places that proudly display gas station calenders, eating while sitting next to a gray-haired grandmama darning socks. So we'll work on this, we've got something going here. I'll be back, along with the picky brothers. I'll ignore the 30 something hipsters who were sitting at an adjacent table wearing matching flannel. I'll instead savor the opportunity to dine out and have Mexican food again, it's been way too long. Perhaps we can talk about El Milagro in Pilsen and a few ideas I have for my next meal. Can I call you? Gracias.
(4)
Shannyn A.

Free chips and salsa when you dine in which seems to be a rarity in Chicago... If you get chips the salsa isn't great but here you hot green salsa and pico de gallo. If you're in the neighborhood it's across the street from Logan Square blue line and is decent though it's not one I would go out of my way for again but perhaps I just didnt order the right thing?
(3)
Jessica G.

NO. The only thing this place has going on for it is the patio. I went for a birthday party and enjoyed the outdoor seating. Unfortunately our waiter spilled his tray on me and I was soaked with water for the majority of our meal. I was given a small apology. Accidents happen but at least comp a girl a drink or something. My tacos de papas were gross and bland. The margaritas were blah and were obviously made from a mix. Not ok. Ever. Too bad.
(1)
Alex Z.

I went here for an event here. It was a clean decent looking venue and the food was okay. I ordered the fish tacos and besides a very small skinny fishbone that you could easily find in any fish fillet the tacos were pretty good. The service here is what killed the venue for me though. I had my food at the bar and I ordered the fish taco dinner. I had one of three tacos left and ate most of the rice but while I had my back turned mingling with people at the event, they took my food away. When I found out, I notified the waitress. She kindly said she would get me another taco. I was not upset because it was an honest mistake, but they definitely should at least get me a new taco. The manager came out and said that they couldn't get me a taco but they could get me a some more of the free salsa chips. I told her that I didn't like chips and salsa and that all I'm asking is for her to replace the one taco that her staff took away no need for the rice and beans. (They did sell tacos individually). She was hesitant but was eventually convinced and told me she would replace it. However, they never did replace my taco. I wasn't going to argue too much over a tiny taco but, needless to say I did not leave a tip if they were not going to correct their errors. I did not mind the mistake they made, but not addressing and taking responsibility for meliorating it really downgrades the quality of the venue.
(2)
Dan G.

Decent Mexican fare. Can't go wrong with a pitcher of margaritas here either. My favorite dish is the fried catfish. Served whole with beans and rice. It comes out tender and fried perfectly. The skin stays nice and crispy and since it is whole you can freak people out by using the fish head as a puppet. I would say everything else on the menu is a 3 star. Tacos are good but nothing to go out of your way for. The staff is friendly and the upstairs lounge and the patio are cool spots. Not a bad spot for a date.
(3)
Geoffrey E.

A pretty mediocre Mexican restaurant. The food is nothing special, the margaritas are very sweet, probably one of my last restaurant choices in the neighborhood. The service is usually good and friendly. I'd recommend walking up Milwaukee another block to Cafe con Leche, where the flavors are much bolder and their salsas are much better.
(2)
Kevin B.

This place has RATS, and the owners better not say they don't! We were eating outside and i thought a cat was under my table, well it was a RAT! The next table screamed and everyone got up. The serves said sorry and they been having a problem lately??? Really?? They even started to laugh and just shrugged their shoulders. i can only imagine what the kitchen looks like
(1)
Lauren M.

A solid 3 stars. 3.5, I think. Things I suggest: The camarones rellenos are my favorite in heart attack classics: shrimp with a hint of mozzerella cheese wrapped in ham and then bacon. They could lose the ham though, who need that leaner meat? Any general steak taco. Friendly wait staff. Comfortable seating room always whether inside or out back. The food is on the blander/salty sensibility but I prefer my food more neutral in that sense. Not cheap for Mexican but not a rip off by any means. It's a good place if you're a drinker but for someone like me who prefers a good coffee or something, just stick with water.
(3)
Quetzalli C.

I've been here quite a few times and I must say that I am a fan for sure. Their margaritas have never let me down, the lime one is always a favorite and the tamarind flavored one is very delicious. The food here has never missed its mark either. The only complaint I have is the fact that I've had a blunder or two when it came with the waitress and my bill (over charged or got the order wrong), but everything was sorted out quickly and amicably. Also, Free wi-fi! My friend is in love with their steak fajitas and thinks its the best ever. The mini chimichanga appetizer is always something I have to order. They are also very accommodating when it it comes to vegetarians, if there is something on the menu that you'd prefer without meat they'd be glad to do it. I've also had friends order off menu (a bunch of plain quesadillas) before and they were flexible enough to do that. Their first floor is your average mexican restaurant and when the weather is warm they have a front and back patio. But if you'd like to take it up a notch you should try their second floor. It's a little more intimate and when I recently went, they had a live trio playing some nice jazzy/hispanic music. Although it was just me and my friend going out for some drinks, I definitely enjoyed the atmosphere and would love to return with a date.
(4)
Roxana B.

Decided to go out for some drinks on their patio on a Friday night, the place was OK but when I seen a rat run across my table it was time to go! Luckily I only ordered a Margarita which was just OK nothing special. Save your time and money not worth it.
(1)
Valerie S.

I went to El Cid as part of a recent stay in Chicago, when I said that I wanted good Mexcian in the Humboldt/Lincoln Square areas. The friend I was staying with recommended El Cid, and sitting out in their back garden, we share a good dinner and conversation over margaritas. Never a bad evening in that. El Cid's menu was varied and offered some unique choices that made it distinct in my mind, particularly the sauce on their enchilada. The margaritas were good and arrived quickly, which is always a good thing. The menu was a bit on the high end of my restaurant scale (if I remember correctly), but not unusual for the area. I would most recommend that if you are going, you attempt to sit in the back, under the lights and sky. There, the food feels fresher, complimented by the cool air (well, only some days in Chicago). In that sense, they create a great experience that goes with good food.
(4)
Danielle M.

A little disappointed with my recent trip here. I used to go more frequently a few years ago but it's been at least 2 years since I last went. Went on a random mid Saturday afternoon and got seated immediately in the back patio. Service was quick. Love their chips and salsa so that's a plus. The waitress was nice enough. Big negative for me: went there immediately looked at back menu which had the 1/4 chicken served with rice/beans. Tortillas the whole fixings. Got deal and was dead set on that (was a previous favorite) as I went to order the waitress informed me that they don't do the whole chicken dish or any of the sandwiches anymore on the back menu. Unaware I asked how long ago they changed that. She informed me they changed it over a year ago. Though I did not say it but my question is.... Than why is it still included on the menu? Or at least inform me prior to ordering what things are not available. Hence my 3 stars. The tacos we ordered were good but was disappointed with that. May come back but I can't be sure.
(3)
Mike M.

This might be my favorite Mexican restaurant in Chicago. The Margaritas are out of control delicious (in addition to the staple Lime on the rocks, frozen mango or tamarind will rock your world) and the environment on the back porch is truly transformational. Signs remind you to take a load off and loosen up, something we all need living here in the cold concrete of Chicago. The inside is nice and cozy too, they also have an upstairs area that is more loung-y nice for groups. Let me also recommend going hungry and ordering the Tampiquena, which is not, tan pequena. A delicious skirt steak with a cheese enchilada on top, rice and beans, guacamole, and veggie salad. If you can finish this AND an appetizer of their great guacamole, then you're a freakin' maniac.
(5)
Brent W.

So my son's bestie chose this spot for a long overdue meetup b/t the two kiddos, very happy she did. They have a pretty great patio out back and really the only issue I had about the whole experience were the flies that were a bit pervasive at times. Apart from that, the food, quality, price, value, atmo etc were all good. If you like quality shrimp I suggest you get the basic Shrimp Tostada. Basic in price at around $4 but you get a ton of fresh shrimp plus avocado, LTO, beans and a kicked up sauce that rounds out the dish nicely. Also had the chicken tamale which I liked, but was a bit dry. Adult #2 had the Tamales as well and the kids had chicken tacos. Plates clean, satisfaction was the overall consensus. Comp chips come with a sweet pico and spicy verde the latter being my preference. [x] will be back
(4)
Jason B.

I've been to El Cid over 100 times through the past 5 years. You can count on El Cid to be extremely consistent and delicious at a fair price. Recommendations: Enchiladas Suizas Red/Green sauce Combo Platter Vegetarian Chimichangas Mojito Strawberry Margarita
(5)
Megan T.

Killer nachos, not so killer fish tacos. Super fast service and nice staff. We will probably be back to sit out on the patio again.
(3)
Rosa C.

I came here as a kid, but since kids don't know crap about food, I decided to come again as an adult. The food was pretty good, the tacos were fine, not great. I really did enjoy their mango margaritas, extremely refreshing for a hot summer day! I will come here again because it has a nice vibe to it, and I do love their outdoor patio. Lastly, the service was good, not amazing. It was difficult to get the attention of our waitress a couple of times. but the meal came out at a decent time.
(4)
Stacey H.

When you walk up to El Cid, it seems like any other restaurant from the outside off of a busy street. As you walk down the sidewalk to the back patio, it seems like you have left Chicago and entered into a diff world. What a great outside patio area!! The food is consistently good...not the best Mexican, but good quality and good service. During the cold months, I recommend sitting upstairs as it is a more cozy atmosphere with a fireplace and seating.
(3)
Claudia S.

I come back because of Elizabeth! Ok ok...I come back because their margaritas are delicious and the staff is great. Discovered this place a few years ago and my friend and I would go in several times a week. The staff recognizes us and have always been super sweet. They have an outdoor patio and space in the front. The upstairs was closed, not sure if it's opened back up, but when it does....GO UPSTAIRS! It's really nice up there, though the machine for margaritas is different and we always had to have them blended twice, but, the staff has always been great about it. It is a little pricey, and it's more Americanized than I'd like to admit, but, it's still tasty. Honestly though, I go here for drinks with friends in summer frequently just because we like the staff and the patio. When the back isn't open it can get crowded and standing around waiting for a table can be a little awkward as the inside isn't huge, but it's a nice place.
(5)
Carolin C.

I've been here before. I've really enjoyed the patio. However my meal today tasted like day old rice. Our veggie taco and toatadas were all rice and almost no beans. Just not flavorful at all. Extremely disappointed.
(1)
Celeste P.

I moved to Logan Square about ten years ago, I used to go to El Cid frequently. Really my favorite Mexican spot around, it was close, clean, friendly, cheap. Since their upgrades and renovations, the prices have gone up, they do not offer unlimited chips and salsa-- so if you have a party of two, and two more people join you later, they will not bring more chips to the table. It'll cost you a couple bucks just for that little basket. The veggie burrito isn't worth the $7 or $8 whatever the price is now. I ordered an horchata and turns out it was a dollar more than listed on the menu. The atmosphere is nicer now that they have renovated, they have the outdoor seating, but maybe to make an extra buck they've skimped on quality of the food. The wait staff is nice and the ones who have I've interacted with have been there a while. They just don't seem to have the experience to be a great wait staff in the type of restaurant they're changing themselves into being. It pains me to say it, but I don't want to go there anymore. There is far better service, bottomless chips and salsa, cheaper horchata, and fresher/inexpensive burritos in many, many other authentic places in Logan Square. Go to one of those places instead.
(2)
Angelica E.

I've been in this neighborhood for over 2 years and I finally checked this place out! Yes I know terrible! I really like this spot alot! The food is great! Downstairs its kinda dark but upstairs I really love! Its bright, optional seating at the bar, table, or lounge around by the fireplace (great for those cold nights!).
(4)
Jacqueline P.

I love the ambience of this place. The food is decently priced and their complimentary salsa is on point. Tons of seating. I had a torta AND steak sope. Both dishes are old reliables but don't fix it if it ain't broke. New fave
(5)
Kat L.

Came by for lunch-- we were in the area. It is a bit pricier for Mexican food than I'm used to. So i was hoping that they'd really execute on the delivery. Chips n salsa appetizer. Salsa two ways. The tomato salsa was really good and juicy. But oh man did it have a spicy kick! I had to lay off a little. I love salsa verde. But their take on this one was a little bland for me. Didn't taste like much. Very little heat. The tomato salsa was great to add in for the fish tacos I opted for. I guess the fish tacos are the rave here.... and yes, they were yum. Not melt in your mouth or mind-blowing. But good. I added avocado ($1) as an extra on the side. I think these really saved it. Beans were good, not killed with cheese. Rice was good too. These guys add in a lot of extra veggies and beans into the rice, which i thought was great. Seemed a bit more authentic and made it more than just plain "rice n beans." Horchata was okay. Overall. Everything was A. O-Kay. I'd still say better than any hole-in-the-wall joint. Better than TBK. But not really worth what these guys are charging. My taco plate dinner was $10. I'm usually satisfied by my typical $5 torta.... after taking the dive, I don't think the $5 extra was really worth it. Maybe some people like this place more because of their drinks menu.... i dunno.
(3)
Philly G.

Nice back patio. Food, drinks and service were good. I'd definitely go back
(4)
Amy H.

The backyard patio still rocks. Everything else does not. I brought a friend from out of town here to chit-chat and share a pitcher of Bud Light. I thought "how can they screw up Bud Light?!" They did. It tasted stale. Very stale. We choked it down anyway and both paid the price with tummy aches. I love the patio, but I always have to stock up on pepto before I go to El Cid 2.
(3)
nicole m.

Hol-ay Mol-ay. Arguably, I had the best steak that I've ever had in my life last night. I ordered the skirt steak on top of which was placed two cheese enchiladas covered with mole sauce and cheese. Words will not do it justice...I will just say that it was cooked (medium rare) and seasoned to perfection. My partner ordered the flautas, and while he didn't experience a taste-gasm like I did (although he did when he tried the steak), he was very satisfied with his dish. The service was very good as well. Our server was attentive without looming, and very friendly. Highly recommend!
(5)
Sabine K.

It was a nice night, we just got done watching a movie across the street, and were feeling peckish. I'd passed this place plenty of times before, but my Mexican roommate had warned me to stay away - he called it "white people mexican" so I'd avoided it. But we were feeling saucy tonight, so we stopped in. And thank god we did! Turns OUT, El Cid has a back patio! That I can describe as nothing less than magical! There were plenty of people, we got seated right away, everyone was super nice, and the manager came around to introduce himself and shoot the breeze for a few minutes. We felt really welcome. I got a taco salad which was pretty typical, my date got the chicken frickasee which was delicious, and a horchata - which was a lot better than the horchata I recently got at Maxwell Street. All in all it was solid. Go on a nice night and sit on the patio.
(4)
Liz J.

Not the best Mexican restaurant but not the worst! 4 stars for excellent service, appetizers, wine, and a beautiful interior. My sister and I went here a few weeks ago and sat upstairs. It was not what we were expecting at all: dim lighting, fireplace, beautiful hardwood floor and bar.. We felt like we were in an actual house or apartment, not a restaurant. We ordered vegetarian chimichangas as an appetizer and they were delicious! Like a Mexican egg roll. We also had a bottle of wine brought over (not sure what kind.) Unfortunately I had forgotten my id. I assured the waitress I was 22, and thankfully she let it slide (yay!) I ordered quesadillas as my main course, but they weren't the best. Additionally, I felt sick to my stomach afterwards. Besides the quesadillas, however, I had a great experience here.
(4)
Pedro L.

Wow. Try the ham wrapped shrimp appetizer. Succulent. But the best part is the tampequina . Awesome every time. Oh a half price wine night is money.
(5)
Meghan K.

My favorite patio in Logan Square, specifically the back patio -- it's secluded, lots of greenery, cute lights, and sometimes they have live music. The food's pretty inexpensive and quite tasty, and obviously order some margaritas -- they're the real deal, with actual fruit in them and you can taste the tequila! Staff's usually nice but sometimes when they're busy the service lags. Still, it's awesome and well worth it.
(4)
Natalia V.

This place is an awesome hangout. Come on a day that the weather is nice and ask to sit in the back patio. If you happen to come on a day of bad weather ask to sit up stairs. The decor and ambiance of the two spaces will make the experience all the more exciting. Avoid sitting in their first floor main area. El cid is a Mexican restaurant that offers all of the different Mexican favorites guacamole, tacos, burritos, shrimp cocktails and more. Their drinks are delicious too and their waiters happen to be very helpful. Be sure to come hungry because the portions are pretty big.
(5)
Kelly M.

This was my first venture to Logan Square, I was meeting up with some friends and they picked El Cid. First my pro's, I loved the back outdoor area, you really feel cozy in someone's back yard. Cons.. I wasn't impressed. The chips tasted stale, we were given a second basket of chips and those were at least warm. My friends and I ordered a few different things and shared, tacos, tamales, and shrimp fajitas. The fajitas were pretty good, would have been nice to have some cheese for them, and the tamales were also pretty good, overall everything seemed bland. Can't say I will go back.
(3)
Laura N.

I LOVE this place. The music on wednesday nights on the patio is always so romantic. Aside from the Weds night perks, the seafood is scrumptious and the waiters (although in the evenings mispronounce the dishes) are very attentive. The drinks are often only slightly spiked with tequila (however, speak to the waitresses on the second floor in spanish and Lookout!) Jokes aside, i love the staff and the manager is always around to accommodate. The drinks are well made, and the food is always delicious. i live about a block away and i visit at least every couple of months
(5)
Tom A.

Very very gringo-friendly Mexicanish restaurant. Authentic to the style of restaurant you might take your kids to in Cancun. They do seem to try accommodate Gringo preferences -- they ask if cilantro and onion are OK, the menu says the beans are cooked with oil (but doesn't explicitly say they are not cooked with meat). But everything was very very bland. So bland it's boring. Menu says margaritas are not available by the pitcher on the patio (why??), but after we ordered it by the glass a bunch of tables got pitchers. I found this to be annoying. The margs themselves are clearly just mixes, nothing special and, objectively, kind of not that great. Service was friendly, reasonably prompt, and fluent in English. With one drink each, our tables bill was about $20 a head before tip.
(2)
Jen F.

It had been a few years since I'd been here so I thought a trip back was in order. The menu looks pretty much the same as I remember with slightly higher prices (of course). The margaritas were good, our waitress friendly, and the food was pretty decent. It's a nice in-between on the scale of cheap walk-in taqueria and fancy schmancy sit down. It felt clean and maintained.
(3)
Tony W.

Love the fish tacos here, and the tilapia with lots of garlic, yummy
(4)
Emily N.

El Cid saved my life, only to try and kidnap me! Spent a sweltering Sunday afternoon at the Logan Square summer concert deal. Eventually, the fella and I just couldn't take it anymore so we strolled over to El Cid for some margaritas and a/c. Halfway through my delicious frozen mango marg, the fella went to the bathroom. I almost died laughing when he told me he almost got locked in there. It wasn't as funny when it happened to me, though. What the hell, El Cid? I promise I'll return for your amazingly cheap and delicious margaritas. You don't have to hold me hostage! Sheesh!
(3)
Kelsey Y.

Pete and I tore this place a new one hahah oh tequila fresh like home town ukraine but USA this food we had extra everything it was exellcent! must return we call home base soon yes The host might need a zanax tho as he was super frazzled trying to seat us for 10 min i think he lost 10 lbs trying to find us a table
(5)
Andre W.

Me and the lady decided to roll to this spot on yesterday's very humid afternoon for some good eating. The front of this place is usually pretty empty, but don't let it fool you because they have a back outside patio that is pretty busy. We went to the back and the first thing we saw on the menu was margaritas, in which we were both in the mood for. I got the strawberry margarita on the rocks which was good and she got the rapsberry frozen margarita which melted very fast due to the fiery sun. For lunch I got the Cuban sandwich (I miss Miami), which was ok, but a little on the dry side. My girl got some kind of skirt steak, quesadilla dish (I obviously cannot remember the name of it) and she loved it. The service was cool and friendly and the back, outside patio was nice. Definately a gem for Logan Square and right off of the the blue line stop for Logan Square.
(4)
Sarah L.

From other reviews I've read, it seems this place is hit or miss. Our visit on Saturday night (3/31) was very, very miss. I went with friends who had ordered out from El Cid, but never eaten in. When we arrived, they asked our party of 4 if we'd like to sit downstairs or upstairs. We said we didn't care and they sat us upstairs at one of the high-tops near the bar, which was a mistake right off the bat. The table area wasn't nearly big enough for the 4 of us to have drinks and dinner. There was barely enough room for our basket of chips, water glasses, and margaritas. Our waitress seemed rather quiet, which I don't really appreciate in waitstaff. I like my waitstaff to be outgoing and friendly and constantly checking on us. I'd rather be interrupted with a mouthful of food than ignored all evening. I can't even excuse her for being busy because it looked like she only had about 6 tables. We ordered a pitcher of margaritas which came out in a reasonable amount of time, and which were pretty tasty. But our waitress poured them for us (did we look incapable of pouring our own drinks?) and dripped from the pitcher onto me and the table. It wasn't a huge mess, but I certainly didn't appreciate sticky jeans all night. After we finished our chips and our pitcher, they sat empty on the table for most of the meal. Our waitress got two of our orders wrong--both a friend and I ordered cheese enchiladas and got chicken. The waitress said, "I thought you said chicken." I could hear my friend clearly say "cheese" and the waitress was standing right next to her! My fault was in saying "I'll have the exact same thing as her," I should have clearly stated "Cheese enchiladas". On the menu, it stated that enchiladas came in 2 or 3, and with a side of rice and beans. We each got one on a plate, no sides. Clearly, someone screwed up. My friend and I both ordered a veggie burrito instead, which was much better. I have to say the food was pretty decent for a Mexican place. I'd give it another try for takeout, but I'd never eat in their dining room again. The service was terrible.
(1)
Gina S.

I'll have to update my review after I go back for brunch--I don't feel I have sampled enough of the food to give them a full review on that aspect. BUT, I wanted to commend El Cid 2 after a private event my friends and I held there today. Jose and his staff were so professional and courteous in helping us celebrate the life of a dear friend who passed away from Breast Cancer. The upstairs room is gorgeous! The staff was friendly and attentive and really essential is helping everything run smoothly. I was doing more drinking than eating, and I think they might just have the best margarita I have ever had. I will definitely be back for dinner and brunch, and drinks on the patio in the summer. I will also keep them in mind for any other events in the future!
(5)
Amy Y.

I have been here for both drinks and food now. The place is great for party - 2 levels, great drinks, back porch, group tables. However, lunch here was disappointing. The rice tasted stale and tacos bland and lacking in flavor. I will come back here for party but not for just food.
(3)
Joseph H.

El Cid has been a good restaurant since long before the Logan Square renaissance. I've gone to El Cid (properly "Ed Cid 2") since I moved to Avondale twenty years ago. It's always been a real restaurant serving a wide array of Mexican food, not just a burrito shack. They serve tacos and enchiladas, but also steak, snapper, chicken, pork stew, grilled shrimp, nine kinds of soup, imported Mexican soft drinks, etc. etc. - the things you expect of a sit-down restaurant catering to patrons from all over Mexico. Their food has always been good; prices always reasonable; service always friendly. For years El Cid was the only business on the Kedzie north of Milwaukee and south of Irving Park opened late - the only place to eat I could walk to. All that has changed; there are two good restaurants directly north of El Cid and two more directly south. El Cid has changed too. There's a patio out front; a huge patio out back; and a quieter, classy-yet-relaxed dining room and lounge upstairs. (I use a knife and fork up there; picking up a juicy burrito would be out of place.) They serve wine now; they serve brunch now; they've got vegetarian options. It opens early; closes late; it's child friendly (that's the way the neighborhood's going). Expansion notwithstanding, El Cid remains good, and reasonable, and friendly. No longer the only neighborhood option, it remains a dependable, price conscious option. It draws good crowds; you won't be lonely. It is the hands-down "dining out value" on this once derelict, now destination block. Believe me, you will spend a lot more at any of those four other restaurants. I like El Cid. Go there. My personal recommendation - a chorizo burrito with a side of cebollitas (grilled green onions).
(3)
Rebecca O.

Love this place. The veggie burrito is cheap, filling and delicious. Also the pickled salsa is ridiculously good. The patio is really nice in the summer.
(4)
Chan K.

I heard about their Sunday pig roast and came for the juiciest, tastiest carnitas tacos I've had in a long time.
(3)
Rhea Tee S.

Love this place. I always get the taco dinner with a margarita or 4 and have never been disappointed. The upstairs is the place to eat. It is newly renovated, with the perfect dinner lighting, a full bar and a fireplace. It can be a bit loud on the weekends, but that doesn't bother me. The food is so amazing I don't even notice the noise level most of the time. Parking can be an issue on the weekends, so be prepared to walk a few blocks. Overall great place to eat.
(5)
Monica M.

fish tacos + mango margarita = yummy in my tummy. take note: their fish is not the fried, crispy kind. I find it refreshing to not have it fried even though I am into that kind of thing. the owner goes around and talks to the patrons too. sweet man.
(5)
John S.

Tasty and quick Mexican food, and the service is friendly, even late at night.
(4)
Dannie L.

Came here on a Friday evening, with a big group from work (someone's going away party), the reason why we chose here was cuz they have a big back patio that accommodate big groups. I gotta say I love their back patio, and the narrow hallway that leads you from the front to the back, it had a bit "havana" feel to it. The back patio was really nicely decorated, with hanged lights, trees, it felt like being in someone's back yard, having a party. The food, for me it was just ok. Maybe having a Mexican husband and living in a Mexican household had spoiled my taste buds for Mexican food? But the flavor of the food was really blend. I had the taco dinner, ordered steak, lengua (beef tongue) and pasdor (pork), came with beans and rice, pretty standard, and it was just average. Would not go back for the food, and it's slightly pricy for Mexican flare... Their magarita, however, was excellent. Our waitresses, were also really good (we had a big group like 20 people, so I think we had 2 watresses). So overall, food was blend, decor was nice. They have a pretty cool bar on the 2nd floor, if I happen to be in the neighborhood I don't mind getting drinks there.
(2)
Willie B.

I love El Cid. The food is simple but spot on. No cheese and sour cream on their tacos, just well cooked and seasoned meat with some chopped onions and cilantro on fresh homemade corn tortillas. Their homemade salsas are also very fresh and spicy. Love em. Do yourself a favor and stop in here next time you're cruising around Logan Square.
(4)
Morton A.

This place has everything a great restaurant should have: really good food and drinks, genuine and attentive service, and a rad painting in the bathroom. WHO DOESN'T APPRECIATE A NICE BATHROOM? The chips came out warm and the salsas were fresh, and different from most taqueria salsas. The pico was a little sweet, the green was the right balance of spicy, tangy, and salty. Maybe they have a unique recipe instead of shit from bottles? The Margaritas were nice and boozy and just sweet enough. I had the chicken Enchilada dinner plate and it was bomb. The Mole sauce was flavorful, chocolaty, silky and smoky, just like my mom makes. So many Mexican places miss the mark with Mole! The rice was a rare treat too: fluffy and aromatic, with green beans, peas, carrots, and corn. FLAVOR PARTY! My boyfriend (who ordered fish and al pastor tacos) sez: Sometimes when tacos have doubled-up corn tortillas it can be too much tortilla, even as they sog up and fall apart on you anyway. These tacos had just one robust tortilla, which was delicately fried and didn't fall apart despite holding up an abundance of meat. Our server was my favorite kind of server: casual, naturally warm and sincere, attentive, with a sense of humor. Sometimes a well-placed joke or two lets you know that the server is paying attention to your needs and to the vibe at the table, and that they understand good service contributes to a good dining vibe. Well played! You know it's a winner when the dinner conversation turns to descriptions of what you're each eating, followed by family-style plate sharing. We felt like we were on Check Please!, like on one of the good episodes. And there's a mural of the best Loteria card in the deck (EL DIABLITO)! Points. My only complaint is that WE DIDN'T GET A DESSERT MENU! |:(
(5)
Jenna S.

I was wavering between three and four stars, but I have to give it four for the service and the salsa. Yep, service and salsa. OK - I was under the impression that El Cid was a super high end Mexican restaurant. I'm not entirely sure why I thought it was a place more along the lines of Agave or Frontera but I was kind of surprised when it was just a classy looking taqueria. Not that it's a bad thing! It's not, I'm just saying. The restaurant is a very nice and cozy with color everywhere. I love the orange of the walls and the other color accents everywhere. Sometimes a lot of color can be disastrous (i.e. too crazy) but El Cid managed to appeal to my eyes. Our server was great! I think his name was Josh (we're horrible people for not listening closely!) and he was super funny and awesome. He gets five stars for being funny and excellent. He greeted us warmly in many languages and he was really laid back and fun. My boyfriend's mom spilled a glass of water on the table right after he gave it to her and we started chiding her for being clumsy - he chimed right in! It was really hysterical that he was playing along and being funny and friendly. I really liked the service. He was attentive and knew exactly when to come to the table when he realized we needed something. Food was good. I had a burrito suizo and, honestly, I thought the "suizo" part was going to be fake cheese but instead it was real, melted chihuahua cheese. Is that a bad thing? Not at all. I love chihuahua cheese. However, I guess I had just been looking forward to fake nacho cheese smothered all over the top and then it was kind of a let down. Don't ask me why I like gross fake cheese more than real good cheese... I just do. And the Burrito Bravo at UIC makes the burrito suizo that way. And it was just a burrito - nothing exceptional. It's pretty hard to make a burrito poorly, so it tasted like any burrito that I've ever had at a taqueria. My family was super impressed with the food. They really enjoyed everything they had. My boyfriend's step-dad really loved his burrito suizo and my boyfriend and his mom had the flautas, which they said were excellent. The salsa was the best part of the evening next to the service. Seriously, I have NO idea what it was about that damn salsa, but it was so excellent. I mean EXCELLENT. The salsa doesn't just get five stars - it gets at least seven. It is so amazing. I cannot tell what it was about it that gave it a very particular, sweet taste but it was so good. It was as if the right amount of each ingredient was present - it didn't taste too acid-y like tomatoes or too pungent like onions. It was literally perfect with just a touch of sweetness. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm it was so good. Our server even hooked us up with a pint of it to take home for FREE. Amazing. I'll be back for the salsa, just you wait.
(4)
Sadat A.

Yes I'm the guy that's been to El Cid 3 times and never had a clue they had a back hidden patio until a couple of weeks ago. Okay so I come here for the solid Margarita pitchers,drinks are always strong and tasty. Good place if you have a big group of friends to hang out on a hot summer day. My down fall on this place is food, I'm just not a big fan. I ordered the taco plate and it was not that good. My friends like the food but my experiences have not been good. Just not tasty and no flavor. Remember, the adults drinks are on point!
(3)
Krsna V.

I went here to have dinner with a group of 14 strangers during the hurricane Ike weekend. Snippets of conversation at the dinner table: Me: Did you just call me a bitch? Him: No, no. I was saying "but", not bitch Guy #12: I love cats Girl #2: oh, you love cunts? Me too. I live with one. ....and the best part: Guy #3: It is too loud and I want to go home. Guy #4: oh, you want to take me home with you? Sure... (with that sultry look... I was afraid he was going to undress right there... that is what happens when you don't get laid for a long time). That is just some of the entertainment I had. There was a lot more. I do not have a problem talking. My voice is strong. I speak at various conferences and rarely use a microphone. I don't need to use one. Having said that, this place is LOUD. Yes, I typed that in uppercase because I found myself yelling for everything. Even to say hello. Take the most loud talking people in Logan Square, put them all on the top floor of this restaurant, and add live music. MADNESS!! After screaming for the first 10 minutes to tell everyone my name, I needed a margarita. I looked at the menu and noticed a small, large, and pitcher. They do not serve pitchers upstairs (only on the first floor and outside). WTF?? Perhaps it is a good idea. You don't want people falling down those stairs. But, people are going to drink anyway. I don't understand this logic. I ordered a large. It is the size of a REGULAR margarita you see at any proper Mexican restaurant. But, they charge you twice the price. So, I was paying $8.75 for a regular margarita that is perpetrated as "large". I didn't care. I needed a drink to survive the night. After all, I have more SCREAMING to do. We haven't even ordered food yet. The margarita arrives... um, OK... short on tequila. At this point, I am not going to scream again to gather the attention of the waitress. I make an executive decision to order two more LARGE margaritas next time I see her. The chips and salsa were good. I started munching on them while resting my voice. More conversation (screaming) follows. Half of the people at the table did not get my name. I had to write it down on a piece of paper and pass it around. And these are my own people (aka, Indians). My name is not unfamiliar among my own people. The food... I have had better Mexican food. I ordered the enchiladas suizas with chicken and verde sauce. You know it is bad when you have to request hot sauce to make it taste better. Yes, it was that bad. Or, I should say BLAND (oops, I am screaming again). The chicken tasted like it was boiled in salt water. There was no flavor to the entire dish. And, what's up with that salad? Wilted lettuce that looks like it is going to go bad tomorrow does not make a salad. The rice and beans completed the circle of blandness. I am already on my third LARGE margarita by the end of dinner. Still no buzz. I am not a heavy drinker. I am usually knocked down after 1.5 margaritas at Tecalitlan. More screaming ensues and everyone finishes dinner. Overall, it was not horrible... but, below mediocre. Not worth going all the way to Logan Square. I feel sorry for the people eating there... you all should try Tecalitlan. I'll stick to Tecalitlan for the food and margaritas. As I heard from my Mexican friends, Tecalitlan has the best Mexican food in Chicago (outside their motherland). And the margaritas are awesome. I paid $45 for a below average dinner and weak drinks. NOT COOL. The only reason I stayed there is because I was meeting a group and didn't want to come off as a bitch (well, I am not sure if I accomplished that goal). I love you Tecalitlan. I am sorry for cheating on you. Never again. P.S. Apologies for all the screaming in the review. I am still in "screaming mode".
(2)
Valerie J.

El Cid may be getting 4 stars due to nostalgia, as my sister took me here once years ago when she lived in Chicago - but in all honesty judging by my and Theron's trip there last night, it deserves it. The atmosphere is fun, colorful, and I was particularly pleased to encounter a mariachi band as we rounded the corner to the upstairs dining area. We sat a cross from the bar in a cozy, warmly lit nook at high tables and, while it did take *forever* for our food to come out, our orders were carried out to a T. We both got the combination plate - I with a chicken enchilada with verde sauce, a 'tostada' without meat, and a chicken soft taco. The tostada should have been served on a separate plate and even come out sooner, as the shell was no longer crispy upon arrival. The rice was a bit sweet for me but the beans were decent, the chicken meat was good - what you would expect of a typical Mexican place - and the enchilada was delightful, covered with white cheese. Theron enjoyed his 'quesadilla' but in my opinion doubling a corn tortilla and folding them over a bunch of white cheese is not a quesadilla. But, he liked it so who am I to judge? ;) We also ordered a fish taco - as everyone raved about them. I thought the flavor was really good (my friend liked it a lot) and loved the use of cilantro, but could only eat a couple bites because it was way too salty for me. Let me also state that after initial wariness, the margarita I ordered (Herradura, cointreau, and fresh lime juice) was made exceptionally well. It was pleasant to drink but had an underlying strength to it that made waiting on our food to arrive much more fun. :) The waitress also brought out gardinaire mix of pickled and oily jalapenos, carrots, and onions you get in some taquerias for me, since I love spicy food. All in all a really pleasant dining experience.
(4)
Tiffany K.

It's weird that I never came here sooner, because it's on a corner that is pretty hard to miss. I'm always on the hunt for good Mexican food, and I think I found my new go-to spot! I came here with my S.O. and I ordered a small lime margarita and the fish taco dinner. My. S.O. ordered three sopes - 2 chicken and 1 beef. The margarita was awesome! It was a little too sweet, but it was definitely delicious and mixed well. The fish tacos were super fresh and tasted amazing. I would say that the fish tacos here are definitely better than the fish tacos anywhere else I've had them. They aren't afraid to pile on the cilantro, which is great. The rice and beans were good - your standard rice and beans. Nothing fancy. The chicken sopes were tasty as well. The fish taco dinner was $10, and the sopes were around $2.50 each. The margarita was $5. All in all, not a bad dinner price tag, considering the amount of food we ate. The service was good. Food came out relatively fast for dinner time on a Sunday. I'll definitely be back here soon!
(5)
Ashley D.

I wish the food was as good as the service. I had the chicken chimichanga burrito and it was filled with cubed dark meat and cubed pieces of pure fat (gross) and one wad of melted cheese stuck to the top on the inside. It's turned me off from this place completely.
(2)
Jeremy F.

If you ask to bring leftovers home check the bag before you leave. Inability to provide tortillas with fajitas.
(3)
Colleen C.

Seriously, they could've served me liver and onions on that back patio last night, and would've claimed it "awesome." The patio is a gem. Hidden, backyard style, with some Spanish music on a cool late summer evening in the company of delightful, bright and unique people. The food was good. I was starvin' like marvin, so I can't complain as long as it arrives hot and fast. Ok, so it was pretty warm and not so fast, but I digress. I had the kabobs (chicken and shrimp) accompanied by a funny little black bean salad on a lettuce leaf with a cucumber. Kinda fancy? I was expecting a large slop of pico de gallo and refried beans, which would've been just dandy, but the black bean salad was a cute touch. The chicken kabob was in an odd BBQ like sauce, but it tasted fine. Shrimp were large and lovely...much enjoyed. Corona Light, mmmmm. A summer evening in Logan Square....quite splendid. The patio is a sure hit, but the inside is really quite nice for a Mexican joint. Great little date spot, the upstairs lounge area is set away from the crowds and quite intimate with candles and such. (I apparently took the long way in finding my way back to the patio, ha!) Go. Before summer slips away...it's quintessential Chicago patio living at its finest.
(4)
Britta F.

I love Mexican food/Tex-Mex and El Cid has neither. The food is awful. The pico de gallo is sweet, like it has ketchup in it. No spice to it at all. Chips were boring. The papa rellenos are definitely made with instant mash potatoes, and not very good ones. Sauce on the side was absolutely french dressing with a kick of spice in it. Empanada filling was sparse and tasteless. Margaritas were 90% sour mix. Not sure if there was any alcohol in them at all. I could go on but you get the point. I only give two stars because the location is decent, right off the train and enough cabs around. They allowed us to have a large-ish group without gripe. And the decor and atmosphere are pretty good. In my opinion, this is not authentic Mexican food.
(2)
ReRe A.

I have been here 3 times. Last time I ordered the Chili Relanos as I do at most Mexican restaurants but never at El Cid. These weren't that good. Then I got sick... really, really sick... like sick for two days sick. I won't go back.
(1)
L L.

I will never understand El Cid's popularity. Sure, the back deck is nice, but there are plenty of bars/restaurants with comparable outdoor space and the courtyard simply doesn't justify the sub par food. Seriously sub par. I love Mexican food and find El Cid borderline offensive. Perhaps it's just that it's been Midwesternized (i.e., is pretty bland). I just don't get it, though. Even the salsa lacks flavor. And it's definitely pricier than other local Mexican eateries, which is just wrong. Pretty on the outside, sure, but totally mediocre.
(2)
Tyler B.

pitcher of frozen mango, yes thank you. Not quite the strongest I've had but what a primer to a night of binging! Kept it simple and cheap with a burrito to suffice. Was quite tasty and filling. Pico de gallo sauce, surprisingly sweet, sweet to the taste- i dug it. Hope to return for enchilladas and get my fill.
(4)
Jessica H.

El Cid is a neighborhood place for those of us who've lived in the neighborhood for more than a hot minute and never thought it'd be cool to live in Bucktown. No, it's not a trendy hot spot full of shaggy haircuts and skinny jeans, populated by people who have no recollection of the '80s other than diapers and play dates, but "do" '80s style and pretend they've always liked it. There are no "signature cocktails" made with pomegranate/white grape/durian liquor or bone marrow specials (though there is menudo, if offal is your thing). If you're looking for those things, go to places that are about those things (and full disclosure: except for the clientele, I enjoy that too). You come to El Cid to have dinner and for a margarita. Rocks. Lime. With salt. The chips are good. They're chips that aspire to be tasty vehicles for bringing salsa or guacamole to your mouth. They achieve this aspiration nicely. Speaking of which, both the verde and the roja options are excellent. The guacamole is tastye, but the portion is small (OK, so I miss CA guacamole portions ... I admit it). The food is yummy, and there are plenty of vegetarian options that don't suck. The beans are good (this from my Chicana partner, who cares deeply about such things). The shrimp ceviche is a crisp, limed up bit o' lovely. This is food you enjoy eating for reasonable prices, and you go there because you are interested in actually hearing your dining companion's conversation (if you're in the main floor dining area), or to go on a date not over-populated with self-absorbed pretenteratti (if you go upstairs), or to sit outside surrounded by people from the neighborhood genuinely enjoying themselves (if you go to the back patio). Heck, if you really *must* be seen, you can sit out front. Honestly, aside from the solid good food and good drinks, I think the thing I like the best about this place is that the doucheoise (tip o' the keyboard to Andrew C for that amazing term) often don't like it. Because El Cid is not about them, praise the deity of your choice, and it doesn't cater to those expectations. It's a good, solid neighborhood option with gems of it's own (like that on the back patio you are not allowed to order a small margarita -- only medium or large). It's not the L & E and it's not trying to be, and that is a good thing.
(4)
I B.

There's too many other reviews here to go to great lengths, but I will say this: it may not be the best Mexican food in Chicago, but the staff are super friendly and accommodating, especially to people with kids. The restaurant is bigger than it looks from the outside, the upstairs and back patio are beautiful, and you can't beat the location
(4)
Lala S.

I've been to both locations now. I much prefer this location to the one near the Congress Theater. I've been at this particular location probably 2 or 3 times. It's kind of inconsistent. The first time I went there I though the drinks were mediocre and the food was less than satisfactory. However, the last time I went, I think they kicked it up a notch. They have a cute patio area so going on a nice day is recommended. The only thing that sucks about the patio is that they don't serve 'ritas by the pitcher, which is beyond me. What's the difference?!? Inside or out? The salsa is ok. This time it was much better than the first time. I feel like the 'ritas could have been a little stronger. I think I got more of a sugar-high than a buzz after like 5 'ritas (large ones at that). I got their pozole that night and it was pretty tasty. They used pork ribs for the protein so that was a little different for me. It was really good though. I wish I would have ordered the larger size.
(3)
Justine D.

El Cid used to be my go to spot for meeting up with friends before a night out. Decent food at an affordable price and their outdoor patio was adorable. There were always more authentic options out there, but El Cid consistently had great service, great atmosphere, and yummy mango margaritas! You'd think I was an endorsement for El Cid, as I've introduced so many of my friends to it. Hell, for my college graduation I took over the upstairs with my family and friends because it's where I wanted to celebrate. That said, I continued to go to El Cid even after they raised their prices and the quality of their food was beginning to dwindle. I'm a sucker for convenience. But after my last few encounters, I can officially say that I will never visit El Cid 2 again. The bottom line: El Cid is no longer the consistent place to eat I had grown to love, but a wannabe trendy spot to cater to the neighborhood. The food is mediocre and the prices are ridiculous for what you're getting. The owner should stick to letting his waitstaff be the faces of El Cid as the few times I've encountered him he has been very impersonable and rude. Refuse to go back again.
(1)
Katie P.

This place has, hands down, one of the best patio spaces in the city! I totally heart it! The drinks are always great and in the summer when they have guitar players out back and the breeze is blowing the place can't be beat! The Tampiquena is one of the best in the city. It makes me miss summer. I won't lie, I don't go to the place when the patio isn't open. The interior just isn't that great and the food in turn just doesn't taste as great. Make this place a must try when the weather is warm and the breezes are gently blowing!
(5)
Chelsea G.

Margaritas are delicioso! I just moved into the neighborhood & will be coming to El Cid a lot - they have a warm, inviting ambiance & delicious food/drink. I got one of their "famous" lime margs and it was made to perfection; and their bartender Matt is super cute and sweet. I had their steak floutas, which were muy tasty & crispy. I'm definitely heading back for a burrito & more drinks. Their salsas & pico is a little on the spicy side, but the pico has a great citrus flavor and you can tell it's really fresh. I met the manager, Jana, she was super sweet & the wait staff was great. Between the food, drink, and new upstairs bar this is one of my new favorite local places. It's a family owned joint and I hear they have a Cuban place close by...I will have to check that out.
(4)
Susie I.

Yes. The staff is awesome, and I wish they all worked at a better restaurant. I ordered the fish tacos. The fish was yucky. The beans tasted canned, and the rice seemed as from a box. Not the freshest food, and not the best. I didn't even finish, and I'm an eater! Yes, the back patio was nice, but I won't go back, I assure you.
(2)
Alicia G.

Tamarind Margarita Pitcher...PiÃ±a Colada Pitcher...AND...carne asada tacos with all the extras is all you need to know. O and they have a great patio!
(4)
Emily W.

Well, I got a little bit of "bad" news today from the doc. "Emily, you have surpassed the Great Salt Lake as our country's largest inland salt water body..." I sat there and tried to let it all sink in. This process alone took well over 15 minutes. When I was ready to hear more, I motioned for him to continue. "I think it has something to do with that extra salty Al Pastor Chimichanga you were telling me about..." I went home, propped my diary up on my big whale belly, and cried some of the saltiest tears I've ever known. The following is an excerpt from that night: "Dear Diary, Well, you did it again didn't you! You think you can eat 3/4 of a monster changa and not have any repercussions? And those extra salty delicious fresh off the burner tortilla chips... you just had to ask for a refill, didn't you? Not only that, but did you really need to lick ALL the salt off your margarita glass? You should have known better!" I'd share more of what those salt stained pages said, but the entry turns rather dark and foreboding after that, and I don't want you to get the idea that I'm some sort of salty dead beat freak. All I'm saying is that you'd think that the fact that I am retaining more water than the Grand Coulee Dam would at least provide some increased hydroelectric benefit to my utility bill... Apparently, it does no such thing. I've got some beef with my supplier, let me tell you. Hold up. What I'm really saying is that I would only recommend eating that amount of salt if it's the night of Halloween and you're planning on going as a water bed. You won't even need a costume. People will just assume you're a waterbed or a double humped camel. You might even win a costume contest out of pure intimidation. Anyway, my doc told me to try and not eat a chimichanga like that again, and I have to say, I agree. Luckily I live just down the street from El Cid, so I was able to waddle from the booth to my digestion sanctuary within a matter of minutes. It would have been an SOS if I'd lived any further. Lesson learned. Can somebody pass me another Diurex?
(3)
Nani D.

Pretty good food. It's not too greasy, the food is not too expensive, and the location is very nice and comfortable.
(4)
Dina F.

I love this food! I have tried just about everything on the menu and everything is great. Have dined in and carried out. Extremely friendly service. Great margaritas and Pina Coladas (my favorite). In the warmer months they open up their beautiful and relaxing patio in the back. Great ambiance for a date or a night out with friends and family.
(5)
naila t.

This is probably my favorite Mexican restaurant in Logan Square, their prices are good and their margaritas are strong! I'm a big fan of the mini vegetarian chimichangas, they come with a HUGE portion of guacamole. They also have a great patio in the back and friendly, fast service.
(4)
April P.

As often as we can, we try to have family dinners at different places. Sometimes planned, sometimes not, but always a great time For this place, it was scheduled, and we had a great time, sampling the different margaritas, and having the authentic Mexican food. Was it good? yes, it was good. But like any Yelper, your quest is to find the best! The skirt steak, was done nicely, no complaints. Rice and beans, just regular run of the mill. The music was pretty awesome, as we sat outside, feet away from their live mariachi band. We had the regular margarita, which was better than the mango margarita. Not enough alcohol in their mango margarita. Is that a matter of opinion? Sure, I'd like to hear what people think about it. Must go back and try their infamous fish tacos that everyone has been raving about!
(4)
Lucy M.

Yes. I'll admit it - I didn't accidentally discover this little gem all by myself, instead I found this place in the guide book when I first moved to the city, but I like to pretend (and might sometimes even tell others) that I just happened to stop in one day just by chance and, as luck would have it, it turned out to be perfect. I've been here so many times, I've pretty much worked my way through the menu... and its all delicious. While its true there's nothing too out of the ordinary (except, perhaps, the tamarind margarita... which was also delicious) the food is reliably good. In summer, the back patio is the perfect place to sit during the warm afternoons, and while I've never been here when its been packed, I've snooped around enough to know that this place is HUGE, and can hold a great many more people than it would immediately appear. Since its a little out west, my boyfriend and I have made it somewhat of a tradition to take visitors here as a final meal on the way to drop them off at the airport. It always makes the perfect end to any visit!
(5)
Amanda P.

cannot believe I haven't written a review for this place yet! I love El Cid 2. Everytime I think yummm Margarita, I think of EC2. Love the back patio, the atmosphere, the food, all of it. Do not hesitate to go here and be sure to get a pitcher of Margaritas!
(5)
Tita P.

So, I really love Mexican Food. One because of the Margarita's and Two because of the Margarita's. Okay Okay I like the food too. I must admit I did not have a "wow' experience with the food but the 'Rita's were G O O D. The patio was even better. This alone garners 3 stars and a visit to try other items on the menu.
(3)
Brook E.

I've been here twice: once for lunch and once for dinner. Both times, had delicious food and attentive service. In the summer, they open up the windows so that there is a nice cross-breeze through the windows, and you feel comfortable to kick-back, and drink few more margaritas after dinner. :) I ordered the potato tacos last weekend, and were pretty good. Our waitress was that rare breed, who somehow came by at that magical amount of perfect times, and was genuinely friendly. The check came promptly when we were ready to head out. The dining room has a cool tile floor, and there are all sorts of fun nick-knacks on the wall to look at during lulls in conversations. It also seems like a place there's very popular with solo diners. I saw quite a few tables where people were just relaxing and comfortably reading a book.
(4)
Cara T.

We first discovered El Cid when we were walking by admiring the back patio. The manager (I assume) came out to greet us and asked us to come in. We didn't break our promise to return later, and we came back after about a week. The patio is a great area (it was why we first noticed the restaurant). It was nice to be outside in the cool weather. There were also heaters if it got too chilly. No flies or gnats, which was a HUGE plus. I was kinda bummed my chair didn't have arms...but I didn't notice after they brought the free chips and salsa. We started with the guacamole. It was good, but very overpriced. It was chunky with large pieces of avocado and onion. For my entree, I had the fish tacos with rice and beans. The tacos were okay. It was baked fish (chopped up) in a corn tortilla topped with onion and cilantro. Flavor was a little blah. Beans were okay and the rice was lacking flavor. Drink wise--my husband and I both ordered "medium" cokes. However, we were charged for two "large" cokes. I'm not sure what was up, but I was honestly just too tired to care. Overall, it was a little overpriced, but a good atmosphere. I think I would go back and try everything completely different. I'm not saying El Cid couldn't wow me, I'm just saying they didn't this time. .
(2)
Julie F.

" I don't feel like cooking tonight, I don't feel like getting dressed and going out either, lets just go to El Cid." Variations of this statement can be heard about once a month at our house. El Cid is a great little neighborhood spot that offers consistently good service and food that is passable enough to keep locals coming back and out-of-area folks out. This works out great for me since I live within walking distance and can enjoy the front/back patio whenever I choose with nary an elbow thrown. I've yet to leave El Cid sober or hungry so that's three stars right there, and the stellar service provides the fourth. But, like I said, it's not a destination restaurant. If you live in Pilsen and want Mexican - do not drive all the way up here, you will be disappointed and probably write a sad review for my go to taco stop.
(4)
Nikki C.

what I remember most is the patio and how after a little downpour of rain in the summer it was kind of nice and quaint... rather secluded and tucked warmly inbetween apartments on both side, despite the fact the alley was just steps away it was quite easy to forget your exact location as the maragaritas and coronas flowed quite easily. The food not so bad, but not so unforgettable as its not too hard to mess up nachos or tacos, but in a city of many mexican joints, there are better places not too far away for mouth orgasms. Friendly and attentive service, the guitar player that appeared was not so annoying and a better alternative to your typical jukebox experience, not much of a 1st or even 4th date place, but better for friends and SO's that have endured many arguments and makeup sessions.
(3)
Albert K.

Great place for beers or margeritas and tacos. I also enjoy their seafood cocktails and octopus. The kids love the soups. My wife enjoys the chile rellenos and the whole red snapper. The burritos are just so-so. The owners are actually Cuban, not Mexican.
(4)
Susan G.

What a Great Place! Had a pre-Mother's Day dinner here. Started with a pitcher of margaritas, followed with some great, chunky guacamole. There were 4 in our group and we all had different entrees. I had enchiladas suizas with red sauce and I must say that it was hotter than anticipated. The chicken stew served with white rice and plantains was also delicious. No one went home hungry and we were too stuffed for dessert. The cost per person including a couple additional margaritas, tax and tip was about $25. If you have the option, sit upstairs as it is very nicely decorated and pretty quiet. The owner came by at the end of the meal to make sure that we had enjoyed the food which always scores points with me.
(4)
angela p.

Is it just me, or has this place gotten better? I mean, it was good before. But as of late, I think the quality of food has gone up. Get the fish tacos or the black bean soup (but use a little fresh lime juice in it). You will dance home.
(4)
Romaine I.

If God decided to make tacos for all his buddies (Jesus, Muhammad, Vishnu, not the holy ghost -- he's vegan, fuck that guy) They would probably taste something like the Tacos from El Cid. I went with friends for the first time Wednesday. Got Queso Fundido as a starter, because a plate of molten cheese is fucking smart. Super delicious. I got an enchilada for dinner, which heretofore I had never known was actually a DEEP FRIED BURRITO. A nobel prize to the mexican food engineer who discovered that. Decided to kick it up a notch by ordering it suezas (?might be spelled wrong) style, which means they smother that fucker in a pound of cheese. I have to imagine that there is a small sweatshop grating cheese 24/7 for this place. All in all, it was a DANGEROUSLY CHEESY dinner. As a side note, the margaritas we had were just OK, a bit to sweet and pre-made tasting for me. Doesn't affect the score because this place was already at a 6 after the food. eat here.
(5)
Michael S.

Really friendly service, which unless the food in a place like this is super-crappy, is what really matters. I had a Cuban sandwich. It was fresh. I could have eaten two of them, but I'm too fat, so I didn't. But I wanted to. Nice patio, too.
(4)
Amy M.

I love El Cid for the margaritas, the atmosphere and the service. However, let me be clear that there is a huge difference between the atmosphere on the second floor and balcony as opposed to the first floor. The second floor has a fireplace, dim lighting, and cozy chairs near the bar. The patio is fun, big and nice. The first floor feels like a diner. There are bright lights and it's loud. If that's your thing, you are all set. Please sit on the first floor so that there are tables elsewhere for me. The margaritas are amazing, the food is on par with any decent Mexican restaurant. My servers have always been extremely friendly and on top of everything. Love El Cid!
(4)
Carri A.

I had high hopes and expectations for El Cid after all the good things I've heard from friends but I was only satisfied after my meal. My friend organized a Logan Square Bar Crawl for his birthday the Saturday after the Great Chicago Flood of 2010 and so our dinner reservations at Longman & Eagle were canceled because they were not serving food. Our group of 10 moseyed over to El Cid because it seemed like our best option at the time. I will give credit to the hostesses because we had such a large group and no reservation, but there seemed to be A LOT of confusion about when we were being seated and where. We were led to the second floor lounge and then stopped in the stairwell to wait. Then crammed into the booth in the corner. Good news is that I will testify to the tequila content of their margaritas because I was feeling real nice when I left the restaurant. Our waitress seemed a little scattered but I feel like we should have been thankful we were even able to get a table for dinner on Saturday. The food was pretty good. Pretty standard mexican fare. I had the veggie chimichanga (please put my burrito in a deep fryer, thanks) and found it to be almost forgettable. I mean, I ate it all but did anything about it stand out? Not really. The chips and salsa were pretty average as well. Good but not great. I would not be upset to return here for a meal and a margarita but I probably wouldnt go out of my way either.
(3)
Michael G.

The drinks were good, as was the queso fundito. April, our server, was sweet and attentive.
(4)
Brian C.

After multiple trips to El Cid I can say I will always have this place on my mind when I have a craving for a good margarita and some sun. Although spring is just upon us we sat on the back patio, the warm weather and a pitcher of on the rocks with salt margaritas made this trip amazing. If you are looking for a good place to drink on a warm day in Logan Square come here. The food is on par with any of the local Mexican restaurants around here. They have the standard fare and combo plates. I suggest going with a few people order a pitcher and everyone get an appetizer you cant go wrong with their guac, and a quesadilla grande. If you are feeling up to the challenge get the chimichanga burrito, a whole deep fried burrito filled with whatever you want... a gut buster for sure, but so so delicious. See you all there!
(4)
Sue K.

My friend and I took the longest trek during rush hour to get fish tacos here. Since it was a quick meal, I'll do a quick review. Quick, friendly service. Decent, albeit on the expensive side, prices for tacos. Fish was soooo good!! But, I felt the taco was lacking a something something. I wish it had a sauce topping to add a bit more flavor, but that is merely my opinion. I preferred the Big Star tacos, but liked the less hectic atmosphere/quick service of El Cid.
(3)
Luke D.

Very mediocre food, poor drinks and slow service. Chicago has a million places to get great Mexican food. This isn't one of them.
(1)
Carol K.

So tonight I learned why it's called the Yelp Beer Garden Club and not the Yelp Dining Club. El Cid 2 pours a pretty good margarita (lots of flavors-both frozen and on the rocks) and keeps the cold beers coming strong without missing a beat! (okay- so there was that "little incident" that sent two frozen margaritas flying all over our server Monica - but that's another story!) The beer garden out back is nice- private with umbrellaed tables and a flamenco playing guitarist. It easily is twice the size of the seating area indoors. Sometime during the night, though, they lit some incense which was weird as it made me feel more like I was in a temple someplace versus a beer garden in Chicago. Very odd! But all in all- sitting outside with a cool breeze blowing sipping on a margarita- my world was pretty good. The problem? The food. Everything that came out seemed to be covered with white gooey cheese. And even though I tried the combo plate- everything tasted the same. Now granted- a place like El Cid is not trying for real Mexican food- but more of it's "Anglo" sister. I get it. But even the Mexican places out in the burbs in strip malls make better enchiladas than this place. So I stand before you- a smarter Yelper today- knowing that if I am enjoying the Beer Garden- I should just have a beer and forego the food . . .at least at El Cid 2.
(2)
Seria A.

Good food. Salsa is a little sweet for me. Service was good. I will go back for the tacos.
(3)
Shana M.

Located ever so conveniently across the street from the train on my way home. Sure, there are tons of Mexican in L-Square at cheaper prices, but THEY are not across the street from my train stop on the way home. And it's cute in there, so there ya go. The lime margaritas and combination dinner ARE perfect together; especially if you're feeling indecisive. The chorizo is excellent and so is the barbacoa. I think I've had the Mexican gyros meat once before too, which I don't understand linguistically (why don't they just call it lamb?), but my taste buds aren't as semantically discerning and it was taaaastyy. I also liked the way the waiter sold me on a Margarita by repeating that it was lazy Monday and I had to have one. Ok, twist my arm I says.
(3)
Kathleen A.

Finally, Mexican food I was able to eat when I wasn't wasted. This was my weekly go to spot for margaritas, yummy chips and salsa and my favorite, carnitas tacos. The back patio is wonderful in the summer. However, I always seemed to go when it was raining so I'd end up sitting in the small dining all cramped. Service was always very good here and I came here enough so the waitresses all knew me. Definitely one of my favorites in the hood, which is saying a lot because there is a lot of fine Mexican food in Logan Square.
(4)
Jewly N.

oh lord almighty. this place had me up all night long yacking my brains out. I got the veggie burrito with cheese and while it tasted alright at the time, 1 hour later i was married to the toilet for 15 hours. i give it one star because the waitress was nice. not an enjoyable experience post-devouring of the burrito. beware!
(1)
Jessie B.

I really wanted like this cute place. It is located right off the "square" in Logan Square. Every time I get off the Blue Line stop--I always see people having fun, eating [what looks like] good food & sipping on good drinks. Well. I guess I need to get some new glasses because the food wasn't good at all. In fact--I believe it was some of the worst "Mexican" food I've ever had. Hey when your best friend is Diana R & her mother makes some great meals, you know what GREAT Mexican is. This was pukified Mexican. I just wanted some tacos. Some yummy corn, steak filled, spicy, luscious tacos. What did I get? A soggy fatty steak & bland taco. They only gave you ONE corn tortilla per taco. Come on man, don't cha know you hafta put at least TWO tortillas? Anyway. I'd give them one star--but I gave two solely on the fact that our server was insanely nice. It looked like she stepped off the set of happy days. I cannot remember her name--but my face hurt from having to smile so much about my food because I didn't want to crush her dreams. Will I be back? Me thinks...never.
(2)
Cathy O.

I went to El Cid 2 with a small group of girlfriends for breakfast on a Sunday. We were originally planning on Lula Cafe, but we were too hungry to wait in line. We can save Lula for another time. Now back to El Cid. I ordered the Chilaquiles and they were pretty good and spicy! Two of my friends got the breakfast burrito, and they both liked it. The only complaint was that the pancakes in the Gringo Breakfast were hard - I dunno if maybe they were microwaved? I also had a Passionfruit Smoothie, which wasn't that great, but I tried my friends' Mango and Banana smoothies and those were both much better than the Passionfruit. The service was also fine - but I think the prices were a little high compared to some of the other Mexican places in the area. I will probably be back to El Cid 2. Maybe for dinner next time.
(3)
Martha C.

I live very close to El Cid 2, so we go fairly often. Their food is always good and I've never had the service issues that other yelpers have mentioned. I especially love their back patio on a summer evening. I just discovered their upstairs "lounge" and find the atmosphere much nicer than downstairs and it's the same menu both places. Good tacos, good margaritas, good atmosphere, what more can you ask for!
(4)
Larry D.

El Cid has an interesting exterior, with some tables in front and a large patio in back for about 40 customers. There are three floors of dining, and if you are in the patio like I was, you have to walk up a nice wooden stairway to get to the restroom, which is just across from the 3rd floor fully stocked bar. I had a frozen lime margarita and a beer before dinner, which worked well with the nice corn chips and chile verde and red salsas. I had steak with enchiladas as my main course, and the portion was enormous. I barely got through half of the skirt steak. The food is substantial, and the drinks work. This is not a place that sticks out, though. The Mexican fare is pretty standard, but worth a visit. I'm glad I went, and I'd go again if the opportunity came up.
(3)
Julia H.

The interior of the restaurant was desolate, because everyone was enjoying the Chicago summer weather on the back patio of El Cid. The patio is enclosed, with a small awning covered bar to mix the delicious looking margaritas, by the rear entrance. There were three musicians who were walking around serenading the tables with two choices: "romantic or funny song??" Choose the "funny," and they may just sing you "Tequila!" I ordered the tilapia tacos, which were light with tomato and lettuce and cilantro. They were good. I did eat all three of the small soft tacos, and that seemed to be the perfect size. The beans weren't the best, though they had okay flavor... the mexican rice was decent as well. Still, El Cid does not compare to the fish tacos at Mayan Palace. Though I will probably return on account of the close convenience of El Cid!
(3)
Helena B.

Plate-scraping good. I had cheese enchiladas suizas with mole sauce (I've loved mole sauce since back in the day when I thought it was pronouced like the rodent) and I ate every last bit. The mole had a wonderful spicy-chocolate taste (mole lovers will know what I mean). The meal came with Spanish rice and refried beans. I usually skip the rice in these situations, but here the rice was shockingly fresh. Mama B had the famous fish tacos. She raved about them (although, to put her culinary standards in perspective, she later admitted that she had anticipated the taco innards to consist of "fishsticks"). No fishsticks here, only flakey fish-goodness. Papa B had the quesadillas. When they came, my mother and I cooed over how cute they were (seriously - three mini quesadillas! Quesadilla-babies! AWWW!). The only mildly annoying thing was that they charge for refills of fountain drinks (boo!). Regardless, I can't wait to come back here when the patio opens this summer!
(4)
Juli P.

Down a star because the guacamole was.....strange. Kind of very creamy and not at all spicy. I had the chicken flautas, which I loved. The waitress was friendly, the patio was full, the weather was great, what more could you ask for? Oh yeah, good guacamole. But I'd say this is a great place to go if you want to sit outside, and it's "romantically lit" (take that however you want) so it'd probably be a good date place. Also take note of the moderately witty signs posted around the patio.
(4)
Carol M.

This place has some great mexican at great prices. Is there anything else to talk about really? 34/52
(4)
S K.

Good food. Great salsa - it's sweet and homemade. Love the steak tacos and enchiladas. Fish tacos were meh, even though it seems that the Trib wrote them up a few years back. Margaritas are made nicely, not too sour, not too sweet. Servers are usually friendly, but not overly helpful - or maybe knowledgeable - last time we went, she seemed to struggle understanding what we were asking about. Overall, love this place because I used to live in the hood and it was walking distance home. Solid tequila list too. ;-)
(3)
William d.

I found this place recently, saw some nice reviews on here and decided to try it: What a great surprise! They have a very reasonably priced menu, the food is delicious and the atmosphere is inviting! Service is great and the patio is really cool. They also feature very good live music!
(5)
Aaron S.

Greasy (that's a good thing) totopos, decent sopes/tostadas, and some nice new additions to the drink menu in the swanky upstairs lounge. We were done eating and the bartender let us taste some of the mojitos he was making--Wow! The new "organic" margarita (I think it's the only one made without mix) is light, refreshing, and strong as well. I keep telling myself I'm going to try some of the cuban dishes here and have yet to. But know that they're there.
(4)
Matthew D.

Great spot for authentic Mexican food. We're a short distance from the restaurant and probably go here once every two weeks. What do we order? I almost always order the Carne Carbon - their special version of Carne Asada, and my better half usually gets the skirt steak burrito or the breakfast burrito. Excellent place to go during the summer especially because of their fantastic outdoor garden in back.
(4)
Sara B.

I was really excited about going here....I hear such GREAT things about it and all. However, I was kinda disappointed. I knew to expect the place to be small so that was ok...the food though didn't live up to what I thought it would. It was okay but nothing spectacular. I got an enchilada with rice and beans...I have never seen such a tiny little enchilada before....I would have done myself a service to spend the extra $0.50 for the sope instead. The mole was decent. I respect a decent mole. The rice and beans were nothing to make a good or bad comment about. My date got the huevos rancheros and that was actually pretty good. The portion was a good deal for the money and they gave him 6 tortillas which was a pleasant surprise because a lot of restaurants give you only like 4. We also ordered a pitcher of margarita's to go with out dinner. They were pretty ok too though by the time we finished the pitcher I was not really complaining about much of anything.... :-) For desert we got the tres leches cake. I love tres leches cake. This one was okay to introduce my date to the concept of it but not enough too make me close my eyes and go mmmmmm like I usually do with a good desert. The fake whipped cream cheap @ass frosting was just plain awful. We ate around it. So I'll be back but I am not going to ooh and awe over it to others in the meantime.
(4)
Monica B.

Pretty good, including vegetarian options (get the veggie kabobs if you're also looking to keep calories low). The waitress was helpful to a friend with food allergies, and told us all the ingredients in a dish that wasn't fully described on the menu. My only suggestion is for a little more variety on the otherwise solid menu.
(4)
Nick A.

Love their Cuban sandwich! Good margaritas too. Perfect place to sit down with friends or just to grab a sandwich before you get on the Logan Blue line during your daily commute. I've been there multiple times and always enjoyed it.
(5)
Jim H.

I don't understand poor reviews on the food here. Maybe folks are ordering bland items and expecting miracles. I recently had a very flavorful cuban-inspired pulled pork torta with a dark brown hot sauce that knocked my socks off. The pork was perfectly cooked, from a whole house roasted pig from their Pig & Swig monthly roast. The congri rice and beans was also tasty. It was really a fantastic meal, reasonably priced, with cheerful service, and on a festive open air patio. Whats not to love???
(5)
Heather K.

I took my mom here one summer, and she was amazed that burritos of such girth were served. Naturally, she'd never been to a Mexican eatery in Chicago:) That said, yes- you get a lot of food here for the price, but it can be a tad bland. I found this surprising given that Latin food typically has SOME kick. Also, they place the sour cream for burritos right on top of the burrito, which makes for quick melting- the sour cream becomes watery and runs off. Thus, I'd recommend asking for sauces, etc on the side. The best thing about EL Cid is the outdoor patio they offer in the warmer seasons, and their large, perfectly blended, cheap margaritas. All that AND a lovely view of the luxurious Logan Square Blue Line, along with a couple of pawn shops? Yes.
(3)
chad n.

Coming from SF, i have very high standards for mexican food. I can get a $5 burrito in the mission with chips and salsa that rivals $100 meals i've had. My review focuses on tacos and burritos. At El Cid 2, tacos are cheap ($2) and done well. Not mind blowing, meat is average to above average, the tortilla was better than average (not saying much, since so many places have bad tortillas), and salsa was slightly above average. I will definitely be back for more tacos and burritos, cuz its less than 2 blocks from my house.
(3)
Kelsey H.

I have had better margaritas and salsa although these are not bad. That is the first thing I look for in a good Mexican restaurant. Overall, El Cid has a great back patio with super friendly servers and a great atmosphere. Food was good, will definitely come back.
(4)
E M.

I'm not a fan of mexican cuisine but my husband has been wanting to try this restaurant for a long time since it's local to us. Guess I'm a fan of mexican food now! The cheese fondue/tortilla appetizer was delicious! The steak was very flavorful and cooked to order. The atmosphere was nice (early evening, outdoors, lots of kids) for a couple like us with a small infant in tow. My husband thought the Margarita was fantastic and his food was excellent. This was no fuss, no muss, nice casual relaxed dinner. Looking forward to returning and bringing some friends!
(4)
Carl G.

You know what? I kinda think I like this area better when it was a swamp before the Bronze Age, contemporary with the Cahokia Mound period, but without all the pretentious mounds and earthenware sacrificial accoutrements. Just a swamp, and a pre-Cambrian era glacial lake bed. The tribes that hunted here where old-school, I don't even think they had obsidian tools. Just flint. Old School, just like me. I'm a culturally resonant Columbia student and I have to make sure that everyone knows this when I write a review. Great fish tacos and a nice outdoor seating area. But no one here has even heard of Nalatapa-style buffalo jerky. Plebeians.
(4)
Justin W.

A step above your average Mexican restaurant. The service was extremely warm and friendly. They have some awesome burritos here and will smother them in cheese if you wish. I really loved the carne asada tacos and queso fundito (with chorizo, of course). I'm a huge fan of salty steak/cheese and it came out with a great flavor with a hint of grilled saltiness. The only drawback were the fish tacos. I liked how they didn't deep-fry the fish to get a cheap win (because everything that's deep-fried is good, right?), but they did seem a bit bland. I guess I'm picky after being spoiled with some killer fish tacos in Mexico and Cali. The margaritas are great as well, but my g/f's seemed to have little to no blended ice in it. However, my friend that used to live in the area pointed out that it's not the norm.
(4)
Consumer N.

This is my stomping ground! I know them, they know me. Since I was kid from the original location to this second one open in my teens, this is my numba one! The food is always great, sometimes better as take out depending on the mood. The margaritas are to DIE for and decently priced, not like the shitty Caesars where its over priced and garbage. Sorry if I'm being harsh. El Cid has awesome Pico de Gallo, Tacos, Carne Asada, Chiles Rellenos, etc. I used to work there too and I'm still a fan. What does that tell you?!
(5)
Joe R.

ZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
(2)
Anna K.

I recently moved so very close to this place and quickly became a fan of its delightful orange awning. Unfortunately for me, I'm not a very big fan of their food - or their burritos at least. I didn't even think that I had discriminating taste where burritos were concerned. Usually, I am just so in love with my simplistic idea of them - i.e. a bunch of stuff rolled into a tortilla - that what the burrito actually tastes like is pretty secondary. Anyway, even for me this burrito was noticeably uninteresting. Despite my harsh words regarding their burritos, I give El Cid two stars for the following reasons: they have outdoor seating, my mango margarita tasted good and mango-y (though not very tequila-y), and their tacos are supposedly worthwhile. Also, their awning really is quite stylish.
(2)
Neha S.

El Cid 2 has fantastic fish tacos...definitely something to go back every once in awhile for. It's just a simple tilapia (broiled/grilled?) with onions, cilantro and tomatoes with a little lime squeezed on top. It's really nothing fancy, no sauces, it's not fried, but they're very tasty. Top it off with a large margarita on the rocks, and I'm one happy girl!
(4)
Maria L.

Hmm, I liked it better when it was neighborhood folks and the primary language spoken was Spanish. Oh well.... Only reason I go here: Fish tacos. I know, sounds nasty in English, but they're effin good and this place has them, and fresh. Oh, and I really like the fact that they *fry* their tostaditas (chips). Yeah, it's American to have them, but it's really yummy that they attempt to make them appear homemade. Otherwise, overpriced Mexican. Oh and WEAK margaritas. They even messed up the *traditional* lime margarita. It was way too salty! Eww! And NO alcohol. Boo!
(3)
John B.

After 62 other reviews, what can I add? Not much, as it turns out. I went to El Cid last week, I ordered food, and I remember nothing about it. And not because of the margaritas. It was the combo plate, and it was decent, and the price was right. Not much help, eh? Part of the problem is that in the week since El Cid, I went to The Fajita Grill on Foster and Ravenswood, and it kicked El Cid right out my head. I definitely need to update that review. Yeah, I know, way to hijack my own post. Anyway -- I went to El Cid with the Yelp Beer Garden Club, so you know the company was kickass. Worth a star right there. And our server did a great job of keeping up with 12 or 15 Yelpers who were all ordering food and rinks at different times. It was raining when we got there, but as soon as the rain stopped (well, slowed down), they wiped down tables and chairs and put up umbrellas for us, so props for speedy service. And the beer garden is the place to be -- lots of space and very comfy. If I lived in the hood, I could see hanging out back in warm weather, having a couple of margs and maybe a taco plate or some guac. Because I live two bus rides away, I'm not likely to go back without a reason. Although since it is directly across the street from the Logan Square Blue Line station, it is exceptionally convenient!
(3)
City Swank N.

Had heard many good things about this place......they were all true. The fish taco was delicious as was the regular margarita. However my dining partner had a raspberry margarita that was basically mine with raspberry syrup...come on you can do better than that. In the summertime the patio is a fun option. And for a more upscale feel try the upstairs level...though no pitchers are availble up there...go figure!
(4)
Brigette S.

BEST mango margaritas in the city. Love their fish tacos and fresh pico de gallo. Any of the breakfast items, with chorizo, are good for hangovers. I rarely order a full dinner plate. By the time I have the chips and guac and a margarita, I'm lucky if I have room for one or two small tacos--which can be ordered a la carte. Great place for brunch, lunch, or dinner. I never feel out of place or rushed sitting there alone reading a paper and taking my time to sip down a margarita on a sunny Sunday afternoon on the back patio. Prices are not "dirt cheap", but the food is high quality and worth what your pay, for sure! They love kids, but the place is not crawling with strollers. (I'm sure it will be in about five years when people outgrow Wicker Park and Bucktown.) However, I am sadden that this place has been influenced by the more recent influx of middle and mid-upper class people with disposable income. I've noticed a raise in prices corresponding to the gentrifying Logan Square. I'm sure the upstairs addition is a sign of their success and attempt to catch some of those hipster dollars. But the somewhat lush lounge lacks the quaint feel, prompt service, and reasonable prices I love about El Cid2. Even the menu is different, with it's attempt to offer "bougie" Latin appetizers and abbreviated menu. Skip the upstairs. Go on Sunday afternoons for the most amazing, fresh, reasonably priced Mexican food in the area. Leave a BIG TIP, because the service is always top notch--downstairs, anyway.
(4)
Madge S.

If you haven't been to El Cid 2 in awhile you are not going to recognize it. Azucar definitely raised the bar-- and El Cid has answered. Heard a tequila bar is going in upstairs- nice. I sort of miss the old school charm, but hey Jose--- great new look!!! Need another restaurant and bar- maybe a couple of boutiques and that block on Kedzie will hit the high note! ___________________________________ 11-17-07 Went to El Cid last night and had a fabulous time. Ate dinner downstairs and then headed upstairs for shots of tequila. The rennovation is amazing!! It's a great place to hang out with friends in Logan Square and I'll definitely be a regular. Love it!!! ***** ___________________________________ 4-16-08 I can't wait for margaritas on the patio or the open air bar!!! Would love some cool live music-- not really a band, but a singer. Still love this place!!
(5)
Diego A.

Not a big fan of this place only because the food that i've ate has not been very good for the price charged. The actual seating and feeling of the place is really nice though.
(2)
Billy A.

Great tacos, patio and service. This is a neighborhood mexican restaurant that completely delivers. This is not haute cuisine but it doesn't need to be. I don't get what people expect or what they are comparing it to but I eat very well and still hit El Cid once a week. No need to stay on the fence. If you want good mexican (american) food, just go.
(4)
Lauren H.

the margarita was pretty strong, so props for that. the backyard patio also was a great place to kick back with friends, and they put up with our profanity and perversion and loudness at times, so kudos for that. The fried plaintains were good (albeit a little gummy), but the fish tacos and the pico de gallo were bland.
(3)
Nicholas G.

El Cid 2 serves fish tacos, I mean you have to love that! They are always tasty, and I've given up on trying to get my wife to even order something else. I've tried a few of their other things (steak, burritos, etc.), and they have always been up to par. I really, really like their salsa. In fact one of the things I enjoy most about it is that it tastes different every time, which if you think about it fresh made salsa should. Now I did like some versions more then others, but it was never bad, and always fresh. Enough has been said about their patio, so let me comment on their new upstairs addition. It's gorgeous up there! I've heard that sometimes the staff on the lower level is reluctant to tell anyone about the upstairs seating, but don't be afraid to insist. Upstairs is also where you will find Crystal the bartender, what a gem! I also like David (the occasional stand in) and even the waitress who greets me with "Oh it's you. (delivered with love of course, and only after she's seen me there numerous times)
(5)
Ariel B.

El Cid II was quite the surprise! A group of us went for lunch and discovered they have a little breakfast menu. I tried the breakfast burrito and it was delightful! Other people had the chicken skewers, tacos and one person got the burrito suiza. mmmmcheesey. I think they are doing some kind of renovations, so the place looks to be in a state of construction. The food is cheap and the service is friendly. Overall, we liked it.
(3)
Lori H.

A jump away from the Logan Square Blue Line stop and you've got savory fish tacos, or if you prefer land based toppings, try the al carbon, al pastor, choriso, or lengua (that's tongue - oh yeah, give it try), etc. Some of my other favs are the whole fried fish, tamales and sopes topped with anything they've got. Some of the menu is rather uninspired. I was never a fan of the burritos, and the chili relleno had some serious freezer burn, the straight-from-the-can octopus offerings can be a bit of a turn off, and the guacamole was too expensive for what it was worth... BUT if you head to the more authentic side of the menu, you have a treat (and a good buzz) that won't break the bank and keep you out in the neighborhood. The patio is the best - away from the street and nicely shaded with incense wafting through the gangway leading you in from the street. In the winter, when sadly, the patio has to close, the inside is warm and welcoming. It's a place you can go on a regular basis and always get a good bite. How I miss this place, but when in the Windy City, I head to Logan Square's El Cid 2.
(4)
Don G.

Fish tacos rule. The service is always good enough. I like this place. It's sweet and friendly. The prices are low but not too cheap. In the warmer months you should sit outside in the back. It's a bit quirky - but fun. Check it out.
(4)
Justin G.

The food here is excellent at a decent price. The sangria is good. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. The best part about it though is the hidden outdoor seating in back. Curse you, winter, for taking away the ability to enjoy a tasty El Cid burrito while drinking a pitcher of sangria and enjoy a warm summer night.
(4)
Brigitte K.

Meh. Boring Food, Blah Service. Really kind of strange. It was a busy Thursday evening. There were two of us. We ordered a Diet Coke, a beer, the Taco Combination, and the Regular Combination (1 Taco, 1 Enchilada, 1 Flauta). The only time our waitress really even spoke to us was when she asked if I wanted Mole Sauce... "Yes!" I said. The food arrived in a timely fashion. There was no side of salsa or anything else which could increase the flavor . The Mole on my Combo platter had no flavor. I could see it, but not taste it. The rice and beans had no flavor at all as well. I thought maybe it was just me, but the taco combination was the same, no taste, nothing. The meat was dry or very close to dry on both plates. No juices, no flavors. I'm disappointed El Cid, I had waited a long time to try your food and I left w/o having really tasted anything.
(2)
Jeff H.

My friends and I sat out on their patio on a nice Summer night and had a great time. Only bad part was that their Margaritas were pretty much just mix with ice- undrinkable. I had Bistec a la Mexicana, which was tasty, and the chicken burrito was solid as well.
(3)
Jonathan A.

El Cid has some pretty decent Mexican food. There is plenty around in this area, but this is probably one of the nicer establishments. The big draw is the back outdoor patio. Even if I wasn't eating, it would still be a good place to hang and drink coronas. The food is plentiful, cheap, and pretty fresh. Of the 2 locations, this is the better one. (the food is about the same I guess), simply because of the outdoor area. And the service is friendly and quick. A well run place.
(4)
Kevin C.

Tried to get into Longman & Eagle too packed.. Turned out to be a good thing upstairs lounge awesome fish tacos all the rave oh nad grab a pitcher of mango magaritas..... BOOM
(4)
Jonathan C.

Since I eat at this place more than any other place, thought I'd update a bit. They've added breakfast and brunch on the weekends. I'm a sucker for the chorizo con huevos. The pancakes have bananas in them, unless you tell them not to. My favorite item from here of late are the flautas. The definitive 3.5 star place. I maybe sort of "meh" on the food since I eat here all the time, but I'm big on the service since everyone here knows me. I round down, cause food is on the small side for price.
(3)
Jess S.

I think we've established how excellent this place is. I just wanted to say how much I love love love the outdoor seating area. It is really fabulous. A hidden treasure (kinda). A santuary (sorta). That is all.
(4)
Caitlin S.

I love mexican food. But this was awful. I ordered the chicken enchiladas with mole sauce and it was just horrible. The chips and salsa were okay, not very flavorful. In addition to yucky food, our waitress took ages to get to us, kept forgetting to refill water glasses, and dragged with the bill. It was not even remotely busy either. I won't be going back when there are so many other better mexican restaurants.
(1)
Laurel W.

I've been here twice in the past few weeks. Once for dinner and once for breakfast. For dinner we sat in the outdoor patio--it's great. I felt like I was at a fun block party with great food. The fish tacos were great and they have some of the best tortillas I've ever had. I'm a fantatic for white corn tortillas, and El Cid's are superb. The margeritas were great and the mojitos were yummy. The owner was super nice! For breakfast I decided to have classic Huevos a la Mexicana. They were perfect (although I really wished for black beans on the side--they had refried pinto beans). These were fantastic in the great white corn tortillas with a squeeze of lime on top! The fresh-squeezed orange juice was amazing. It was so fresh I think it was taken directly from the orange minutes after I ordered it. I will definitely be back!
(4)
Mark G.

Good stuff here. Hadn't been there for a few years but went back on Friday night for a friend's birthday. The upstairs is pretty awesome. Good amount of room for a party of like 20 people. The bartenders weren't very friendly and were a little slow, but that was made up for by the delicious selection of tequilas (we choose to go with the Corrallejo). I didn't get any food this time around but I used to have some friends in the area and I remember it being good when I was last here. Location is great since it's next to the Blue Line. Oh, and the mango margaritas are tasty as hell.
(4)
Katrina H.

Where do I start ? The FOOD. ? Drinks ?? Service ?? All very exceptional!! Their Ceviche is Delicous!! and their Drinks.. Bong Chicka Bong Bong (ie.. make sure that you have a designated driver as these badboys creep up on you quicklky!) .. All of their appetizers are devine! I've had a few main courses here and each one taste Fantastic! ... Although my friend and I made it there after 10pm, they were happy to serve us. This place is definitely a Fav for me..
(5)
Stacie W.

This place is fabulous!! The food is amazing and the staff is always nice...they also have a huge patio if you like to eat outside...
(5)
Alex B.

Awesome: Stews Fish Tacos Patio Wait-staff $$$$ (cheap) Right around the corner from us Okay: Guac (too salty) Tacos (too bland) Decor Burrito Not so good: Wierd sweet/ vinegar tasting salsa
(3)
John W.

Not the best Mexican food I have ever had but it's good and the patio in the back is great for summer. It's hard to top Coronas and Mexican food outdoors in the summer. The guy playing Spanish guitar is a nice touch too. I always get the combination plate and I like that you have a choice of red, green or mole sauce for their enchiladas. Nice food and atmosphere for not a lot of green. I heard their margaritas weren't that great but I can't stand tequila so I wouldn't know.
(3)
Kate F.

I cannot understand the stellar reviews for this place. I give it one star because the back patio is nice. The food is terrible. We ordered guacamole, which was mixed with sour cream and watery. Need I say more? By the way, they charge $7.50. We ordered margaritas which were sugary sweet and WEAK. Sugar water. Not a good start. The rest of meal followed suit. Greasy, bland, gross. We spent the rest of the night (and most of the next morning) regretting the decision to go here. There is nothing worse on the stomach than bad mexican food.
(1)
Michaela N.

Love, Love, Love this place! Best margaritas in the city, hands down! Great food as well as a friendly, efficient staff. My husband and I are regulars here, as its just a few blocks from our home. The back patio is a hidden jewel of logan square. You would never know its there, and its an awesome way to spend a warm summer night. I've never had a bad meal or a bad experience here. 5 stars all around!
(5)
Ben P.

Great patio, tasty margaritas and yummy grub. Oh and that a crazy ass out-house. I've not been disappointed with any of the food I've had, and I've been there a few times. Fresh, hot and deeeelicious!
(5)
Viola P.

Meh. The stars are for the fantastic mango margarita and the great company! My nachos were...okay. Chips, melted cheese, guac, can't go wrong, right? Well, I ordered mine with meat, grilled steak to be precise, and what I got was, I kid you not, maybe 2 TBLSPNS of tiny little cubes of meat. I mean, seriously, don't even bother if that's what you consider to be adding meat. Two dinky tablespoons. Man, what a bummer. But that margarita - yum.
(3)
Dred H.

god DAMN that's a lot of ceviche. I mean, holy crap. The three-tostada ceviche dinner is a freakin mound of chopped shrimp goodness that pretty much guarantees leftovers. I actually got tired of eating shrimp. That's never happened before. Tamarind margarita, yum. Queso fundido with chorizo... yum, but kinda gloopy/slablike. Good taste, iffy texture. The food is seventeen different kinds of awesome, and I can stumble home from there if needed, and come summertime (did I mention margaritas are good?) I can foresee the need. Mmmyep.
(4)
Vincent T.

Good service, brilliant margueritas, above-average food, fantastic back patio during the warmer months (or days). We go there at least a couple times a month, and have always been made to be comfortable and well taken care of without having to get a credit increase on our cards. It's one of the few restaurants we regularly order take-out from as well as take guests to. A good, charming experience each time.
(5)
Brenna O.

I was in desperate need of some tamales a few nights ago. I also wasn't in the mood for trying a hit or miss shop that I knew nothing about, because I didn't want to be disappointed. Luckily El Cid 2 was open just a couple blocks from us, and we got an order to go. I enjoyed my tamales, the pork was what you would expect, but the chicken one also had long strips of green pepper in it and cheese, something I wasn't expecting but it was good. Their soft tacos were simple and good, but I was kind of disappointed in the chicken sandwich we got as well. The chicken was good, but then there was just some limp lettuce and tomato on a slightly soggy, chewy Italian bread loaf. Luckily they included some of their salsa, which I was able to just dump all over it to make it more edible. I just wish there had been more of the red salsa! I think there are many more Mexican places to try in the Logan Square area, so I'm going to keep searching for that place that is going to be my tamale heaven.
(3)
Katelyn G.

Logan Square has some pretty good mexican restaurants but El Cid 2 (not to be mixed up with the regular El Cid down the street over on Milwuakee) is the best mexican food in Logan Square. they are open late and you can get stuffed on burritos or sauced on margaritas, or both, fairly cheaply.
(5)
Shari S.

With so many wonderful Mexican restaurants in Logan Square, it is always impossible to choose which one to go to. El Cid is my go to option when I want cheap, casual Mexican food. It is not the best Mexican out there, but the food is always consistent and good. There are two El Cid locations, Kedzie and Milwaukee. The Kedzie location is newer, cleaner, and cuter. The Milwaukee location doesn't have the same charm, but I find the food to be a little bit better, with the exception of the refried beans. If you are in the mood for tacos, enchiladas, or your standard Mexican fare, El Cid is a great place to go. My favorite is their cheese enchiladas, they are fantastic! El Cid is authentic, the service is always good, and it is very reasonable.
(4)
Law S.

Great staff, excellent food. Authentic and good, awesome overall. Great salsa and salsa verde.
(4)
Quantas G.

Talk about a perfect summertime joint. I sat in the back patio with a friend of mine and had a great time. Very calm and serene. The staff was very attentive and very welcoming. And the food was delicious and well priced. I will be back especially on a nice day when I can sit out on the back patio.
(4)
Kiarash Z.

Based on the advice of old friends, I defended El Cid against criticism from a new friend. Well, she was right, and I was wrong. El Cid is average. Just ... average. And overpriced. I had two fish tacos, $2.75 each. And they weren't fried. Now, I know some people like their fish grilled. I like friend. If it's not fried, I'm not impressed. My lunch date had a carne asada torta (which I originally planned to order before being dissuaded by the server's T-shirt, which clearly praised the fish tacos. Props to whoever decided to put a lime on the side of each taco. That made them edible. The margaritas were good, but $4 for a small margarita's a little pricey for Logan Square. In a Mexican neighborhood, Mexican food of this caliber just shouldn't cost this much. And when you order a dish, if it's not labeled "dinner," you're not getting anything on the side - no rice, no beans, no tortilla. Service was unbearably slow on a Monday afternoon. After 20 minutes of waiting, my date actually had to chase down a server to get the check. Want more chips? Forget about it. We got one basket. Fin. The server even came back and took the basket away. She never brought a fresh one out. I won't be going back.
(3)
Amy S.

Good food and good prices. Love there outside seating in the back and a little in front. Margaritas are only ok. I am still in search of a great one! Also, they have redecorated recently. A neighborhood spot and good to go there.
(3)
Lamb J.

Much like it's counterpart farther south in Logan Square, El Cid 2 is cheap, yummy and hits the spot. Props for having frozen margaritas so yummy I don't care about the constant brain freeze.
(4)
Tim S.

A good friend of mine introduced me to El Cid 2 before the additions. We went recently and were surprised and happy at them. The place looks great! I've always enjoyed El Cid. I think the food, while not pushing the boundaries of Mexican food, is pretty darn good. I'm a huge fan of the Chimichanga but that's my tendency for fried food talking. Is the service great? I'm pretty forgiving since I'm a server and understand the complexity and difficulty of doing such a job. While my last experience wasn't stellar it was just fine. I got my food. I got my drinks (though no pitchers on the top floor!), and I enjoyed it. Look, go to this place. Its good. Heck, its great. You want great Mexican food in Chicago but not sure where to start? Go here. It has become a staple of mine and I wish I lived closer to go to it more.
(4)
Ben S.

Probably the best Mexican in Logan Square. The staff is super friendly and the food is tasty, comes out quick, and is reasonably priced. It's pretty friendly towards vegetarians too, your options go beyond a veggie burritos. A word to the wise though, when they give you the options of meat to put in your taco/burrito/tostada, for some reason they use the English equivalent of common items, so barbacoa becomes "pot steamed beef" and al pastor becomes "mexican gyros".
(4)
Eric S.

I love me some El Cid. Food is pretty good, but in the summer, one of the rare places that will let you smoke outside in the back.
(4)
Moe f.

Great place for drinks in the backyard patio. Although not even sure about that. I've had the regular margaritas and like them. Tonight I went with mango and swear there was no alcohol in them. After 2 large, I should be stumbling outta there and I wasn't. Guac was OK. Shrimp fajitas weren't great. Fish tacos were just OK. Al Pastor tacos were the big winner. Good service though.
(2)
Andreanna T.

I live right around the corner from El Cid and end up here a few times a month. Everything (food, service, atmosphere) is good, nearly great. Service is a little slow once in a while, but nothing to freak out about. My favorite part of El Cid is during the summer months when the back patio is open and they have the mariacci band out there (I think they're there only a few times a week). Warm night, margarita in hand, band playing, and all the lights up around you and it almost feels like you're deep in Mexico. Awesome.
(4)
Gamaliel E.

I came here after watching a movie at the very ritzy Logan Theatre. I ordered the steak shish kabobs with rice. When i got them, they were covered in a BBQ sauce....not sure if it was KC Masterpiece or Bulls Eye...anyhoo....it really sucked. I asked for some tortillas and the waitress said it didn't come with tortillas, but she would check with the manager. She came back after 5 mins to let me know that the toritillas would be extra. Please note that I never questioned not paying extra...just thought it was strange. My peeps eat tortillas with everything! Its like saying you don't get a fork with your meal. Anyhoo...the tortillas didn't help, the food still sucked. I have another buddy that said he didn't care for the place. He said that the food was bland. I'm thinking that might be why there is some high praise for this place. Might be more friendly for some with more sensitive taste buds. I've heard the out door patio is nice. This place is right down the street from me and I still choose not to go back.
(1)
Jason G.

awesome fish tacos and tampiquena. best margaritas in chicago. they have an AMAZING patio in the back. monday & tuesday, bottles of wine are 1/2 price! and the lounge, upstairs, is open late. really much more than just your typical tacqueria.
(4)
Ann S.

A good sit-down restaurant for Mexican food. I don't particularly enjoy the ambiance in the restaurant itself, but the patio is nice, even in winter. I would have to say that their margaritas are better than their food; I've gone to El Cid on several occasions just to order margaritas and eat chips and salsa. Some people don't like the sweetness of the pico de gallo, but I think it's rather tasty. If you go and find yourself not liking the food, make sure you order the margaritas...
(4)
Meghan A.

Two words: Amazing margaritas. Love, love, love their margaritas. They also have a wonderful outdoor seating area in the back that's wonderful for dinnertime in nice weather. On my first visit I had the chicken enchiladas and they were a tad on the dry side, but overall very enjoyable and I'll definitely be back to try more entrees....and have many more margaritas.
(4)
Pam C.

Fabulouse food...attentive service...be sure to try the stuffed shrimp and El Cid Martini!!! TO DIE FOR!!!!!! Price is great, Awesome live music .And in the summer, it is like a little mini tropical vacation on the back patio. Cant wait to go back!!
(5)
Haley M.

I have been to El Cid 2 (as opposed to the often confused with "El Cid" southeast from this local on Milwaukee) many times and have never had a bad experience. Basic, but delicious and the back patio definitely has a feel of being in Mexico which some "fancy-pants" people may not appreciate but I definitely dig it. Margaritas were average, overpriced, but not bad. I've had a few different dishes here and they have always been fantastic. Service is great and very friendly, though I remember the first time I went there the waitress acted like she was on muscle-relaxers or something. I don't live in the neighborhood anymore but I don't mind making the trek...it's worth it.
(4)
Sasha R.

This place isn't as cheap as a lot of Mexican restaurants, but it's very good. The indoor seating is very pleasant and I hear they also have a nice patio. Our server was really friendly and helpful and our food and drinks were good as well. There are a lot of Mexican restaurants a little closer to where I live, but it's almost worth the trip to be in a place not filled with so many LP'ers.
(4)
Amoli P.

El Cid is a great neighborhood Mexican restaurant that is more tailored to the hipster ambiance of Logan Square than some of the more authentic and family style Mexican restaurants in the area. A large interior and a huge back patio allow for plenty of seating and a fun and lively atmosphere. There's even some sort of roof deck that was empty the day we were there but I imagine can be quite fun. Oddly, they were playing 90s grunge music when we were there, which took away from the Mexican theme a bit, but I enjoyed it more than the typical Mexican restaurant soundtrack. They were very accommodating to seat us outside and make room for our newborn and his stroller. And the servers were very friendly and kept congratulating us on our baby. That's always nice to hear. The menu is complete with all the usual items and some fun specials. We weren't super hungry so we opted for a few tacos and a few quesadillas. The quesadilla options are pretty cool in that you can order mini quesadillas (the size of a taco) and switch up fillings instead of having to order a full order. My husband had the al pastor, skirt steak, and carnitas tacos. I had the al pastor, chicken, and skirt steak quesadillas. All were great. The al pastor was probably the favorite. Their chips and salsa add a fun flair since the salsa has a bit of mole in it to give it a really unique (and addicting) flavor. They will gladly keep refilling you on chips and salsa, but I wish they served their salsa in a bigger bowl because we were going through it like crazy. I can see El Cid being a fun happy hour atmosphere or a great weekend afternoon party for day drinking on a nice day. We went randomly at 4pm on a Tuesday so it was fairly empty and serene. This is a great spot in the neighborhood for a quick bite and a beer or a full dinner and we will gladly be back again.
(4)
Gino W.

And my friends keep wondering why I like Logan Square so much. It's not just because I live there, but the restaurants mean I don't have to go to Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Lakeview, and Near North. Chips and salsa. Margarita. Vegetarian chimichangas. Tamale. Margarita. Salmon with arroz and frijoles. Flan. Food comatose. Although the chips and salsa were complimentary, the tomatillo salsa and the pica de gallo surprised me. The tomatillo salsa had a nice bite to it and I think the pica de gallo had a bit of mole in it. If you've had a mole sauce on meat at Latin America restaurants, you've probably wanted a smoke afterwards. Love the vegetarian chimichangas, stuffed with rice, tomatoes, onions, and cheese. The fresh guacamole that came with it was a highlight. The tamale was fantastic. The red salsa that came with it had to have been made with habanero sauce. It was hot. The plate of salmon with arroz and frijoles was a true winner. Glad I ordered this instead of the usual enchiladas or tacos. And then there was the coconut flan, smooth as butter, and tasty as bliss. Had me speaking Spanish, and I don't mean butchering the language. Oh, I mentioned margarita three times above. Yep, I had three of them.
(5)
Crystal R.

Wowzers! Excellent Food! Excellent Atmosphere! Excellent Drinks! Excellent Service! This is how Mexican food should always taste.......delicious. I discovered this place, because I came in from a flight from Orlando, and I was staying in the lovely Logan Square Area. I was pondering around 10:30 p.m. in the evening on a Thursday, what is open at this time, and to my luck this place was open to 12! Perfecto! I ordered Horchata for my drink, Guacamole for my appetizer, Carne Asada (Steak Taco and Chicken Tostada for Dinner. Chips and Salsa are included with every meal.The Chips and Salsa were fresh and tasty. Everything I ordered from beginning to end was to die for. I even sampled my brother's quesadilla, and that dish alone made my eyes literally roll in the back of my head. All I know is I am sucker for steak tacos and these are some of the best steak tacos I have had in a long time. Even the atmosphere of this place is so cozy and intimate. The waitress did an excellent job of consistently checking on us and making sure that everything was fine with our table. Let's not forget to mention that the food came out extremely fast! The prices were reasonable. Even the Horchata was some of the best I have ever had. Overall, the experience left me speechless and wanting more. Mexican food at it's finest! .
(5)
C.C. H.

The fish and shrimp used in the tacos smelt, felt, and tasted previously frozen but El Cid had unusually tender corn tacos and a strong margarita. Chips were warm and fresh, as were the pico de gallo and green salsa. The pico here was significantly sweeter than I'm used to - unclear if they use a different strain of tomatoes or add sugar. I would say my friend's skirt steak taco was 50% meat (excellent) and the meat I tasted was moist but possibly under-seasoned. This was a mediocre eating experience but I actually had a decent time there - good vibes, I guess?
(3)
Jenny I.

Best margaritas you can find in Chicago. Avocado items are unbelivable, and the back patio in the summer is divine. Excellent service, freshest Mexican food I've had in years, wonderful vegetarian options. Best kept secret in Logan Square, and it blows Abril (its neighbor to the South) out of the water.
(4)
Rob Z.

The food is mediocre taqueria food, the atmosphere is a clean, laid back taqueria. The only standout food I've had here is the Pico de Gallo (the secret ingredient is ketchup!) I used to go for years when I was a starving college student living a couple blocks away, but with transportation and wisdom I now choose Chicken Run on Milwaukee or Las Asadas on Western/Charleston.
(3)
imran k.

this place is great. i can't wait for the spring so i can sit in the patio and relax with friends. also, the wait staff is wonderful & sweet.
(4)
Erin F.

My husband and I recently moved to the area and were told that El Cid had some of the best Mexican around. Honestly, it was excellent. The food was great and the margaritas were even better (strong, just like I like them). We will definitely be back in the near future!
(4)
molly c.

perfect place for after work drinks and food. who doesn't love Mexican?!? i mean come on, margaritas on a patio? that's what i dream of all winter long!!! my friend ordered a burrito that was entirely covered in cheese. that wonderful white melty Mexican cheese. lordy. they have tons of veggie options and you can order ala carte!
(5)
rachel a.

lime margaritas and the combination dinner platter. so good. that's all i have to say...
(4)
Gavin G.

good food, good prices, fast service. chips and salsa are always good, and the rest of the food i've tried is consistently good. not amazing, but good. location is great; right by the blue line stop and parking shouldn't be too problematic for drivers.
(4)
jennifer b.

back patio is great to hang out and get some margaritas. but if i'm just there for food, i can usually get out of there full of tasty food without spending more than $8. hooray for el cid!
(4)
Amy L.

This place probably has the best vegetarian options at a Mexican restaurant that I've seen since moving from California--that's not to say that it's as good though, but it's decent. For as much as I hear people claim how awesome their margaritas are, I was rather disappointed with how weak and watered down they were...Maybe it was an off-night?
(3)
Michelle F.

A little more upscale than some mexican joints in the area. Food prices are good, though, and they have carry out or eat in, depending on how much time you have. I enjoyed their tacos and fajhitas.
(4)
k s.

i enjoy the outdoor patio on a nice day/evening. lots of flowers and tiki torches. i'm kind of into the little cabana-looking bar. the porta-potty is a bit weird, never tried it and don't plan to, although i would recommend trying anything doused in the mole.
(3)
De L.

This used to be our go to place, I mean 5-6 times a month. Then El Cid decided they would raise their prices. Bad move El Cid. You can't raise the price on one plate by $10 if there hasn't been any notable market price increase! Abstaining from El Cid for now.
(3)
Julie T.

My favorite bar in the area! When you walk in, it looks like a dive type place that leaves little to be desired. However, once you walk in the back patio area, it is amazing!! It is a very festive vibe, while almost giving you the illusion that you are in the suburbs. It gives you that private, relaxing "vacation" type vibe with all the fun decor. One thing that I love too, is the fact that you get a bowl of chips and salsa with any order (including drinks)
(5)
Jonathan S.

Awesome place!! Casual Mexican restaurant, incredible carnitas, great patio, and hard working staff!!
(5)
Rahul G.

This is a tough one. If I'm rating just on food, I'd give it five stars most likely. But the prices are out of whack here, simply put. I get it's on the Square, by the Blue Line, and I get it's a "nicer" place with tons of booze and all. But $9 for a burrito without sour cream? I live on Planet Earth and that's a ridiculous price. If you decide to get the burrito dinner, which adds rice and beans to the side, that's $4! For rice and beans! This is a fun place for a small group, it's very nice inside, quick service, and the burritos are big, but come on now. As I've said before, there are a plethora of Mexican restaurants in Logan Square. Quality matters without a doubt, but prices matter too, especially when comparing to places within a half a mile radius.
(3)
Tasha A.

I just had one of the best date nights thus far. Jana and her staff provided exemplary customer service and the Pastore Tacos were a definite MUST have. Their Margaritas were the best I've ever had! I highly recommend giving this place a try.
(5)
AV G.

To me, the place was very good. We were in a rush to get to a CIMMFEST show at the Logan and wanted something quickly.. The tamals @$3 were probably the best i have ever eaten. Priced at the high end of every other dump taqueria, i thought the place a good value. I was surprised at the huge diversity of opinions at Yelp, but maintain my thought that Logan Square in general is not that twee, and most of the people involved with it, have no clue to what they are talking about!
(4)
Jan E.

Tasty. Cheap. I had the chicken quesadilla which was delicious but the refried beans were the best. Fairly basic atmosphere but friendly service and good location.
(4)
Laura H.

Sort of a "meh" experience overall but the food (tamales) was ok, so they get 3 stars. I live right by here but finally came in after they were named one of the top ten margaritas in Chicago by Timeout or someone or other. Nope. Sad, sad margaritas.
(3)
Cynthia H.

El Cid has a nice and friendly atmosphere with a great patio in the back of the restaurant. I'm not a fan of the food, partly because I am from California where Mexican food reigns supreme and I'm on a mission to find decent California Mexican food in the Midwest. I've lived outside of California for years and the best Mexican restaurant outside of California was actually in, Biloxi, Mississippi, which was right across the street from the beach. It's no longer there since after hurricane Katrina. However, if I can find good Mexican food in Mississippi of all places, then I can surely find one in a world class city like Chicago. Haven't found one yet, but will let you know when I do. The food at El Cid is fair. I was disappointed when my food came out flat out cold. I think one of their burners must've gone out in the kitchen because the food wasn't even lukewarm. I did send it back only to wait a while. The plus side while waiting? Their margaritas kept us company and happy while waiting on the meal. They claim to use an agave sweetener. It worked for me, but sadly that was all.
(2)
Tiffany C.

Pretty cheap for a nice sit down Mexican Restaurant. Its my boyfriend and my go to whenever we get back in town from a trip and want a quick meal. Ambiance: They have a really nice back patio. You feel like you are in someone's back yard when you walk back there with the stones and greenery. That is the place to sit unless it happens to be raining. Hang out on their patio. Service: Great. Very sweet, to the point, and gets your order in as quick as they can Food: Yummy. The tacos are typical but fresh and yummy. I always get the chicken and the veggie. The burritos are filling as well. Ive had the breakfast burrito and the regular chicken burrito. Both were huge where I could only eat half. My boyfriend usually gets the fish tacos and they are delicious. Probably the best in town for picking up tacos really quickly in the Logan Square area. Drinks: Dirt cheap and tasty. Of course you have to get the margarita and they do it right. Price: Cheap meal. $2.50/ taco, $9/ burrito. $5/ margarita. Can you beat that? Parking: It can be tricky, but there is street parking or you can look in the neighborhoods for an open spot for free. Need some Mexican Food right off the blue line. Go on in, I recommend it.
(4)
Tavi J.

3.5 Stars My friend and I came here after doing a little browsing at the Farmers Market near by. What a cute setup! We ventured to the back patio and it's pretty big and nicely decorated. Made me feel like I was on vacation. The atmosphere was warm and our waitress was really friendly. Put all that aside though the food was just okay. I liked the chips, but the salsa was definitely on the bland side. Same goes for the steak quesadia I ordered. It was really greesy and lack flavor. My friend ordered the empenada and the tamale. She said it wasn't the best she has ever had, but for the price point the food is decent. All together we only spent $16.00. Next time I have to try one of the drinks. The magharita look yummy! :)
(3)
Maren R.

Lovely back patio. If you want a few drinks get the pitcher of margarita. Not a ton of vegetarian options but I was very happy with my veg burrito.
(4)
Rich R.

Great food and flavors, a caring service staff, good prices. Right next to the Blue Line in Logan Square.
(5)
D. L.

Quaint outdoor summer patio located in the back of the restaurant with wonderful natural tree coverage. As you arrive to the patio you're greeted with a humorous sign " you are now entering Mexico" However, there is very little to create an ambiance that you are in Mexico. Disappointing, because my expectation was to be transported to a patio in Mexico. Instead, it's loud English pop and rock music. The al pastor, for my torta, is prepared non-traditional and the menu doesn't indicate that. The grilled steak is good. I was looking for Mexican feel ambiance without having to go to little Village/Pilsen.
(3)
Elena B.

One of my favorite restaurants in Logan Square. Went here for the first time almost 10 years ago and we'll always come back. Great food, super nice staff, and they pour a generous glass of wine :) Back patio is tops in summer. Guisado de Puerco and Tacos al Pastor are our most favorites.
(5)
Julie O.

Great local Mexican place. The back, enclosed patio is awesome. Food is always tasty. Good service.
(5)
J. Terrell A.

After filling our bellies at Longman & Eagle, we made a quick stop at El Cid to quench our thirst with a pitcher of Margaritas. It was just after 3p and there was plenty of seating. The server took our order and brought over chips and salsa which were on the meh said. I've had better. When the pitcher arrived it was filled with ice. Was a tad bit disappointed because more ice = less liquor? Seriously, the pitcher was half-filled with ice. El Cid... you can do better than that... come on. After downing five glasses, I felt nothing... maybe because I'm a big boy. It takes a lot to get me buzzed. The $30+ bucks we paid for the pitcher seemed wasted and off we went. Maybe I'll return and try the tacos, I hear they're pretty good.
(2)
Christelle S.

Great margs! Definitely get a pitcher! Food isn't bad either, I had the empanadas and enjoyed them. Also liked the pico de gallo for its sweetness that others didn't seem a fan of - but I found it really good... was digging it out with the fresh chips we got. I really liked the patio in the back too - great for summer time Def check it out!
(4)
Mansi S.

Dont go here! You were warned. I can make guac better then this, and I can barely cook!! Plus the menu said its a $1, and they charged $8! I had the vegetarian chimichangas, lets just say they were awful! They were pretty much frozen and warmed up, esp because they didnt allow me to substitute the rice. They tasted like nothing but fried calories! I love chimichangas but these were the worst I had! The service was bad too, they didnt once ask how the food was! My husband thought his food was ok, nothing to write home about! Im not coming back!
(2)
Shyam V.

The worst guacamole that I have had. The Salsa had little or no flavor. The only reason it has 2 stars are the tacos - the skirt steak and the al pastor were really good. Chicken Taco was bad as well. Not worth the money - $50 for 2 people with food and a drink each.
(2)
Grierson L.

The Camarones Rellenos are delish!! Heard the service was so-so, but William was terrific. We also had tacos (carnitas over steak) and quesadillas: both yummy!
(4)
Adam W.

Trip to El Cid wasn't too shabby, but not the best Mexican I've had in Chicago, the pros & cons: Pros - - Chips are on the thick side and fresh - $3 draft beer on Sunday (!) - Salsa verda is tasty - Corn tortillas are very good Cons - - The pico de gallo has some kind of weird sweetness to it (just sugar? pickled relish?) - Guisado de puerco was hearty, the meat chunks were very fatty Will come back as I've heard the breakfast burrito is strong to quite strong.
(3)
Ashley T.

This place is awesome. I think it's more Mexican than Tex-Mex (I don't think you can be Tex-Mex without Chile Con Queso on your menu) but it's very good food for a reasonable price. I go here a lot and ended up here for Cinco De Mayo and had a great time! What a party! Great homemade margaritas everyday (hand blended for the frozen!) and they will do flavored 'Rita's on the rocks. Friendly staff and a large menu makes this one of my favorites!
(5)
Tony E.

Is it just me or did they majorly hike the prices here recently? I hadn't been here in several months and after seeing my fajitas on the menu priced at over $20, I thought I had the wrong menu. Or maybe they changed the menu and added some family platter options. Cool!! Wait...no. What stinks is that the fajitas are really good. But we're talking rice and beans, here. Poor man's food. Gringos, do not fall for it!
(3)
Roberto C.

Great prices. Great service. The veggie tapas delicious. The wine special was $15 for the entire bottle. Wow! My partner in crime tried the chorizo with cheese and he loved it. I had the fish and rice. Seasonings were on point. Once again, my 5 Stars ratings are for customer service, price and delicious food. Fine dine Under $50 for two, can't beat it!
(5)
Betzel E.

Overall, I've had better Mexican food in smaller and less refined restaurants. If you're in the area you are better off walking a few more blocks to El Patron. My experience at El Cid: Customer service could be better, food has a long way to go to improve, location was the only best asset of the place.
(2)
Jasmine C.

I was pleasantly surprised with the patio in the back! Looking at the restaurant from the from you would never know it was there. I went there for dinner and ordered shrimp and chicken pinchos. Food was good! The waitress could've been a little friendlier. I'll definitely go back to try a few more things on the menu.
(4)
Daniel F.

This is my third time here and my experience keeps getting better. This time I got a skirt steak burrito with green salsa and I gotta say for the price it was really good. I used to live in the neighborhood and the competition for Mexican cuisine is fierce, I'm actually disappointed I didn't discover this place when I lived by it. They have live music on Wednesday on the patio in back (this week was lounge music) and it is a nice touch. The service is friendly and prompt and even the manager Jana stopped by and introduced herself. She genuinely cared about our experience and even recognized our party from our previous visit (good experience that time as well) el cid 2 is a solid offering in the neighborhood and worth a try. I will be back again.
(4)
Shereene M.

We sat outside in the back and they had live music. The portions are huge! We got a chimichanga, burrito and torta and everyone had leftovers to bring home.
(4)
Derrick P.

Last Wednesday I was there tenth time. Ever time the taco salad gets smaller. They even didn't put guacamole in me Veggie salad. Just little cheap tasteless tomato, cheese and a lot of rice, fried bleans and lettuce. A year ago El cid used to sell great taco salad. Not now. Service? The same. Didn't like her at the most.
(2)
Bri A.

What could be better than sitting outside on a hot, spring night, sipping margaritas and eating delicious Mexican food? We were seated right away but it was about 10 minutes before we were given water, chips and salsa. They give you two different kinds: a spicy salsa verde and a chunky, sweet tomato one...both were tasty! It took awhile for our waitress to take our order, and even longer to receive our food. Boyfriend recieved his lengua burrito and margarita way before my fish tacos and margarita came out. The tacos were pretty standard, but good. BF looooves lengua and enjoyed his burrito, which I think I enjoyed more than my tacos. I had a taste and coveted it the rest of the night! I had the pineapple jalapeno margarita which was awesome, but could have used a little more pepper. I want to try the spicy strawberry one next! Oh, and I hear that sangria is $3.75 on Tuesdays! My guy and I were hoping we found a staple Mexican place in the neighborhood since El Cid is in walking distance, but man....the service was terrible! The waitress never checked on us and our water wasn't refilled. I think they are understaffed for the amount of business they get. We will be back, but during an off-peak time.
(3)
Melissa F.

The last time I went I was so unhappy with our service. Our waitress was way more than rude, unhelpful, and I dare say unattentive. Our food was good ( I swear I love the taco's and booze) but also a little cold. Over all I still like it this was the first time I was unhappy.
(4)
Louise H.

I love this place. the food is gorgeous and I'd recommend anyone to try this spot out. In fact, I've recommended my friends from Britain who have visited Chicago to go there and everyone has said the same thing. food is just amazing and the ambience is fab for a date or a catch up with a couple of friends.
(5)
Tony S.

Average Rita. Solid location. Cougar hostess. La Bomba is the over priced highlight but damn good.
(3)
Megan D.

Went here on a whim with a friend after the Farmers Market. Had steak tacos and was really pleased. Not greasy at all. The chips and salsa were quite tasty. I would go back again and order margaritias too.
(3)
Tushar N.

My go to place once a year when I compete in the local dance competition in Logan square. Decent portions. Nice atmosphere. Not too expensive. Obviously you can find better Mexican food in chicago but for the location it's a safe bet.
(4)
Patrick T.

Service is mediocre. Came for lunch and ordered the Tampiquena -- flank steak with the two cheese enchiladas or whatever on top. They serve complimentary chips and salsa which are a nice thought. Um, the flank steak was kind of amazing? It was literally the whole plate long of 2 inch wide flank steak Pretty close cook to medium rare that I asked for. It was very flavorful and mouth-watering to think about. The rest of the plate was average. Salty cheese enchiladas. Side of beans with cheese. Side of some shredded lettuce. Side of nothing to write home about guacamole.
(3)
Kyle W.

El Cid offers standard Mexican fare at reasonable prices. The margaritas are decent and there are plenty of healthy and vegetarian options. If you're eating in, make sure you sit upstairs, which is a nice, cozy space with a large bar. The seating downstairs is cafeteria style. There's also a decent back patio in the warm weather. The service is friendly and attentive, if not always well-informed, but really how much do you need to know when you're ordering a burrito or tacos? El Cid is a solid neighborhood staple that will satisfy your craving for Mexican, but don't expect anything too special.
(3)
Sarah L.

Solid, affordable Mexican food, great outdoor eating spaces, and good drinks for evenings and brunch. Not upscale, just solid food for a great price.
(5)
Nicole W.

The more I go to El Cid, the less good it seems to be. Like the first time I went, I was really stoked. Delicious mojito! Cheap-ish and good veggie burrito! Nice servers! Its main feature is that it's a five minute walk from my apartment. The veggie burrito is pretty damned consistently good. However, splitting a check at El Cid is a freaking nightmare. I don't mind some restrictions on check-splitting because I know it's inconvenient, but it should not be this difficult to figure out when we write everything very clearly on the receipt. Also, why all the weird restrictions on where you can and can't have various sized beverages? Some places you can't have pitchers, other places you can't have smalls. Is it that complicated? I'm pretty sure all the drinks come from the same great drink in the sky and get poured into vessels in roughly the same way. The vegetarian options aside from the burrito are mostly so-so, and it seems to be a complete tossup whether you're going to get charged for things that supposedly come with your meal, or not. The owner (?) is very friendly as are most of the servers. El Cid is at its most charming in the summer when you can chill on the back patio with a pitcher of margaritas. The drinks are pretty great. The food is just ok, with the exception of the pico de gallo which gets a solid 5 stars - they make it fresh and you can tell, it's DELICIOUS. But for the most part, you go to El Cid (2!) because it's close and convenient and pretty good, but it's not really a destination.
(3)
CB L.

This is my favorite Mexican restaurant in Chicago. I always start with empanadas as they have this amazing sauce that I can eat with them. It is a must have item. I have tried many of the menu items and all our usually really good and have never disappointed. I don't drink so I cannot speak to their beverages, but if you want a good authentic Mexican dinner, I cannot recommend El Cid enough.
(5)
Stella K.

I went here with a group of 8 people. I like lists, so here's a list! Pros: - Pretty good food; some friends complained their entrees were too greasy, but I'm guessing it's the guilt for eating something that isn't particularly healthy. Nobody left hungry. - Great margaritas, both frozen and on the rocks - Got a table in no time on 9pm on a Saturday night out front. Cons: - $20 or higher for half of the stuff on the menu. Fajitas? C'mon, this isn't four star dining. - The bathroom is disgusting. There was only one bathroom open for some reason. It's in severe need of renovation, a new hand dryer, a toilet that flushes and all that practical stuff. Additionally, an employee should zip in there every few hours and give it a cleaning. It was a disaster. - I honestly wish that establishments would stop with the "we only take 2 cards per table max" trend. It's really annoying. I used to work as a server, and though sometimes it was hard to juggle, it's not that big of a deal. So yeah, thanks for sending a slew of people to your ATM with the $2.75 surcharge.
(2)
Ryvre H.

Way too expensive! I work really close to El Cid, so I used to eat there often when I didn't want to walk too far. As of this week, their burritos went from $6 to $9. That's just for a plain vegetarian burrito with no sides. I've heard a lot of their prices skyrocketed, but the website still lists the cheaper prices. The food is decent, but nothing to write home about. It definitely doesn't justify the crazy prices. Next time, I'll walk the extra couple blocks to La Cocina where the prices are way more reasonable.
(2)
Natalie T.

Tamarind Margaritas, tacos al pastor, and patio. That is all.
(4)
Chris C.

Service greatly improved past few visits
(5)
Daniel C.

I went here with GF upon her recommendation. She said it was cheapish but I found it to be about average. $2.50 for those little tacos that are so popular. I did get a GIGANTIC chimichanga so portion sizes are large for the entrees. The margaritas were great of course. We sat on the back patio which was nice. With all the other mexican options in the area I will probably try something new before I go back here.
(3)
Lauren L.

Come for the drinks, don't stay for the food. Drinks are decently priced and super tasty, food needs a lot of work. I've been twice and actually couldn't even eat what I ordered the last time. The fish tacos are unseasoned fish with onions, tasted super fishy and were just about the worst I've ever had. The black bean tacos were nearly as inedible. There were 6 people in our group, and one person's food didn't arrive until probably 20 minutes after everyone else's. The staff apologized, but offered no type of compensation, which was a huge misstep. If they could just get the cooking together this place could be pretty sweet, but I doubt I'll be back unless that happens.
(2)
Kristine N.

Food here is solid. Great service. $22 pitchers. Mango salsa... Yumm. Fajitas mixtas came with skirt steak, chicken, and shrimp. Everything was well seasoned and cooked perfectly. Corn tortillas are fresh. Chorizo tacos are the best here... A must try.
(4)
Mary T.

"I want to eat tacos today." I believe those were the first words out of my mouth when I woke up that morning. Fortunately, my partner in crime is always game for Mexican, so we turned to Yelp for ideas. Wanting to capitalize on the nice day, we chose El Cid 2 and we chose well. El Cid has two patios, a small one in the front and a large, nice on in the back. If you can, opt for the back - there are trees to blunt the sun and it's an oasis leaving you to forget you're a stone's throw off of Kedzie. We started out with a pitcher of margaritas, probably the only low point of our dining experience at El Cid. I'm not sure what makes these margaritas famous (as claimed on the menu), but they were downright average in my book and reeked of sour mix. We struggled to get to the bottom of the pitcher because the sweetness was overwhelming; considering the pitcher did nothing to slow down our afternoon of drinking, I don't think they were all that strong either. I would try a premium next time, to see if it's any better; otherwise I'll be sticking to cerveza. When I go to most Mexican restaurants, I'm like a kid with ADD in a candy store - I want everything; fortunately, my partner in crime was able to help me maximize my food intake. Based on our server's gross understatement about the size of their burritos, we went with a veggie for me and an arrachera for him. We also ordered one potato and one fish taco to split. While we waited for our meal we snacked on the chips and salsa; I found the chunky red salsa to err on the sweet side, but quite enjoyed the heat of the salsa verde. The food was good; despite ordering more than anticipated, we both cleaned our plates. Of all of the items I ate, the fish taco was my favorite. Grilled fish, onions and cilantro - simple, but so tasty; I would come back and get these as my main meal any time. The potato taco was good too, but didn't hold a candle to Zacatacos taco de papa; the potatoes overwhelmed every other ingredient on the taco. My burrito was good, but nothing about it made it a standout, not all that unusual for the veggie burrito at most Mexican places. I would take the L'Patron veggie burrito over it easily. He, on the other hand, ate his burrito with gusto. Overall I'd give El Cid 3.5 stars, but I'm rounding up because the patio is hard to beat. I doubt you'll leaving claiming it's the best Mexican food you've ever had, but it is solid.
(4)
Loretta D.

No decor, ok service. My friend ordered pork and liked it but my salmon was awful. It was overlooked and the menu description of "0live oil and garlic" did not warn that it would be smothered in chopped garlic that overwhelmed the over cooked fish--despite a clear request for medium rare.
(2)
Nathaniel C.

This place used to be one of our fave Mexican spots, but after new owners they have raised the prices on us 2 times already. From about $10 for a tampiquena to $20 for the same dish a week later. For $20 i can feed the whole fam at another delish mex spot.
(1)
Danielle S.

I'm so torn - this is one of those times I wish I could give half stars. I would give this place 3 1/2 stars if I could. I was generous and gave 4. I love the food, drinks, atmosphere, and the variety on the menu. But the service was not good. The menu has a variety of your traditional Mexican foods, as well as Cuban and other goodies. I ordered the combo platter, and I was not disappointed. Their steak taco was awesome - I would order just those again. Their complimentary chips come with 2 types of salsa - the red is the best! And their mojitos are probably the best I've had. I don't know what they do to them, but they are fantastic. They have an upstairs with a bar, patio, and a downstairs - it's pretty big! They also have a fireplace upstairs you can sit by. The service, however was lacking the night we went. We were sitting at the bar, and our bartender was very nice and apologetic. They were busy, I will give them that. But it took forever to get our drinks, order our food, and get our check. We weren't the only people complaining either. However, I would go back! Hopefully next time things will be a little bit more organized!
(4)
Brett P.

Great Mexican food for reasonable prices with a good atmosphere. Everything I've gotten from here has just been great. The first floor doesn't look great, but the upstairs has a really cool, low key feel. It must have been remodeled in the last year or two.
(5)
Kristina V.

This restaurant had a nice warm vibe upstairs. Mango margaritas on the rocks are nice...The a la carte menu offers a great variety of snack portion foods at a great price. Let me warn you, the portions are small so if you are really hungry, I recommend ordering a burrito or a dinner option. Servers were friendly and hospitable.
(3)
Esteban G.

Worst food ever! Rice was hard! Ordered flautas meat was served in regular tortillas and just thrown into the fryer onto the plate!! Chicken taco dinner wasn't that tasteful either. Don't waste your money there. Will never go back. Left hungry!!!
(1)
Leah W.

I've talked to a few friends who like this place and honestly, I don't get it. I think a lot of people think of Mexican food as just a late night thing and don't have very high standards for it. Not me. I love Mexican food from all regions of Mexico, have traveled extensively within the country and have a depth of knowledge about the various regional cuisines.... and that's why a place like El Cid disappoints so deeply. If you like real Mexican food, or even just freshly prepared food in general, this is not the place to go. I felt like a prison inmate whose food had been slopped onto my plate by the lunch lady. Flavor is bad, ingredients are cheap, meat is gristly and overcooked. Honestly, even the chips were stale. I would feel like a jerk to write this but hey, people will still eat there at 4am, and if you're drunk enough, you might not notice the utter mediocrity.
(1)
Leonard P.

One of the things I've missed most since moving to Seattle is really good Mexican food. You can find it up here, but it usually takes a bit of a search, whereas in Chicago, it's almost on every corner. So when I was back in Chic for a visit, I was eager for my friend to take me to El Cid, her favorite Logan Square Mexi joint. It didn't disappoint: the menu isn't fancy or elaborate, but it's sold, palatable Mexican food freshly prepared at an affordable price. The service was terrific, the ambiance was sound, the decor was passable and clean, and for a buck, you can get a huge, delicious cup of horchata. Every neighborhood needs a place like this, for cheap, reliable Mexican eatin'; I just wish my own neighborhood in Seatown had one.
(4)
Jacob F.

Great strawberry margaritas, they really take time to make them right. Wonderful staff that are helpful!
(5)
Tom M.

El Cid, What happened to you? I've never been a huge fan, but my ex girlfriend was, and the last two times we've been there the food has been pretty awful. The mole seems to have changed and even the once palatable fish tacos are no longer very good. You are now scratched off of the list.
(2)
Mark H.

Our caso fundituo arrived on a flat appetizer plate consisting of white cheese that had been microwaved and covered with chorizo it was one cold congealed disgusting mess. This set the tone for a shitty meal in a beautiful space. Our server was the bartender who was neither busy nor attentive. We were four at a high top and I had to keep clearing plates myself. The main plates were dull and beyond uninspired. Hint to chef- mole is not a dessert sauce. With a new menu, trained servers and some flair the food might match the space one day. Until you hear that has happened, steer clear.
(1)
David S.

Will never go back. They duped us. Margaritas.... Well we paid $54.75 for one pitcher of margarita, without tip. That was not the plan. We went in for one regular $8 margarita, but was told that the house margarita was not good and that we should get the premium. Make sense but of course that costs more, okay we can do that. Oh, the $10 premium is freaking tiny and comes in a flute glass.. really? Living off that one review you got for being one of the top 10 margaritas in the city huh? So you want a decent maragita in normal size.. okay $14. Thats just ridiculous, "oh well we are already here." But wait, a pitcher for $28, thats got to be a better deal since you get more in a pitcher right. So I run and ask the server if its a better deal to get the pitcher, he says yes its 5 or 6 glasses. Great, now I don't feel bad about the high $14 per glass cost. So we drink our pitcher of average margarita then get the bill. $50 for the premium pitcher plus $4.75 for tax. Where do you get off charging someone that much?! Your seats are worn out benches from McDonalds! To top it off, I ask the server about the cost and point out on the menu that their isn't even a price or mention of a pitcher for premium let alone a $50 PRICE! We paid and tipped, but will never give them a dime again. Only reason they didn't get 1 star is because their salsa was pretty good. But they probably just poured a bunch of corn syrup in it.
(2)
He K.

It was my first time in El Cid, so i can't complain about them increasing prices. But it is a bit expensive though, so i had to take 1 star off. But everything else was really nice. The service was very, very friendly and quick. We had taco's with different fillings and they were really good. So, we'll probably come back, if we are in the area again :)
(4)
Nicole S.

My hubby has been holding out on me. OUTDOOR PATIO + MEXICAN (like good Mexican) = HAPPY EVERYBODY. We stopped in for dinner before a movie last weekend and the food really is great. The service friendly and prompt and the prices are just right. The wine selection is decent and well priced and again did I say the food was great. Lots of options and no lack flavor. Now that summer is half over I might be there a lot more now that I know about this patio. Only low point to the ENTIRE visit is that the music was up pretty loud and since there were a few big groups it was pretty noisy in the first floor dining room. Just go out to the patio or upstairs and I think it's a bit better.
(4)
Maren R.

Lovely back patio. If you want a few drinks get the pitcher of margarita. Not a ton of vegetarian options but I was very happy with my veg burrito.
(4)
jessica t.

Great staff is the only reason El Cid got two stars. About 2 minutes before our food came, I figured out that the reason I didn't like the salsa that came with the chips is because ketchup is an ingredient. Then our food came, my husband had enchiladas suizas and they were gross, they tasted like play-doh (yes I ate it as a child). I ordered chicken kabobs (I realize this is mexican but I wanted to try something different), there was at least 6oz of ketchup on top of the kabobs. I'm confused, when did mexican restaurants serve ketchup? Drinks were good but just thinking of all that ketchup makes me want to vomit.
(2)
Lisa A.

So I've been here at least 3 time and I have to say the one thing I'm never disappointed in is their margaritas. I can't say enough how good they are. The food is pretty good too. I don't think I've had a bad dinner there. This is good Mexican food and the kind that you'll come back to have with some friends or family. The waitstaff is attentive fast and really makes sure that your cup is full, your dinner is tasty, and you are enjoying yourself. I'll keep going for the drink, the food, and best of all the price. You won't break the bank coming into this place and enjoying something tasty.
(4)
margaret z.

one if the best Mexican places in the area. good prices, good service, good people. You can count on satisfaction after eating here. when i think Mexican and don't want to travel east El Cid comes to mind!
(4)
Benjamin B.

The magaritas are good (if lacking just touch more uniqueness), the patio is is worth return visits in the summer, the food is excellent. My favorites are the quesdillas de pollo... yum yum. And they serve bourbon, because of the presence of bourbon I was going to give them 5 stars... but one time I had a bad experience where (I believe it was the owner) treated us like criminals and sat many people before us even though we had put our name in first. They can be guilty of customer profiling on busy nights... so beware of this factor if you are counter-culture or weird in any way.
(4)
Steve M.

Stopped in on a Saturday for a quick lunch. I found the burrito average for the area, but there are definitely better spots for mexican in the area. The girlfriend ordered the fish tacos which she thought were great. Too bad I didn't get the chance to sample them. I will go back again, but not before I try out some of the other mexican restaurants in the area.
(3)
Bex M.

I'd give this one 3 and a half, if I could. I liked it. The food was tasty, the service was solid. We were really hungry and tired and we really liked what we ordered. I'm not an expert on Mexican food so if you are, take my review with a grain of salt (and a shot of tequila). The chimichanga style burrito I had was flat-out delish! I wish I'd had a margarita but I would have likely gone straight to sleep if I'd had one. My only complaint was that for almost $8 all you got the chimi. No side dishes except lettuce. Very odd, I thought. A little pricey, in a way. Not crazy pricey, just a little odd. I didn't miss having the sides, though, because the chimi was huge.
(4)
g b.

oh El Cid #2, how i will miss you when the winter comes... your food is not that great, BUT the charm of the backyard, with its live music, and dancing (and smoking) is wonderful. you were my favorite place to go this summer. walking through that narrow hall to the backyard was like finding a secret treasure every time, with golden pitcher of fabulous, affordable margartias glistening on every table top. until next summer....
(4)
Timothy M.

El Cid is a really nice Mexican place. I sat out in the patio area (when it was still warm out) and enjoyed some incredible food. I had a steak burrito, which was huge and delicious. The portions were big, the sides of beans and rice were delicious, and everything was fresh. Aside from the great food, the atmopshere is nice, especially in the outdoor section. It is totally enclosed and gives it almost a European feel. There was a guitarist playing classical flamenco guitar and singing songs in Spanish, which was not disruptive to conversation at all. In all, a great place with nice people, a good atmosphere, and great authentic sit-down Mexican food.
(4)
Andrea K.

Went for lunch this afternoon and liked it. Prices are reasonable and service was good. I don't see how it's any different from any of the million other Mexican places in Logan Square though. I'd say try it regardless, especially for the margs.
(3)
Brittany C.

MMM. GOOD food, GOOD sangria, wait staff ready to keep the drinks refilled. The back patio is like an oasis; You are completely hidden from this often crazy intersection in the patio. You feel like you are in a cantina in Mexico or, at the very least, a cool backyard party. The upstairs bar is newly remodeled and a good place for an after-dinner drink or two.
(4)
John S.

Love the outdoor seating in the back. Can't wait to go grab a drink once it warms up. The upstairs is more loungy and is a good way to start off a night out.
(4)
Rebecca M.

What's up with El Cid? Years ago, when it competed with Abril, it was above average cheap Mexican food. I ate there once or twice a week. It was a nice, comfortable spot to snack on tacos, burritos, and tostadas. I don't know if over the years my taste has improved or if El Cid's quality has sunk. It seemed to coincide with their rise in prices . . . which signals the owner either changed or got greedy. Either way, I opt for other Mexican Restaurants when I'm craving a taco these days. El Cid is good for its patio and it's friendly staff - not its food. El Cid is like an old friend who obsesses about their looks but no longer takes care of their heart & soul.
(2)
Becky W.

The food was good. The service a little spotty. I had the fish tacos which were really great. Its actually kind of hard to find fish tacos, so I was delighted. I though the rice and beans were really good too. We also tried the guacamole, which I though was good. It was raining so we ate inside, upstairs. Man is the upstairs nicer than downstairs! But it was fun. And I shared a pitcher of lime margaritas, which was $22, but like 3-4 glasses per person, so a good deal. I'd definately be back to try the patio.
(4)
DonRay V.

Creamy pasty guacamole, overcooked meat, under seasoned beans, and hurried distracted service. - The place across the street "Puebla" on Milwaukee is much better and more authentic. - If you have any idea what authentic real northern mexican food is like avoid El Cid. - The patio is nice, but something tells me these diners have never been to some of the great taquerias in Pilsen.
(1)
Brian B.

The wait-staff here was incredibly friendly... Like all Mexican restaurants should, El Cid 2 has "I Dare You" portions and legit margaritas. The epinada's (ack, spelling!) were great, and stuffed to the gills. (Editors Note: Epinada's don't actually have gills). Nothing particularly SPECTACULAR about the place, but that's not the idea. It's a stumble off the Logan Square Blue Line with smiley service and reasonable prices. My only criticism would have to be the Mojito's which tasted "neh", and somewhat resembled ecto-cooler. I usually prefer mine where you can SEE the fresh crushed mint leaves in the drink, rather than just assume there's mint because the drink is hyper-color green. If you're looking for real-deal Mojito's go to El Nandu, or Coobah's or the tons of other places that I don't know of and am not currently reviewing. I hear the outside dining during nice weather is terrific, but I can't say from experience. Lousy Smarch Weather. Check out the clippings on your way to the loo... a few complimentary reviews and an adorable crayon-scrawled thank-you letter from a local kiddo. Awwwwww.
(3)
Lindsee R.

Nothing spectacular about this place ( then again I've spent the last 5 years in southern California and have pretty high expectations). It was a solidly decent meal. The service could be better. Our waitperson gave my friend a little 'tude and brushed her off when trying to ask for some extra tomatoes. This is definitely a place for beer drinking, the daiquiri tasted more like a smoothie than a supposed alcoholic beverage. My fish tacos were well seasoned, but to my surprise when I asked for no cilantro and no raw onions, they came to my table with no condiments whatsoever, not even a little lettuce. All-in-all it was a tasty meal, but I'm not sure I'll be back unless someone else really wants to go.
(3)
Clover S.

This place can be okay for a celiac. DO NOT eat their chips though -- as I suspect they are fried with flour-based things and have made me sick. Otherwise, the kabobs with no BBQ sauce are super yummy. The tacos are very good. The enchiladas -- are small -- but oh my, the mole! The margaritas and mojitos are superYUM (esp. mango margarita) but so full of sugar, you'll feel like a lead sack an hour later. I recommend this place for a cheap and fun dinner with non-celiacs. It not earth-shattering fresh foodie cuisine, but it is just fine for those nights when you don't want to cook or when you need to celebrate a friend's b-day for little $. AND the outdoor patio is GREAT except for the weird giant artificially scented incense they burn in the garden and occasional bad music. Still -- var' fun!
(3)
erin s.

Everything I haerviceve had here has been wonderful. Margaritas, tacos, enchiladas- it's all great. They're also the only place I can get to make me cheese flautas. Service is usually attentive and quick as well. In the warmer months be sure to check out the back patio.
(5)
eric f.

YES. potato tacos.
(5)
Kathy C.

Not much to say here - great back outdoor patio, cheap and tasty Mexican food. Even on a weekend night during dinner rush hour, there's no need to wait for a table. My only criticism is that the margaritas are on the weak side. They are not too sweet, but you can't taste the tequila at all. Just sayin'...
(4)
Matt M.

This is the first place I ate when I moved to Logan Square 5+ years ago and still one of my favorites. El Cid has changed a lot, adding a back patio, the upstairs lounge (which i still haven't been in), and jacking up the prices, but the food is still great. The staff is super friendly and attentive. They recently changed menus, and I was afraid that my favorite dish, chilequiles, was no longer available. I was assured that they could still make them for me, and in no time, i had a delicious pile of cheese, tortilla and eggs in front of me.
(4)
Madelyn H.

in reviewing el cid, i'm especially generous at the moment because it makes me reminisce about warm summer nights and drinking margaritas (they seem so distant). the back patio at el cid is fabulous. the fish tacos and margaritas were good. does it get any better? i don't remember the salsa being great, but i didn't mind. good to eat: fish tacos
(4)
Brian D.

Look, I grew up eating at Chi-Chi's at the Lakeview Square Mall in Battle Creek, MI. What do I know from authentic? All I know is that the pinchos vegetarianos releases dopamine directly into my brain and the guacamole's affordable and delicious. I'm vegan and too scared to ask what's in the refried beans. I just order them without the normal dusting of cheese and hope for the best. The pico's probably the best I've ever had - spicy and sweet in equal measure. My peeps and I eat here weekly.
(4)
jason t.

"is everything ok in there?" so after eating here about a billion times and trying just about everything on the menu at least once, i ordered up some caldo de res. not realizing i had never had it here, i was, as the limeys say, gobsmacked. all this time, i never knew, the best caldo de res i have yet had in chicago (and i have had many) was right under my nose. i still love my longtime standbys, the tostada de ceviche de pulpo and the tacos de arrachera, but five stars for a welcome surprise at such a familiar locale.
(5)
Sarah-jayne M.

After a nice meal in China town my man and I were headed home but not quite done for the night. We decided to stop here for a quick drink. I didn't know what to expect of this place and for some reason I thought it was going to be one of those swanky (read high priced) Mexican places. Inside it's actually very relaxed and the menu looked very reasonable. Since we had already eaten we went upstairs to the bar. I have to say the upstairs does have that swanky feel, lots of polished wood and candle light etc. We sat at the bar and immediately were given water and chips with two types of salsa. They were both quite spicy but so delish! We decided to get margarita's since..well..when in Rome. We both ordered the premium lime margs - what can I say? Freaking awesome! I don't really like Tequila but these didn't have that awful bitter taste. They were smooth and fresh. I believe the bartender stated that they were made with fresh lime juice and agave (sp?). Whatever it was they were really good, so good that we had two (and felt it!). They were not cheap ($14 each) but so worth it. I'm actually really excited about going back here either for food or more drinks!! Plus I'm excited about the outdoor patio. The bartender was really nice too!
(4)
Brent K.

Pretty slow service for as dead as they were. Upstairs is a little VIP cove where you can look out over the action around the circle. Food was as good as their other spot up the street.
(3)
Julie U.

My husband and I absolutely love this place! The veggie burrito and fish tacos are my favorite meals. The back patio is a wonderful way to spend a hot summer afternoon.
(5)
Alli H.

El Cid never disappoints. Quality, no-frills food, one of the best outdoor patios in the city, endless pitchers of margaritas and, hands-down, some of the nicest servers I have ever encountered, make El Cid consistently one of my favorite dining destinations. It is the perfect spot to catch up with old friends, or bring new friends, for a guaranteed good night out on the town.
(5)
Lissette M.

So service was umm ok.. expected though i went on 5 de mayo.. Bunch of non mexicans celebrating a not so significant event.. w.e its a good day to get drunk. Margaritas could of been bigger( im used to ceasers) more alcohol would of been better as well.. food took forever but i spoke to the waitress and she explained everything was backed up. The food regardless was going to take one hour to be made. Stupid cinco de mayo. But ahh when i got my food i was in heaven! soooo good and we got a complimentary guacamole.
(4)
Jen W.

I went here once with a friend and we had a great experience. Awesome staff, fantastic food, yummy margaritas. I have no complaints! I'd go back for sure. Very chill place for a nice lunch in the afternoon.
(4)
Dave S.

This is an OK joint. There is not a lot of room inside but the outdoor area is huge. Our Yelp group sat outside and they were able to accommodate us nicely. The food was nothing to write home about at all. I ordered the combo plate and I really was not impressed with anything. It wasn't bad mind you but I was rather underwhelmed with everything. The food was rather bland. The salsa was the only thing that I really enjoyed. It was a sweeter salsa which I prefer over a spicy salsa. The service was good. Our waitress did her best to handle our large group and she was very friendly and helpful. What really annoyed me was that they decided to light some nasty incense while we were eating and it stunk up the entire patio. I am glad that I was done eating as that would have made me lose my appetite immediately. Then I would have been extremely pissed. Not everyone can stomach the smell of that crap people. I am not going to go out of my way to go here but if I am in the area and I am really hungry then I may go here again.
(2)
bumpers k.

OK, i love el cid, I and II. Vegan options, awesome salsa verde, nice staff and quick service. However, the El CId II is almost unbearable with those stupid signs painted with 'clever' sayings on the patio. They are dumb, ugly, and boarderline insulting. between that and the dumpster smell, consider eating inside. Hopefully soon I can amend this review and bump it up to a full five star rave when the dumpsters are rinsed more frequently and the signs turned into firewood.
(4)
Martha Z.

Their backyard patio was outstanding. I don't see how you could dine in. Every hipster socialite was hanging out back chowing on burritos and tacos. We split 2 pitchers of margarita between our double date and I was pretty mellowed out by the end of the night. Food is cheap and portions are huge. I had the steak burrito, but spent my time eying my companion's fish tacos.
(4)
Anna M.

I'm a regular at El Cid. I've been going there since before they revamped the restaurant into a swanky upstairs bar/lounge and before they had that car crash into the first floor! I can't complain sometimes service is fast other times it's slow depending on when you go, nevertheless, I always leave happy. Their drinks are good and my fav dish, the Tampiquena is delicious (skirt steak, dos enchiladas, rice, beans, guac).
(4)
Katie R.

we go to el cid way too much for our own good. the margaritas are good, the fish tacos are delicious as well as the potato tacos and cheese quesadillas.. the cheese enchiladas are alright. they are vegan and vegetarian friendly which is a plus. the waitresses are sweet and remember their customers. the patio is super cute though it does smell like dumpster.. the renovation looks great also.
(4)
Sonja B.

Last summer i spent at least three nights a week here enjoying the same meal (Queso enchiladas) on the same patio. The service is delightful and the food is consistently good at both El Cid locations. It's so affordable and the atmosphere is fantastic! Sometimes I get sick afterwards but that's just because I eat so much.
(3)
Patty D.

standard mexican food - nothing fabulous - my friends treated me which made it super special, but the food and drinks are no big deal... certainly not authentic. On the upside, their beer garden / outdoor patio is really nice, private, and great place to linger with a pitcher of margaritas... margaritas are decent..
(3)
Nana H.

out of all the logan square mexican restaurants, this one is probably the best one out of the whole square. it offers 3 or 4 different atmospheres! the front patio, is pet friendly and good for a quick bite, the inside is sorta of a faux outside, and it offers the safety of eating your food under a roof and easy access to the only bathroom of the restaurant. The hallway is lit with rope lights and offers a transitional atmosphere, which sort of feels medievalish and some what dangerous. The back patio feels like you are in a completely different country, probably a tropical and spanish country. The margaritas are the best of all the places (especially better then Puebla) and i also think it is the cleanest of all the restaurants. I got a chimichanga and it was NOT greasy!! Surprise!!
(5)
laura heather h.

El Cid, great margaritas! I love the outdoor seating in the back, upstairs is cute and romantic. The staff is super! The food.... is Mexican. Nothing too extraordinary. I enjoy every meal I have here, but never crave anything from here.... except maybe a mango margarita.
(4)
Melissa B.

Every year it's tradition to go here on the day my friends moved to Chicago. The food is really good, the service is fine, and the margaritas are tasty and well-priced. I'm not a fan of eating outdoors, but the patio here is really nice, too. I recommend sitting out there.
(4)
Mike H.

HA! Jenny eats here almost every day and she only gave it 4 stars??? The margaritas are good, it's the chips and salsa that are amazing though--most mexican restaurants have either really good salsa and shitty chips or the other way around, this place has the best of both. The tortas are also great. The patio is nice but don't let the waitstaff tempt you to go to the bathroom in that outhouse thing--sneak inside. The prices at this place are what really make it wonderful. You can fill up here for under $5!
(5)
Julia K.

For a Mexican place in Logan Square, this place is a bit more upscale. We sat upstairs, which I would recommend if they have room up there. Friendly server, although she didn't speak or understand English so well. My margarita tasted good, but when I want a margarita blended, that means I don't want huge chunks of ice in it, which is exactly what I got. The bartender seemed bitchy, so I didn't say anything. The food was good - nothing amazing, but it hit the spot. I gave it an extra star because I liked the "ambiance".
(4)
Dan B.

This place freakin' blows. The food sucks (cut down on the cilantro already!), the margaritas are weak and on two different occasions, my wife puked DURING THE WALK HOME. Yeah.
(1)
Amy W.

Best pico de gallo ever! Even better than my mom's (please don't tell her!) and they also let you buy it to go, which is very nice of them. And the best pico goes on the best fish tacos. Oh man, this stuff is good. I also love the chilaquiles with salsa verde. The back patio is a great respite in the summer - a hidden gem in Logan Square and one of my favorite year round restaurants in Chicago.
(5)
John C.

The best fish tacos on the North-side. Great patio out back. And they are the sweetest folks....
(4)
Adam G.

El Cid is the closest Mexican Restaurant to my house. We eat there pretty often. There prices are good and the staff is very friendly. However I find the food a little bland and there margaritas only alright. During the summer there patio is simply great. It makes up for the bland flavors. We tried the new upstairs a few weeks ago and I think I'll stick to the good ole downstairs. They are trying a little cool bar atmosphere up there that for me meant smaller horchata. I did say something the the waitress brought me a much larger glass of it. The service also seems slower upstairs as well but carrying everything up those narrow stairs can't be fun. So I think they have some kinks to work out upstairs and in the meantime stick with the classic downstairs.
(3)
January C.

The inside looks like many mexican restaurants with brightly colored booths and tile floor. The server asked us if we wanted to sit outside. I didn't know they had a back patio! We were off to a great start. The patio is large but cozy, just the place for sipping on a few margaritas. I was really in the mood for mexican seafood but wasn't that impressed by the offerings. I ended up ordering the chile rellenos, which is always a good fall-back option. I ordered a strawberry margarita first. I didn't care for it at all. I couldn't taste any tequila. It just tasted like strawberry syrup. Being disappointed with the strawberry, I decided to try a regular flavored marg next. Maybe it was just the fruit.. The regular was better but not great. At least I could tell there was some tequila in that one. We ordered nopales & cheese tamales for an appetizer but the nopales tasted canned. The chile rellenos were average at best. I didn't care for the overwhelming smoked flavor of the refried beans. I actually found it gross. I don't think I'll ever come back even though they have an awesome patio.
(1)
Ingrid B.

Good sopes, good tortas (need to ask for avocado though), good margaritas, nice outdoor area, quaint upstairs seating, makes me happy. Get the mango margarita
(4)
Tiara Lynn A.

Two words: FISH TACOS. There are a number of things that make El Cid worth traveling to from the west side, but the fish tacos have to be the #1 reason. The chips & salsa they set out are outstanding (some of the best pico de gallo I've ever had), the horchata is fresh and delicious, and everything I've ever had there has been very tasty. The fish tacos, though, at simply heavenly.
(4)
Amy B.

I have been frequenting El Cid in Logan Square for some time... mostly because it's near my house and it's hard to find good fish tacos in Chicago (not fried). The food is average here, but the service has always been good and the patio is really nice when we are fortunate enough to have nice weather in Chicago. The patio has always been a great place to hang out with friends. Since the upstairs has been added to this place... my friends and I have really had real problems with the management at El Cid. The upstairs is nice, and when we first saw it, we were excited that our casual little "let's grab some tacos and talk" place seemed to be turning into a cooler place. Unfortunately, there are some major machismo issues going on with the management - and a ridiculous "No Pitchers Upstairs" rule. To make a few long stories short - there seems to be at least one particular male manager will argue with you endlessly (at least if you are female) until you are so insulted you walk out and leave. Once, a group of 14 of us left after complaining about the "no pitchers upstairs" rule. The manager scoffed at our questioning of the rule and offered us no solution/alternative. In my opinion, if, as a manager, you have an attractive and successful group of young women who come in to spend a lot of money at your establishment (also, most of us frequent the joint), you do what you can to solve the problem - and you don't talk down to the customer. We walked out after we realized we were talking to a macho-man. We decided to get pitchers of margaritas and food down the street and we all got to talking about how many of us have had bad experiences at El Cid ever since the upstairs opened. Seems that this has been a problem with a lot of people. WATCH OUT for the rule "No Pitchers Upstairs." It is really unreasonable. They are trying to act like the upstairs is a different restaurant than the downstairs - it's not. It's the same exact food and drinks. They just want groups to spend more money on individual drinks, when upstairs. They say it is an issue of carrying the pitchers up and down the stairs - they have nowhere to keep the pitchers at the upstairs bar. The bar upstairs is BIG and they carry ALL of the food up and down the stairs, as well as the dishes, so there shouldn't really be an issue. They also say that they only have premium taquila upstairs... ok... so, charge more for BETTER pitchers of margaritas. Yeah right. The management is very stubborn and will not bend. I'm disappointed that El Cid management/ownership doesn't feel that their customers deserve to be treated with more respect. They obviously assumed their customers wouldn't realize that they were being ripped off by their "no pitchers upstairs" rule. My friends and I miss our little sweet dive, with the patio. Even though the food isn't amazing, we felt like management was pretty down-to-earth and everyone there cared about pleasing the customer. Now, it feels like some guy just wants to make his upstairs the "cool place" and rip off people who don't have enough sense to walk out and complain about the unreasonable rule. My friends and I are tempted to go to the patio when it's nice out, because it's easy and close, but then we remind ourselves of the macho-man who talked down to us for ten minutes and we quickly regain our senses.
(3)
Naz V.

Overpriced Mexican restaurant with average food catering to the yuppie crowd. To me, it's like more 'authentic' version of suburban Chilis, with all the over-attentive English-speaking waitresses uniformed in black tshirts with the restaurant's logos on them hawking the customers in their effort to get them to buy more than they really need. Not the place to get Mexican food -- but then again, most of the customers usually get beers and drinks instead and chill in the back patio. Margaritas are strong, but way too sweet, and mojitos tastes like ass :( The place wins points for its location and back patio.
(2)
Joe V.

The food was nothing to write home about, the salsa was bland as hell. The margaritas were good, but overall I felt this placed was super Americanized. There are so many other better places in Logan Square (like Puebla which is just across the street). I don't think I'd go back.
(2)
a.m. g.

I heart El Cid 2 for so many reasons: 1) Convenience...stone's throw from my home. 2) Best back patio ever!! 3) Skirt steak tacos with lime, onions and cilantro. Delicious! 4) The friendliest staff ever! 5) Great margaritas and sangria (but skip the mojitos).
(4)
Jacqueline S.

I used to go to this place all the time when I lived in the area. Once I came back from college I took my boyfriend to show him a good Mexican restaurant I used to go to. To my disappointment it has completely changed. This place used to be a place to go for great food and a casual environment. Now they just focus on making the place a hip place to go and have lost the appreciation for good food. They completely remodeled, the prices went sky high, and the crowd is completely different. We will never go back - there are too many excellent Mexican restaurants in Chicago.
(2)
John H.

Fish tacos, great staff, and great indoor/outdoor atmosphere. Call ahead to make sure they are not crowded, Be careful, you could drop a few bucks here. This is upscale Spanish,,,,Google El Cid for the history of the man.
(4)
Ben E.

Perfectly acceptable Mexican food, but nothing special. I find the pico de gallo to be on the sugary side, which is really pretty unpleasant, but the salsa verde's decent enough. Margaritas are okay...just your standard pre-mixed variety. I don't know why this place is so popular, but it doesn't suck either.
(2)
Sarah F.

There is little to really set this place apart from other mid priced Mexican restaurants, besides the outdoor seating and some pretty flowers. The food is fine, but nothing all that noteworthy.
(3)
Monique O.

YUM. I like this place. It's homey, yummy food, and nice people who work there. And totally cheesy but they have the little men that sing to you, which is kinda cute.
(4)
Adam D.

I live less than a block from this place and work from home yet still avoid it, no matter how convenient the location is. Probably the most underseasoned, thoughtless food being served in Chicago no matter what the cuisine is. Just absolutely terrible. And I've tried almost everything on the menu. The only reason it gets two stars is because the patio is nice during the summer to have some margaritas at. Living in Logan Square there are literally dozens of Mexican restaurants within a 6 block radius that serve better food than this place.
(2)
Lauren H.

My boyfriend and I had dinner here last week and I really, really liked it! The atmosphere is really trendy and it is very clean. It is a tiny bit pricey... but there are cheaper options on the menu that make the place more affordable for those who don't wanna break the bank! We started off with the fried shrimp appetizer that comes with a spicy bbq sauce- we loved it! For dinner, my boyfriend had the strip steak dinner that comes with a quesadilla and enchilada which he enjoyed! I had the taco plate dinner which I really liked as well! Then for dessert we ended with flan which was very creamy and a great finisher! I would go there again!
(5)
sarah s.

I go back about once a week, even though I moved out of the neighborhood. The patio, ahhh. The margaritas, mmmm. The pico de gallo, extra mmmm. The veggie chimi appetizers, just enough, or if I'm really hungry the veggie burrito is the best Mexican veggie burrito I've found. Great service. Live music on Wednesday (?) evenings. I think I'll go there now!
(4)
tessa c.

i can't think of anywhere else near my friend's house that offers relationship advice with your delicious cuban sandwich and mojito (for the friend not me..i have to admit while she was venting i kept sneaking a peek at the cute couple across the room..oops). do i really need to say anything else, not really!
(4)
Ryan H.

The backyard patio is awesome, the food is slightly above average, I've gotten good margaritas and weak ones. By good I mean strong. The patio is the real draw here.
(4)
Yoyita F.

I absolutely LOVE El Cid 2! This has to mean something considering the fact that my siblings and I are the first generation here from Mexico. Not only does their food taste great but their Margaritas rock! Hands down the best and most potent Margaritas I've tasted in Chicago! They go down so easily so be careful. The quality of their food is great and their rice and beans are pretty good too! The prices are descent and their even open late on the weekends.
(5)
Nicholas J.

The new addition is great. Upstairs there is a full bar. As always the margaritas are great (if not a little pricey). The food isn't the best mexican by any means but it is always good and I am satisfied when I leave. The people are super sweet which is why they get an extra star.
(4)
Courtney B.

This place is great to have a cheap date night. Inexpensive Mexican food before you check out a $3 movie at the Logan Theater. They have a great patio in the summer and there have been a singing man every time I have gone.
(4)
Sarah D.

I really would love to give El Cid four stars....but I had a similar experience as Jewly N. My boyfriend and I have eaten here twice in the past few months. The first time, we had a great experience. Cute place conveniently located two blocks away from our apartment. The restaurant has lots of seating, including a cute patio in the back. The service is pretty good, and tasty margaritas and pretty good food. I like that the Mexican is a bit more upscale than your typical Mexican joint and the food isn't too greasy. HOWEVER, about a month ago, I ordered something pretty common for dinner, veggie tacos (I'm vegetarian). My boyfriend ordered something with beef. The only thing that we both ate the same of was chips and salsa. The next day, we were both very sick for about 12 hours. I meant to go back to El Cid and speak to management, but didn't get around to it. After seeing Jewly N's post explaining a similar experience, I really hesitate to go back. I liked the food and location is great...but can I go back?!?
(2)
Becky C.

We've been going to ElCid regularly for years. This place has great food, terrific service, and an amazingly comfortable atmosphere. The one thing that really stands out is the consitancy. We've never had a bad experience here. The staff goes out of their way to make you feel welcome, and the food is always great! For a really wonderful dining experience, try out the back patio in nice weather, or head upstairs to the newest addition, the lounge.
(5)
mike l.

el cid has a nice variety of decent food, but the back patio is really nice. The wait staff was a little pushy, but whatever, ignore 'em & enjoy the breeze
(3)
Maya D.

I thought that the food was good and very fresh. The atmosphere was very casual and comfortable. I typically like my Mexican food a bit spicier but over all i had a good experience. Might go back, but will probably keep looking for that perfect place.
(3)
Leelah P.

The indoor part of El Cid looks a little bit like a Burger King or some other fast food joint. The front patio is small but inviting, and the back garden area is totally pleasant. For quick Mexican food in the summer, I think it's a nice choice. I like their flautas, and the nachos are good (though the sour cream on them isn't). The sangria, however, is terrible.
(3)
Ingrid G.

There are loads of places to get better Mexican food in the city, but El Cid is safe for those who don't feel like venturing a block east or west of the train stop. Mojitos=toxic mix, save yourself. The patio in the summer is basically "back of Pontiac" if you know what I mean.
(1)
shannon.anthony s.

I used to come to this place all the time and love it every time. The past two times have been big disappointments. Since they redesigned the upstairs they hired a bunch of bimbo's who can't get the food out of the kitchen before it is cold and can't mix a margarita. I figured because I have such fond memories of the place and it is in the neighborhood I would give it a s second try sitting in the downstairs area with the traditional staff. Again my food was cold and not as good as it used to be. The Que so Fun dido was cold and the cheese had solidified. My tacos were luke warm at best. This is a real loss to the neighborhood.
(2)
Lisa H.

I just moved here from San Francisco, and have been looking for a Mexican restaurant to fill the void that was left when I moved. Although it's not quite worthy of my favorite old Mission-neighborhood haunt, it is DAMN good. The margartitas were (dangerously) delicious, the fish tacos excellent. And even if the food wasn't great, I'd hang out on their awesome back patio just for the fun of it.
(4)
Zuzu S.

Dependable food, friendly service, and yummy margaritas (not super strong sadly, but sweet). Watch out though - those savory chips and salsa they bring out at the beginning are not free when you keep asking for refills! They're not super expensive, but still, we got fooled once and had a good laugh.
(4)
Stella S.

I was here once in the summer and I had really awesome fish tacos!! Also the fresh guac was soo yummy!! I think we had 3 or 4 coronas with the meal, the lunch was kinda pricey but it was well worth it. I really want to go back when the weather gets better to check out the back patio!! Yummy!!
(4)
ame c.

This place is only worth going to for the backyard patio and margaritas. The food isn't special, bordering on acceptable. I'll go again just because it has the best patio seating in the neighborhood, but wouldn't make a trip otherwise.
(2)
Tanya M.

great place to have an inexpensive burrito or a moderatly priced seafood fajita. the decor is cute and the margaritas are good. and its in walking distance from my place. love it.
(5)
David C.

The food is really good here and the little alley leading to the back reveals such a great patio to hang out when the weather is nice. The chips and salsa are good and the prices are reasonable. This is a nice little neighborhood joint.
(4)
Andrew P.

I used to live across the street from this place and ate here weekly. Still love the salsa, the burrio suiza, and the vegetarian options (however, just say no to the potato taco: a slimy mess). However, service has declined over the years, especially compared to the other El Cid. Waitresses have started charging "hidden fees" for things like more salsa or chips which, in my opinion, is not cool for a taqueria. Go to La Puebla instead.
(3)
Joe Z.

Visited El Cid with an old friend, who's a friend of Jose Gonzalez (who I believe is the owner's son). Had a really tasty, really large steak burrito. I've posted a brief video of El Cid at YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=m3r-â€¦
(5)
Tyler M.

Great place for decent Mexican food and good margaritas. I routinely get either skirt steak, fish tacos, or the chiminchunga. Never tried the flavored drinks but the regular (lime) flavor is good. Two kinds of salsa with the chips - a spicy verde or a sweeter tomato. Downstairs is like a nice quick service sit down Mexican restaurant. Upstairs is nicer club atmosphere and better if your planning on spending a little time there.
(4)
J C.

the mini veggie chimichangas equal a good time. i believe you get slightly better service by sitting downstairs but let's face it: it can be hit or miss no matter where you are.
(4)
hilary d.

best fish tacos in town! great margaritas! awesome patio! killer pico de gallo! what more could you ask for!
(5)
Blah B.

bad bad tacos, so greasy and just ur typical fast food taco joint! My son's couldn't even eat the quesadillas they ordered because there were dripping in oil..........YUCK!!
(1)
George B.

I like this one better than the Bucktown version. The food is a bit better and the restaurant is a bit more inviting. Some of the best Mexican food in the city, and that says a lot. Chicago is all about the Mexican food! Great mole sauce here, very authentic.
(5)
Iris F.

The food is okay, the patio is nice in the summer. I just recently visited the new upstairs and my experience was rather disappointing. The waitress had no customer service experience, kept dodging me when I asked for my food. Come, on it was a weeknight and I only ordered a taco dinner. The first time it arrived cold, the second it arrived 20 minutes later and cold. I figured if I want my food warm and on time I should stick to the downstairs where the staff is nice and attentive.
(3)
Jessica J.

Great backyard patio! Decent margaritas. Good fish tacos. The upstairs is surprisingly swank compared to the downstairs, but never pretentious. Thinking about this place makes me long for summer to get here!!
(3)
E J.

I've only been here twice. I think I like it for atmosphere, but the food leaves a bit to be desired. My friend and I shared guacamole, a burrito and quesadillas there the other night. Everything was kind of bland and the quesadillas were made with corn tortillas, which tasted weird. Also, they put sugar in the pico de gallo; not sure what that's about. The margaritas (on the rocks) were very tasty but fyi, they were pretty sweet and didn't seem to contain much tequila. They recently remodeled and now there's a cute bar/lounge area upstairs. I would go back to hang out there or on the patio and just drink margaritas.
(3)
Tobia C.

This place rocks...and is cheap, too. I find the food to be above the proverbial "rim" with the food quality. Nothing super-fancy...but it's gonna hit your spot...wherever that is.
(4)
Larry P.

I really wanted to like this place, but the food was just nothing special. The flavors were pretty bland, I was disappointed. I guess I need to go back, judging from some of the other reviews. I have not sat in the patio - I will give that a shot. There was something I liked about the 5 seat diner bar. Though with the family atmosphere, I could hardly see my self getting any good drinking done here. I'll check back after trying it a few more times.
(2)

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Address : 2645 N Kedzie Ave
Chicago, IL, 60647
Phone (773) 395-0505
Website https://www.elcid2.com/
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :9:00 am - 12:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes

Claim Restaurant

Mexican Cuisine

If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.

Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.

Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.

WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES

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El Cid 2

2645 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL, 60647

El Cid 2 Menu

Antojitos Mexicanos - Appetizers

Caldos - Soups

Ensaladas - Salads

Especialidades De Casa - House Specialties

Desayunos - Breakfast

Sandwiches

Delicious Choice Of Fillings!

Mexican Favorites

Mariscos - Seafood

Pollos Rostizados - Roasted Chicken

Side Orders

Bebidas - Beverages

Healthy Meal suggestions for El Cid 2

Antojitos Mexicanos - Appetizers

Caldos - Soups

Ensaladas - Salads

Especialidades De Casa - House Specialties

Desayunos - Breakfast

Sandwiches

Delicious Choice Of Fillings!

Mexican Favorites

Mariscos - Seafood

Pollos Rostizados - Roasted Chicken

Side Orders

Bebidas - Beverages

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