Tacos El Norte
401 N Riverside Dr, Gurnee, IL, 60031
Tacos El Norte Menu
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Diabetics at Taco Bell
The biggest concern for diabetics is to find healthy food with less sugar at restaurants. The hunt for the right food becomes even more challenging for diabetics when dining at a fast food restaurant. Well, Taco Bell changes that with Fresco style. Simply ask or order an item from the Taco Bell menu in Fresco Style.
Food Suggestions for Diabetics at Taco Bell:
Crunchy Taco Supreme
Nutrition Fact: 190 calories, 11g Fat (4.5g Sat. Fat), 340mg sodium, 15g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein
Fresco Steak Soft Taco
Nutrition Fact: 150 calories, 4g Fat (1.5g Sat. Fat), 460mg sodium, 17g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 10g Protein
Fresco Soft Taco – Shredded Chicken
Nutrition Fact: 150 calories, 6g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 9g Protein
Fresco Soft Taco Beef
Nutrition Fact: 160 calories, 6g Fat (2.5g Sat. Fat), 480mg sodium, 18g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein
Veggie Power Menu Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 480 calories, 19g Fat (5g Sat. Fat), 970mg sodium, 65g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 13g Fiber, 14g Protein
Bean Burrito
Nutrition Fact: 380 calories, 11g Fat (4g Sat. Fat), 1060mg sodium, 55g Carbs, 3g Sugar, 9g Fiber, 14g Protein
Mini Skillet Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 180 calories, 11g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for Diabetics:
You must avoid all kinds of Drinks and Freezes at Taco Bell if you have diabetes. Almost every beverage offered at Taco Bell contains high sugar content.
High Cholesterol at Taco Bell
Fast food restaurants are known for serving high calorie, greasy food with lots of sugars. Taco Bell changes this trend by offering Fresco Style option where your favorite food item is prepared using pico de gallo as it will cut down 20 – 30 calories easily from the original meal.
Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Taco Bell:
Mini Skillet Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 180 calories, 11g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Breakfast Soft Taco – Egg & Cheese
Nutrition Fact: 170 calories, 9g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 330mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, less than 1g Fiber, 7g Protein
Spicy Tostada
Nutrition Fact: 210 calories, 10g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 440mg sodium, 22g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 5g Fiber, 6g Protein
Fresco Crunchy Taco – Beef
Nutrition Fact: 140 calories, 7g Fat (2.5g Sat. Fat), 300mg sodium, 14g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 6g Protein
Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla
Nutrition Fact: 200 calories, 10g Fat (3.5g Sat. Fat), 490mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 1g Fiber, 10g Protein
Crunchy Taco Supreme
Nutrition Fact: 190 calories, 11g Fat (4.5g Sat. Fat), 340mg sodium, 15g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein
Spicy Potato Soft Taco
Nutrition Fact: 230 calories, 12g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 460mg sodium, 27g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Cholesterol:
It is best to avoid Bacon or Steak dishes at Taco Bell as such dishes contain a lot of fat. Also, try to avoid all kinds of Drinks and Freezes which are full of sugars resulting in empty calories.
Visit below restaurant in Gurnee for healthy meals suggestion.
High Blood Pressure at Taco Bell
People with high blood pressure must avoid food with high sodium levels. You can either ask the people at Taco Bell to add less salt in your food or choose the food items with less sodium content or customize your order using Taco Bell's own nutrition calculator.
Food Suggestions to Control Blood Pressure at Taco Bell:
Fresco Chicken Soft Taco
Nutrition Fact: 150 calories, 6g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 9g Protein
Spicy Tostada
Nutrition Fact: 210 calories, 10g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 440mg sodium, 22g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 5g Fiber, 6g Protein
Grilled Breakfast Burrito - Sausage
Nutrition Fact: 340 calories, 17g Fat (5g Sat. Fat), 730mg sodium, 36g Carbs, 3g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 11g Protein
Veggie Power Menu Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 480 calories, 19g Fat (5g Sat. Fat), 970mg sodium, 65g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 13g Fiber, 14g Protein
Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Blood Pressure:
Taco Bell offers a wide range of Grande Scrambler Burritos, Crunch wraps, and Quesadillas which are high in sodium. It is important to limit the sodium intake at Taco Bell and avoid any meal with over 750-800mg sodium.
Visit below restaurant in Gurnee for healthy meals suggestion.
High Cholesterol at Taco Bell
Fast food restaurants are known for serving high calorie, greasy food with lots of sugars. Taco Bell changes this trend by offering Fresco Style option where your favorite food item is prepared using pico de gallo as it will cut down 20 – 30 calories easily from the original meal.
Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Taco Bell:
Mini Skillet Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 180 calories, 11g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Breakfast Soft Taco – Egg & Cheese
Nutrition Fact: 170 calories, 9g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 330mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, less than 1g Fiber, 7g Protein
Spicy Tostada
Nutrition Fact: 210 calories, 10g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 440mg sodium, 22g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 5g Fiber, 6g Protein
Fresco Crunchy Taco – Beef
Nutrition Fact: 140 calories, 7g Fat (2.5g Sat. Fat), 300mg sodium, 14g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 6g Protein
Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla
Nutrition Fact: 200 calories, 10g Fat (3.5g Sat. Fat), 490mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 1g Fiber, 10g Protein
Crunchy Taco Supreme
Nutrition Fact: 190 calories, 11g Fat (4.5g Sat. Fat), 340mg sodium, 15g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein
Spicy Potato Soft Taco
Nutrition Fact: 230 calories, 12g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 460mg sodium, 27g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Cholesterol:
It is best to avoid Bacon or Steak dishes at Taco Bell as such dishes contain a lot of fat. Also, try to avoid all kinds of Drinks and Freezes which are full of sugars resulting in empty calories.
Visit below restaurant in Gurnee for healthy meals suggestion.
Q&A on Taco Bell
Who owns Taco Bell?
Taco Bell is a restaurant chain subsidiary owned by Yum! Brands, Inc. which controls the restaurant division of PepsiCo.
When does Taco Bell stop serving breakfast?
Taco Bell starts serving breakfast from 6 a.m. which is one hour later than other competitors. However, the restaurant chain continues serving breakfast till 11 a.m. which is half an hour later than other competitors.
When is Taco Bell happy hour?
Happy hour at Taco Bell starts from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Are Taco Bell beans healthy?
Beans are rich in protein, fiber, and minerals like iron and phosphorous. Hence, Taco Bell beans are healthy in nature. However, there are claims that Taco Bell uses a rehydrated slew of mystery ingredients instead of beans. So, simply inquire about the beans before ordering items serving Taco Bell beans.
Which Taco Bell is closest to me?
Use our Restaurant Listings directory to find Taco Bell nearby.
Which Taco Bell sauce is hottest?
Diablo is the hottest Taco Bell sauce.
Which Taco Bell sauce is best?
In terms of popularity, the Mild sauce is undoubtedly the best Taco Bell sauce favored by Americans.
Which Taco Bell sauces are vegan?
Hot and Mild sauces are certified vegan.
Which Taco Bell has nacho fries?
Taco Bell has a habit of discontinuing and relaunching Nacho Fries. You can find the Taco Bell locations nearby to see if the Taco Bell store has Nacho Fries.
Which Taco Bell is open right now?
Taco Bell opens at 6 a.m. in the morning and stays open until 3 a.m. the next day at major locations. In New York city, the Taco Bell stores stay open till 11 p.m. or 12 midnight.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
About Taco Bell
Taco Bell is a haven for Mexican delicacies such as tacos, quesadillas, burritos, nachos, and other specialty items. Owned by Yum! Brands, Inc. Taco Bell is one of the fastest growing American chains of fast food restaurants. The restaurant operates from 7,072 different locations which are mostly run by independent franchisees and licensees.
The background story of Taco Bell is interesting and inspiring for budding entrepreneurs. The fast-food brand is the brainchild of Glen Bell, who started his first food venture as a hot dog seller in San Bernardino, California. The year was 1948. After witnessing long queues outside a Mexican restaurant called Mitla Café across the street, Bell saw the opportunity and demand for hard-shelled Tacos. He reverse-engineered the recipe and later started selling Tacos and called the venture Taco-Tia.
Later, the name changed from Taco-Tia to El Taco. Eventually, Glen Bell sold the company to his partner and opened the first Taco Bell in Downey in 1962. By 1964, the restaurant also got its first franchise in Torrance. The 100th Taco Bell restaurant was opened by 1965. PepsiCo acquired Taco Bell from Glen Bell in 1978 and the restaurant brand is currently a subsidiary of Yum! Brands which looks after the restaurant business of PepsiCo.
Healthy Food Options at Taco Bell
You may believe that a healthy lifestyle doesn't go well at a fast food restaurant. Well, that's not the case with Taco Bell. Surprisingly Taco Bell offers a variety of healthy options, thanks to the in-house registered dietician who monitors the whole menu. The dietician ensures that each item on the menu is free from additives and preservatives, colors, and artificial flavors. The dietician also ensures that the food served at Taco Bell doesn't contain high-fructose corn syrup, low sodium levels, and reduced use of partially hydrogenated oil.
More than 75% of food items served at Taco Bell falls under 500 calories. Taco Bell also features the Fresco Style option which helps the customers to maintain healthy diet plan without missing out on taste. In Fresco style option, Taco Bell switches pico de gallo with cheese, sour cream, guac, and mayo-based sauce. Taco Bell takes care of almost every health preference of its customers.
Tips for Dining at Taco Bell
Diabetics can also try other Fresco styled Taco items such as Fresco Crunchy Taco, Fresco Grilled Steak, and Fresco Soft Taco Beef. These are other healthy alternatives of Tacos for diabetics which contains an adequate amount of starch and minimum or no fat content. Switch the regular sauce or cheese with pico de gallo and you can easily reduce the sodium intake and fat content for your body. It will help maintain blood pressure levels and control high cholesterol.
Q&A on Taco Bell
Who owns Taco Bell?
Taco Bell is a restaurant chain subsidiary owned by Yum! Brands, Inc. which controls the restaurant division of PepsiCo.
When does Taco Bell stop serving breakfast?
Taco Bell starts serving breakfast from 6 a.m. which is one hour later than other competitors. However, the restaurant chain continues serving breakfast till 11 a.m. which is half an hour later than other competitors.
When is Taco Bell happy hour?
Happy hour at Taco Bell starts from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Are Taco Bell beans healthy?
Beans are rich in protein, fiber, and minerals like iron and phosphorous. Hence, Taco Bell beans are healthy in nature. However, there are claims that Taco Bell uses a rehydrated slew of mystery ingredients instead of beans. So, simply inquire about the beans before ordering items serving Taco Bell beans.
Which Taco Bell is closest to me?
Use our Restaurant Listings directory to find Taco Bell nearby.
Which Taco Bell sauce is hottest?
Diablo is the hottest Taco Bell sauce.
Which Taco Bell sauce is best?
In terms of popularity, the Mild sauce is undoubtedly the best Taco Bell sauce favored by Americans.
Which Taco Bell sauces are vegan?
Hot and Mild sauces are certified vegan.
Which Taco Bell has nacho fries?
Taco Bell has a habit of discontinuing and relaunching Nacho Fries. You can find the Taco Bell locations nearby to see if the Taco Bell store has Nacho Fries.
Which Taco Bell is open right now?
Taco Bell opens at 6 a.m. in the morning and stays open until 3 a.m. the next day at major locations. In New York city, the Taco Bell stores stay open till 11 p.m. or 12 midnight.
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Address :
401 N Riverside Dr
Gurnee, IL, 60031 - Phone (847) 623-3034
- Website https://www.tacoselnorte.org
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :10:00 am - 10
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
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.
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Andrew K.
Fun place the night we went there was an Elvis impersonator. Everyone enjoyed their food and drinks. The service was awesome they even found my backpack I left on my chair and kept it for me until I could pick it up. Great job El Norte!
(5)Terri E.
We have been coming to Taco El Norte for years. Sometimes it has been good and sometimes it has been bad. Until recently the good has outweighed the bad enough that we kept coming back. The last two visits have convinced me we won't be back. I will put up with a lot but I will not tolerate any business that tries to cheat me and then cops an attitude when I catch them at it. The first incident took place about two weeks ago. Our bill came to $28 and change. I gave the waitress a $50 bill. When she picked it up, she did not say anything but I thought she would surely come back with the change. After several minutes and her going past out table a few times, I asked her for my change. She said she would get it. Several more minutes and few more trips past our table I reminded her I am still waiting for my change. She acts very put out by my request and says she will have to check with the cashier because she did not know I was going to want change. Did she really think I was giving her a $21+ tip on a $28 bill? Or was she hoping somehow I would forget and leave without getting my change? She brings me back a $20 bill, a $1 bill and the coins. Now I am thinking does she think I will be too embarrassed to leave her just a dollar and change so I will leave the twenty? Well, guess again. I left her what she deserved and it was not the $20 bill. The second visit was last night. The menu states that guacamole is 75 cents extra on a burrito. I have ordered it many times but the last few times I could not see or taste where it was on or in my burrito. This time I asked that it be served on the side. I get the bill and I am charged $1.99 for guacamole. I point out to the waitress that the menu says it is 75 cents extra not $1.99. She says she will ask the manager. She comes back and says the manager says it is correct because she brought it to me on a plate so that makes it an appetizer. I tell her to bring the manager to the table. She comes back with the amount corrected stating that since there was a misunderstanding the manager would change it this one time. I often ask for condiments, dressing, etc. to be served on the side in many restaurants. I have never had one charge me more than double the price for putting on the plate instead of on/in the food. The manager was right. This was a just this once misunderstanding because I will not be back.
(2)Mick B.
Here you find a typical cheap pseudo Mexican place that you take your kids because dinner doesn't cost much and everyone else has their kids with them but you can order alcohol which isn't possible at Taco Bell. Did I mention that there usually are groups of kids running around like they have lost their minds? Service levels vary wildly- that is once you get the attention of a server to place your order (which always seems to be a challenge no matter what night of the week). Avoid unless you have a lot of patience or are on a tight budget. Speaking and understanding some basic Spanish is helpful to place an order too. Oh good luck if you try to order any sides, extras or anything that's not straight from the menu. Sometimes pointing at something that you want on the menu helps, but only sometimes.
(2)Brandon O.
I actually enjoy this place a lot for two reasons: Fast service and affordable prices. You might be concerned that I'm not raving about the food but I like that too. Not amazing, but good. Served hot and fast. You can get in and out in about the time it takes to eat at Culver's or the like and because of that Tacos El Norte has become our go to "Mexican" place. Also be advised. If you show up on Cinco De Mayo they have a loud Mariachi band and on some Saturdays you'll find Elvis wandering up and down singing a variety of songs (not strictly the Kings greatest hits)
(4)James D.
I brought my family here for lunch one Saturday in July. We were at Great America and we're looking for a restaurant close to the park. I am glad we stopped in. The wait staff was very friendly, the food was above bar for Mexican fare, and most importantly affordable. I had the Grande Burrito( Steak) it it more then frilled me up. My wife and daughter were equally satisfied. I am adding this place to my short list of out of the park places to eat lunch/dinner
(4)Mark F.
A solid 3.5 stars with friendliness rounding it up to the 4th star. Reading through other reviews, service seems to be the issue. Maybe it's because I sat at the bar and ordered but everything went ok. There was a lively jukebox and the Simpsons on TV. The food was better than expected and it was affordable. The size of the location really surprised me (it was huge!). I'll definitely come back, I might try sitting in a booth to see how the service changes...or...maybe I'll be risk adverse and continue to order from the bar.
(4)Bill D.
The rating of 1 Star is a stretch! Our waitress was not attentive and spent most of her time with the table behind us. Apparently they were employees not working that day. I ordered a combo plate with mole, it was the worst I've ever had, no taste, no spice, actually the consistency of watered down chocolate milk. Rice and beans were lukewarm at best. Ordered a Sangria which came in a wine glass, served like a glass of Burgundy.....no ice no garnishment and had to ask for a glass with ice.....poured straight out of a bottle. May I suggest going to the Tacos El Norte location on Grand Avenue in Waukegan. ALWAYS has excellent service with food served the way it should be..........Grand Avenue you get 5 Stars Plus!
(1)Karina F.
I've come here before, usually because others suggest it. I am Mexican. I love real Mexican food. The food here is quite Americanized... too much cheese... not the right spices so I have a hard time calling this authentic Mexican. Still, we came to this place the night before my birthday because I wanted a margarita and wanted a place for the 12 of us to spread out well. First problem was our waitress. She took a while to get to us and when she finally did we let her know right away that we needed 3 separate checks, To which she glumly stated, "Yeah, I guess. At least you didn't tell me after I wrote it all up." Second problem: After she took our orders we asked her to bring us more chips and salsa to which she replied, annoyed, "Ok but I have to charge you for it." We had received 2 small baskets of chips for 12 people and had eaten it waiting for her and she tells us she will charge us for a miserable basket of chips? Would it really make a big dent in their budget to give us more chips? Keeping jn mind we had just put in orders over $150 in food and alcohol we found this to be TACKY. It's not like I needed anymore excuses to stop coming to this place, but in between the awful food, the waitress, and the darn chips... Done with this tacky place.
(1)Nicole T.
This place has awful service! It took 30 minutes to place our order and the waitress ignored us
(1)Shawn I.
Authentic food. Good atmosphere. Recommended for authentic Mexican in Lake County. The only thing I can say negative is that we have waited a long time for our check multiple times and the chips and salsa usually run dry. Servers need reminders to stay attentive. But, overall recommended if you're not in a hurry.
(4)Onerux N.
Food was not as expected, did not have good flavor tasted like salt lots of salt, the meat tasted old, chicken enchiladas tasted like they cooked them a week before we ordered. Service was o.k will not go back. If you want good food LA CANOA has the best
(1)Matt S.
The food here is decent, nothing to rave about. Their live performances are interesting until Elvis comes around to your table and you're trying to enjoy your meal. The waitresses were quick and food came out quick as well.
(3)Crissy B.
The food was actually quite good, the prices are reasonable, and the restaurant is clean enough, but unfortunately you still leave with a sense of disappointment because the service is SO bad. When a beverage is finally brought to you, cherish it, because you probably aren't getting another one - even if you ask multiple employees for a refill. The overall sense we got from the staff was that they were very much annoyed we came to patron their establishment, so I can't help but feel they will be delighted that we won't be returning to Tacos el Norte.
(2)Rebecca G.
I love Tacos El Norte and have been going to there for years. (Them, because you know they have more than one location.) But I'm writing about the one in Gurnee, IL. However, last night we were charged almost 50 bucks extra by mistake. There were four of us and we ordered plenty nicely. But it was my husband that picked up the tab and he noticed like right away! They apologized for the mistake. So, beware if you go and betta check that bill. Their service is good though and the food is delicious. I'll continue going.
(4)Jose G.
Me and my family called and made a reservation in advance 4 hours earlier, we got there around 7, and I wont lie we got seated pretty quick. This is where the joy starts. We waited patiently for our waitress.... She was no where to be found. She was busy attending other customers which is perfectly acceptable I understand. When she finally came, she ask what would we be having. I told her we couldnt order because we never received Menus, she look at us like we were crazy or something. She then proceeded to tell us that it was going to be another 30 mins for her to attend us. (keep in mind it was already 7:30pm) we all agreed it was fine she seem busy, we understand. When the menus finally came it was about 8:05 ish pm, we ask our waitress that we would like to do two seperate checks and she flat out told us No she couldn't do that, it was going to be one check because its one check per table. Such a lie! Then she told us we needed it to figuer it out and left. What the heck! When she came back it was around 8:35 pm. We decided make her life easier and just go with one check. After she took our drinks she told us it was going to be another 15 min for our drinks because it was busy. (keep in mind she had this attitude that just screamed rude.) Once again we told her fine. Around 9 pm and we didnt receive our drinks I saw our waitress chatting it up with another worker. Ignoring the fact our family had been there for almost 2 hours without drinks or food. By now I was getting frustrated and I went to speak with the owner. Luckily he was there and apologized and assigned another waitress to our table. 9 30 pm the drinks finally came. By now we we're tired of waiting. We simply left the drinks their and walked out. Worst service ever. The one in Round lake is so much warmer and inviting with waitresses that actually want to help you.
(1)Gia F.
Bad experience for our family outing on Mother's Day. Service was bad, how does an order of tacos de asesina come to table presented as tacos de milanesa? and how does a burrito come to the table with a big slit across it, it was cut in the middle like it's suppose to, but on one of the slices, there was a slit across it and it was all open and the meat was spilling everywhere, and of course my favorite, how does a fish a la Mexicana come back to the table without pico de gallo? Guess the cook was just wanting to cook things his own way. Oh and my aunt was told it would take them an hour to bring her tacos back to the table, were they chasing the cow in the back? And to think we have to return here for my little cousin's celebration of her first communion for her banquet. Ridiculous.
(1)Richard R.
The rating of 2-1/2 stars is well deserved. Our waitress was not attentive and not trained very well. Service was slow and one order was lost. I order steak enchiladas which were tasteless. I got them with mole, the worst I've ever had, no taste, no spice. No one in our group thought much of the food. There is much better Mexican food in the area. Actually, Taco Bell had better tasting food. We are not returning any time soon.
(2)Andy F.
This restaurant is very Americanized, mostly because of the location and the crowd it's marketing towards. Service and staff have been pretty bad each and everytime i've been here, but i've only visited here due to coming along with friends and family. They really need to give a class to their staff about customer service, because this place is really quite terrible. At least it's clean, safe, and plenty of parking space, I give them that. Haven't been here in a while but I honestly, and sadly enough, wouldn't be surprised if it hasn't changed a bit.
(1)Hammerhead L.
We've given this place a second chance twice now, but after our last visit, we will not be back. If you want your food quick, and aren't too worried about quality, this place might be for you. Service is bad, the staff doesn't seem to care if you enjoy your experience or not. During our last visit, we were immediately seated, but we were forgotten about after that, and had to ask someone when we were going to be waited on. The lady gave me a weird look and didn't apologize or anything.
(2)Mad I.
Had a bad taste in my mouth about this 'chain mexican food' however I was pleasantly surprised! I thought it was better than on the boarder and more bang for your buck than wholly friole or the place in Libertyville with outdoor seating on main st. Good chips and salsa, the chimi is great with flavorful meat. Tasty, I'll be back!
(4)Andrea C.
The food was okay. They give a really big serving which is a good thing but the burritos don't really compare to el famous burrito. Maybe because I am from California I like my Asada burritos a certain way but overall it was okay. The servers were very nice and very quick
(3)DeeDee N.
We have been dining at this restaurant for years - To say the food has gone downhill is an understatement. How is it possible to order food in one breath and get it in the next? My husband ordered tripe and it was cold when it arrived just a few minutes after it was ordered. It smelled and tasted old. Gross! The rest of us got our orders and I could get better at Taco Bell. Like I said, I just can't get over how fast the food gets to the table and it doesn't taste that good either! We were there at 9 pm on a weekend night and they were sweeping under all the tables around us and we had not finished dinner. How unappetizing. We will not be going back.
(1)Maritza R.
If you are saying this is great Mexican food then you must not have eaten at any other Mexican restaurant. Growing up in California I suppose I got spoiled. I think the food here is bland, watery, and gross. The customer service stinks. By far one of the worst Mexican food I've ever had.
(1)Adam Z.
It wasn't terrible, but not that great either. However, they have a nice dining area and they also have a live band. The service was ok too. (Friday evening)
(3)Phillip H.
Do not eat here! I love Mexican food and have been to the Tacos El Norte in Palatine so my wife and I stopped in on a Saturday night. The restaurant was busy, but the staff was quick with everything. Even the food came out super fast, almost too fast. I had the carne asada, ordered it medium rare. It came out well done, very greasy, and salty. It was almost an insult to serve that. My wife's steak tacos were dry. The rice was very salty as well, beans were runny. The staff was great, but the food is absolutely horrible!
(1)Jim S.
Good Mexican food. Received my guacamole appetizer at the same time as my entree. Big place with room for large parties. Lots of food for the money. Very reasonably priced.
(4)Luis O.
Great food! And it comes very fast... Kinda scary how fast it comes but it's always very good and cheap. Chips and salsa are very good as well. Sometimes the service isn't the greatest but you're usually in and out quick.
(4)Jenifer W.
Decent Mexican food at fair prices... Think of this place as the "diner" version of a Mexian restaraunt... go in it with that in mind, and you'll have a decent dinner. ATMOSPHERE: Very Kitzchy, over the top Mexican theme, reminds me of the poor towns just over the US / Mexico border. So overdone, in fact, that it makes me a little sad, especially since some of the decor is tacky with years of dirt or grime that hasn't been really cleaned in a while. FOOD: Typical mexican fare, complete with the regular onslaught of tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and nacho-type dishes. I generally get the steak tacos, and they're smallish (I can eat three, and my 5 year old can eat two). They are hot, borderline authentic, and well done for the price point (around $2 per taco - can't beat that). There is NOTHING special about the food in terms of flavor or creativity, but if you're looking for a cheap taco that's reasonably tasty you can get it here. SERVICE: Meh... the servers are Mexican / Spanish, don't speak a lot of English (that they let on to), but they are efficient enough, bringing drinks and food on request and the bill quick enough after your meal. The customer service here is again, diner-quality, but if you can accept that then this is the place for you. VALUE: Good, for what you get. Personally I'd rather spend $5 on a great taco than $2 on a fair one, but you take what you can get in the suburbs. I wouldn't go out of my way for this place, but if you're local and in need of a chimchanga, you might as well stop.
(2)Abby D.
1. My chicken was not cooked. I ordered a pretty standard dish - Chicken Fajitas. 2. Veggie dish (after confirming the order at least two times - no meat), came with a chicken piece 3. Salsa - Felt like canned salsa Definitely will not recommend.
(1)T G.
If you are looking for a mexican joint that will produce your entree in under 4 minutes, this is your place! How do they do it? Well the bank of 7 microwaves prominently displayed in the kitchen (which is visible to the dining room) will give you a few clues! Worst item I have tried is the Chili relleno, soggy and tasteless. Best item was a burrito with chorizo. It wasn't that good but I thought I would throw this place at least a bone! The fresh homemade items from Momcorn across the street is 100 times better!
(1)Laurren W.
There were seven of us .We entered the resturant and we're seated .and we sit there for 15 minutes.still no one comes to greet us or bring water.a table right by us is being served .we ask the waitress about our table and she says it is not her table.finally a womam comes and brings us chips and salsa. And again we wait and wait finally all chips are gone and so are we.Are you kidding me.
(1)Patricia C.
Went there for the first time ( kind or early 5:30 ) tonight and was not impressed. The food arrived quickly and was just ok..but trying to get the waitress for a check, then to give her my credit card and the long wait for her to reappear with the receipt was annoying. I don't know if I would go back or not.
(2)Marie B.
My family has been coming here for years. It is not the best Mexican food but it's not the worst. The food comes fast and it is affordable. It's a friendly atmosphere. Great for a quick lunch with a friend or taking the family out for dinner. My favorite thing about this restaurant is being able to order breakfast anytime of the day.
(3)Meagan H.
Since I love Mexican food I had to try this one out! I was actually quite impressed by the service. They were very friendly and attentive. Their menu options are extensive. A little overbearing though. I couldn't decide what I wanted, so I went with my usual chicken quesadillas. They were pretty good. They were made simple. Just chicken and cheese and some lettuce and salsa on the side. I really liked them though. Sometimes mexican places can add way to much to a quesadilla. That can take a way from the flavor because you don't even know what you're eating. The rice and refried beans were delicious too! I'll definitely be back. I still want to try their desserts. I didn't look around too much and was facing the door, so I'm not sure what the 'aura' is like. But I liked it!
(4)Bernardo S.
Quick and cheap, it's my families go to spot when we want a quick sit down meal. Food does seem to be hit or miss and it's not the best Mexican food in town but it's not bad for the price.
(3)Tommy N.
I usually eat here when I'm up here working in the area and it has been good in the past but I just left there today service was ok food was cold I had the carne asada and poblano stuffed pepper, not only did I have to cut thru the pepper but the cheese as well, the cheese on the beans wouldn't melt either i guess they don't serve on hot plates anymore either very disappointed doubt I'll go back there again
(1)Kevin N.
Tacos El Norte Gurnee, part of a family-owned chain, is my go-to for fast, sit down Mexican food near home. The menu is overwhelming with choices: both standard and less common. In addition to the typical combo platters with tacos, flautas, enchiladas and their kin, they offer some things which bring me back again and again. I love the taco platters with shrimp, rib eye steak or fish. Their spicy-sweet homemade cocktail sauce elevates the shrimp cocktails. Try the menudo or caldo de mariscos for a hearty soup. The guisado de lengua in green chili sauce is also tasty, filling and authentic. The chile rellenos de camaron is an unusual choice which keeps me coming back. Their common dishes are largely unremarkable, especially the rice and refried bean sides on most platters. Service is friendly, very fast and perfunctory. Summers as well evenings and weekends bring live entertainment. It's also a great value. I suspect the variety, speed and value are the reasons this place has multiplied across Lake County.
(4)Syretta H.
I wanted mexican food last weekend and I had never tried this place before, although it's right around the corner from my house, literally. It's very reasonably priced, but the food didn't really move me much. I gave it three stars for the guacamole.....YUM-O! I had the taco dinner with three soft tacos, rice and beans. It was....so-so. I would still go back and give something else a try, just not the tacos.
(3)Desiree P.
Last time I was here, the food was the same as the one in Waukegan. So, it gets the same thumbs up review: Tacos El Norte? Yes please! The reason this place is so awesome is because it's cheap, so delicious, and so convenient! The chicken nachos are heaven. The burritos are heaven. The bistec with ranchero sauce and cheese is heaven. I really miss this place a lot. I didn't realize that trying to get good Mexican food in Colorado would be such a hassel...it's so convenient in Waukegan. Oh, be grateful Waukeganites...be grateful. In this case, be grateful fellow Gurnee-ans...be grateful.
(4)Phil H.
Not too big a fan of this place. Went out for lunch with some friends. The inside was a bit gloomy due to the red light fixtures, this made me feel very sleepy. I tried the ground beef tacos, and they were very salty, had to choke them down, and only half finished the third (last) one. I will say the service was somewhat good, but the waitress seemed a bit impatient. the place is not a dump, just needs to liven up a bit, and hopefully better food. I may give this place a second chance if I have to come back, but for now, no thanks.
(2)Rosemary B.
Never tried the Gurnee location until recently. The food was bland and very much Tex-Mex. If you like Americanized Mexican food this is the place for you. The decor and inside was very dreary. I wouldn't come back here.
(2)Rachel H.
Literally the worst service I've ever had in my life at any restaurant. You can find better Mexican food with amazing service somewhere else. The waitress didn't know the menu forgot half the stuff we ordered, messed up our order three times. Didn't bring us drink refills and we had to ask her if we could order because we waited half an hour for her to come to the table. She couldn't even comprehend I wanted rice and beans inside of the burrito.
(1)Parker ..
I don't think there are that many Mexican restaurants in Gurnee so there's not much comparison (Taco Bell of course doesn't even belong on a list of places that sell edible products). It's greasy and generous without being gluttonous. I like picking it up because it's fast..going in to eat takes longer even if it's not crowded for some reason. There's a mariachi band some nights if you like that sort of thing. The menu is large and genuine.
(4)Tricia S.
We used to love coming to this restaurant, but the quality of food has slowly declined. The chicken was tasteless. When I asked the waiter why the sour cream had lumps in it, he said because it was previously frozen. The tilapia dinner said that it came with salad, my daughter's plate had a small pile of shredded iceberg lettuce with a slice of slice of tomato, maybe that was the salad? The re-fried beans were terrible. They were watery and had a strange taste., I think that they were out of their usual re-fried beans and they just substituted pinto beans and threw some cheese on them without telling us. The service was so slow and there were maybe 5 tables in the whole restaurant. I think they've also recently raised their prices. I've never seen this restaurant so slow on a Saturday. I think they need to improve the quality of their food and service because they are going to lose business. It used to be a place where you could go and get a decent meal for a good price, but not anymore. I'm only giving it one star because of the Elvis impersonator.
(1)Bobby W.
The only reason I don't rate this a 5 is because I already have a favorite Mexican place.. That aside, I found this place pretty damn good. They accidentally served me the wrong meal but was happy they did; the chicken tacos were fantastic and seasoned perfectly. All they needed was some legit hot sauce (nothing they had was spicy enough) and I would have been set
(4)Matthew M.
I used to live right down the road from this place so I got takeout a few times. Its totally average, bleh Mexican food. The menu is boring and the food isn't very good. I'd recommend going down the road to one of the many Mexican joints in Waukegan.
(2)Nitesh J.
Too loud.Food was below average.
(1)Rush L.
The food was good. I had the carne asada dinner, it's pricey compared to other restaurants. They also daily specials. Rice is slightly different, but it was still good. The menu is extensive.
(3)Elyse C.
Im from Cali so I love mexican food. Taco el Norte is not the best but its not bad. I really enjoy the bbq pork I've had the taco, torta, burrito, quesodilla all pork they were good the quesodilla was better at the Libertyville location. Salsa is not spicy, neither is the guac, I keep hoping everytime i go there that something I will try will be totally awesome. Margaritas are strong and good. Maybe thats why I keep going back...
(3)Timothy B.
Never in my whole life ever received such poor food. I reported them to Better Business Burea in hopes to get a refund. They never replied, talked to managment, was told to screw off, and hung up in my face. Never rude to them, simply asked for money back, or a replacement. Don't expect to get your money back for bad food, good service, or customer service, and stay away
(1)Kelvin J.
Service is quick, food is delicious, and the mood right.
(4)Nick G.
Tacos el nasty
(1)Patty Z.
Nothing will compare to my mothers cooking but this place is pretty good. Their quick and it's very inexpensive. I usually get enchiladas and some sort of taco but I've had their tortas, burritos and arrachera steak as well. I've always been pleased. They could do a little better on their rice. It's a bit hard for me but I like this place. Most meals are under 10 bucks. I frequent this place often.
(4)Abby A.
Decent Mexican restaurant. Authentic atmosphere but not the most quality food all the time.
(3)Suzette B.
My boyfriend had called to make reservations and asked if we needed reservations and if 9pm would be too late. The Mexican girl who answered the phone said, "no, just come in and we will seat you". My boyfriend and I decided to come in to have a romantic dinner together thinking we would get this atmosphere with good food at your establishment. When we arrived, we were seated at the booth across from the cash register and to my right of the booth was the juke box. Initially, we wanted to do the Valentines Day special you listed, however, I am a vegetarian, so I asked the waitress if we could substitute one of the meat or fish entrées with a vegetarian option. It would actually SAVE the restaurant money with that option. The waitress didn't know and went to ask. She came back about 10 minutes later saying, "I asked the manager and the manager doesn't know". I said, "how can the manager not know this type of thing? It is their JOB to know these things?" She then said, "Well, we don't have a manager managing the restaurant right now, it's just the wait staff". I couldn't believe there wasn't a manger at the restaurant!! I said, "Well, will you please find out for me?". She then asked the girl at the cash register in Spanish, who then made a phone call to the manager and said, "Well, what do you want?". I said, "Well, I haven't even looked at the menu to know what I want, but before I decide I wanted to know if this is an option!" While she went back trying to find out, we had a fat Mexican girl with a flat face who had a mop in her hand pushing the mop around our feet rudely. She then went to the juke box and started cranking ghetto house music in full bar volume to where I couldn't even hear my boyfriend sitting across from me in the booth. We ended up leaving immediately, told the waitress to forget it and decided to give our money to another restaurant who treated us very well. At the other restaurant, we ended up spending $135 since we were set on ordering lots of drinks. So, your restaurant LOST a minimum of that amount of money because of the lack of knowledge of your wait staff, there wasn't a manger on site, as well as the loud obnoxious house music being blasted in our ears. I am appalled at how we were treated. I just wanted you to know of this incident as I'm sure this is not the first time these incidents have occurred.
(1)Ed W.
The name is appropriate - with an emphasis on the Norte. This is North American Mexican food - but that doesn't make it all bad. The location in Gurnee is a little upscale from the ones in Round Lake Beach and Mundelein - which means more kitchy Mexican art on the walls - but that is OK too. What I like about the place is good combo plates for reasonable prices served very quickly. A good place to come for lunch with a crowd. The salsa is homemade so it can be a little inconsistent - the last time it made me sweat -previous times it was a little bland. I suggest the steak tacos instead of the ground beef (mystery meat?) and the flour tortillas used for the tacos are homemade and excellent. The menu is far-ranging with prices from $1.99 to $16.99 but I've only had the $7.99 combos - which have all been excellent - so I can't speak for the expensive dinners. (but any restaurant where "expensive" is $16.99 can't be too bad). They have Dos Equis on tap so if you're looking for a good mexican combo and a pint in the far northern burbs -- this is your place.
(4)Jonathan K.
it was busy during lunch...got a lunch combo plate that came with a tamale, quesadilla, taco, and mini burrito. they were all good. nothing spectacular. the salsa was good, thats always a good tell. different from socal mexican...as always, good value
(3)Kelly F.
Someone my husband works with recommended this restaurant to us. One night we were driving around hungry with no specific destination in mind, as we often do, and ended up here. The food I had the first time was fantastic. I don't remember exactly what it was, but it was one of the combo plates - vegetarian - and everything was excellent. They brought the food out super fast, too. The margaritas were good, decently sized and STRONG. There was a gentleman at the front of the restaurant playing music, which greatly entertained our daughter. I came back that weekend with my parents, excited to share our new find. I ordered the same exact combo and it wasn't nearly as good. The Chili Relleno, which on the last plate had been completely stuffed with cheese, was pretty much empty. The margarita barely had any alcohol in it, if it had any. The food was still decent, but not as good as the first time around. I guess the quality depends on when you go? We will defintely be back, and hope for a good food night instead of an off one!
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