I'd been searching for an authentic Mexican restaurant in the area... Cilantro is it! The steak quesadilla was amazing! I also enjoyed the Vegetable Taco Salad, it was GREAT! Cute local location.
(4)
Lilly M.
If you are looking for authentic Mexican food, then this is not the right spot for you. I've been to Cilantro a few times, but each time left feeling like Taco Bell might have been a better option. When I last visited, I ordered a vegetarian burrito and was met with a bunch of what appeared to be stir fry veggies wrapped up in a flour tortilla. (Broccoli, carrots, snow peas.) Now, this was years ago, so perhaps things have changed, but I have never gone back because it was just awful. They do have a lovely outdoor area however, so perhaps it would be a nice spot for some apps and cocktails only?
(2)
Joel M.
i was not impressed at all. The chicken tacos was dry and tasteless. Will not go back.
(2)
Doug H.
Home made chips and salsa is great. A nice variety of tequila .., great staff ... THE place for Mexican food.
(5)
Eric H.
I get bags of their chips and salsa to-go frequently. Start off with a margarita! They make them strong! Their food is great, they have all of the standard options, and a few fancier ones. I recommend their carne' con rajas and guacamole. Service is fantastic, they remember the regulars here. They have a patio-ish area that is really beautiful and wonderful to sit and eat in on a hot summers day.
(5)
Daren J.
This is not Mexican food. I'm from southern California, and I know real Mexican food. This food us "gringo". Everything us Mexican in name but very American in taste. If you've never had real Mexican food, I'm sure it will be fine. But if you have, avoid at all costs. Don't waste your money on this poor excuse for Mexican.
(1)
Seena B.
Very friendly and family friendly. Margaritas are the best in the area. I love the chiles rellenos and the steak burrito, and the tortilla chips are very fresh and abundant.
(4)
Meghan S.
The best chips, salsa, guacamole, and margaritas I have ever had! The carne asada, steak and chicken taco salads, and steak fajitas are excellent entree choices! Overall, everyone I have encountered is very friendly and attentive!
(5)
Rebecca J.
Great to eat there but horrible take out. I hate to leave a not so great review for one of my local favorites. The take out is always wrong. The food is good but your order will me wrong 100%. I'm sitting here with what is supposed to be a casadia with extra chicken and extra tomatoes and only a little bit of cheese. There are a total of three diced tomatoes on the entire plate and a ton of cheese. The ticket is right, the food is wrong.
(2)
Melissa B.
I don't know where to go with this review. I have been here several times over the years and always kind of forget it exists. The service is always really friendly. That's reason enough for me to agree to meet people here if they pick it. The decor is cute. I also love the patio in the summer! The food is just average. The margaritas are just average too. Nothing has ever been awful. It's just a tad overpriced given the quality isn't much greater than Taco Bell. If you are in the area and craving Mexican this should absolutely be your go to. It's not worth driving out of your way for.
(3)
Pia Z.
I think Cilantro can be hit or miss.....hence the 3 Star review. I've gone and had great food, wonderful drinks, marvelous service. And I've gone and had mediocre fair and so-so service. They really REALLY need to work on consistency. The Guacamole is always great, I will give them that!
(3)
Anthony M.
Great local spot, always buzzing and love the patio. Owner is super welcoming to regulars and newcomers alike, usually behind the bar mixing margaritas.
Great Breakfast Burrito! The burrito is very inexpensive and it is huge. Breakfast is only on Saturday and that is a shame.
(5)
Chris H.
Don't go here. I've grew up in the area and have gone to Cilantro countless times since I was a kid. I recently went however to my dismay. I've always been a really big fan of the chips and salsa, and they also have decent guacamole. Everything else is ok, nothing to write home about. I usually get the steak burrito, and compared to other mexican restaurants... it's rather bland. The service this time was sub par. First, I ordered an iced tea. Typically... if someone orders an iced tea it's pretty customary to bring sweetener. I asked the server is she could bring me some, only to have the request forgotten later. Strike one. Our drinks weren't refilled to my satisfaction and sat thirsty for the latter part of our stay. Then when we got our food, my mom's was cold and she hardly took but two bites. They also didn't refill our salsa. Which, it's pretty customary to have salsa served with mexican food and you'd think a "mexican" restaurant would recognize this. I politely asked the server for more salsa, all the while my burrito is getting cold. Strike two. After we finished eating we were waiting for our check, (without anything to drink mind you) and hadn't seen our server in over 10 minutes. We told one of the bussers to grab our server and it appeared he promptly did so. Waiting another 5 minutes, we told another busboy to grab our server. Waiting and waiting I'm watching the manager deal with another table across the way who apparently had a rock in their food. The manager made some lame excuse as to why there would be a rock in these people's food and I found the whole explanation laughable. We were still waiting for our check, and at this point my blood started boiling. Eventually I just asked to see the manager, which also took 5 minutes. Here's why I will not be returning here and why they deserve a zero star review. As she's coming over to address us, the customer, she refers to us as "babies." She said something along the lines of "What can I do for you my babies." I understand she probably didn't mean anything by it, but after all the transpired I found it to be completely disrespectful and completely unprofessional. Strike three. At this point I was just completely angered and began explaining to the manager what was wrong. She made excuses for the server, who she said was only "6 hours" on the job and not trained properly I'm assuming. I feel bad for the server, she probably was new and was trained by the idiot manager I'm thinking. The server was nice when we saw her and my tip for her is to find a different restaurant to work in. After that I explained that my mom's food was cold and about how long we waited for our check. In the manager's defense, she did try and comp our meal... however that wasn't what we wanted. We just wanted to pay and leave. I will not be returning here ever again, which is sad because I have many fond memories of eating here over the years.
(1)
Monya M.
First, the salsa is good. The outdoor seating is really nice. The rest is BLEH. Bland. Service was fine. My wife and I drank a whole pitcher of margaritas and were NOT EVEN TIPSY. That's how strong those babies are. $65 for two with drinks and tip. We would have enjoyed Taco Bell more, for the price.
(2)
Dakota B.
Let me start this way. EVERY NEGATIVE REVIEW IS SPOT ON. *Salsa and Guac in desperate need of salt etc-TRUE! *Service super slow and all around bad-TRUE! *Food tastes like its from cans, jars, and mixes-TRUE! *Feeling like a hostage because you are there-TRUE! *Servers who provide different levels of service depending on the customer-SUPER TRUE! Holy Guacamole. Bad bad bad. My husband and I are on another (short lived and temporary) budget. As such we have been trying smaller, local restaurants. That is how we made the tragic mistake of dining here. I read the reviews before coming and figured the fajita's would be a safe bet. I couldnt have been more wrong. But first things first. We arrive and i go wash my hands. One (womens) toilet for an entire restaurant. It was clogged. Ewwwww. We were seated in a alcove of sorts. I guess in a better run place it could be considered a main dining room. But in this spot....nah. More like an alcove where the servers whizz by while tending to other customers. Speaking of servers, there seemed to only be three working with two assigned to the patio area. That left one server for an entire restaurant full of people. We were promptly seated and provided chips and salsa. That was it for about twenty minutes. We were literally standing up to leave when a waitress came running over to take our drink orders. The drinks immediately came along with menus. I ordered the combination beef and chicken fajitas. Perhaps I am showing my ignorance, but as far as I know fajitas are grilled meat, peppers and onions. This is soooo not the case with this place. Usually with fajitas the steak is long thin slices with a hint of pink in them. In this place, the steak was teeny tiny uniform pieces about a half inch long and about a quarter inch wide. Each one was perfectky browned and crisped on all sides. Clearly these are pre packaged beef strips. Notice i did not say steak. The chicken was swimming in some kind of red sauce and the peppers and onions were mush. The chicken was also in perfectly uniform medallion pieces and were also clearly pre packaged. The dish is presented on a cheap tan plate like one finds at cafeterias and cheap buffets. The meat basically looks like stew. With mushy slimy peppers and onions. There is no sizzling skillet or juicy grilled strips of meat. Nope its like chicken stew made with pre packaged chicken with pre made beef strips sprinkled on top. To make matters worse, the red sauce has mole or mole like ingredients in it. Tomato ey with a cinnamon chocolate kind of flavor. I hate mole so i found the entire thing disgusting. The rice and beans were mediocre and in desperate need of salt. No shakers were on the table and the service was beyond dismal so we decided to eat our disgustig bland meals. We picked at this slop for over twenty minutes before the server checked on us. We informed him that these could hardly be considered fajitas and were more like stew with tortillas. He apologized and came back ten minutes later and claimed that the chef said the "steak" was merely mixed in the chickens red sauce but otherwise all was as it should be. WTF?? Since when is red sauce part of grilled chicken for fajitas. We were like whatever. Had the server remove our pretty full plates and requested the bill. This place is just awful. Nothing was good. Even the sodas tasted chemically and off. The chips were warm but clearly some of the tortillas were to thick for chips resulting in a super hard barely edible chip. The place is poorly run, fulla packaged and processed foods. The menu is misleading. If youre version of fajitas onvolved sauce and a bunch of other nonsense either inform people of this or call it a different dish. Just terrible. Truly.
(1)
Marc F.
Like a few others had mentioned, I perked up when I saw this place get reviewed on "Check Please!". Having lived in Homewood all my life, I sadly admit I never tried the place before... But seeing it on the TV showed me how much I'd been missing. So the wife and I checked it out this past Friday after work. We walked right in, and were shown to a table in the enclosed patio. The decor is inviting as anything else in the south burbs; Some stuff on the walls, and a few TVs playing whatever is on ESPN. As others have mentioned, the chips and salsa are top notch. Hot crispy, well salted chips, and a salsa with a little kick, and plenty of freshness to it. Superb. Looking over the menu, I will admit I wasn't blown away. I'm a HUGE queso fiend, and found their 7 dollar queso seemed pricey, considering entrees coming in at 8-12 bucks. So, the wife and I decided to stick it out with the chips and salsa, and just ordered the entrees. A chicken burrito for the wife, and steak enchiladas for me. I must note here, the excellent service. Our waitress was extremely nice. When she saw how quickly I blew through my first glass of pop, she returned with a pitcher. I nearly cried. OK, not really... but to me, that shows a real care for the customer. Entrees arrived promptly. The burrito was a football sized pile of goodness, so sayeth my bride. She ended up taking 1/2 of it home. She even ate the leftovers. My kudos to the chef on that one! My enchiladas were chock full of tasty bits o' steak. My only concern was the menu had mentioned a mole sauce. Maybe I misread, buy my enchiladas had no sauce. The accompanying rice and beans weren't necessarily anything to write home about, but as filling starches... they did their job. Ultimately, I know we'll be back. Given the choice of the area (chains like Chilis and Applebees, offering chain food... or a few real local gems like Gradys) Cilantro stands as it should be: A casual place for a good affordable plate of standard mexican food. I can't recommend the salsa enough. I'll be trying some of the house specialties next time, in hopes for more "bold" flavors to come.
(4)
Elizabeth D.
Cilantro has done an amazing job healing the rift in my heart made by the departure of their predecessor, the Snack Shack. The atmosphere is artistic and cozy, and the floor still has the same red brick tile. The food is always excellent, not too spicy, not too mild, and they offer lots of great options for vegetarians. Have the gazpacho if it's in season, and make sure you walk there, because after one of their yummy margaritas, you should not be driving home.
(5)
Jerry W.
Maria and I are still off from work and enjoying another week day lunch. We saw Cilantro in Homewood on a brand, new recent episode of Check Please. So we decide let's stop over there for lunch and give it a try. We start with the fresh Guacamole. Also the usual Chips and Salsa too. The chips were warm, salty and fresh tasting. The Guac had huge chunks in it and was very fresh tasting. My wife and I both thought this is some of the best Guacamole we have sampled in quite sometime. I start by ordering the Carna Asada. My skirt steak was tender and very delicious. It was a bit on the salty side though I will say. I also got a Cheese Enchilda, again a bit salty and rice and beans. Which both the rice and beans were extremely bland tasting. There was almost no flavor to either of them at all. Maria ordered the Sopa Seca or "dry soup". I thought this was very good, my wife thought it was way TOO salty. I will say though a lot of the items we sampled were VERY salty. Well the "dry soup" came with Shrimp, Angel Hair Pasta (which really just seemed like Ramon soup noodles), peppers, cherry tomatos and a white cheese. We both ordered Raspberry Ice Tea too. So when it came time for dessert we tried to order a Flan but they were fresh out. It was lunch time and I'm not sure if there was a huge rush for Flan before we arrived but come on Cilantro how can a Mexican restaurant be fresh out of Flan at the beginning of their day? Well our total bill came to $52 dollars including the tip. I will have to say it was nice to give this place a try but with all the other fine Mexican restaurants in the Chicagoland area we will not be heading back to Cilantro again when we get a taste for Mexican cuisine.
(2)
Deb H.
This is one of our favorite Mexican restaurants! We visit often and have never been disappointed with the food, service or drinks. I don't like guacamole but my daughters do and they love it at Cilantro. My husband always orders the potato & chorizo enchiladas and I get either the cheese enchiladas or steak tacos. Mmm mmm good! The chips & salsa are delicious too! Just writing this review is making my mouth water!
(5)
Jennifer C.
Wow, I'm shocked that this place got so many bad reviews. I visited the place today (a Saturday at 3pm). It was pretty empty so all the service was speedy. The waiter and busboy were very friendly and made sure we had everything we needed. In my opinion, the portions were rather large. Me and the person I went with came out with three take-out boxes. The food was well seasoned. I would go back.
As someone who thinks of atmosphere as a very important part of dining in general, and especially in my Mexican restaurants, the initial reaction to Cilantro was pretty positive. It is a comfortable atmosphere that is pleasant to look at. I had a bit of concern about the fact that the restaurant was employed completely by white folks, but that is neither here nor there. The biggest positive being a vegetarian and going to Cilantro is that the menu has many vegetarian options. There is at least one veg-friendly item in each subsection of the menu, and this is refreshing to a person who usually has to special order things in Mexican restaurants. It actually took me a few minutes to decide what to have, and settled on the spinach enchiladas. Their chips and salsa were tops. The chips were nice and flaky, with good flavor, and the salsa had a bit of kick, which was a pleasant surprise. I actually had to have my beverage at hand for the salsa, which is rare for most Mexican restaurants (although it would be appreciated if more places followed suit and gave me spicy salsa.) Unfortunately, I wasn't entirely thrilled about the food itself. The beans and rice are pretty good, although I'm being lead to believe by other reviewers that the beans are canned and not made on site, which is a bit disappointing considering I liked those beans. The entree itself, wasn't very good. The enchilada just didn't have much flavor. It was cooked fine, not burnt or undercooked, but it was pretty bland. I plan to return to Cilantro to have another dish and see if it was a fluke, because based on the atmosphere and the overall good feeling I get, I don't think its that bad, but if I were to judge based solely on the enchiladas, this place would rank a bit lower. It is about middle of the pack for me, as far as local Mexican joints are concerned.
Not impressed with the decor or the food, my wife loves this place and I don't know why, maybe cause she gets the same thing every time. We've been there 4 or 5 times and I keep hoping its gonna get better. Well I'm done hoping.
(2)
Cheryl H.
Oh how I wish Homewood had a REALLY good Mexican restaurant with delicious margaritas but....However, we go because it's close and decent. Usually a nice crowd, good salsa but they could really use a new chef with some new ideas....I think it would be worth the investment. Stick with the carne asada and make your own tacos.
(2)
Jan E.
We are so grateful for Cilantro. Not many restaurants in these parts and it's nice to have a local Mexican restaurant. Basic but tasty food. The margaritas were a disappointment but the service is excellent. Good chips and salsa. Best part of this restaurant is the location for us out here in far-out Chicagoland.
(3)
Ann S.
Whoever is cooking at Cilantro does not grasp Mexican cooking. For the "basics" (burritos, tacos, etc), Cilantro does an OK job. I ordered Chiles Rellenos, which is a traditional Mexican dish. It was not very good. My chiles were soggy, and there was nothing in the cheese to anchor it in the chili, so whenever I cut into it a blob of cheese would plop out onto my plate, surrounded by soggy poblano juice. Also, the beans were canned, and the salsa was more mild than Tostitos. I really don't have a problem with canned beans if you're cooking at home and don't feel like taking 5 hours to make some refried beans. But if I'm plunking down $10+ for a meatless entree, there had better be some house refried beans on my plate. The tragedy of it all: their margaritas are AWESOME! So if you're in the Homewood/Flossmoor area and you need a margarita, check out Cilantro. Unless it's Sunday, or after about 9:30PM. Cilantro is only open until 10 Mon-Thur and Saturday, 11PM on Fridays. Otherwise, Pepe's sadly has better Mexican food.
(2)
Kevin M.
A great place close to home for good margaritas
(3)
Pat F.
The salsas (mild or hot) are terrific and the tortilla chips are warm and fresh, never greasy. The enchiladas are just like my grandma used to make--fantastic! The veggie burrito is my favorite dish. They mix a powerful and tasty Margarita too. Yum!
(5)
Mopsie B.
I grew up in the area and Cilantro used to be good, when it was smaller. I think it's under new ownership or something. Anyway, a friend and I went two summers ago on a Friday night. It was as though this place was a club or something- throngs of cars and people everywhere. Parking was a nightmare. I was horrified to see a security guard with a GUN standing by the door. Really? Why do you need that here? My friend was really freaked out, too. Anyway, the decor was not how I remembered it from years before- it is now more of a darkened bar. That said, you could tell the margs are from a mix, so I just got beer. My food was ok but not super authentic Mexican- I had veggie quesadillas. They used to have these amazing spinach quesadillas but not anymore. Oh, well. The food was filling and fine and the bill was more than decent but I am confused by this place, frankly. I guess living in Colorado for 10 years got me used to authentic, good Mexican, so I'm too spoiled to appreciate Cilantro for what it is.
(2)
Raj G.
Excellent Mexican restaurant!!!! Friendly atmosphere..locals gather here..owner Arthur likes to get to know you to make you comfortable
(4)
Jef B.
NOT the best "Mexican" (is it even Mexican? Ameri-Mex maybe) in the south suburbs, imho, but only five minutes from my house so this is a no-brainer for an occasional dinner. Excellent, killer margaritas. Comfortable atmosphere. I usually see no Hispanic people dining here, whereas if you go to La Mex in Orland Park you see plenty. Just saying. But none of the food tastes like it "should" - the only reason we are repeat customers is that it is one of the better restaurants within a short drive of our house. In that respect they have little competition. If you want better Mexican food but still in the southlands, go to La Mex in Orland Park.
(4)
Tanya W.
The food was excellent! Service was outstanding! This was my first visit and I will definitely be back again.
(4)
The Consumer U.
Great local place - I've been going here for local Mexican when in the Homewood area since it converted to Cilantro from being "Snak Shak" back in the day. Awesome salsa which is jam-packed with cilantro and great mexican entrees. Nothing out of this world, but everything is dependable and I think the atmosphere is layed back and cozy enough to bring you back time after time.
(4)
Emily N.
So once a month I have to drive to these stupid work meetings. We sit around and discuss the same crap we discussed last month. I have to listen to the same super annoying guy say super annoying shit each and every time. It's enough to make me crazy! The only thing that gets me through is knowing that I'm heading out for a leisurely lunch with one of my girlies afterwards. Cut to Cilantro. The homegirl digs it because they have a pretty decent selection of veg options and killer margaritas - and a really nice patio. Plus, it's not too far from her office so it's fairly convenient. We decide it's Mexican for lunch. We head out to the patio where the waitress comes by for our drink order. Two Pepsi's please. (I know what you're thinking - but I was really hungover - no more booze today thank you). Takes her a bit of time to make it back, but since she came armed with chips and salsa too it was all good. I order the steak nachos and the gal pal gets the portabello fajitas. She is in love with those things - I swear she'd marry them if she could. I, however, wasn't so impressed. The steak was tender but super salty, and trust me, it's hard for something to be over salted to me. They melted a TON of cheese over these things which was a huge plus. The problem is, the rest of the toppings were laid out in rows over the top chopped salad style. Major pain in the ass to build a proper bite since the melted cheese had all the chips stuck together. Nachos should be layered man! And because of the extreme saltiness I was downing the pop and it was never refilled promptly. In her defense, there were about 4 other tables and no other servers. But hell, I used to be a server and know that a place that offers free refills but leaves empty glasses around is a no no. Here's the scoop - if you're a veggie head - you'll dig it. If not - go to Pilsen and save the gas money - and your arteries.
(2)
Lilac W.
MY GRANDMA WORKS HERE AND IT'S THE BOMB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I've been to New Mexico where Mexican food is like really popular but they stink compared to Cilantros!!!
(5)
Tricia D.
Best salsa in the south suburbs!!!!! Friendly service and fun decor! I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who enjoys good mexican food!
(5)
Jose T.
From the salsa to the decor, this place is for the unsuspecting 'guero'. There is nothing authentic about this place. I'm not sure the salsa even had any peppers in it. It tasted of tomato & cilantro - period. Same for the guac - might as well have been plain avocado mash. Upon being seated, we waited for about ten minutes before a sever even approached us. She asked what we would like to drink, (at this point, we hadn't even been offered a menu yet). I had the portobello fajitas - cooked well but a little bland (I wished I had a salt shaker at my table). The margarita looked like it came to me after being left at the bar by someone else. It was about 3/4 of the way full & I'd be surprised if it had any tequila in it. My redhead had the sopa seca/shrimp. SHE WAS NOT IMPRESSED (I'll just leave it at that). This place just seemed like a gringo's sad attempt at making Mexican food. As far as their tag line 'AYE TE WATCHO!' What the fuck language is that?! It certainly isn't Spanish, but this is: NUNCA VOLVERE!!!
(1)
Joanna B.
I love their chips and salsa! Great vegetarian choices too!
(5)
mindy m.
We go here pretty much every week. Enough said. The salsa is made fresh and the guacamole is the best i've had outside of Mexico. None of that "let's dump a bunch of onions to skimp on the avocado" bidness here. Sure, it's our local place so we're partial to it, but if you can't make it to Mexico or Pilsen, this is a great alternative. If Art's making the margaritas they're sure to be great--no mixes here like at El Cortez.
(4)
Steve M.
Went there last night for the band....the food-----very disappointed. Very bland and the mole was the worst. The food lacked flavor and kick. Will not return:(
(1)
Trent C.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican, look elsewhere. The food here is good and always fresh. The guacamole is always good. Order a margarita or a pitcher of Sangria, as it is some of the best in the area. The fajitas, enchiladas and burritos are all good options. Always has a good crowd during the week and can get a little busy on the weekend. Expect there to be families here but you always get a good mix of the young and the old. Atmosphere is pleasant. Wait staff are always very good but can be slow depending on how busy the dining room is. The restaurant also features an excellent patio area on the side. Definitely worth a try.
(3)
barbara r.
Have been coming here for years. The food is yummy, great staff, great patio. Art (owner), is extremely creative and is always making great changes to this little gem in Homewood.
(4)
Janet M.
Very dependable restaurant. I'm definitely a fan of the salsa and guacamole. Good chips, too. Good spot for a quick, reasonable dinner.
(4)
Dennis B.
My wife and I had eaten here since it's opening with the original owner. close to 12 years ago. In the last year we became so disappointed with the mistakes in our orders and sometimes atrocious service with selected wait staff we no longer eat at Cilantro. I will hand it to owner Art Trevino, he has some of the best salsa I have eaten and I consider myself a "salsa addict." Art makes great drinks but in the last few years he has cut the amounts given when you order a "Cadillac Margarita." Also other bar tenders still have trouble making my favorite drink "dirty Martini." The chicken tacos are horrible-no taste, dry and nothing to compare to authentic Mexican tacos. Although the beans Art uses are canned, that doesn't bother me as most Mexican restaurants have gone this route. Do yourself a favor if you want good, authentic Mexican food drive to Country Club Hills and go to El Cortez!
(3)
Henry N.
Since I knew I was going to be in the Homewood area to get some things accomplished on March 18, I decided to make the time to stop into Cilantro for lunch. Like others, I'd seen the glowing reviews on Check Please. We walked in at just about 11:30 for lunch, and were not greeted by a grinning Art Trevino, but by someone who would rather have been somewhere else. That's okay, she wasn't going to be my server, but even though there were only two tables occupied we were seated in a bizarre little corner tucked back behind the server's station. My wife commented to me but again I smiled it off. What the hell, we were still surrounded by the colorful and clean decor. The server appeared, brought my wife a frozen margarita (which truly was great) and my soft drink, disappeared for a while, then finally took our order. My wife ordered the "Dry Soup" and I the enchiladas; cheese, ground beef (thank you Art, I don't like shredded beef) and chicken. Both meals were served rather quickly, hot and seemed to be seasoned just fine. Like one of the previous reviewers, we ordered the flan and were told they were out of it. Again, smile it off, just another peculiarity. We enjoyed the meal and the surroundings. I intend to go back, at least once, my wife does not. I see some of the reviewers are repeat or faithful customers, maybe that's why some were served more attentively and friendlier. In the Check Please review special mention was made of a particular waitress, one who's been employed there the longest, and her winning smile and friendly attitude. She was working that day, but except for the time she was with some people she knew, she walked around looking like seven days rain. Our server was civil. No more, no less. The soft drink I mentioned earlier? It's a good thing I nursed it because it didn't get refilled until we were asked if we were ready for the check. Unlike when the Check Please reviewers were there, no one cared if we were first timers, and I don't think anyone cared if that was going to be our last time. My two star review reflects only on the service. A so-so meal can be somewhat overlooked if the staff makes an effort to help you have an enjoyable time. In this case, it must be remembered that at most, six tables were occupied by the time we left. If that's stressful, I don't want to be anywhere near those employees on a Friday or Saturday night. The final, ironic bitch is that I enjoyed the food, enough for at least one return visit. I think, though, that if I'm treated as poorly, I'll let someone know immediately. If I don't care for the indifferent server I'll ask to be reseated, If I can't get a soft drink refill, I'll walk up to the bar and asked to be served another. I sent a copy of this to Mr. Trevino, I should have sent one to Check Please.
(2)
Xaxa H.
This was my second trip in and WOW! A great meal! The owner, Art, is awesome! My friend had the seafood stuffed portobello, and I had the chicken quesadilla...we shared an order of the sopa seca, "dry soup," which is seasoned angel hair pasta and shrimp with fresh tomato, excellent! LOVE the salsa here, and great chips! The owner suggested the best sipping tequila after the meal, very nice!
(5)
Rita K.
This was a second visit and it certainly was a HUGE disappointment. I ordered enchiladas mole. The dish arrived without mole sauce. I took a couple of bites before waitress stopped by and inquired how everything was. I asked her if what was on the enchiladas was mole sauce and she said no and offered to take my plate and put mole sauce over the top of the enchiladas. So she came back a minute later with what appeared to be mole sauce just dumped on top of my enchiladas. The sauce was hardly warm in temperature and tasted awful. My husband even agreed that the mole sauce I buy in a carton tastes better. Both my husband and I ordered onion and cilantro on the side. The waitress brought one little dish of each and upcharged us 0.75 each. Won't ever go back.
(1)
T L.
Great Breakfast Burrito! The burrito is very inexpensive and it is huge. Breakfast is only on Saturday and that is a shame.
(5)
Patrick E.
While Chicago has many, many great mexican restaurants, the southern suburbs could always use a few more. However, this place could use some improvement in service. Apologizing for the 'new girl' isn't gonna cut it. if you see diners flailing their arms about or anxiously looking at you, ASK us what's wrong... we don't care who helps us, we just want good service. The food was mediocre. Come on, i know you can do better! The chips, okay. The salsa, okay. My advice? Add another salsa and give us a choice. Best part of this place? outdoor dining. So, if you're near here and the weather's good, come on by and have a few drinks.
(2)
Niki T.
I was told it was my fault for getting the buffet, apparently the food is great as long as you.skip the buffet. Oops. I have only.gone once, but it was below average to me. The meats were dry, as were the rice and pasta sides offered. Disappointing.
(2)
Jim T.
Omg. This place mixes great atmosphere and tasty authentic Mexican cuisine. The chile rellanos are cooked and seasoned to perfection. The salsa and chips are to die for and they even have a 5 or $6.99 taco bar on Mondays from 5-8pm. Why not wash down the tacos with the sigature Cadillac Gold Tequila Margaritas and some Monday Night Football....ole!
(5)
Steven K.
Excellent food... very fair price... fast and excellent service. My family loves eating here.
(4)
Lisa M.
Chips and salsa are GREAT as are the margaritas. Unfortunately everything else not so much. The food is bland and completely lacks flavor and seasoning.
(2)
Brittany H.
I swear my mom keeps this place in business. My whole family loves the chips and salsa, and at any given time, there's a bag of chips and tub of salsa in my mom's fridge. So needless to say, the chips and salsa are amazing. & so is the guac. I go here a decent amount when I'm in the burbs, it's close, clean, and the food is good. Plus, the prices aren't too bad either. When the weather is nice, they have an open patio room with cute, bright spanish decor perfect for sipping margaritas and snacking on some chips and guac.
(4)
Shaina K.
I am an avid fan of Groupon and was very excited when Cilantro popped up as one of the deals. An appetizer, (any) two entrees, and a dessert - all for $20! What an awesome deal! We went at about 8:30 and were seated immediately. Our waitress was friendly and funny. She was very attentive, our drinks were never empty. She immediately greeted us with a basket of WARM, FRESH chips. (Their chips are awesome). Their salsa is pretty good too, not too spicy. We ordered guacamole as our appetizer. Creamy, with no overpowering lime or cilantro taste. I could probably have just eaten that with a spoon and have been satisfied. On to entrees: I ordered the Steak Fajitas ($12.95). Yummy! The steak was seasoned well and I liked the seasoning on the red, green, and yellow peppers. The portion was massive (easily three meals for me). It came with beans and rice. The bf ordered the Carne' Con Rajas ($12.95) and (painstakingly) let me try some. The steak was so tender it melted in your mouth and it was covered with yummy, creamy cheese. We were both stuffed when the waitress came out to ask us what we wanted for dessert. (As it was included with the Croupon!) We chose the Chocolate Tres Leche Cake ($3.95). It was so so so yummy! Very impressed with the whole meal. I've been there a few times before and everything else that I've ordered before (burritos, nachos, quesadillas) have all been good and standard fare. The chips and salsa alone are worth the trip! P.S. Their margaritas are AMAZING.
(5)
Keith D.
Everytime I think I have salsa figured out, all I need to do is take a quick trip to Homewood, IL. Then I throw whatever current batch I've just made right in the trash. I can't figure it out. Why does my salsa taste like an ashtray compared to Cilantro? I have tried for years, unsuccessfully, to create a salsa that I enjoy as much as theirs. It really is the best salsa that I've ever had. I relive that harsh reality everytime I visit. As far as the rest of the cuisine, I've really enjoyed everything that I have ever had at Cilantro. All the ingredients are fresh and the chips are amazing. We have had several family parties here, and we always leave more than happy. I don't get down enough, but have very fond memories of all my visits.
(5)
David B.
I've eaten here a few times over the years but the main reason is I like sitting in the patio area, which is very nice. The service is decent, staff is friendly, but the food is not very good at all. I've eaten Mexican food at a hundred different restaurants and trust me, this place isn't very good. Food is bland and over-priced. Come for the atmosphere but go elsewhere if you actually want good Mexican food.
(2)
Lauren-ashley B.
I've been here on 3 separate occasions. The first occasion was with my supervisor and co-workers before x-mas. I had the steak enchiladas which was delicious. Chips and salsa are good as well. (1st round of chips and salsa a free and a $1 after that). The place looks like a Mexican restaurant until you notice the loud pop music playing right over out heads. And the large butterfly figures hanging from the ceiling, and the loud noise of the blender in the background. The place is small and seats about 30-50 people. My second experience was after new years, the food was still good, they still had the loud music and the butterflies. My 3rd time here: Drinks weren't mixed that well, tasted watery, I ordered a Mai Tai. Me and my cousin went last Friday which was Karaoke Night. Nothing but Country music, some song came on singing you bitch, you slut you whore. This was interesting and quite annoying, the place is too small for amplified music, you couldn't even relax and enjoy the meal or even have a conversation. Even the waiter couldn't here us, I couldn't even hear my cousin right next to me. They got rid of the butterflies all over the ceiling, which makes it not look like some little kids room, and placed pictures of Mexican people up on the walls ((I guess they think this will make them an Authentic Mexican Restaurant, I think NOT). I was never more in a rush to eat my food and get the hell up out of there. Mind you the 3 times I've been to this place I've never heard Mexican music playing, always Pop or country. We finally left to go to the car and heard the Mexican music playing outside, WTF. It's like this place tricks you into thinking it's an Authentic Mexican Place with the Mexican music outside, but wants you step in it's something totally different. I don't know if I will be going back anytime soon, and definitely not on a Friday again.
(2)
Brad S.
Unbelievable experience. Great food and service! Owner even came to chat with us. Amazing place!!
(5)
Alexa E.
I grew up not far from this fantabulous Mexican gem, and let me just say.... Awesome! Yum! Delicioso! The only reason why I'm giving 4 stars is because the previous owners were family friends and holy cow they knew how to make some mean tres leche cake!! The current tres leche cake, which I enjoyed last week, was good just not fantastic. I'm a dessert kinda girl, so this change cost Cilantro's a star. =( Despite this dessert alteration, the food is always mouth-watering delicious and the service is excellent! When I was a child, I obviously couldn't enjoy their alcoholic beverages... But now I can!! Tequila Sunrise? Mmmm-mmm! I had two of them bad boys. Finally, I highly recommend the chicken fajitas! I'm a food lover, but this was enough for 2 leftover lunches during the week! Oooh buddy, don't pass this dish up! Yumm!
(4)
Teri A.
Going to Cilantro is as familiar as dining at a good friend's home. The atmosphere and staff are warm and inviting, and I can't say enough about their homemade sangria. It's my favorite! If you aren't too full from eating the chips and salsa, try the soap seca, the fajitas or one of their combination platters. You won't go wrong!
(5)
Lisa P.
Hi my name is Lisa and I'm addicted to Groupons ! Yes,I bought a Groupon for this place and it was probably one of the best Groupons I purchased thus far! My ken-doll or "hubby" and I went here on a Tuesday "date night". We started out with their complimentary chips and salsa. It was enough and good enough for me to order an appetizer of Guacamole and chips. I hate to admit this ,but I ate it all by myself! I LOVE ME SOME GUACAMOLE and this was the BEST I've ever had,but back too what we had. The Groupon could not be used for any steak so that's why I didn't give them the five stars. We both had their chicken Tacos with rice and beans. They were tasty. The meat was not dry and seasoned very well,but the rice was sorta dry. Other than that we loved everything. We finished the night off with their chocolate T'res leche cake. I LOVE T'res leche cake,but I probably wont order any from there any more. I'll rather take my $3.95 to Pierre's bakery in Blue Island(which has the BEST!!!) OR to Calumet Bakery my second go-to. We loved the service and will be back!
(4)
Monica G.
The people here were really nice and the service wasn't the best. The restaurant was nice and clean. The food, wasn't awful but it wasn't great. I wouldn't say this is REAL authentic Mexican food. We had a party of 5. Two adults and three kids. One of us ordered the chicken taco salad, cheese enchiladas, and tostadas. The rice was ok, but nothing to brag about, the beans tasted like they came out of a can. The grilled chicken taco salad wasn't great. The steak tostadas were not great either. The steak was good, but the tostadas didn't have any flavor. The cheese enchiladas were actually really good. They were what we call dry enchiladas. I would go back just for those. I just can't get over how bad the beans were. They had a one limit on chips. The first one was free and other were $1.00 extra. The prices weren't expensive. Our total came out to be about $38.00. If I didn't have a $25.00 gift certificate I wouldn't have been mad about paying that much. I will not be returning. I like my little hole in the wall for Mexican food. = )
(2)
Ann M.
I have been a big fan since Art took over the place. WOW. I love the margars! I love the CARNE ASADA! WOW! I love the guac! People! You have to remember this is a FAMILY OWNED restaurant and CHILL.. I loved my server Pat who said, "Take your time. I'll be right back." AND HE WAS! Love this place and the servers and the owner. If you think you'll get better food, service or an owner that says "THANK YOU" as you leave, well..go there.
(5)
Jose R.
...Cilantro in Homewood date night gets a ZERO! Food was bland (we chose the buffet style). Tight space. We can smell the cigarette stank off the dude that just walked in and sat next to us. People staring at us HARD! Maybe they have never seen a Latino and Black woman before?? Waitress was genuinely NICE but she didnt come to see if we were ok OFTEN. The man behind us kept talking LOUD!!! His own table was ignoring him!! Had to wait and choke off the cigarette smell before the bill came. Tonja had to chase the waitress down to get the bill, LOL, she did it on her own before I can say anything. LMFAO!
(1)
Chris B.
My wife and I went there one a few years back and were not impressed. I think the problem was that the Mexican food was not all that flavorful. Perhaps I have been spoiled with some of the Mexican food available in the Chicago Heights area, but I wasn't all that impressed.
(2)
Rose D.
I've eaten at Cilantro a few times before last evening and though it is not the best Mexican food, I always found it above average. But last night was different. When my partner and I walked in shortly before 5, the restaurant was almost empty, only 3 tables were occupied. However, we were told by the hostess that we had to settle for a tiny table for 2 (barely large enough to hold our food once it came), because she had just taken a reservation for 10 and had to push some tables together and didn't know if she'd have to use any of the square tables (which would seat 4) if another reservation came in. What?!? She also couldn't give us one of the higher 'bar' tables (one was in use by a couple) that also sat 4, just in case she had larger groups come in. Well, we were there, so decided to stay at the tiny table, though it should have been our clue to leave. Our server was friendly, if a bit slow. We started out with the highlight of the dining experience -- the chips -- nice and warm and slightly salty. Wish I could compliment the salsa, but it was bland, not even tomatoes in it had flavor -- and no hot sauce to doctor it up and get the heat level up a notch. The frozen margaritas seemed devoid of alcohol and didn't have much flavor -- even after waiting 10 minutes for them (and our server to reappear). The rest of the meal was also quite bland -- and only a step above lukewarm. The only exception was the taco soup my boyfriend had, which was steaming and quite flavorful. We both had combo plates -- his with chiles rellanos, beef taco and something else in a shell (we couldn't remember what the 3rd item was supposed to be and couldn't tell either from the look and as he said, it was tasteless mush). The chiles rellanos had such a heavy batter, it was rendered totally unedible, with the exception of the cheese inside the chile (which couldn't be cut with the knife provided). My taco had more of the flavorless tomato and uncrunchy lettuce and seasonless chicken -- it was saved by the cheese. The enchillada, while cooked nicely, once again, was almost flavorless. And the mini-burrito had the consistency of strained baby food for the filling, which was also lacking in seasoning. It did take a while to get the credit card processed so we could pay. Needless to say, we won't be making a return trip. There are so many good Mexican restaurants in the southeast suburbs, that even if we're nearby, we go to one of those. Or even Taco Bell -- at least there would have been some seasonings on the food -- and hot sauce for me to spice it up to my taste.
(2)
Dia R.
I'd been searching for an authentic Mexican restaurant in the area... Cilantro is it! The steak quesadilla was amazing! I also enjoyed the Vegetable Taco Salad, it was GREAT! Cute local location.
(4)
Rebecca J.
Great to eat there but horrible take out. I hate to leave a not so great review for one of my local favorites. The take out is always wrong. The food is good but your order will me wrong 100%. I'm sitting here with what is supposed to be a casadia with extra chicken and extra tomatoes and only a little bit of cheese. There are a total of three diced tomatoes on the entire plate and a ton of cheese. The ticket is right, the food is wrong.
(2)
Melissa B.
I don't know where to go with this review. I have been here several times over the years and always kind of forget it exists. The service is always really friendly. That's reason enough for me to agree to meet people here if they pick it. The decor is cute. I also love the patio in the summer! The food is just average. The margaritas are just average too. Nothing has ever been awful. It's just a tad overpriced given the quality isn't much greater than Taco Bell. If you are in the area and craving Mexican this should absolutely be your go to. It's not worth driving out of your way for.
(3)
Pia Z.
I think Cilantro can be hit or miss.....hence the 3 Star review. I've gone and had great food, wonderful drinks, marvelous service. And I've gone and had mediocre fair and so-so service. They really REALLY need to work on consistency. The Guacamole is always great, I will give them that!
(3)
Anthony M.
Great local spot, always buzzing and love the patio. Owner is super welcoming to regulars and newcomers alike, usually behind the bar mixing margaritas.
(5)
Lilly M.
If you are looking for authentic Mexican food, then this is not the right spot for you. I've been to Cilantro a few times, but each time left feeling like Taco Bell might have been a better option. When I last visited, I ordered a vegetarian burrito and was met with a bunch of what appeared to be stir fry veggies wrapped up in a flour tortilla. (Broccoli, carrots, snow peas.) Now, this was years ago, so perhaps things have changed, but I have never gone back because it was just awful. They do have a lovely outdoor area however, so perhaps it would be a nice spot for some apps and cocktails only?
(2)
Joel M.
i was not impressed at all. The chicken tacos was dry and tasteless. Will not go back.
(2)
Doug H.
Home made chips and salsa is great. A nice variety of tequila .., great staff ... THE place for Mexican food.
(5)
Eric H.
I get bags of their chips and salsa to-go frequently. Start off with a margarita! They make them strong! Their food is great, they have all of the standard options, and a few fancier ones. I recommend their carne' con rajas and guacamole. Service is fantastic, they remember the regulars here. They have a patio-ish area that is really beautiful and wonderful to sit and eat in on a hot summers day.
(5)
Daren J.
This is not Mexican food. I'm from southern California, and I know real Mexican food. This food us "gringo". Everything us Mexican in name but very American in taste. If you've never had real Mexican food, I'm sure it will be fine. But if you have, avoid at all costs. Don't waste your money on this poor excuse for Mexican.
(1)
Seena B.
Very friendly and family friendly. Margaritas are the best in the area. I love the chiles rellenos and the steak burrito, and the tortilla chips are very fresh and abundant.
(4)
Meghan S.
The best chips, salsa, guacamole, and margaritas I have ever had! The carne asada, steak and chicken taco salads, and steak fajitas are excellent entree choices! Overall, everyone I have encountered is very friendly and attentive!
(5)
Patrick E.
While Chicago has many, many great mexican restaurants, the southern suburbs could always use a few more. However, this place could use some improvement in service. Apologizing for the 'new girl' isn't gonna cut it. if you see diners flailing their arms about or anxiously looking at you, ASK us what's wrong... we don't care who helps us, we just want good service. The food was mediocre. Come on, i know you can do better! The chips, okay. The salsa, okay. My advice? Add another salsa and give us a choice. Best part of this place? outdoor dining. So, if you're near here and the weather's good, come on by and have a few drinks.
(2)
Niki T.
I was told it was my fault for getting the buffet, apparently the food is great as long as you.skip the buffet. Oops. I have only.gone once, but it was below average to me. The meats were dry, as were the rice and pasta sides offered. Disappointing.
Omg. This place mixes great atmosphere and tasty authentic Mexican cuisine. The chile rellanos are cooked and seasoned to perfection. The salsa and chips are to die for and they even have a 5 or $6.99 taco bar on Mondays from 5-8pm. Why not wash down the tacos with the sigature Cadillac Gold Tequila Margaritas and some Monday Night Football....ole!
(5)
Steven K.
Excellent food... very fair price... fast and excellent service. My family loves eating here.
(4)
Lisa M.
Chips and salsa are GREAT as are the margaritas. Unfortunately everything else not so much. The food is bland and completely lacks flavor and seasoning.
(2)
Brittany H.
I swear my mom keeps this place in business. My whole family loves the chips and salsa, and at any given time, there's a bag of chips and tub of salsa in my mom's fridge. So needless to say, the chips and salsa are amazing. & so is the guac. I go here a decent amount when I'm in the burbs, it's close, clean, and the food is good. Plus, the prices aren't too bad either. When the weather is nice, they have an open patio room with cute, bright spanish decor perfect for sipping margaritas and snacking on some chips and guac.
(4)
Shaina K.
I am an avid fan of Groupon and was very excited when Cilantro popped up as one of the deals. An appetizer, (any) two entrees, and a dessert - all for $20! What an awesome deal! We went at about 8:30 and were seated immediately. Our waitress was friendly and funny. She was very attentive, our drinks were never empty. She immediately greeted us with a basket of WARM, FRESH chips. (Their chips are awesome). Their salsa is pretty good too, not too spicy. We ordered guacamole as our appetizer. Creamy, with no overpowering lime or cilantro taste. I could probably have just eaten that with a spoon and have been satisfied. On to entrees: I ordered the Steak Fajitas ($12.95). Yummy! The steak was seasoned well and I liked the seasoning on the red, green, and yellow peppers. The portion was massive (easily three meals for me). It came with beans and rice. The bf ordered the Carne' Con Rajas ($12.95) and (painstakingly) let me try some. The steak was so tender it melted in your mouth and it was covered with yummy, creamy cheese. We were both stuffed when the waitress came out to ask us what we wanted for dessert. (As it was included with the Croupon!) We chose the Chocolate Tres Leche Cake ($3.95). It was so so so yummy! Very impressed with the whole meal. I've been there a few times before and everything else that I've ordered before (burritos, nachos, quesadillas) have all been good and standard fare. The chips and salsa alone are worth the trip! P.S. Their margaritas are AMAZING.
(5)
Keith D.
Everytime I think I have salsa figured out, all I need to do is take a quick trip to Homewood, IL. Then I throw whatever current batch I've just made right in the trash. I can't figure it out. Why does my salsa taste like an ashtray compared to Cilantro? I have tried for years, unsuccessfully, to create a salsa that I enjoy as much as theirs. It really is the best salsa that I've ever had. I relive that harsh reality everytime I visit. As far as the rest of the cuisine, I've really enjoyed everything that I have ever had at Cilantro. All the ingredients are fresh and the chips are amazing. We have had several family parties here, and we always leave more than happy. I don't get down enough, but have very fond memories of all my visits.
(5)
David B.
I've eaten here a few times over the years but the main reason is I like sitting in the patio area, which is very nice. The service is decent, staff is friendly, but the food is not very good at all. I've eaten Mexican food at a hundred different restaurants and trust me, this place isn't very good. Food is bland and over-priced. Come for the atmosphere but go elsewhere if you actually want good Mexican food.
(2)
Lauren-ashley B.
I've been here on 3 separate occasions. The first occasion was with my supervisor and co-workers before x-mas. I had the steak enchiladas which was delicious. Chips and salsa are good as well. (1st round of chips and salsa a free and a $1 after that). The place looks like a Mexican restaurant until you notice the loud pop music playing right over out heads. And the large butterfly figures hanging from the ceiling, and the loud noise of the blender in the background. The place is small and seats about 30-50 people. My second experience was after new years, the food was still good, they still had the loud music and the butterflies. My 3rd time here: Drinks weren't mixed that well, tasted watery, I ordered a Mai Tai. Me and my cousin went last Friday which was Karaoke Night. Nothing but Country music, some song came on singing you bitch, you slut you whore. This was interesting and quite annoying, the place is too small for amplified music, you couldn't even relax and enjoy the meal or even have a conversation. Even the waiter couldn't here us, I couldn't even hear my cousin right next to me. They got rid of the butterflies all over the ceiling, which makes it not look like some little kids room, and placed pictures of Mexican people up on the walls ((I guess they think this will make them an Authentic Mexican Restaurant, I think NOT). I was never more in a rush to eat my food and get the hell up out of there. Mind you the 3 times I've been to this place I've never heard Mexican music playing, always Pop or country. We finally left to go to the car and heard the Mexican music playing outside, WTF. It's like this place tricks you into thinking it's an Authentic Mexican Place with the Mexican music outside, but wants you step in it's something totally different. I don't know if I will be going back anytime soon, and definitely not on a Friday again.
(2)
Brad S.
Unbelievable experience. Great food and service! Owner even came to chat with us. Amazing place!!
(5)
Alexa E.
I grew up not far from this fantabulous Mexican gem, and let me just say.... Awesome! Yum! Delicioso! The only reason why I'm giving 4 stars is because the previous owners were family friends and holy cow they knew how to make some mean tres leche cake!! The current tres leche cake, which I enjoyed last week, was good just not fantastic. I'm a dessert kinda girl, so this change cost Cilantro's a star. =( Despite this dessert alteration, the food is always mouth-watering delicious and the service is excellent! When I was a child, I obviously couldn't enjoy their alcoholic beverages... But now I can!! Tequila Sunrise? Mmmm-mmm! I had two of them bad boys. Finally, I highly recommend the chicken fajitas! I'm a food lover, but this was enough for 2 leftover lunches during the week! Oooh buddy, don't pass this dish up! Yumm!
(4)
Teri A.
Going to Cilantro is as familiar as dining at a good friend's home. The atmosphere and staff are warm and inviting, and I can't say enough about their homemade sangria. It's my favorite! If you aren't too full from eating the chips and salsa, try the soap seca, the fajitas or one of their combination platters. You won't go wrong!
(5)
Lisa P.
Hi my name is Lisa and I'm addicted to Groupons ! Yes,I bought a Groupon for this place and it was probably one of the best Groupons I purchased thus far! My ken-doll or "hubby" and I went here on a Tuesday "date night". We started out with their complimentary chips and salsa. It was enough and good enough for me to order an appetizer of Guacamole and chips. I hate to admit this ,but I ate it all by myself! I LOVE ME SOME GUACAMOLE and this was the BEST I've ever had,but back too what we had. The Groupon could not be used for any steak so that's why I didn't give them the five stars. We both had their chicken Tacos with rice and beans. They were tasty. The meat was not dry and seasoned very well,but the rice was sorta dry. Other than that we loved everything. We finished the night off with their chocolate T'res leche cake. I LOVE T'res leche cake,but I probably wont order any from there any more. I'll rather take my $3.95 to Pierre's bakery in Blue Island(which has the BEST!!!) OR to Calumet Bakery my second go-to. We loved the service and will be back!
(4)
Monica G.
The people here were really nice and the service wasn't the best. The restaurant was nice and clean. The food, wasn't awful but it wasn't great. I wouldn't say this is REAL authentic Mexican food. We had a party of 5. Two adults and three kids. One of us ordered the chicken taco salad, cheese enchiladas, and tostadas. The rice was ok, but nothing to brag about, the beans tasted like they came out of a can. The grilled chicken taco salad wasn't great. The steak tostadas were not great either. The steak was good, but the tostadas didn't have any flavor. The cheese enchiladas were actually really good. They were what we call dry enchiladas. I would go back just for those. I just can't get over how bad the beans were. They had a one limit on chips. The first one was free and other were $1.00 extra. The prices weren't expensive. Our total came out to be about $38.00. If I didn't have a $25.00 gift certificate I wouldn't have been mad about paying that much. I will not be returning. I like my little hole in the wall for Mexican food. = )
(2)
Ann M.
I have been a big fan since Art took over the place. WOW. I love the margars! I love the CARNE ASADA! WOW! I love the guac! People! You have to remember this is a FAMILY OWNED restaurant and CHILL.. I loved my server Pat who said, "Take your time. I'll be right back." AND HE WAS! Love this place and the servers and the owner. If you think you'll get better food, service or an owner that says "THANK YOU" as you leave, well..go there.
(5)
Jose R.
...Cilantro in Homewood date night gets a ZERO! Food was bland (we chose the buffet style). Tight space. We can smell the cigarette stank off the dude that just walked in and sat next to us. People staring at us HARD! Maybe they have never seen a Latino and Black woman before?? Waitress was genuinely NICE but she didnt come to see if we were ok OFTEN. The man behind us kept talking LOUD!!! His own table was ignoring him!! Had to wait and choke off the cigarette smell before the bill came. Tonja had to chase the waitress down to get the bill, LOL, she did it on her own before I can say anything. LMFAO!
(1)
Chris B.
My wife and I went there one a few years back and were not impressed. I think the problem was that the Mexican food was not all that flavorful. Perhaps I have been spoiled with some of the Mexican food available in the Chicago Heights area, but I wasn't all that impressed.
(2)
Rose D.
I've eaten at Cilantro a few times before last evening and though it is not the best Mexican food, I always found it above average. But last night was different. When my partner and I walked in shortly before 5, the restaurant was almost empty, only 3 tables were occupied. However, we were told by the hostess that we had to settle for a tiny table for 2 (barely large enough to hold our food once it came), because she had just taken a reservation for 10 and had to push some tables together and didn't know if she'd have to use any of the square tables (which would seat 4) if another reservation came in. What?!? She also couldn't give us one of the higher 'bar' tables (one was in use by a couple) that also sat 4, just in case she had larger groups come in. Well, we were there, so decided to stay at the tiny table, though it should have been our clue to leave. Our server was friendly, if a bit slow. We started out with the highlight of the dining experience -- the chips -- nice and warm and slightly salty. Wish I could compliment the salsa, but it was bland, not even tomatoes in it had flavor -- and no hot sauce to doctor it up and get the heat level up a notch. The frozen margaritas seemed devoid of alcohol and didn't have much flavor -- even after waiting 10 minutes for them (and our server to reappear). The rest of the meal was also quite bland -- and only a step above lukewarm. The only exception was the taco soup my boyfriend had, which was steaming and quite flavorful. We both had combo plates -- his with chiles rellanos, beef taco and something else in a shell (we couldn't remember what the 3rd item was supposed to be and couldn't tell either from the look and as he said, it was tasteless mush). The chiles rellanos had such a heavy batter, it was rendered totally unedible, with the exception of the cheese inside the chile (which couldn't be cut with the knife provided). My taco had more of the flavorless tomato and uncrunchy lettuce and seasonless chicken -- it was saved by the cheese. The enchillada, while cooked nicely, once again, was almost flavorless. And the mini-burrito had the consistency of strained baby food for the filling, which was also lacking in seasoning. It did take a while to get the credit card processed so we could pay. Needless to say, we won't be making a return trip. There are so many good Mexican restaurants in the southeast suburbs, that even if we're nearby, we go to one of those. Or even Taco Bell -- at least there would have been some seasonings on the food -- and hot sauce for me to spice it up to my taste.
(2)
Dennis B.
My wife and I had eaten here since it's opening with the original owner. close to 12 years ago. In the last year we became so disappointed with the mistakes in our orders and sometimes atrocious service with selected wait staff we no longer eat at Cilantro. I will hand it to owner Art Trevino, he has some of the best salsa I have eaten and I consider myself a "salsa addict." Art makes great drinks but in the last few years he has cut the amounts given when you order a "Cadillac Margarita." Also other bar tenders still have trouble making my favorite drink "dirty Martini." The chicken tacos are horrible-no taste, dry and nothing to compare to authentic Mexican tacos. Although the beans Art uses are canned, that doesn't bother me as most Mexican restaurants have gone this route. Do yourself a favor if you want good, authentic Mexican food drive to Country Club Hills and go to El Cortez!
(3)
Henry N.
Since I knew I was going to be in the Homewood area to get some things accomplished on March 18, I decided to make the time to stop into Cilantro for lunch. Like others, I'd seen the glowing reviews on Check Please. We walked in at just about 11:30 for lunch, and were not greeted by a grinning Art Trevino, but by someone who would rather have been somewhere else. That's okay, she wasn't going to be my server, but even though there were only two tables occupied we were seated in a bizarre little corner tucked back behind the server's station. My wife commented to me but again I smiled it off. What the hell, we were still surrounded by the colorful and clean decor. The server appeared, brought my wife a frozen margarita (which truly was great) and my soft drink, disappeared for a while, then finally took our order. My wife ordered the "Dry Soup" and I the enchiladas; cheese, ground beef (thank you Art, I don't like shredded beef) and chicken. Both meals were served rather quickly, hot and seemed to be seasoned just fine. Like one of the previous reviewers, we ordered the flan and were told they were out of it. Again, smile it off, just another peculiarity. We enjoyed the meal and the surroundings. I intend to go back, at least once, my wife does not. I see some of the reviewers are repeat or faithful customers, maybe that's why some were served more attentively and friendlier. In the Check Please review special mention was made of a particular waitress, one who's been employed there the longest, and her winning smile and friendly attitude. She was working that day, but except for the time she was with some people she knew, she walked around looking like seven days rain. Our server was civil. No more, no less. The soft drink I mentioned earlier? It's a good thing I nursed it because it didn't get refilled until we were asked if we were ready for the check. Unlike when the Check Please reviewers were there, no one cared if we were first timers, and I don't think anyone cared if that was going to be our last time. My two star review reflects only on the service. A so-so meal can be somewhat overlooked if the staff makes an effort to help you have an enjoyable time. In this case, it must be remembered that at most, six tables were occupied by the time we left. If that's stressful, I don't want to be anywhere near those employees on a Friday or Saturday night. The final, ironic bitch is that I enjoyed the food, enough for at least one return visit. I think, though, that if I'm treated as poorly, I'll let someone know immediately. If I don't care for the indifferent server I'll ask to be reseated, If I can't get a soft drink refill, I'll walk up to the bar and asked to be served another. I sent a copy of this to Mr. Trevino, I should have sent one to Check Please.
(2)
Xaxa H.
This was my second trip in and WOW! A great meal! The owner, Art, is awesome! My friend had the seafood stuffed portobello, and I had the chicken quesadilla...we shared an order of the sopa seca, "dry soup," which is seasoned angel hair pasta and shrimp with fresh tomato, excellent! LOVE the salsa here, and great chips! The owner suggested the best sipping tequila after the meal, very nice!
(5)
Rita K.
This was a second visit and it certainly was a HUGE disappointment. I ordered enchiladas mole. The dish arrived without mole sauce. I took a couple of bites before waitress stopped by and inquired how everything was. I asked her if what was on the enchiladas was mole sauce and she said no and offered to take my plate and put mole sauce over the top of the enchiladas. So she came back a minute later with what appeared to be mole sauce just dumped on top of my enchiladas. The sauce was hardly warm in temperature and tasted awful. My husband even agreed that the mole sauce I buy in a carton tastes better. Both my husband and I ordered onion and cilantro on the side. The waitress brought one little dish of each and upcharged us 0.75 each. Won't ever go back.
(1)
Dakota B.
Let me start this way. EVERY NEGATIVE REVIEW IS SPOT ON. *Salsa and Guac in desperate need of salt etc-TRUE! *Service super slow and all around bad-TRUE! *Food tastes like its from cans, jars, and mixes-TRUE! *Feeling like a hostage because you are there-TRUE! *Servers who provide different levels of service depending on the customer-SUPER TRUE! Holy Guacamole. Bad bad bad. My husband and I are on another (short lived and temporary) budget. As such we have been trying smaller, local restaurants. That is how we made the tragic mistake of dining here. I read the reviews before coming and figured the fajita's would be a safe bet. I couldnt have been more wrong. But first things first. We arrive and i go wash my hands. One (womens) toilet for an entire restaurant. It was clogged. Ewwwww. We were seated in a alcove of sorts. I guess in a better run place it could be considered a main dining room. But in this spot....nah. More like an alcove where the servers whizz by while tending to other customers. Speaking of servers, there seemed to only be three working with two assigned to the patio area. That left one server for an entire restaurant full of people. We were promptly seated and provided chips and salsa. That was it for about twenty minutes. We were literally standing up to leave when a waitress came running over to take our drink orders. The drinks immediately came along with menus. I ordered the combination beef and chicken fajitas. Perhaps I am showing my ignorance, but as far as I know fajitas are grilled meat, peppers and onions. This is soooo not the case with this place. Usually with fajitas the steak is long thin slices with a hint of pink in them. In this place, the steak was teeny tiny uniform pieces about a half inch long and about a quarter inch wide. Each one was perfectky browned and crisped on all sides. Clearly these are pre packaged beef strips. Notice i did not say steak. The chicken was swimming in some kind of red sauce and the peppers and onions were mush. The chicken was also in perfectly uniform medallion pieces and were also clearly pre packaged. The dish is presented on a cheap tan plate like one finds at cafeterias and cheap buffets. The meat basically looks like stew. With mushy slimy peppers and onions. There is no sizzling skillet or juicy grilled strips of meat. Nope its like chicken stew made with pre packaged chicken with pre made beef strips sprinkled on top. To make matters worse, the red sauce has mole or mole like ingredients in it. Tomato ey with a cinnamon chocolate kind of flavor. I hate mole so i found the entire thing disgusting. The rice and beans were mediocre and in desperate need of salt. No shakers were on the table and the service was beyond dismal so we decided to eat our disgustig bland meals. We picked at this slop for over twenty minutes before the server checked on us. We informed him that these could hardly be considered fajitas and were more like stew with tortillas. He apologized and came back ten minutes later and claimed that the chef said the "steak" was merely mixed in the chickens red sauce but otherwise all was as it should be. WTF?? Since when is red sauce part of grilled chicken for fajitas. We were like whatever. Had the server remove our pretty full plates and requested the bill. This place is just awful. Nothing was good. Even the sodas tasted chemically and off. The chips were warm but clearly some of the tortillas were to thick for chips resulting in a super hard barely edible chip. The place is poorly run, fulla packaged and processed foods. The menu is misleading. If youre version of fajitas onvolved sauce and a bunch of other nonsense either inform people of this or call it a different dish. Just terrible. Truly.
(1)
Chris H.
Don't go here. I've grew up in the area and have gone to Cilantro countless times since I was a kid. I recently went however to my dismay. I've always been a really big fan of the chips and salsa, and they also have decent guacamole. Everything else is ok, nothing to write home about. I usually get the steak burrito, and compared to other mexican restaurants... it's rather bland. The service this time was sub par. First, I ordered an iced tea. Typically... if someone orders an iced tea it's pretty customary to bring sweetener. I asked the server is she could bring me some, only to have the request forgotten later. Strike one. Our drinks weren't refilled to my satisfaction and sat thirsty for the latter part of our stay. Then when we got our food, my mom's was cold and she hardly took but two bites. They also didn't refill our salsa. Which, it's pretty customary to have salsa served with mexican food and you'd think a "mexican" restaurant would recognize this. I politely asked the server for more salsa, all the while my burrito is getting cold. Strike two. After we finished eating we were waiting for our check, (without anything to drink mind you) and hadn't seen our server in over 10 minutes. We told one of the bussers to grab our server and it appeared he promptly did so. Waiting another 5 minutes, we told another busboy to grab our server. Waiting and waiting I'm watching the manager deal with another table across the way who apparently had a rock in their food. The manager made some lame excuse as to why there would be a rock in these people's food and I found the whole explanation laughable. We were still waiting for our check, and at this point my blood started boiling. Eventually I just asked to see the manager, which also took 5 minutes. Here's why I will not be returning here and why they deserve a zero star review. As she's coming over to address us, the customer, she refers to us as "babies." She said something along the lines of "What can I do for you my babies." I understand she probably didn't mean anything by it, but after all the transpired I found it to be completely disrespectful and completely unprofessional. Strike three. At this point I was just completely angered and began explaining to the manager what was wrong. She made excuses for the server, who she said was only "6 hours" on the job and not trained properly I'm assuming. I feel bad for the server, she probably was new and was trained by the idiot manager I'm thinking. The server was nice when we saw her and my tip for her is to find a different restaurant to work in. After that I explained that my mom's food was cold and about how long we waited for our check. In the manager's defense, she did try and comp our meal... however that wasn't what we wanted. We just wanted to pay and leave. I will not be returning here ever again, which is sad because I have many fond memories of eating here over the years.
(1)
Monya M.
First, the salsa is good. The outdoor seating is really nice. The rest is BLEH. Bland. Service was fine. My wife and I drank a whole pitcher of margaritas and were NOT EVEN TIPSY. That's how strong those babies are. $65 for two with drinks and tip. We would have enjoyed Taco Bell more, for the price.
(2)
Marc F.
Like a few others had mentioned, I perked up when I saw this place get reviewed on "Check Please!". Having lived in Homewood all my life, I sadly admit I never tried the place before... But seeing it on the TV showed me how much I'd been missing. So the wife and I checked it out this past Friday after work. We walked right in, and were shown to a table in the enclosed patio. The decor is inviting as anything else in the south burbs; Some stuff on the walls, and a few TVs playing whatever is on ESPN. As others have mentioned, the chips and salsa are top notch. Hot crispy, well salted chips, and a salsa with a little kick, and plenty of freshness to it. Superb. Looking over the menu, I will admit I wasn't blown away. I'm a HUGE queso fiend, and found their 7 dollar queso seemed pricey, considering entrees coming in at 8-12 bucks. So, the wife and I decided to stick it out with the chips and salsa, and just ordered the entrees. A chicken burrito for the wife, and steak enchiladas for me. I must note here, the excellent service. Our waitress was extremely nice. When she saw how quickly I blew through my first glass of pop, she returned with a pitcher. I nearly cried. OK, not really... but to me, that shows a real care for the customer. Entrees arrived promptly. The burrito was a football sized pile of goodness, so sayeth my bride. She ended up taking 1/2 of it home. She even ate the leftovers. My kudos to the chef on that one! My enchiladas were chock full of tasty bits o' steak. My only concern was the menu had mentioned a mole sauce. Maybe I misread, buy my enchiladas had no sauce. The accompanying rice and beans weren't necessarily anything to write home about, but as filling starches... they did their job. Ultimately, I know we'll be back. Given the choice of the area (chains like Chilis and Applebees, offering chain food... or a few real local gems like Gradys) Cilantro stands as it should be: A casual place for a good affordable plate of standard mexican food. I can't recommend the salsa enough. I'll be trying some of the house specialties next time, in hopes for more "bold" flavors to come.
(4)
Tanya W.
The food was excellent! Service was outstanding! This was my first visit and I will definitely be back again.
(4)
Elizabeth D.
Cilantro has done an amazing job healing the rift in my heart made by the departure of their predecessor, the Snack Shack. The atmosphere is artistic and cozy, and the floor still has the same red brick tile. The food is always excellent, not too spicy, not too mild, and they offer lots of great options for vegetarians. Have the gazpacho if it's in season, and make sure you walk there, because after one of their yummy margaritas, you should not be driving home.
(5)
The Consumer U.
Great local place - I've been going here for local Mexican when in the Homewood area since it converted to Cilantro from being "Snak Shak" back in the day. Awesome salsa which is jam-packed with cilantro and great mexican entrees. Nothing out of this world, but everything is dependable and I think the atmosphere is layed back and cozy enough to bring you back time after time.
(4)
Jerry W.
Maria and I are still off from work and enjoying another week day lunch. We saw Cilantro in Homewood on a brand, new recent episode of Check Please. So we decide let's stop over there for lunch and give it a try. We start with the fresh Guacamole. Also the usual Chips and Salsa too. The chips were warm, salty and fresh tasting. The Guac had huge chunks in it and was very fresh tasting. My wife and I both thought this is some of the best Guacamole we have sampled in quite sometime. I start by ordering the Carna Asada. My skirt steak was tender and very delicious. It was a bit on the salty side though I will say. I also got a Cheese Enchilda, again a bit salty and rice and beans. Which both the rice and beans were extremely bland tasting. There was almost no flavor to either of them at all. Maria ordered the Sopa Seca or "dry soup". I thought this was very good, my wife thought it was way TOO salty. I will say though a lot of the items we sampled were VERY salty. Well the "dry soup" came with Shrimp, Angel Hair Pasta (which really just seemed like Ramon soup noodles), peppers, cherry tomatos and a white cheese. We both ordered Raspberry Ice Tea too. So when it came time for dessert we tried to order a Flan but they were fresh out. It was lunch time and I'm not sure if there was a huge rush for Flan before we arrived but come on Cilantro how can a Mexican restaurant be fresh out of Flan at the beginning of their day? Well our total bill came to $52 dollars including the tip. I will have to say it was nice to give this place a try but with all the other fine Mexican restaurants in the Chicagoland area we will not be heading back to Cilantro again when we get a taste for Mexican cuisine.
(2)
Deb H.
This is one of our favorite Mexican restaurants! We visit often and have never been disappointed with the food, service or drinks. I don't like guacamole but my daughters do and they love it at Cilantro. My husband always orders the potato & chorizo enchiladas and I get either the cheese enchiladas or steak tacos. Mmm mmm good! The chips & salsa are delicious too! Just writing this review is making my mouth water!
(5)
Jennifer C.
Wow, I'm shocked that this place got so many bad reviews. I visited the place today (a Saturday at 3pm). It was pretty empty so all the service was speedy. The waiter and busboy were very friendly and made sure we had everything we needed. In my opinion, the portions were rather large. Me and the person I went with came out with three take-out boxes. The food was well seasoned. I would go back.
As someone who thinks of atmosphere as a very important part of dining in general, and especially in my Mexican restaurants, the initial reaction to Cilantro was pretty positive. It is a comfortable atmosphere that is pleasant to look at. I had a bit of concern about the fact that the restaurant was employed completely by white folks, but that is neither here nor there. The biggest positive being a vegetarian and going to Cilantro is that the menu has many vegetarian options. There is at least one veg-friendly item in each subsection of the menu, and this is refreshing to a person who usually has to special order things in Mexican restaurants. It actually took me a few minutes to decide what to have, and settled on the spinach enchiladas. Their chips and salsa were tops. The chips were nice and flaky, with good flavor, and the salsa had a bit of kick, which was a pleasant surprise. I actually had to have my beverage at hand for the salsa, which is rare for most Mexican restaurants (although it would be appreciated if more places followed suit and gave me spicy salsa.) Unfortunately, I wasn't entirely thrilled about the food itself. The beans and rice are pretty good, although I'm being lead to believe by other reviewers that the beans are canned and not made on site, which is a bit disappointing considering I liked those beans. The entree itself, wasn't very good. The enchilada just didn't have much flavor. It was cooked fine, not burnt or undercooked, but it was pretty bland. I plan to return to Cilantro to have another dish and see if it was a fluke, because based on the atmosphere and the overall good feeling I get, I don't think its that bad, but if I were to judge based solely on the enchiladas, this place would rank a bit lower. It is about middle of the pack for me, as far as local Mexican joints are concerned.
Not impressed with the decor or the food, my wife loves this place and I don't know why, maybe cause she gets the same thing every time. We've been there 4 or 5 times and I keep hoping its gonna get better. Well I'm done hoping.
(2)
Cheryl H.
Oh how I wish Homewood had a REALLY good Mexican restaurant with delicious margaritas but....However, we go because it's close and decent. Usually a nice crowd, good salsa but they could really use a new chef with some new ideas....I think it would be worth the investment. Stick with the carne asada and make your own tacos.
(2)
Jan E.
We are so grateful for Cilantro. Not many restaurants in these parts and it's nice to have a local Mexican restaurant. Basic but tasty food. The margaritas were a disappointment but the service is excellent. Good chips and salsa. Best part of this restaurant is the location for us out here in far-out Chicagoland.
(3)
Ann S.
Whoever is cooking at Cilantro does not grasp Mexican cooking. For the "basics" (burritos, tacos, etc), Cilantro does an OK job. I ordered Chiles Rellenos, which is a traditional Mexican dish. It was not very good. My chiles were soggy, and there was nothing in the cheese to anchor it in the chili, so whenever I cut into it a blob of cheese would plop out onto my plate, surrounded by soggy poblano juice. Also, the beans were canned, and the salsa was more mild than Tostitos. I really don't have a problem with canned beans if you're cooking at home and don't feel like taking 5 hours to make some refried beans. But if I'm plunking down $10+ for a meatless entree, there had better be some house refried beans on my plate. The tragedy of it all: their margaritas are AWESOME! So if you're in the Homewood/Flossmoor area and you need a margarita, check out Cilantro. Unless it's Sunday, or after about 9:30PM. Cilantro is only open until 10 Mon-Thur and Saturday, 11PM on Fridays. Otherwise, Pepe's sadly has better Mexican food.
(2)
Kevin M.
A great place close to home for good margaritas
(3)
Pat F.
The salsas (mild or hot) are terrific and the tortilla chips are warm and fresh, never greasy. The enchiladas are just like my grandma used to make--fantastic! The veggie burrito is my favorite dish. They mix a powerful and tasty Margarita too. Yum!
(5)
Mopsie B.
I grew up in the area and Cilantro used to be good, when it was smaller. I think it's under new ownership or something. Anyway, a friend and I went two summers ago on a Friday night. It was as though this place was a club or something- throngs of cars and people everywhere. Parking was a nightmare. I was horrified to see a security guard with a GUN standing by the door. Really? Why do you need that here? My friend was really freaked out, too. Anyway, the decor was not how I remembered it from years before- it is now more of a darkened bar. That said, you could tell the margs are from a mix, so I just got beer. My food was ok but not super authentic Mexican- I had veggie quesadillas. They used to have these amazing spinach quesadillas but not anymore. Oh, well. The food was filling and fine and the bill was more than decent but I am confused by this place, frankly. I guess living in Colorado for 10 years got me used to authentic, good Mexican, so I'm too spoiled to appreciate Cilantro for what it is.
(2)
Raj G.
Excellent Mexican restaurant!!!! Friendly atmosphere..locals gather here..owner Arthur likes to get to know you to make you comfortable
(4)
Jef B.
NOT the best "Mexican" (is it even Mexican? Ameri-Mex maybe) in the south suburbs, imho, but only five minutes from my house so this is a no-brainer for an occasional dinner. Excellent, killer margaritas. Comfortable atmosphere. I usually see no Hispanic people dining here, whereas if you go to La Mex in Orland Park you see plenty. Just saying. But none of the food tastes like it "should" - the only reason we are repeat customers is that it is one of the better restaurants within a short drive of our house. In that respect they have little competition. If you want better Mexican food but still in the southlands, go to La Mex in Orland Park.
(4)
mindy m.
We go here pretty much every week. Enough said. The salsa is made fresh and the guacamole is the best i've had outside of Mexico. None of that "let's dump a bunch of onions to skimp on the avocado" bidness here. Sure, it's our local place so we're partial to it, but if you can't make it to Mexico or Pilsen, this is a great alternative. If Art's making the margaritas they're sure to be great--no mixes here like at El Cortez.
(4)
Emily N.
So once a month I have to drive to these stupid work meetings. We sit around and discuss the same crap we discussed last month. I have to listen to the same super annoying guy say super annoying shit each and every time. It's enough to make me crazy! The only thing that gets me through is knowing that I'm heading out for a leisurely lunch with one of my girlies afterwards. Cut to Cilantro. The homegirl digs it because they have a pretty decent selection of veg options and killer margaritas - and a really nice patio. Plus, it's not too far from her office so it's fairly convenient. We decide it's Mexican for lunch. We head out to the patio where the waitress comes by for our drink order. Two Pepsi's please. (I know what you're thinking - but I was really hungover - no more booze today thank you). Takes her a bit of time to make it back, but since she came armed with chips and salsa too it was all good. I order the steak nachos and the gal pal gets the portabello fajitas. She is in love with those things - I swear she'd marry them if she could. I, however, wasn't so impressed. The steak was tender but super salty, and trust me, it's hard for something to be over salted to me. They melted a TON of cheese over these things which was a huge plus. The problem is, the rest of the toppings were laid out in rows over the top chopped salad style. Major pain in the ass to build a proper bite since the melted cheese had all the chips stuck together. Nachos should be layered man! And because of the extreme saltiness I was downing the pop and it was never refilled promptly. In her defense, there were about 4 other tables and no other servers. But hell, I used to be a server and know that a place that offers free refills but leaves empty glasses around is a no no. Here's the scoop - if you're a veggie head - you'll dig it. If not - go to Pilsen and save the gas money - and your arteries.
(2)
Lilac W.
MY GRANDMA WORKS HERE AND IT'S THE BOMB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I've been to New Mexico where Mexican food is like really popular but they stink compared to Cilantros!!!
(5)
Tricia D.
Best salsa in the south suburbs!!!!! Friendly service and fun decor! I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who enjoys good mexican food!
(5)
Jose T.
From the salsa to the decor, this place is for the unsuspecting 'guero'. There is nothing authentic about this place. I'm not sure the salsa even had any peppers in it. It tasted of tomato & cilantro - period. Same for the guac - might as well have been plain avocado mash. Upon being seated, we waited for about ten minutes before a sever even approached us. She asked what we would like to drink, (at this point, we hadn't even been offered a menu yet). I had the portobello fajitas - cooked well but a little bland (I wished I had a salt shaker at my table). The margarita looked like it came to me after being left at the bar by someone else. It was about 3/4 of the way full & I'd be surprised if it had any tequila in it. My redhead had the sopa seca/shrimp. SHE WAS NOT IMPRESSED (I'll just leave it at that). This place just seemed like a gringo's sad attempt at making Mexican food. As far as their tag line 'AYE TE WATCHO!' What the fuck language is that?! It certainly isn't Spanish, but this is: NUNCA VOLVERE!!!
(1)
Joanna B.
I love their chips and salsa! Great vegetarian choices too!
(5)
Steve M.
Went there last night for the band....the food-----very disappointed. Very bland and the mole was the worst. The food lacked flavor and kick. Will not return:(
(1)
Trent C.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican, look elsewhere. The food here is good and always fresh. The guacamole is always good. Order a margarita or a pitcher of Sangria, as it is some of the best in the area. The fajitas, enchiladas and burritos are all good options. Always has a good crowd during the week and can get a little busy on the weekend. Expect there to be families here but you always get a good mix of the young and the old. Atmosphere is pleasant. Wait staff are always very good but can be slow depending on how busy the dining room is. The restaurant also features an excellent patio area on the side. Definitely worth a try.
(3)
barbara r.
Have been coming here for years. The food is yummy, great staff, great patio. Art (owner), is extremely creative and is always making great changes to this little gem in Homewood.
(4)
Janet M.
Very dependable restaurant. I'm definitely a fan of the salsa and guacamole. Good chips, too. Good spot for a quick, reasonable dinner.
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot 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 : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
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.
Dia R.
I'd been searching for an authentic Mexican restaurant in the area... Cilantro is it! The steak quesadilla was amazing! I also enjoyed the Vegetable Taco Salad, it was GREAT! Cute local location.
(4)Lilly M.
If you are looking for authentic Mexican food, then this is not the right spot for you. I've been to Cilantro a few times, but each time left feeling like Taco Bell might have been a better option. When I last visited, I ordered a vegetarian burrito and was met with a bunch of what appeared to be stir fry veggies wrapped up in a flour tortilla. (Broccoli, carrots, snow peas.) Now, this was years ago, so perhaps things have changed, but I have never gone back because it was just awful. They do have a lovely outdoor area however, so perhaps it would be a nice spot for some apps and cocktails only?
(2)Joel M.
i was not impressed at all. The chicken tacos was dry and tasteless. Will not go back.
(2)Doug H.
Home made chips and salsa is great. A nice variety of tequila .., great staff ... THE place for Mexican food.
(5)Eric H.
I get bags of their chips and salsa to-go frequently. Start off with a margarita! They make them strong! Their food is great, they have all of the standard options, and a few fancier ones. I recommend their carne' con rajas and guacamole. Service is fantastic, they remember the regulars here. They have a patio-ish area that is really beautiful and wonderful to sit and eat in on a hot summers day.
(5)Daren J.
This is not Mexican food. I'm from southern California, and I know real Mexican food. This food us "gringo". Everything us Mexican in name but very American in taste. If you've never had real Mexican food, I'm sure it will be fine. But if you have, avoid at all costs. Don't waste your money on this poor excuse for Mexican.
(1)Seena B.
Very friendly and family friendly. Margaritas are the best in the area. I love the chiles rellenos and the steak burrito, and the tortilla chips are very fresh and abundant.
(4)Meghan S.
The best chips, salsa, guacamole, and margaritas I have ever had! The carne asada, steak and chicken taco salads, and steak fajitas are excellent entree choices! Overall, everyone I have encountered is very friendly and attentive!
(5)Rebecca J.
Great to eat there but horrible take out. I hate to leave a not so great review for one of my local favorites. The take out is always wrong. The food is good but your order will me wrong 100%. I'm sitting here with what is supposed to be a casadia with extra chicken and extra tomatoes and only a little bit of cheese. There are a total of three diced tomatoes on the entire plate and a ton of cheese. The ticket is right, the food is wrong.
(2)Melissa B.
I don't know where to go with this review. I have been here several times over the years and always kind of forget it exists. The service is always really friendly. That's reason enough for me to agree to meet people here if they pick it. The decor is cute. I also love the patio in the summer! The food is just average. The margaritas are just average too. Nothing has ever been awful. It's just a tad overpriced given the quality isn't much greater than Taco Bell. If you are in the area and craving Mexican this should absolutely be your go to. It's not worth driving out of your way for.
(3)Pia Z.
I think Cilantro can be hit or miss.....hence the 3 Star review. I've gone and had great food, wonderful drinks, marvelous service. And I've gone and had mediocre fair and so-so service. They really REALLY need to work on consistency. The Guacamole is always great, I will give them that!
(3)Anthony M.
Great local spot, always buzzing and love the patio. Owner is super welcoming to regulars and newcomers alike, usually behind the bar mixing margaritas.
(5)Shannon O.
Let me start by saying, I wanted to love this place. After rave reviews from numerous friends in the area, "the guacamole is to die for," "everything is so delicious," and "you will love it." I'm always up for supporting the local guy and find a new favorite. I couldn't take it anymore and finally made my way in. The service was great! Patrick was very attentive and polite. Sadly, that's where the accolades end. I was beyond unimpressed.The décor was typical cantina: loud,bright colors, eclectic knick knacks. The patio did look quite cozy and fun, though we sat in the dining room. We had a swirled margarita (which is frozen margarita swirled with sangria) and a tequila sunrise. Neither was memorable. For apps we ordered 2 classics: guac & chips and queso fundido. The guac was bland. I mean really bland. Noticably absent were lime juice, salt, and garlic, yes you coud see onions and cilantro in it, and for what it's worth you could taste a touch of the onion but mostly it just tasted of mashed avacado. Queso fundido is something I order at every mexican place I go to, and it has always been a standard browned chorizo with cheese melted on top served with tortillas, but not here. For some reason they separate the two, while they share a plate it is melted cheese on one side and chorizo on the other effectively robbing you of the gooey love of the combination. My sis ordered chicken milanesa, which she describes as "ok." Beans and rice were edible. I went with another standard, steak tacos. Blech. The chopped cubes of steak were chewy and spongy. And they were not underseasoned - they were UNseasoned. I did not finish one taco. The flan, tres leches, and chocolate tres leches for dessert sounded delicious, but after our meal so far we took a pass and made our way to Coldstone for ice cream :) This place in no way lived up to the hype. I'll continue to drive a little further down 183rd to El Cortez where I have never been disappointed.
(1)T L.
Great Breakfast Burrito! The burrito is very inexpensive and it is huge. Breakfast is only on Saturday and that is a shame.
(5)Chris H.
Don't go here. I've grew up in the area and have gone to Cilantro countless times since I was a kid. I recently went however to my dismay. I've always been a really big fan of the chips and salsa, and they also have decent guacamole. Everything else is ok, nothing to write home about. I usually get the steak burrito, and compared to other mexican restaurants... it's rather bland. The service this time was sub par. First, I ordered an iced tea. Typically... if someone orders an iced tea it's pretty customary to bring sweetener. I asked the server is she could bring me some, only to have the request forgotten later. Strike one. Our drinks weren't refilled to my satisfaction and sat thirsty for the latter part of our stay. Then when we got our food, my mom's was cold and she hardly took but two bites. They also didn't refill our salsa. Which, it's pretty customary to have salsa served with mexican food and you'd think a "mexican" restaurant would recognize this. I politely asked the server for more salsa, all the while my burrito is getting cold. Strike two. After we finished eating we were waiting for our check, (without anything to drink mind you) and hadn't seen our server in over 10 minutes. We told one of the bussers to grab our server and it appeared he promptly did so. Waiting another 5 minutes, we told another busboy to grab our server. Waiting and waiting I'm watching the manager deal with another table across the way who apparently had a rock in their food. The manager made some lame excuse as to why there would be a rock in these people's food and I found the whole explanation laughable. We were still waiting for our check, and at this point my blood started boiling. Eventually I just asked to see the manager, which also took 5 minutes. Here's why I will not be returning here and why they deserve a zero star review. As she's coming over to address us, the customer, she refers to us as "babies." She said something along the lines of "What can I do for you my babies." I understand she probably didn't mean anything by it, but after all the transpired I found it to be completely disrespectful and completely unprofessional. Strike three. At this point I was just completely angered and began explaining to the manager what was wrong. She made excuses for the server, who she said was only "6 hours" on the job and not trained properly I'm assuming. I feel bad for the server, she probably was new and was trained by the idiot manager I'm thinking. The server was nice when we saw her and my tip for her is to find a different restaurant to work in. After that I explained that my mom's food was cold and about how long we waited for our check. In the manager's defense, she did try and comp our meal... however that wasn't what we wanted. We just wanted to pay and leave. I will not be returning here ever again, which is sad because I have many fond memories of eating here over the years.
(1)Monya M.
First, the salsa is good. The outdoor seating is really nice. The rest is BLEH. Bland. Service was fine. My wife and I drank a whole pitcher of margaritas and were NOT EVEN TIPSY. That's how strong those babies are. $65 for two with drinks and tip. We would have enjoyed Taco Bell more, for the price.
(2)Dakota B.
Let me start this way. EVERY NEGATIVE REVIEW IS SPOT ON. *Salsa and Guac in desperate need of salt etc-TRUE! *Service super slow and all around bad-TRUE! *Food tastes like its from cans, jars, and mixes-TRUE! *Feeling like a hostage because you are there-TRUE! *Servers who provide different levels of service depending on the customer-SUPER TRUE! Holy Guacamole. Bad bad bad. My husband and I are on another (short lived and temporary) budget. As such we have been trying smaller, local restaurants. That is how we made the tragic mistake of dining here. I read the reviews before coming and figured the fajita's would be a safe bet. I couldnt have been more wrong. But first things first. We arrive and i go wash my hands. One (womens) toilet for an entire restaurant. It was clogged. Ewwwww. We were seated in a alcove of sorts. I guess in a better run place it could be considered a main dining room. But in this spot....nah. More like an alcove where the servers whizz by while tending to other customers. Speaking of servers, there seemed to only be three working with two assigned to the patio area. That left one server for an entire restaurant full of people. We were promptly seated and provided chips and salsa. That was it for about twenty minutes. We were literally standing up to leave when a waitress came running over to take our drink orders. The drinks immediately came along with menus. I ordered the combination beef and chicken fajitas. Perhaps I am showing my ignorance, but as far as I know fajitas are grilled meat, peppers and onions. This is soooo not the case with this place. Usually with fajitas the steak is long thin slices with a hint of pink in them. In this place, the steak was teeny tiny uniform pieces about a half inch long and about a quarter inch wide. Each one was perfectky browned and crisped on all sides. Clearly these are pre packaged beef strips. Notice i did not say steak. The chicken was swimming in some kind of red sauce and the peppers and onions were mush. The chicken was also in perfectly uniform medallion pieces and were also clearly pre packaged. The dish is presented on a cheap tan plate like one finds at cafeterias and cheap buffets. The meat basically looks like stew. With mushy slimy peppers and onions. There is no sizzling skillet or juicy grilled strips of meat. Nope its like chicken stew made with pre packaged chicken with pre made beef strips sprinkled on top. To make matters worse, the red sauce has mole or mole like ingredients in it. Tomato ey with a cinnamon chocolate kind of flavor. I hate mole so i found the entire thing disgusting. The rice and beans were mediocre and in desperate need of salt. No shakers were on the table and the service was beyond dismal so we decided to eat our disgustig bland meals. We picked at this slop for over twenty minutes before the server checked on us. We informed him that these could hardly be considered fajitas and were more like stew with tortillas. He apologized and came back ten minutes later and claimed that the chef said the "steak" was merely mixed in the chickens red sauce but otherwise all was as it should be. WTF?? Since when is red sauce part of grilled chicken for fajitas. We were like whatever. Had the server remove our pretty full plates and requested the bill. This place is just awful. Nothing was good. Even the sodas tasted chemically and off. The chips were warm but clearly some of the tortillas were to thick for chips resulting in a super hard barely edible chip. The place is poorly run, fulla packaged and processed foods. The menu is misleading. If youre version of fajitas onvolved sauce and a bunch of other nonsense either inform people of this or call it a different dish. Just terrible. Truly.
(1)Marc F.
Like a few others had mentioned, I perked up when I saw this place get reviewed on "Check Please!". Having lived in Homewood all my life, I sadly admit I never tried the place before... But seeing it on the TV showed me how much I'd been missing. So the wife and I checked it out this past Friday after work. We walked right in, and were shown to a table in the enclosed patio. The decor is inviting as anything else in the south burbs; Some stuff on the walls, and a few TVs playing whatever is on ESPN. As others have mentioned, the chips and salsa are top notch. Hot crispy, well salted chips, and a salsa with a little kick, and plenty of freshness to it. Superb. Looking over the menu, I will admit I wasn't blown away. I'm a HUGE queso fiend, and found their 7 dollar queso seemed pricey, considering entrees coming in at 8-12 bucks. So, the wife and I decided to stick it out with the chips and salsa, and just ordered the entrees. A chicken burrito for the wife, and steak enchiladas for me. I must note here, the excellent service. Our waitress was extremely nice. When she saw how quickly I blew through my first glass of pop, she returned with a pitcher. I nearly cried. OK, not really... but to me, that shows a real care for the customer. Entrees arrived promptly. The burrito was a football sized pile of goodness, so sayeth my bride. She ended up taking 1/2 of it home. She even ate the leftovers. My kudos to the chef on that one! My enchiladas were chock full of tasty bits o' steak. My only concern was the menu had mentioned a mole sauce. Maybe I misread, buy my enchiladas had no sauce. The accompanying rice and beans weren't necessarily anything to write home about, but as filling starches... they did their job. Ultimately, I know we'll be back. Given the choice of the area (chains like Chilis and Applebees, offering chain food... or a few real local gems like Gradys) Cilantro stands as it should be: A casual place for a good affordable plate of standard mexican food. I can't recommend the salsa enough. I'll be trying some of the house specialties next time, in hopes for more "bold" flavors to come.
(4)Elizabeth D.
Cilantro has done an amazing job healing the rift in my heart made by the departure of their predecessor, the Snack Shack. The atmosphere is artistic and cozy, and the floor still has the same red brick tile. The food is always excellent, not too spicy, not too mild, and they offer lots of great options for vegetarians. Have the gazpacho if it's in season, and make sure you walk there, because after one of their yummy margaritas, you should not be driving home.
(5)Jerry W.
Maria and I are still off from work and enjoying another week day lunch. We saw Cilantro in Homewood on a brand, new recent episode of Check Please. So we decide let's stop over there for lunch and give it a try. We start with the fresh Guacamole. Also the usual Chips and Salsa too. The chips were warm, salty and fresh tasting. The Guac had huge chunks in it and was very fresh tasting. My wife and I both thought this is some of the best Guacamole we have sampled in quite sometime. I start by ordering the Carna Asada. My skirt steak was tender and very delicious. It was a bit on the salty side though I will say. I also got a Cheese Enchilda, again a bit salty and rice and beans. Which both the rice and beans were extremely bland tasting. There was almost no flavor to either of them at all. Maria ordered the Sopa Seca or "dry soup". I thought this was very good, my wife thought it was way TOO salty. I will say though a lot of the items we sampled were VERY salty. Well the "dry soup" came with Shrimp, Angel Hair Pasta (which really just seemed like Ramon soup noodles), peppers, cherry tomatos and a white cheese. We both ordered Raspberry Ice Tea too. So when it came time for dessert we tried to order a Flan but they were fresh out. It was lunch time and I'm not sure if there was a huge rush for Flan before we arrived but come on Cilantro how can a Mexican restaurant be fresh out of Flan at the beginning of their day? Well our total bill came to $52 dollars including the tip. I will have to say it was nice to give this place a try but with all the other fine Mexican restaurants in the Chicagoland area we will not be heading back to Cilantro again when we get a taste for Mexican cuisine.
(2)Deb H.
This is one of our favorite Mexican restaurants! We visit often and have never been disappointed with the food, service or drinks. I don't like guacamole but my daughters do and they love it at Cilantro. My husband always orders the potato & chorizo enchiladas and I get either the cheese enchiladas or steak tacos. Mmm mmm good! The chips & salsa are delicious too! Just writing this review is making my mouth water!
(5)Jennifer C.
Wow, I'm shocked that this place got so many bad reviews. I visited the place today (a Saturday at 3pm). It was pretty empty so all the service was speedy. The waiter and busboy were very friendly and made sure we had everything we needed. In my opinion, the portions were rather large. Me and the person I went with came out with three take-out boxes. The food was well seasoned. I would go back.
(5)James G.
Good food, reasonably priced, but needs help with service. We had a waitress who neglected to refill our drinks often. She also put in our appetizer order at the same time of our entrée... Everything came out at once. When checking out, it took a good ten minutes for her to bring the check, longer to run my card, which she almost charge me for the wrong check, then to collect the money took even longer. Food was fresh, and tasty. Chips n salsa are NOT bottomless... U have to pay $3 for that!
(4)Matt H.
As someone who thinks of atmosphere as a very important part of dining in general, and especially in my Mexican restaurants, the initial reaction to Cilantro was pretty positive. It is a comfortable atmosphere that is pleasant to look at. I had a bit of concern about the fact that the restaurant was employed completely by white folks, but that is neither here nor there. The biggest positive being a vegetarian and going to Cilantro is that the menu has many vegetarian options. There is at least one veg-friendly item in each subsection of the menu, and this is refreshing to a person who usually has to special order things in Mexican restaurants. It actually took me a few minutes to decide what to have, and settled on the spinach enchiladas. Their chips and salsa were tops. The chips were nice and flaky, with good flavor, and the salsa had a bit of kick, which was a pleasant surprise. I actually had to have my beverage at hand for the salsa, which is rare for most Mexican restaurants (although it would be appreciated if more places followed suit and gave me spicy salsa.) Unfortunately, I wasn't entirely thrilled about the food itself. The beans and rice are pretty good, although I'm being lead to believe by other reviewers that the beans are canned and not made on site, which is a bit disappointing considering I liked those beans. The entree itself, wasn't very good. The enchilada just didn't have much flavor. It was cooked fine, not burnt or undercooked, but it was pretty bland. I plan to return to Cilantro to have another dish and see if it was a fluke, because based on the atmosphere and the overall good feeling I get, I don't think its that bad, but if I were to judge based solely on the enchiladas, this place would rank a bit lower. It is about middle of the pack for me, as far as local Mexican joints are concerned.
(3)Bridg G.
No, no, no, no. Nothing tasted like anything. Seriously, I don't think there is even a jalapeno up in this joint! The salsa was like canned crushed tomatoes with cilantro, the guacamole was just mashed up avocado, my entrée was the sopa de seca and it tasted JUST LIKE RAMEN! It was overly salty noodles with cheese on top. The place was not clean and there wasn't even any music playing. I have better Mexican food at Applebees.
(1)Bob K.
Not impressed with the decor or the food, my wife loves this place and I don't know why, maybe cause she gets the same thing every time. We've been there 4 or 5 times and I keep hoping its gonna get better. Well I'm done hoping.
(2)Cheryl H.
Oh how I wish Homewood had a REALLY good Mexican restaurant with delicious margaritas but....However, we go because it's close and decent. Usually a nice crowd, good salsa but they could really use a new chef with some new ideas....I think it would be worth the investment. Stick with the carne asada and make your own tacos.
(2)Jan E.
We are so grateful for Cilantro. Not many restaurants in these parts and it's nice to have a local Mexican restaurant. Basic but tasty food. The margaritas were a disappointment but the service is excellent. Good chips and salsa. Best part of this restaurant is the location for us out here in far-out Chicagoland.
(3)Ann S.
Whoever is cooking at Cilantro does not grasp Mexican cooking. For the "basics" (burritos, tacos, etc), Cilantro does an OK job. I ordered Chiles Rellenos, which is a traditional Mexican dish. It was not very good. My chiles were soggy, and there was nothing in the cheese to anchor it in the chili, so whenever I cut into it a blob of cheese would plop out onto my plate, surrounded by soggy poblano juice. Also, the beans were canned, and the salsa was more mild than Tostitos. I really don't have a problem with canned beans if you're cooking at home and don't feel like taking 5 hours to make some refried beans. But if I'm plunking down $10+ for a meatless entree, there had better be some house refried beans on my plate. The tragedy of it all: their margaritas are AWESOME! So if you're in the Homewood/Flossmoor area and you need a margarita, check out Cilantro. Unless it's Sunday, or after about 9:30PM. Cilantro is only open until 10 Mon-Thur and Saturday, 11PM on Fridays. Otherwise, Pepe's sadly has better Mexican food.
(2)Kevin M.
A great place close to home for good margaritas
(3)Pat F.
The salsas (mild or hot) are terrific and the tortilla chips are warm and fresh, never greasy. The enchiladas are just like my grandma used to make--fantastic! The veggie burrito is my favorite dish. They mix a powerful and tasty Margarita too. Yum!
(5)Mopsie B.
I grew up in the area and Cilantro used to be good, when it was smaller. I think it's under new ownership or something. Anyway, a friend and I went two summers ago on a Friday night. It was as though this place was a club or something- throngs of cars and people everywhere. Parking was a nightmare. I was horrified to see a security guard with a GUN standing by the door. Really? Why do you need that here? My friend was really freaked out, too. Anyway, the decor was not how I remembered it from years before- it is now more of a darkened bar. That said, you could tell the margs are from a mix, so I just got beer. My food was ok but not super authentic Mexican- I had veggie quesadillas. They used to have these amazing spinach quesadillas but not anymore. Oh, well. The food was filling and fine and the bill was more than decent but I am confused by this place, frankly. I guess living in Colorado for 10 years got me used to authentic, good Mexican, so I'm too spoiled to appreciate Cilantro for what it is.
(2)Raj G.
Excellent Mexican restaurant!!!! Friendly atmosphere..locals gather here..owner Arthur likes to get to know you to make you comfortable
(4)Jef B.
NOT the best "Mexican" (is it even Mexican? Ameri-Mex maybe) in the south suburbs, imho, but only five minutes from my house so this is a no-brainer for an occasional dinner. Excellent, killer margaritas. Comfortable atmosphere. I usually see no Hispanic people dining here, whereas if you go to La Mex in Orland Park you see plenty. Just saying. But none of the food tastes like it "should" - the only reason we are repeat customers is that it is one of the better restaurants within a short drive of our house. In that respect they have little competition. If you want better Mexican food but still in the southlands, go to La Mex in Orland Park.
(4)Tanya W.
The food was excellent! Service was outstanding! This was my first visit and I will definitely be back again.
(4)The Consumer U.
Great local place - I've been going here for local Mexican when in the Homewood area since it converted to Cilantro from being "Snak Shak" back in the day. Awesome salsa which is jam-packed with cilantro and great mexican entrees. Nothing out of this world, but everything is dependable and I think the atmosphere is layed back and cozy enough to bring you back time after time.
(4)Emily N.
So once a month I have to drive to these stupid work meetings. We sit around and discuss the same crap we discussed last month. I have to listen to the same super annoying guy say super annoying shit each and every time. It's enough to make me crazy! The only thing that gets me through is knowing that I'm heading out for a leisurely lunch with one of my girlies afterwards. Cut to Cilantro. The homegirl digs it because they have a pretty decent selection of veg options and killer margaritas - and a really nice patio. Plus, it's not too far from her office so it's fairly convenient. We decide it's Mexican for lunch. We head out to the patio where the waitress comes by for our drink order. Two Pepsi's please. (I know what you're thinking - but I was really hungover - no more booze today thank you). Takes her a bit of time to make it back, but since she came armed with chips and salsa too it was all good. I order the steak nachos and the gal pal gets the portabello fajitas. She is in love with those things - I swear she'd marry them if she could. I, however, wasn't so impressed. The steak was tender but super salty, and trust me, it's hard for something to be over salted to me. They melted a TON of cheese over these things which was a huge plus. The problem is, the rest of the toppings were laid out in rows over the top chopped salad style. Major pain in the ass to build a proper bite since the melted cheese had all the chips stuck together. Nachos should be layered man! And because of the extreme saltiness I was downing the pop and it was never refilled promptly. In her defense, there were about 4 other tables and no other servers. But hell, I used to be a server and know that a place that offers free refills but leaves empty glasses around is a no no. Here's the scoop - if you're a veggie head - you'll dig it. If not - go to Pilsen and save the gas money - and your arteries.
(2)Lilac W.
MY GRANDMA WORKS HERE AND IT'S THE BOMB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I've been to New Mexico where Mexican food is like really popular but they stink compared to Cilantros!!!
(5)Tricia D.
Best salsa in the south suburbs!!!!! Friendly service and fun decor! I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who enjoys good mexican food!
(5)Jose T.
From the salsa to the decor, this place is for the unsuspecting 'guero'. There is nothing authentic about this place. I'm not sure the salsa even had any peppers in it. It tasted of tomato & cilantro - period. Same for the guac - might as well have been plain avocado mash. Upon being seated, we waited for about ten minutes before a sever even approached us. She asked what we would like to drink, (at this point, we hadn't even been offered a menu yet). I had the portobello fajitas - cooked well but a little bland (I wished I had a salt shaker at my table). The margarita looked like it came to me after being left at the bar by someone else. It was about 3/4 of the way full & I'd be surprised if it had any tequila in it. My redhead had the sopa seca/shrimp. SHE WAS NOT IMPRESSED (I'll just leave it at that). This place just seemed like a gringo's sad attempt at making Mexican food. As far as their tag line 'AYE TE WATCHO!' What the fuck language is that?! It certainly isn't Spanish, but this is: NUNCA VOLVERE!!!
(1)Joanna B.
I love their chips and salsa! Great vegetarian choices too!
(5)mindy m.
We go here pretty much every week. Enough said. The salsa is made fresh and the guacamole is the best i've had outside of Mexico. None of that "let's dump a bunch of onions to skimp on the avocado" bidness here. Sure, it's our local place so we're partial to it, but if you can't make it to Mexico or Pilsen, this is a great alternative. If Art's making the margaritas they're sure to be great--no mixes here like at El Cortez.
(4)Steve M.
Went there last night for the band....the food-----very disappointed. Very bland and the mole was the worst. The food lacked flavor and kick. Will not return:(
(1)Trent C.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican, look elsewhere. The food here is good and always fresh. The guacamole is always good. Order a margarita or a pitcher of Sangria, as it is some of the best in the area. The fajitas, enchiladas and burritos are all good options. Always has a good crowd during the week and can get a little busy on the weekend. Expect there to be families here but you always get a good mix of the young and the old. Atmosphere is pleasant. Wait staff are always very good but can be slow depending on how busy the dining room is. The restaurant also features an excellent patio area on the side. Definitely worth a try.
(3)barbara r.
Have been coming here for years. The food is yummy, great staff, great patio. Art (owner), is extremely creative and is always making great changes to this little gem in Homewood.
(4)Janet M.
Very dependable restaurant. I'm definitely a fan of the salsa and guacamole. Good chips, too. Good spot for a quick, reasonable dinner.
(4)Dennis B.
My wife and I had eaten here since it's opening with the original owner. close to 12 years ago. In the last year we became so disappointed with the mistakes in our orders and sometimes atrocious service with selected wait staff we no longer eat at Cilantro. I will hand it to owner Art Trevino, he has some of the best salsa I have eaten and I consider myself a "salsa addict." Art makes great drinks but in the last few years he has cut the amounts given when you order a "Cadillac Margarita." Also other bar tenders still have trouble making my favorite drink "dirty Martini." The chicken tacos are horrible-no taste, dry and nothing to compare to authentic Mexican tacos. Although the beans Art uses are canned, that doesn't bother me as most Mexican restaurants have gone this route. Do yourself a favor if you want good, authentic Mexican food drive to Country Club Hills and go to El Cortez!
(3)Henry N.
Since I knew I was going to be in the Homewood area to get some things accomplished on March 18, I decided to make the time to stop into Cilantro for lunch. Like others, I'd seen the glowing reviews on Check Please. We walked in at just about 11:30 for lunch, and were not greeted by a grinning Art Trevino, but by someone who would rather have been somewhere else. That's okay, she wasn't going to be my server, but even though there were only two tables occupied we were seated in a bizarre little corner tucked back behind the server's station. My wife commented to me but again I smiled it off. What the hell, we were still surrounded by the colorful and clean decor. The server appeared, brought my wife a frozen margarita (which truly was great) and my soft drink, disappeared for a while, then finally took our order. My wife ordered the "Dry Soup" and I the enchiladas; cheese, ground beef (thank you Art, I don't like shredded beef) and chicken. Both meals were served rather quickly, hot and seemed to be seasoned just fine. Like one of the previous reviewers, we ordered the flan and were told they were out of it. Again, smile it off, just another peculiarity. We enjoyed the meal and the surroundings. I intend to go back, at least once, my wife does not. I see some of the reviewers are repeat or faithful customers, maybe that's why some were served more attentively and friendlier. In the Check Please review special mention was made of a particular waitress, one who's been employed there the longest, and her winning smile and friendly attitude. She was working that day, but except for the time she was with some people she knew, she walked around looking like seven days rain. Our server was civil. No more, no less. The soft drink I mentioned earlier? It's a good thing I nursed it because it didn't get refilled until we were asked if we were ready for the check. Unlike when the Check Please reviewers were there, no one cared if we were first timers, and I don't think anyone cared if that was going to be our last time. My two star review reflects only on the service. A so-so meal can be somewhat overlooked if the staff makes an effort to help you have an enjoyable time. In this case, it must be remembered that at most, six tables were occupied by the time we left. If that's stressful, I don't want to be anywhere near those employees on a Friday or Saturday night. The final, ironic bitch is that I enjoyed the food, enough for at least one return visit. I think, though, that if I'm treated as poorly, I'll let someone know immediately. If I don't care for the indifferent server I'll ask to be reseated, If I can't get a soft drink refill, I'll walk up to the bar and asked to be served another. I sent a copy of this to Mr. Trevino, I should have sent one to Check Please.
(2)Xaxa H.
This was my second trip in and WOW! A great meal! The owner, Art, is awesome! My friend had the seafood stuffed portobello, and I had the chicken quesadilla...we shared an order of the sopa seca, "dry soup," which is seasoned angel hair pasta and shrimp with fresh tomato, excellent! LOVE the salsa here, and great chips! The owner suggested the best sipping tequila after the meal, very nice!
(5)Rita K.
This was a second visit and it certainly was a HUGE disappointment. I ordered enchiladas mole. The dish arrived without mole sauce. I took a couple of bites before waitress stopped by and inquired how everything was. I asked her if what was on the enchiladas was mole sauce and she said no and offered to take my plate and put mole sauce over the top of the enchiladas. So she came back a minute later with what appeared to be mole sauce just dumped on top of my enchiladas. The sauce was hardly warm in temperature and tasted awful. My husband even agreed that the mole sauce I buy in a carton tastes better. Both my husband and I ordered onion and cilantro on the side. The waitress brought one little dish of each and upcharged us 0.75 each. Won't ever go back.
(1)T L.
Great Breakfast Burrito! The burrito is very inexpensive and it is huge. Breakfast is only on Saturday and that is a shame.
(5)Patrick E.
While Chicago has many, many great mexican restaurants, the southern suburbs could always use a few more. However, this place could use some improvement in service. Apologizing for the 'new girl' isn't gonna cut it. if you see diners flailing their arms about or anxiously looking at you, ASK us what's wrong... we don't care who helps us, we just want good service. The food was mediocre. Come on, i know you can do better! The chips, okay. The salsa, okay. My advice? Add another salsa and give us a choice. Best part of this place? outdoor dining. So, if you're near here and the weather's good, come on by and have a few drinks.
(2)Niki T.
I was told it was my fault for getting the buffet, apparently the food is great as long as you.skip the buffet. Oops. I have only.gone once, but it was below average to me. The meats were dry, as were the rice and pasta sides offered. Disappointing.
(2)Jim T.
Omg. This place mixes great atmosphere and tasty authentic Mexican cuisine. The chile rellanos are cooked and seasoned to perfection. The salsa and chips are to die for and they even have a 5 or $6.99 taco bar on Mondays from 5-8pm. Why not wash down the tacos with the sigature Cadillac Gold Tequila Margaritas and some Monday Night Football....ole!
(5)Steven K.
Excellent food... very fair price... fast and excellent service. My family loves eating here.
(4)Lisa M.
Chips and salsa are GREAT as are the margaritas. Unfortunately everything else not so much. The food is bland and completely lacks flavor and seasoning.
(2)Brittany H.
I swear my mom keeps this place in business. My whole family loves the chips and salsa, and at any given time, there's a bag of chips and tub of salsa in my mom's fridge. So needless to say, the chips and salsa are amazing. & so is the guac. I go here a decent amount when I'm in the burbs, it's close, clean, and the food is good. Plus, the prices aren't too bad either. When the weather is nice, they have an open patio room with cute, bright spanish decor perfect for sipping margaritas and snacking on some chips and guac.
(4)Shaina K.
I am an avid fan of Groupon and was very excited when Cilantro popped up as one of the deals. An appetizer, (any) two entrees, and a dessert - all for $20! What an awesome deal! We went at about 8:30 and were seated immediately. Our waitress was friendly and funny. She was very attentive, our drinks were never empty. She immediately greeted us with a basket of WARM, FRESH chips. (Their chips are awesome). Their salsa is pretty good too, not too spicy. We ordered guacamole as our appetizer. Creamy, with no overpowering lime or cilantro taste. I could probably have just eaten that with a spoon and have been satisfied. On to entrees: I ordered the Steak Fajitas ($12.95). Yummy! The steak was seasoned well and I liked the seasoning on the red, green, and yellow peppers. The portion was massive (easily three meals for me). It came with beans and rice. The bf ordered the Carne' Con Rajas ($12.95) and (painstakingly) let me try some. The steak was so tender it melted in your mouth and it was covered with yummy, creamy cheese. We were both stuffed when the waitress came out to ask us what we wanted for dessert. (As it was included with the Croupon!) We chose the Chocolate Tres Leche Cake ($3.95). It was so so so yummy! Very impressed with the whole meal. I've been there a few times before and everything else that I've ordered before (burritos, nachos, quesadillas) have all been good and standard fare. The chips and salsa alone are worth the trip! P.S. Their margaritas are AMAZING.
(5)Keith D.
Everytime I think I have salsa figured out, all I need to do is take a quick trip to Homewood, IL. Then I throw whatever current batch I've just made right in the trash. I can't figure it out. Why does my salsa taste like an ashtray compared to Cilantro? I have tried for years, unsuccessfully, to create a salsa that I enjoy as much as theirs. It really is the best salsa that I've ever had. I relive that harsh reality everytime I visit. As far as the rest of the cuisine, I've really enjoyed everything that I have ever had at Cilantro. All the ingredients are fresh and the chips are amazing. We have had several family parties here, and we always leave more than happy. I don't get down enough, but have very fond memories of all my visits.
(5)David B.
I've eaten here a few times over the years but the main reason is I like sitting in the patio area, which is very nice. The service is decent, staff is friendly, but the food is not very good at all. I've eaten Mexican food at a hundred different restaurants and trust me, this place isn't very good. Food is bland and over-priced. Come for the atmosphere but go elsewhere if you actually want good Mexican food.
(2)Lauren-ashley B.
I've been here on 3 separate occasions. The first occasion was with my supervisor and co-workers before x-mas. I had the steak enchiladas which was delicious. Chips and salsa are good as well. (1st round of chips and salsa a free and a $1 after that). The place looks like a Mexican restaurant until you notice the loud pop music playing right over out heads. And the large butterfly figures hanging from the ceiling, and the loud noise of the blender in the background. The place is small and seats about 30-50 people. My second experience was after new years, the food was still good, they still had the loud music and the butterflies. My 3rd time here: Drinks weren't mixed that well, tasted watery, I ordered a Mai Tai. Me and my cousin went last Friday which was Karaoke Night. Nothing but Country music, some song came on singing you bitch, you slut you whore. This was interesting and quite annoying, the place is too small for amplified music, you couldn't even relax and enjoy the meal or even have a conversation. Even the waiter couldn't here us, I couldn't even hear my cousin right next to me. They got rid of the butterflies all over the ceiling, which makes it not look like some little kids room, and placed pictures of Mexican people up on the walls ((I guess they think this will make them an Authentic Mexican Restaurant, I think NOT). I was never more in a rush to eat my food and get the hell up out of there. Mind you the 3 times I've been to this place I've never heard Mexican music playing, always Pop or country. We finally left to go to the car and heard the Mexican music playing outside, WTF. It's like this place tricks you into thinking it's an Authentic Mexican Place with the Mexican music outside, but wants you step in it's something totally different. I don't know if I will be going back anytime soon, and definitely not on a Friday again.
(2)Brad S.
Unbelievable experience. Great food and service! Owner even came to chat with us. Amazing place!!
(5)Alexa E.
I grew up not far from this fantabulous Mexican gem, and let me just say.... Awesome! Yum! Delicioso! The only reason why I'm giving 4 stars is because the previous owners were family friends and holy cow they knew how to make some mean tres leche cake!! The current tres leche cake, which I enjoyed last week, was good just not fantastic. I'm a dessert kinda girl, so this change cost Cilantro's a star. =( Despite this dessert alteration, the food is always mouth-watering delicious and the service is excellent! When I was a child, I obviously couldn't enjoy their alcoholic beverages... But now I can!! Tequila Sunrise? Mmmm-mmm! I had two of them bad boys. Finally, I highly recommend the chicken fajitas! I'm a food lover, but this was enough for 2 leftover lunches during the week! Oooh buddy, don't pass this dish up! Yumm!
(4)Teri A.
Going to Cilantro is as familiar as dining at a good friend's home. The atmosphere and staff are warm and inviting, and I can't say enough about their homemade sangria. It's my favorite! If you aren't too full from eating the chips and salsa, try the soap seca, the fajitas or one of their combination platters. You won't go wrong!
(5)Lisa P.
Hi my name is Lisa and I'm addicted to Groupons ! Yes,I bought a Groupon for this place and it was probably one of the best Groupons I purchased thus far! My ken-doll or "hubby" and I went here on a Tuesday "date night". We started out with their complimentary chips and salsa. It was enough and good enough for me to order an appetizer of Guacamole and chips. I hate to admit this ,but I ate it all by myself! I LOVE ME SOME GUACAMOLE and this was the BEST I've ever had,but back too what we had. The Groupon could not be used for any steak so that's why I didn't give them the five stars. We both had their chicken Tacos with rice and beans. They were tasty. The meat was not dry and seasoned very well,but the rice was sorta dry. Other than that we loved everything. We finished the night off with their chocolate T'res leche cake. I LOVE T'res leche cake,but I probably wont order any from there any more. I'll rather take my $3.95 to Pierre's bakery in Blue Island(which has the BEST!!!) OR to Calumet Bakery my second go-to. We loved the service and will be back!
(4)Monica G.
The people here were really nice and the service wasn't the best. The restaurant was nice and clean. The food, wasn't awful but it wasn't great. I wouldn't say this is REAL authentic Mexican food. We had a party of 5. Two adults and three kids. One of us ordered the chicken taco salad, cheese enchiladas, and tostadas. The rice was ok, but nothing to brag about, the beans tasted like they came out of a can. The grilled chicken taco salad wasn't great. The steak tostadas were not great either. The steak was good, but the tostadas didn't have any flavor. The cheese enchiladas were actually really good. They were what we call dry enchiladas. I would go back just for those. I just can't get over how bad the beans were. They had a one limit on chips. The first one was free and other were $1.00 extra. The prices weren't expensive. Our total came out to be about $38.00. If I didn't have a $25.00 gift certificate I wouldn't have been mad about paying that much. I will not be returning. I like my little hole in the wall for Mexican food. = )
(2)Ann M.
I have been a big fan since Art took over the place. WOW. I love the margars! I love the CARNE ASADA! WOW! I love the guac! People! You have to remember this is a FAMILY OWNED restaurant and CHILL.. I loved my server Pat who said, "Take your time. I'll be right back." AND HE WAS! Love this place and the servers and the owner. If you think you'll get better food, service or an owner that says "THANK YOU" as you leave, well..go there.
(5)Jose R.
...Cilantro in Homewood date night gets a ZERO! Food was bland (we chose the buffet style). Tight space. We can smell the cigarette stank off the dude that just walked in and sat next to us. People staring at us HARD! Maybe they have never seen a Latino and Black woman before?? Waitress was genuinely NICE but she didnt come to see if we were ok OFTEN. The man behind us kept talking LOUD!!! His own table was ignoring him!! Had to wait and choke off the cigarette smell before the bill came. Tonja had to chase the waitress down to get the bill, LOL, she did it on her own before I can say anything. LMFAO!
(1)Chris B.
My wife and I went there one a few years back and were not impressed. I think the problem was that the Mexican food was not all that flavorful. Perhaps I have been spoiled with some of the Mexican food available in the Chicago Heights area, but I wasn't all that impressed.
(2)Rose D.
I've eaten at Cilantro a few times before last evening and though it is not the best Mexican food, I always found it above average. But last night was different. When my partner and I walked in shortly before 5, the restaurant was almost empty, only 3 tables were occupied. However, we were told by the hostess that we had to settle for a tiny table for 2 (barely large enough to hold our food once it came), because she had just taken a reservation for 10 and had to push some tables together and didn't know if she'd have to use any of the square tables (which would seat 4) if another reservation came in. What?!? She also couldn't give us one of the higher 'bar' tables (one was in use by a couple) that also sat 4, just in case she had larger groups come in. Well, we were there, so decided to stay at the tiny table, though it should have been our clue to leave. Our server was friendly, if a bit slow. We started out with the highlight of the dining experience -- the chips -- nice and warm and slightly salty. Wish I could compliment the salsa, but it was bland, not even tomatoes in it had flavor -- and no hot sauce to doctor it up and get the heat level up a notch. The frozen margaritas seemed devoid of alcohol and didn't have much flavor -- even after waiting 10 minutes for them (and our server to reappear). The rest of the meal was also quite bland -- and only a step above lukewarm. The only exception was the taco soup my boyfriend had, which was steaming and quite flavorful. We both had combo plates -- his with chiles rellanos, beef taco and something else in a shell (we couldn't remember what the 3rd item was supposed to be and couldn't tell either from the look and as he said, it was tasteless mush). The chiles rellanos had such a heavy batter, it was rendered totally unedible, with the exception of the cheese inside the chile (which couldn't be cut with the knife provided). My taco had more of the flavorless tomato and uncrunchy lettuce and seasonless chicken -- it was saved by the cheese. The enchillada, while cooked nicely, once again, was almost flavorless. And the mini-burrito had the consistency of strained baby food for the filling, which was also lacking in seasoning. It did take a while to get the credit card processed so we could pay. Needless to say, we won't be making a return trip. There are so many good Mexican restaurants in the southeast suburbs, that even if we're nearby, we go to one of those. Or even Taco Bell -- at least there would have been some seasonings on the food -- and hot sauce for me to spice it up to my taste.
(2)Dia R.
I'd been searching for an authentic Mexican restaurant in the area... Cilantro is it! The steak quesadilla was amazing! I also enjoyed the Vegetable Taco Salad, it was GREAT! Cute local location.
(4)Rebecca J.
Great to eat there but horrible take out. I hate to leave a not so great review for one of my local favorites. The take out is always wrong. The food is good but your order will me wrong 100%. I'm sitting here with what is supposed to be a casadia with extra chicken and extra tomatoes and only a little bit of cheese. There are a total of three diced tomatoes on the entire plate and a ton of cheese. The ticket is right, the food is wrong.
(2)Melissa B.
I don't know where to go with this review. I have been here several times over the years and always kind of forget it exists. The service is always really friendly. That's reason enough for me to agree to meet people here if they pick it. The decor is cute. I also love the patio in the summer! The food is just average. The margaritas are just average too. Nothing has ever been awful. It's just a tad overpriced given the quality isn't much greater than Taco Bell. If you are in the area and craving Mexican this should absolutely be your go to. It's not worth driving out of your way for.
(3)Pia Z.
I think Cilantro can be hit or miss.....hence the 3 Star review. I've gone and had great food, wonderful drinks, marvelous service. And I've gone and had mediocre fair and so-so service. They really REALLY need to work on consistency. The Guacamole is always great, I will give them that!
(3)Anthony M.
Great local spot, always buzzing and love the patio. Owner is super welcoming to regulars and newcomers alike, usually behind the bar mixing margaritas.
(5)Lilly M.
If you are looking for authentic Mexican food, then this is not the right spot for you. I've been to Cilantro a few times, but each time left feeling like Taco Bell might have been a better option. When I last visited, I ordered a vegetarian burrito and was met with a bunch of what appeared to be stir fry veggies wrapped up in a flour tortilla. (Broccoli, carrots, snow peas.) Now, this was years ago, so perhaps things have changed, but I have never gone back because it was just awful. They do have a lovely outdoor area however, so perhaps it would be a nice spot for some apps and cocktails only?
(2)Joel M.
i was not impressed at all. The chicken tacos was dry and tasteless. Will not go back.
(2)Doug H.
Home made chips and salsa is great. A nice variety of tequila .., great staff ... THE place for Mexican food.
(5)Eric H.
I get bags of their chips and salsa to-go frequently. Start off with a margarita! They make them strong! Their food is great, they have all of the standard options, and a few fancier ones. I recommend their carne' con rajas and guacamole. Service is fantastic, they remember the regulars here. They have a patio-ish area that is really beautiful and wonderful to sit and eat in on a hot summers day.
(5)Daren J.
This is not Mexican food. I'm from southern California, and I know real Mexican food. This food us "gringo". Everything us Mexican in name but very American in taste. If you've never had real Mexican food, I'm sure it will be fine. But if you have, avoid at all costs. Don't waste your money on this poor excuse for Mexican.
(1)Seena B.
Very friendly and family friendly. Margaritas are the best in the area. I love the chiles rellenos and the steak burrito, and the tortilla chips are very fresh and abundant.
(4)Meghan S.
The best chips, salsa, guacamole, and margaritas I have ever had! The carne asada, steak and chicken taco salads, and steak fajitas are excellent entree choices! Overall, everyone I have encountered is very friendly and attentive!
(5)Patrick E.
While Chicago has many, many great mexican restaurants, the southern suburbs could always use a few more. However, this place could use some improvement in service. Apologizing for the 'new girl' isn't gonna cut it. if you see diners flailing their arms about or anxiously looking at you, ASK us what's wrong... we don't care who helps us, we just want good service. The food was mediocre. Come on, i know you can do better! The chips, okay. The salsa, okay. My advice? Add another salsa and give us a choice. Best part of this place? outdoor dining. So, if you're near here and the weather's good, come on by and have a few drinks.
(2)Niki T.
I was told it was my fault for getting the buffet, apparently the food is great as long as you.skip the buffet. Oops. I have only.gone once, but it was below average to me. The meats were dry, as were the rice and pasta sides offered. Disappointing.
(2)Shannon O.
Let me start by saying, I wanted to love this place. After rave reviews from numerous friends in the area, "the guacamole is to die for," "everything is so delicious," and "you will love it." I'm always up for supporting the local guy and find a new favorite. I couldn't take it anymore and finally made my way in. The service was great! Patrick was very attentive and polite. Sadly, that's where the accolades end. I was beyond unimpressed.The décor was typical cantina: loud,bright colors, eclectic knick knacks. The patio did look quite cozy and fun, though we sat in the dining room. We had a swirled margarita (which is frozen margarita swirled with sangria) and a tequila sunrise. Neither was memorable. For apps we ordered 2 classics: guac & chips and queso fundido. The guac was bland. I mean really bland. Noticably absent were lime juice, salt, and garlic, yes you coud see onions and cilantro in it, and for what it's worth you could taste a touch of the onion but mostly it just tasted of mashed avacado. Queso fundido is something I order at every mexican place I go to, and it has always been a standard browned chorizo with cheese melted on top served with tortillas, but not here. For some reason they separate the two, while they share a plate it is melted cheese on one side and chorizo on the other effectively robbing you of the gooey love of the combination. My sis ordered chicken milanesa, which she describes as "ok." Beans and rice were edible. I went with another standard, steak tacos. Blech. The chopped cubes of steak were chewy and spongy. And they were not underseasoned - they were UNseasoned. I did not finish one taco. The flan, tres leches, and chocolate tres leches for dessert sounded delicious, but after our meal so far we took a pass and made our way to Coldstone for ice cream :) This place in no way lived up to the hype. I'll continue to drive a little further down 183rd to El Cortez where I have never been disappointed.
(1)Jim T.
Omg. This place mixes great atmosphere and tasty authentic Mexican cuisine. The chile rellanos are cooked and seasoned to perfection. The salsa and chips are to die for and they even have a 5 or $6.99 taco bar on Mondays from 5-8pm. Why not wash down the tacos with the sigature Cadillac Gold Tequila Margaritas and some Monday Night Football....ole!
(5)Steven K.
Excellent food... very fair price... fast and excellent service. My family loves eating here.
(4)Lisa M.
Chips and salsa are GREAT as are the margaritas. Unfortunately everything else not so much. The food is bland and completely lacks flavor and seasoning.
(2)Brittany H.
I swear my mom keeps this place in business. My whole family loves the chips and salsa, and at any given time, there's a bag of chips and tub of salsa in my mom's fridge. So needless to say, the chips and salsa are amazing. & so is the guac. I go here a decent amount when I'm in the burbs, it's close, clean, and the food is good. Plus, the prices aren't too bad either. When the weather is nice, they have an open patio room with cute, bright spanish decor perfect for sipping margaritas and snacking on some chips and guac.
(4)Shaina K.
I am an avid fan of Groupon and was very excited when Cilantro popped up as one of the deals. An appetizer, (any) two entrees, and a dessert - all for $20! What an awesome deal! We went at about 8:30 and were seated immediately. Our waitress was friendly and funny. She was very attentive, our drinks were never empty. She immediately greeted us with a basket of WARM, FRESH chips. (Their chips are awesome). Their salsa is pretty good too, not too spicy. We ordered guacamole as our appetizer. Creamy, with no overpowering lime or cilantro taste. I could probably have just eaten that with a spoon and have been satisfied. On to entrees: I ordered the Steak Fajitas ($12.95). Yummy! The steak was seasoned well and I liked the seasoning on the red, green, and yellow peppers. The portion was massive (easily three meals for me). It came with beans and rice. The bf ordered the Carne' Con Rajas ($12.95) and (painstakingly) let me try some. The steak was so tender it melted in your mouth and it was covered with yummy, creamy cheese. We were both stuffed when the waitress came out to ask us what we wanted for dessert. (As it was included with the Croupon!) We chose the Chocolate Tres Leche Cake ($3.95). It was so so so yummy! Very impressed with the whole meal. I've been there a few times before and everything else that I've ordered before (burritos, nachos, quesadillas) have all been good and standard fare. The chips and salsa alone are worth the trip! P.S. Their margaritas are AMAZING.
(5)Keith D.
Everytime I think I have salsa figured out, all I need to do is take a quick trip to Homewood, IL. Then I throw whatever current batch I've just made right in the trash. I can't figure it out. Why does my salsa taste like an ashtray compared to Cilantro? I have tried for years, unsuccessfully, to create a salsa that I enjoy as much as theirs. It really is the best salsa that I've ever had. I relive that harsh reality everytime I visit. As far as the rest of the cuisine, I've really enjoyed everything that I have ever had at Cilantro. All the ingredients are fresh and the chips are amazing. We have had several family parties here, and we always leave more than happy. I don't get down enough, but have very fond memories of all my visits.
(5)David B.
I've eaten here a few times over the years but the main reason is I like sitting in the patio area, which is very nice. The service is decent, staff is friendly, but the food is not very good at all. I've eaten Mexican food at a hundred different restaurants and trust me, this place isn't very good. Food is bland and over-priced. Come for the atmosphere but go elsewhere if you actually want good Mexican food.
(2)Lauren-ashley B.
I've been here on 3 separate occasions. The first occasion was with my supervisor and co-workers before x-mas. I had the steak enchiladas which was delicious. Chips and salsa are good as well. (1st round of chips and salsa a free and a $1 after that). The place looks like a Mexican restaurant until you notice the loud pop music playing right over out heads. And the large butterfly figures hanging from the ceiling, and the loud noise of the blender in the background. The place is small and seats about 30-50 people. My second experience was after new years, the food was still good, they still had the loud music and the butterflies. My 3rd time here: Drinks weren't mixed that well, tasted watery, I ordered a Mai Tai. Me and my cousin went last Friday which was Karaoke Night. Nothing but Country music, some song came on singing you bitch, you slut you whore. This was interesting and quite annoying, the place is too small for amplified music, you couldn't even relax and enjoy the meal or even have a conversation. Even the waiter couldn't here us, I couldn't even hear my cousin right next to me. They got rid of the butterflies all over the ceiling, which makes it not look like some little kids room, and placed pictures of Mexican people up on the walls ((I guess they think this will make them an Authentic Mexican Restaurant, I think NOT). I was never more in a rush to eat my food and get the hell up out of there. Mind you the 3 times I've been to this place I've never heard Mexican music playing, always Pop or country. We finally left to go to the car and heard the Mexican music playing outside, WTF. It's like this place tricks you into thinking it's an Authentic Mexican Place with the Mexican music outside, but wants you step in it's something totally different. I don't know if I will be going back anytime soon, and definitely not on a Friday again.
(2)Brad S.
Unbelievable experience. Great food and service! Owner even came to chat with us. Amazing place!!
(5)Alexa E.
I grew up not far from this fantabulous Mexican gem, and let me just say.... Awesome! Yum! Delicioso! The only reason why I'm giving 4 stars is because the previous owners were family friends and holy cow they knew how to make some mean tres leche cake!! The current tres leche cake, which I enjoyed last week, was good just not fantastic. I'm a dessert kinda girl, so this change cost Cilantro's a star. =( Despite this dessert alteration, the food is always mouth-watering delicious and the service is excellent! When I was a child, I obviously couldn't enjoy their alcoholic beverages... But now I can!! Tequila Sunrise? Mmmm-mmm! I had two of them bad boys. Finally, I highly recommend the chicken fajitas! I'm a food lover, but this was enough for 2 leftover lunches during the week! Oooh buddy, don't pass this dish up! Yumm!
(4)Teri A.
Going to Cilantro is as familiar as dining at a good friend's home. The atmosphere and staff are warm and inviting, and I can't say enough about their homemade sangria. It's my favorite! If you aren't too full from eating the chips and salsa, try the soap seca, the fajitas or one of their combination platters. You won't go wrong!
(5)Lisa P.
Hi my name is Lisa and I'm addicted to Groupons ! Yes,I bought a Groupon for this place and it was probably one of the best Groupons I purchased thus far! My ken-doll or "hubby" and I went here on a Tuesday "date night". We started out with their complimentary chips and salsa. It was enough and good enough for me to order an appetizer of Guacamole and chips. I hate to admit this ,but I ate it all by myself! I LOVE ME SOME GUACAMOLE and this was the BEST I've ever had,but back too what we had. The Groupon could not be used for any steak so that's why I didn't give them the five stars. We both had their chicken Tacos with rice and beans. They were tasty. The meat was not dry and seasoned very well,but the rice was sorta dry. Other than that we loved everything. We finished the night off with their chocolate T'res leche cake. I LOVE T'res leche cake,but I probably wont order any from there any more. I'll rather take my $3.95 to Pierre's bakery in Blue Island(which has the BEST!!!) OR to Calumet Bakery my second go-to. We loved the service and will be back!
(4)Monica G.
The people here were really nice and the service wasn't the best. The restaurant was nice and clean. The food, wasn't awful but it wasn't great. I wouldn't say this is REAL authentic Mexican food. We had a party of 5. Two adults and three kids. One of us ordered the chicken taco salad, cheese enchiladas, and tostadas. The rice was ok, but nothing to brag about, the beans tasted like they came out of a can. The grilled chicken taco salad wasn't great. The steak tostadas were not great either. The steak was good, but the tostadas didn't have any flavor. The cheese enchiladas were actually really good. They were what we call dry enchiladas. I would go back just for those. I just can't get over how bad the beans were. They had a one limit on chips. The first one was free and other were $1.00 extra. The prices weren't expensive. Our total came out to be about $38.00. If I didn't have a $25.00 gift certificate I wouldn't have been mad about paying that much. I will not be returning. I like my little hole in the wall for Mexican food. = )
(2)Ann M.
I have been a big fan since Art took over the place. WOW. I love the margars! I love the CARNE ASADA! WOW! I love the guac! People! You have to remember this is a FAMILY OWNED restaurant and CHILL.. I loved my server Pat who said, "Take your time. I'll be right back." AND HE WAS! Love this place and the servers and the owner. If you think you'll get better food, service or an owner that says "THANK YOU" as you leave, well..go there.
(5)Jose R.
...Cilantro in Homewood date night gets a ZERO! Food was bland (we chose the buffet style). Tight space. We can smell the cigarette stank off the dude that just walked in and sat next to us. People staring at us HARD! Maybe they have never seen a Latino and Black woman before?? Waitress was genuinely NICE but she didnt come to see if we were ok OFTEN. The man behind us kept talking LOUD!!! His own table was ignoring him!! Had to wait and choke off the cigarette smell before the bill came. Tonja had to chase the waitress down to get the bill, LOL, she did it on her own before I can say anything. LMFAO!
(1)Chris B.
My wife and I went there one a few years back and were not impressed. I think the problem was that the Mexican food was not all that flavorful. Perhaps I have been spoiled with some of the Mexican food available in the Chicago Heights area, but I wasn't all that impressed.
(2)Rose D.
I've eaten at Cilantro a few times before last evening and though it is not the best Mexican food, I always found it above average. But last night was different. When my partner and I walked in shortly before 5, the restaurant was almost empty, only 3 tables were occupied. However, we were told by the hostess that we had to settle for a tiny table for 2 (barely large enough to hold our food once it came), because she had just taken a reservation for 10 and had to push some tables together and didn't know if she'd have to use any of the square tables (which would seat 4) if another reservation came in. What?!? She also couldn't give us one of the higher 'bar' tables (one was in use by a couple) that also sat 4, just in case she had larger groups come in. Well, we were there, so decided to stay at the tiny table, though it should have been our clue to leave. Our server was friendly, if a bit slow. We started out with the highlight of the dining experience -- the chips -- nice and warm and slightly salty. Wish I could compliment the salsa, but it was bland, not even tomatoes in it had flavor -- and no hot sauce to doctor it up and get the heat level up a notch. The frozen margaritas seemed devoid of alcohol and didn't have much flavor -- even after waiting 10 minutes for them (and our server to reappear). The rest of the meal was also quite bland -- and only a step above lukewarm. The only exception was the taco soup my boyfriend had, which was steaming and quite flavorful. We both had combo plates -- his with chiles rellanos, beef taco and something else in a shell (we couldn't remember what the 3rd item was supposed to be and couldn't tell either from the look and as he said, it was tasteless mush). The chiles rellanos had such a heavy batter, it was rendered totally unedible, with the exception of the cheese inside the chile (which couldn't be cut with the knife provided). My taco had more of the flavorless tomato and uncrunchy lettuce and seasonless chicken -- it was saved by the cheese. The enchillada, while cooked nicely, once again, was almost flavorless. And the mini-burrito had the consistency of strained baby food for the filling, which was also lacking in seasoning. It did take a while to get the credit card processed so we could pay. Needless to say, we won't be making a return trip. There are so many good Mexican restaurants in the southeast suburbs, that even if we're nearby, we go to one of those. Or even Taco Bell -- at least there would have been some seasonings on the food -- and hot sauce for me to spice it up to my taste.
(2)Dennis B.
My wife and I had eaten here since it's opening with the original owner. close to 12 years ago. In the last year we became so disappointed with the mistakes in our orders and sometimes atrocious service with selected wait staff we no longer eat at Cilantro. I will hand it to owner Art Trevino, he has some of the best salsa I have eaten and I consider myself a "salsa addict." Art makes great drinks but in the last few years he has cut the amounts given when you order a "Cadillac Margarita." Also other bar tenders still have trouble making my favorite drink "dirty Martini." The chicken tacos are horrible-no taste, dry and nothing to compare to authentic Mexican tacos. Although the beans Art uses are canned, that doesn't bother me as most Mexican restaurants have gone this route. Do yourself a favor if you want good, authentic Mexican food drive to Country Club Hills and go to El Cortez!
(3)Henry N.
Since I knew I was going to be in the Homewood area to get some things accomplished on March 18, I decided to make the time to stop into Cilantro for lunch. Like others, I'd seen the glowing reviews on Check Please. We walked in at just about 11:30 for lunch, and were not greeted by a grinning Art Trevino, but by someone who would rather have been somewhere else. That's okay, she wasn't going to be my server, but even though there were only two tables occupied we were seated in a bizarre little corner tucked back behind the server's station. My wife commented to me but again I smiled it off. What the hell, we were still surrounded by the colorful and clean decor. The server appeared, brought my wife a frozen margarita (which truly was great) and my soft drink, disappeared for a while, then finally took our order. My wife ordered the "Dry Soup" and I the enchiladas; cheese, ground beef (thank you Art, I don't like shredded beef) and chicken. Both meals were served rather quickly, hot and seemed to be seasoned just fine. Like one of the previous reviewers, we ordered the flan and were told they were out of it. Again, smile it off, just another peculiarity. We enjoyed the meal and the surroundings. I intend to go back, at least once, my wife does not. I see some of the reviewers are repeat or faithful customers, maybe that's why some were served more attentively and friendlier. In the Check Please review special mention was made of a particular waitress, one who's been employed there the longest, and her winning smile and friendly attitude. She was working that day, but except for the time she was with some people she knew, she walked around looking like seven days rain. Our server was civil. No more, no less. The soft drink I mentioned earlier? It's a good thing I nursed it because it didn't get refilled until we were asked if we were ready for the check. Unlike when the Check Please reviewers were there, no one cared if we were first timers, and I don't think anyone cared if that was going to be our last time. My two star review reflects only on the service. A so-so meal can be somewhat overlooked if the staff makes an effort to help you have an enjoyable time. In this case, it must be remembered that at most, six tables were occupied by the time we left. If that's stressful, I don't want to be anywhere near those employees on a Friday or Saturday night. The final, ironic bitch is that I enjoyed the food, enough for at least one return visit. I think, though, that if I'm treated as poorly, I'll let someone know immediately. If I don't care for the indifferent server I'll ask to be reseated, If I can't get a soft drink refill, I'll walk up to the bar and asked to be served another. I sent a copy of this to Mr. Trevino, I should have sent one to Check Please.
(2)Xaxa H.
This was my second trip in and WOW! A great meal! The owner, Art, is awesome! My friend had the seafood stuffed portobello, and I had the chicken quesadilla...we shared an order of the sopa seca, "dry soup," which is seasoned angel hair pasta and shrimp with fresh tomato, excellent! LOVE the salsa here, and great chips! The owner suggested the best sipping tequila after the meal, very nice!
(5)Rita K.
This was a second visit and it certainly was a HUGE disappointment. I ordered enchiladas mole. The dish arrived without mole sauce. I took a couple of bites before waitress stopped by and inquired how everything was. I asked her if what was on the enchiladas was mole sauce and she said no and offered to take my plate and put mole sauce over the top of the enchiladas. So she came back a minute later with what appeared to be mole sauce just dumped on top of my enchiladas. The sauce was hardly warm in temperature and tasted awful. My husband even agreed that the mole sauce I buy in a carton tastes better. Both my husband and I ordered onion and cilantro on the side. The waitress brought one little dish of each and upcharged us 0.75 each. Won't ever go back.
(1)Dakota B.
Let me start this way. EVERY NEGATIVE REVIEW IS SPOT ON. *Salsa and Guac in desperate need of salt etc-TRUE! *Service super slow and all around bad-TRUE! *Food tastes like its from cans, jars, and mixes-TRUE! *Feeling like a hostage because you are there-TRUE! *Servers who provide different levels of service depending on the customer-SUPER TRUE! Holy Guacamole. Bad bad bad. My husband and I are on another (short lived and temporary) budget. As such we have been trying smaller, local restaurants. That is how we made the tragic mistake of dining here. I read the reviews before coming and figured the fajita's would be a safe bet. I couldnt have been more wrong. But first things first. We arrive and i go wash my hands. One (womens) toilet for an entire restaurant. It was clogged. Ewwwww. We were seated in a alcove of sorts. I guess in a better run place it could be considered a main dining room. But in this spot....nah. More like an alcove where the servers whizz by while tending to other customers. Speaking of servers, there seemed to only be three working with two assigned to the patio area. That left one server for an entire restaurant full of people. We were promptly seated and provided chips and salsa. That was it for about twenty minutes. We were literally standing up to leave when a waitress came running over to take our drink orders. The drinks immediately came along with menus. I ordered the combination beef and chicken fajitas. Perhaps I am showing my ignorance, but as far as I know fajitas are grilled meat, peppers and onions. This is soooo not the case with this place. Usually with fajitas the steak is long thin slices with a hint of pink in them. In this place, the steak was teeny tiny uniform pieces about a half inch long and about a quarter inch wide. Each one was perfectky browned and crisped on all sides. Clearly these are pre packaged beef strips. Notice i did not say steak. The chicken was swimming in some kind of red sauce and the peppers and onions were mush. The chicken was also in perfectly uniform medallion pieces and were also clearly pre packaged. The dish is presented on a cheap tan plate like one finds at cafeterias and cheap buffets. The meat basically looks like stew. With mushy slimy peppers and onions. There is no sizzling skillet or juicy grilled strips of meat. Nope its like chicken stew made with pre packaged chicken with pre made beef strips sprinkled on top. To make matters worse, the red sauce has mole or mole like ingredients in it. Tomato ey with a cinnamon chocolate kind of flavor. I hate mole so i found the entire thing disgusting. The rice and beans were mediocre and in desperate need of salt. No shakers were on the table and the service was beyond dismal so we decided to eat our disgustig bland meals. We picked at this slop for over twenty minutes before the server checked on us. We informed him that these could hardly be considered fajitas and were more like stew with tortillas. He apologized and came back ten minutes later and claimed that the chef said the "steak" was merely mixed in the chickens red sauce but otherwise all was as it should be. WTF?? Since when is red sauce part of grilled chicken for fajitas. We were like whatever. Had the server remove our pretty full plates and requested the bill. This place is just awful. Nothing was good. Even the sodas tasted chemically and off. The chips were warm but clearly some of the tortillas were to thick for chips resulting in a super hard barely edible chip. The place is poorly run, fulla packaged and processed foods. The menu is misleading. If youre version of fajitas onvolved sauce and a bunch of other nonsense either inform people of this or call it a different dish. Just terrible. Truly.
(1)Chris H.
Don't go here. I've grew up in the area and have gone to Cilantro countless times since I was a kid. I recently went however to my dismay. I've always been a really big fan of the chips and salsa, and they also have decent guacamole. Everything else is ok, nothing to write home about. I usually get the steak burrito, and compared to other mexican restaurants... it's rather bland. The service this time was sub par. First, I ordered an iced tea. Typically... if someone orders an iced tea it's pretty customary to bring sweetener. I asked the server is she could bring me some, only to have the request forgotten later. Strike one. Our drinks weren't refilled to my satisfaction and sat thirsty for the latter part of our stay. Then when we got our food, my mom's was cold and she hardly took but two bites. They also didn't refill our salsa. Which, it's pretty customary to have salsa served with mexican food and you'd think a "mexican" restaurant would recognize this. I politely asked the server for more salsa, all the while my burrito is getting cold. Strike two. After we finished eating we were waiting for our check, (without anything to drink mind you) and hadn't seen our server in over 10 minutes. We told one of the bussers to grab our server and it appeared he promptly did so. Waiting another 5 minutes, we told another busboy to grab our server. Waiting and waiting I'm watching the manager deal with another table across the way who apparently had a rock in their food. The manager made some lame excuse as to why there would be a rock in these people's food and I found the whole explanation laughable. We were still waiting for our check, and at this point my blood started boiling. Eventually I just asked to see the manager, which also took 5 minutes. Here's why I will not be returning here and why they deserve a zero star review. As she's coming over to address us, the customer, she refers to us as "babies." She said something along the lines of "What can I do for you my babies." I understand she probably didn't mean anything by it, but after all the transpired I found it to be completely disrespectful and completely unprofessional. Strike three. At this point I was just completely angered and began explaining to the manager what was wrong. She made excuses for the server, who she said was only "6 hours" on the job and not trained properly I'm assuming. I feel bad for the server, she probably was new and was trained by the idiot manager I'm thinking. The server was nice when we saw her and my tip for her is to find a different restaurant to work in. After that I explained that my mom's food was cold and about how long we waited for our check. In the manager's defense, she did try and comp our meal... however that wasn't what we wanted. We just wanted to pay and leave. I will not be returning here ever again, which is sad because I have many fond memories of eating here over the years.
(1)Monya M.
First, the salsa is good. The outdoor seating is really nice. The rest is BLEH. Bland. Service was fine. My wife and I drank a whole pitcher of margaritas and were NOT EVEN TIPSY. That's how strong those babies are. $65 for two with drinks and tip. We would have enjoyed Taco Bell more, for the price.
(2)Marc F.
Like a few others had mentioned, I perked up when I saw this place get reviewed on "Check Please!". Having lived in Homewood all my life, I sadly admit I never tried the place before... But seeing it on the TV showed me how much I'd been missing. So the wife and I checked it out this past Friday after work. We walked right in, and were shown to a table in the enclosed patio. The decor is inviting as anything else in the south burbs; Some stuff on the walls, and a few TVs playing whatever is on ESPN. As others have mentioned, the chips and salsa are top notch. Hot crispy, well salted chips, and a salsa with a little kick, and plenty of freshness to it. Superb. Looking over the menu, I will admit I wasn't blown away. I'm a HUGE queso fiend, and found their 7 dollar queso seemed pricey, considering entrees coming in at 8-12 bucks. So, the wife and I decided to stick it out with the chips and salsa, and just ordered the entrees. A chicken burrito for the wife, and steak enchiladas for me. I must note here, the excellent service. Our waitress was extremely nice. When she saw how quickly I blew through my first glass of pop, she returned with a pitcher. I nearly cried. OK, not really... but to me, that shows a real care for the customer. Entrees arrived promptly. The burrito was a football sized pile of goodness, so sayeth my bride. She ended up taking 1/2 of it home. She even ate the leftovers. My kudos to the chef on that one! My enchiladas were chock full of tasty bits o' steak. My only concern was the menu had mentioned a mole sauce. Maybe I misread, buy my enchiladas had no sauce. The accompanying rice and beans weren't necessarily anything to write home about, but as filling starches... they did their job. Ultimately, I know we'll be back. Given the choice of the area (chains like Chilis and Applebees, offering chain food... or a few real local gems like Gradys) Cilantro stands as it should be: A casual place for a good affordable plate of standard mexican food. I can't recommend the salsa enough. I'll be trying some of the house specialties next time, in hopes for more "bold" flavors to come.
(4)Tanya W.
The food was excellent! Service was outstanding! This was my first visit and I will definitely be back again.
(4)Elizabeth D.
Cilantro has done an amazing job healing the rift in my heart made by the departure of their predecessor, the Snack Shack. The atmosphere is artistic and cozy, and the floor still has the same red brick tile. The food is always excellent, not too spicy, not too mild, and they offer lots of great options for vegetarians. Have the gazpacho if it's in season, and make sure you walk there, because after one of their yummy margaritas, you should not be driving home.
(5)The Consumer U.
Great local place - I've been going here for local Mexican when in the Homewood area since it converted to Cilantro from being "Snak Shak" back in the day. Awesome salsa which is jam-packed with cilantro and great mexican entrees. Nothing out of this world, but everything is dependable and I think the atmosphere is layed back and cozy enough to bring you back time after time.
(4)Jerry W.
Maria and I are still off from work and enjoying another week day lunch. We saw Cilantro in Homewood on a brand, new recent episode of Check Please. So we decide let's stop over there for lunch and give it a try. We start with the fresh Guacamole. Also the usual Chips and Salsa too. The chips were warm, salty and fresh tasting. The Guac had huge chunks in it and was very fresh tasting. My wife and I both thought this is some of the best Guacamole we have sampled in quite sometime. I start by ordering the Carna Asada. My skirt steak was tender and very delicious. It was a bit on the salty side though I will say. I also got a Cheese Enchilda, again a bit salty and rice and beans. Which both the rice and beans were extremely bland tasting. There was almost no flavor to either of them at all. Maria ordered the Sopa Seca or "dry soup". I thought this was very good, my wife thought it was way TOO salty. I will say though a lot of the items we sampled were VERY salty. Well the "dry soup" came with Shrimp, Angel Hair Pasta (which really just seemed like Ramon soup noodles), peppers, cherry tomatos and a white cheese. We both ordered Raspberry Ice Tea too. So when it came time for dessert we tried to order a Flan but they were fresh out. It was lunch time and I'm not sure if there was a huge rush for Flan before we arrived but come on Cilantro how can a Mexican restaurant be fresh out of Flan at the beginning of their day? Well our total bill came to $52 dollars including the tip. I will have to say it was nice to give this place a try but with all the other fine Mexican restaurants in the Chicagoland area we will not be heading back to Cilantro again when we get a taste for Mexican cuisine.
(2)Deb H.
This is one of our favorite Mexican restaurants! We visit often and have never been disappointed with the food, service or drinks. I don't like guacamole but my daughters do and they love it at Cilantro. My husband always orders the potato & chorizo enchiladas and I get either the cheese enchiladas or steak tacos. Mmm mmm good! The chips & salsa are delicious too! Just writing this review is making my mouth water!
(5)Jennifer C.
Wow, I'm shocked that this place got so many bad reviews. I visited the place today (a Saturday at 3pm). It was pretty empty so all the service was speedy. The waiter and busboy were very friendly and made sure we had everything we needed. In my opinion, the portions were rather large. Me and the person I went with came out with three take-out boxes. The food was well seasoned. I would go back.
(5)James G.
Good food, reasonably priced, but needs help with service. We had a waitress who neglected to refill our drinks often. She also put in our appetizer order at the same time of our entrée... Everything came out at once. When checking out, it took a good ten minutes for her to bring the check, longer to run my card, which she almost charge me for the wrong check, then to collect the money took even longer. Food was fresh, and tasty. Chips n salsa are NOT bottomless... U have to pay $3 for that!
(4)Matt H.
As someone who thinks of atmosphere as a very important part of dining in general, and especially in my Mexican restaurants, the initial reaction to Cilantro was pretty positive. It is a comfortable atmosphere that is pleasant to look at. I had a bit of concern about the fact that the restaurant was employed completely by white folks, but that is neither here nor there. The biggest positive being a vegetarian and going to Cilantro is that the menu has many vegetarian options. There is at least one veg-friendly item in each subsection of the menu, and this is refreshing to a person who usually has to special order things in Mexican restaurants. It actually took me a few minutes to decide what to have, and settled on the spinach enchiladas. Their chips and salsa were tops. The chips were nice and flaky, with good flavor, and the salsa had a bit of kick, which was a pleasant surprise. I actually had to have my beverage at hand for the salsa, which is rare for most Mexican restaurants (although it would be appreciated if more places followed suit and gave me spicy salsa.) Unfortunately, I wasn't entirely thrilled about the food itself. The beans and rice are pretty good, although I'm being lead to believe by other reviewers that the beans are canned and not made on site, which is a bit disappointing considering I liked those beans. The entree itself, wasn't very good. The enchilada just didn't have much flavor. It was cooked fine, not burnt or undercooked, but it was pretty bland. I plan to return to Cilantro to have another dish and see if it was a fluke, because based on the atmosphere and the overall good feeling I get, I don't think its that bad, but if I were to judge based solely on the enchiladas, this place would rank a bit lower. It is about middle of the pack for me, as far as local Mexican joints are concerned.
(3)Bridg G.
No, no, no, no. Nothing tasted like anything. Seriously, I don't think there is even a jalapeno up in this joint! The salsa was like canned crushed tomatoes with cilantro, the guacamole was just mashed up avocado, my entrée was the sopa de seca and it tasted JUST LIKE RAMEN! It was overly salty noodles with cheese on top. The place was not clean and there wasn't even any music playing. I have better Mexican food at Applebees.
(1)Bob K.
Not impressed with the decor or the food, my wife loves this place and I don't know why, maybe cause she gets the same thing every time. We've been there 4 or 5 times and I keep hoping its gonna get better. Well I'm done hoping.
(2)Cheryl H.
Oh how I wish Homewood had a REALLY good Mexican restaurant with delicious margaritas but....However, we go because it's close and decent. Usually a nice crowd, good salsa but they could really use a new chef with some new ideas....I think it would be worth the investment. Stick with the carne asada and make your own tacos.
(2)Jan E.
We are so grateful for Cilantro. Not many restaurants in these parts and it's nice to have a local Mexican restaurant. Basic but tasty food. The margaritas were a disappointment but the service is excellent. Good chips and salsa. Best part of this restaurant is the location for us out here in far-out Chicagoland.
(3)Ann S.
Whoever is cooking at Cilantro does not grasp Mexican cooking. For the "basics" (burritos, tacos, etc), Cilantro does an OK job. I ordered Chiles Rellenos, which is a traditional Mexican dish. It was not very good. My chiles were soggy, and there was nothing in the cheese to anchor it in the chili, so whenever I cut into it a blob of cheese would plop out onto my plate, surrounded by soggy poblano juice. Also, the beans were canned, and the salsa was more mild than Tostitos. I really don't have a problem with canned beans if you're cooking at home and don't feel like taking 5 hours to make some refried beans. But if I'm plunking down $10+ for a meatless entree, there had better be some house refried beans on my plate. The tragedy of it all: their margaritas are AWESOME! So if you're in the Homewood/Flossmoor area and you need a margarita, check out Cilantro. Unless it's Sunday, or after about 9:30PM. Cilantro is only open until 10 Mon-Thur and Saturday, 11PM on Fridays. Otherwise, Pepe's sadly has better Mexican food.
(2)Kevin M.
A great place close to home for good margaritas
(3)Pat F.
The salsas (mild or hot) are terrific and the tortilla chips are warm and fresh, never greasy. The enchiladas are just like my grandma used to make--fantastic! The veggie burrito is my favorite dish. They mix a powerful and tasty Margarita too. Yum!
(5)Mopsie B.
I grew up in the area and Cilantro used to be good, when it was smaller. I think it's under new ownership or something. Anyway, a friend and I went two summers ago on a Friday night. It was as though this place was a club or something- throngs of cars and people everywhere. Parking was a nightmare. I was horrified to see a security guard with a GUN standing by the door. Really? Why do you need that here? My friend was really freaked out, too. Anyway, the decor was not how I remembered it from years before- it is now more of a darkened bar. That said, you could tell the margs are from a mix, so I just got beer. My food was ok but not super authentic Mexican- I had veggie quesadillas. They used to have these amazing spinach quesadillas but not anymore. Oh, well. The food was filling and fine and the bill was more than decent but I am confused by this place, frankly. I guess living in Colorado for 10 years got me used to authentic, good Mexican, so I'm too spoiled to appreciate Cilantro for what it is.
(2)Raj G.
Excellent Mexican restaurant!!!! Friendly atmosphere..locals gather here..owner Arthur likes to get to know you to make you comfortable
(4)Jef B.
NOT the best "Mexican" (is it even Mexican? Ameri-Mex maybe) in the south suburbs, imho, but only five minutes from my house so this is a no-brainer for an occasional dinner. Excellent, killer margaritas. Comfortable atmosphere. I usually see no Hispanic people dining here, whereas if you go to La Mex in Orland Park you see plenty. Just saying. But none of the food tastes like it "should" - the only reason we are repeat customers is that it is one of the better restaurants within a short drive of our house. In that respect they have little competition. If you want better Mexican food but still in the southlands, go to La Mex in Orland Park.
(4)mindy m.
We go here pretty much every week. Enough said. The salsa is made fresh and the guacamole is the best i've had outside of Mexico. None of that "let's dump a bunch of onions to skimp on the avocado" bidness here. Sure, it's our local place so we're partial to it, but if you can't make it to Mexico or Pilsen, this is a great alternative. If Art's making the margaritas they're sure to be great--no mixes here like at El Cortez.
(4)Emily N.
So once a month I have to drive to these stupid work meetings. We sit around and discuss the same crap we discussed last month. I have to listen to the same super annoying guy say super annoying shit each and every time. It's enough to make me crazy! The only thing that gets me through is knowing that I'm heading out for a leisurely lunch with one of my girlies afterwards. Cut to Cilantro. The homegirl digs it because they have a pretty decent selection of veg options and killer margaritas - and a really nice patio. Plus, it's not too far from her office so it's fairly convenient. We decide it's Mexican for lunch. We head out to the patio where the waitress comes by for our drink order. Two Pepsi's please. (I know what you're thinking - but I was really hungover - no more booze today thank you). Takes her a bit of time to make it back, but since she came armed with chips and salsa too it was all good. I order the steak nachos and the gal pal gets the portabello fajitas. She is in love with those things - I swear she'd marry them if she could. I, however, wasn't so impressed. The steak was tender but super salty, and trust me, it's hard for something to be over salted to me. They melted a TON of cheese over these things which was a huge plus. The problem is, the rest of the toppings were laid out in rows over the top chopped salad style. Major pain in the ass to build a proper bite since the melted cheese had all the chips stuck together. Nachos should be layered man! And because of the extreme saltiness I was downing the pop and it was never refilled promptly. In her defense, there were about 4 other tables and no other servers. But hell, I used to be a server and know that a place that offers free refills but leaves empty glasses around is a no no. Here's the scoop - if you're a veggie head - you'll dig it. If not - go to Pilsen and save the gas money - and your arteries.
(2)Lilac W.
MY GRANDMA WORKS HERE AND IT'S THE BOMB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I've been to New Mexico where Mexican food is like really popular but they stink compared to Cilantros!!!
(5)Tricia D.
Best salsa in the south suburbs!!!!! Friendly service and fun decor! I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who enjoys good mexican food!
(5)Jose T.
From the salsa to the decor, this place is for the unsuspecting 'guero'. There is nothing authentic about this place. I'm not sure the salsa even had any peppers in it. It tasted of tomato & cilantro - period. Same for the guac - might as well have been plain avocado mash. Upon being seated, we waited for about ten minutes before a sever even approached us. She asked what we would like to drink, (at this point, we hadn't even been offered a menu yet). I had the portobello fajitas - cooked well but a little bland (I wished I had a salt shaker at my table). The margarita looked like it came to me after being left at the bar by someone else. It was about 3/4 of the way full & I'd be surprised if it had any tequila in it. My redhead had the sopa seca/shrimp. SHE WAS NOT IMPRESSED (I'll just leave it at that). This place just seemed like a gringo's sad attempt at making Mexican food. As far as their tag line 'AYE TE WATCHO!' What the fuck language is that?! It certainly isn't Spanish, but this is: NUNCA VOLVERE!!!
(1)Joanna B.
I love their chips and salsa! Great vegetarian choices too!
(5)Steve M.
Went there last night for the band....the food-----very disappointed. Very bland and the mole was the worst. The food lacked flavor and kick. Will not return:(
(1)Trent C.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican, look elsewhere. The food here is good and always fresh. The guacamole is always good. Order a margarita or a pitcher of Sangria, as it is some of the best in the area. The fajitas, enchiladas and burritos are all good options. Always has a good crowd during the week and can get a little busy on the weekend. Expect there to be families here but you always get a good mix of the young and the old. Atmosphere is pleasant. Wait staff are always very good but can be slow depending on how busy the dining room is. The restaurant also features an excellent patio area on the side. Definitely worth a try.
(3)barbara r.
Have been coming here for years. The food is yummy, great staff, great patio. Art (owner), is extremely creative and is always making great changes to this little gem in Homewood.
(4)Janet M.
Very dependable restaurant. I'm definitely a fan of the salsa and guacamole. Good chips, too. Good spot for a quick, reasonable dinner.
(4)