Fab Review: El Carrito

Influenced by Mexican street food, El Carrito serves an array of traditional and creative tacos as well as other popular Mexican dishes including tortas, elotes, tamales, and more. Located in West Rogers Park, El Carrito is a hidden gem.

This family-owned business is a casual spot with a focus on fresh and high-quality ingredients. Everything is made from scratch daily and the handmade tortillas are made to order. So yum!

I love venturing out to new places in the city so I was excited to try El Carrito. Oh, it’s BYOB so don’t forget to bring your favorite drink!

{Ambiance}
El Carrito has a relaxed environment so it is great for families, friends, large groups, or a low-key night out with your significant other. It is a counter-service restaurant with a knowledgeable staff that does a great job of walking you through the items on the menu.

Several tables are set up throughout the restaurant so getting a seat won’t be a problem. The interior has exposed brick and a converted food cart, giving you the feeling of eating outside. BONUS…There is a parking lot in front of the restaurant, so city drivers…rejoice!

{Food}
They have a variety of options for everyone on the menu. Since items are made to order, you can mix and match as you wish.

Tacos
I ordered the carnitas and pescado (fish) tacos. It was so flavorful. The pulled pork on the carnitas was juicy while the pickled onions were crunchy and fresh. The fried pescado was topped with chipotle aioli and jalapeño cabbage slaw. My favorite was hands down the pescado. The mix of flavors and different textures captured my heart.

Elotes
Elotes are one of my favorite street foods. I grew up eating from elote carts stationed around my neighborhood. I would indulge, every chance that I got. El Carrito’s version is fancier than what I used to eat by the park as a child. Their version had roasted sweet corn on the bottom with mayo, lime, Cotija cheese, and chile added on top. The carts in my neighborhood only appeared in late spring to early fall, so I am excited I can eat delicious elotes all year round at El Carrito!

Mole Fries
This was my first time having mole fries and I can confidently say that it will not be my last! I am hooked! The thickly sliced potatoes are fried to perfection. Mole sauce and sour cream are drizzled over the fries and then topped with Chihuahua cheese and cilantro. The explosion of flavors will surely leave you wanting more.

Torta
I also ordered the tinga (chicken) torta and the chicken itself was so tender. I loved the mixture of the flavors between the two slices of soft bread. If you’re looking for a dish that will leave you full and satisfied, this is way to go. It’s a fairly large portion so share half and order tacos on the side. Who doesn’t love food with a side of food?

FAB TIP: Tamales are available on Saturdays and Sundays in limited quantities.

Churro Bites
For dessert, we had churro bites. The combination of the fried-dough and sugar with the caramel (Nutella option available) dipping sauce was super addictive! You can’t have just one. I was tempted to order another.

{Experience}
Overall, it was a wonderful experience. The food was great, staff was friendly, and the atmosphere was chill. The prices are super reasonable considering everything is made from scratch. With the affordable prices, free parking, and BYOB, it’s the perfect place for a relaxing meal without the fuss.

{Location}
El Carrito
Rogers Park || 6019 N Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL || P: (872) 208–3260

{Price}
$ (Under $10)

{Fab Ratings: 4 Fabs}

They also offer lunch specials, delivery, and catering so check the website for more info.

Have you been to El Carrito? What’s your favorite Mexican street food?

Let me know in the comments below. I look forward to hearing from you.

Until the next venture!

With love,
Van

Note: This meal was not complimentary. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer.