Allende is one of those hole-in-the-wall places that you might pass over at first glance. I highly recommend you don’t or you’ll miss out on a treasure trove of authentic Mexican food. Although the interior design of the restaurant leaves much to be desired, Allende gives you great Mexican food for a price that won’t hurt your wallet.
{Ambiance}
Open until 3 a.m. on regular weekdays and 5 a.m. on weekends, Allende attracts a great diversity of customers throughout the day. On the weekends from Friday to Sunday, the place turns into a late-night hangout for many University students stumbling home from the bars. If you’re looking for some good food after a night of going out, Allende is definitely an option to consider. During the daytime, the place is more subdued and less busy depending on the time you choose to eat. The staff at Allende is consistent every day. If you eat there often enough, they’ll start to recognize you and treat you as a VIP. You’ll feel special since they’ll know your regular order.
FAB TIP: Speaking Spanish is definitely a way to really get to know the waitresses at night as they love talking in Spanish to customers, if possible.
Photo: @chelsias at Allendes, Horchata drinks
{Food}
As for their menu, Allende offers many options. They serve a whole smattering of Mexican favorites from enchiladas to huevos rancheros (which is included in the breakfast “served all day” menu), and burritos stuffed with filling. Their cooking touches upon simple Mexican home cooking, with authentic flavors and ingredients. Each dish is made fast and is delicious in its own way. They also offer combo meals that come with a side of rice and refried beans making it a well-rounded meal. My favorite go-to dish from Allende is their taco dinner, which comes with three tacos, rice, and refried beans. You can choose from many different meats including tongue and vegetarian. There’s definitely something for everyone depending on what you’re craving.
One of the best parts of their menu is that everything is very affordable. Around $2.50 per taco and $10 for a whole taco/enchilada dinner. It’ll leave you full for hours. This is great for those on a budget or looking for cheap eats. Allende provides a great alternative to fast food restaurants because you know that you’re getting your money’s worth in terms of the quality and taste of the food.
Favorite dishes:
Tacos
Their tacos come with many options for protein. You can choose from skirt steak, chicken, beef, tongue, or avocado…but any choice is good. They are topped with sour cream, cheese, tomatoes, and lettuce. You can customize as you wish. With two tortillas to hold the filling, the tacos definitely have a lot of substance. It will leave your belly happily full.
@chelsias at Allende Restaurant
Nachos
Their nachos are one my favorites. With the same options of meat for the tacos, the nachos come with sour cream, guacamole, melted cheese on top, and lettuce. These are a perfect snack to share or to eat on your own. I prefer the latter.
Photo: @chelsias at Allendes
Enchiladas
The Enchilada Dinner comes with three enchiladas, rice, refried beans, and some avocado. They’re perfectly cheesy and gooey. Add avocado on top to give you the perfect bite!
Photo: @chelsias at Allendes
{Experience}
Overall, Allendes is the perfect place to check out with friends or for a quick bite alone. Every time I go there, I am pleasantly surprised. Although it is not the prettiest looking establishment it will leave you gratified in terms of taste and quality. You’ll be coming back for more.
Photo: @chelsias at Allendes
{Location}
Allende Restaurant
Lincoln Park || 2408 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL || P: (773) 477-7114
{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)
{Fab Rating: 4 Fabs}
Eat on!
Chelsia
