tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-128966132012-02-12T15:17:52.332-06:00A review of steak burritos in the Chicago/Northwest Indiana area and anywhere else I visit <p><a href="http://burritodigest.blogspot.com/2005_03_01_burritodigest_archive.html">Purpose and Methodology</a> <a href="http://burritodigest.blogspot.com/2006/09/rankings_12.html">Official Burrito Rankings</a> <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en&q=&msa=0&msid=117976984955258187359.0000011271f1443e84fef&z=8&om=1">Burrito Map</a>Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.comBlogger811100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-9011174792997116082011-12-16T19:00:00.002-06:002011-12-30T12:48:52.986-06:00

Fuerte Meat Market1820 BroadwayEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-8507Hours:N/ADecember 16th, 12:00 p.m.

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-60948915944095972872010-05-16T17:00:00.002-05:002010-06-03T22:02:31.080-05:00

Casa Del Mar650 Ridge RoadMunster, IN 46321 MAP(219) 836-5050Hours:N/AMay 16th, 5:00 p.m.On a sunny Sunday evening during game one of the Blackhawks’ eventual sweep of the San Jose Sharks, I popped into Casa Del Mar for the usual to go. Casa Del Mar was formerly one of Casa Del Rio’s two locations (the other location in Merrillville is closed as well.)Containing steak, beans, lettuce, and tomato,

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-91624126875272626642010-04-28T13:00:00.002-05:002010-05-28T09:00:31.188-05:00

Avila’s Bar & Grill823 West Chicago AvenueEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-0070Hours:N/AApril 28th, 1:00 p.m.Avila’s is definitely more bar than grill. Locals drinking beer and doing shots while watching baseball prompted me to order my steak burrito and a side order of chips and salsa (not complimentary if “dining” in) to go.Although the steak was quite good with only two small pieces of

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-65108308733340265452010-03-31T12:30:00.007-05:002010-05-28T08:58:14.497-05:00

Los Cantaritos13343 South Baltimore AvenueChicago, IL 60633 MAP(773) 646-4015Hours:Tuesday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.Monday: ClosedMarch 31st, 12:30 p.m.Los Cantaritos is located in Hegewisch just north of Brainard Avenue and is quite a gem. Their menu is typical Mexican fare with hamburgers, hot dogs, and gyros available as well.Getting right to the point

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-66155898085420620572010-03-13T12:30:00.003-06:002010-04-07T22:20:21.572-05:00

Camacho's CantinaTerminal #1Los Angeles International Airport MAP(310) 645-9984Hours: N/AMarch 13th, 12:30 p.m.Upon returning from a cruise of the Mexican Riviera, my wife and I needed a meal before our flight back to Chicago. Luckily there was a Mexican restaurant in our terminal. Why would I wait and review a burrito in LAX after I was in Mexico all week, you ask? Food poisoning! Yes, I got

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-65739122935684834812010-02-26T13:00:00.003-06:002010-03-19T21:52:40.485-05:00

San Luis2141 Indianapolis BoulevardWhiting, IN 46394 MAP(219) 659-5415Hours:Sunday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m to 10:00 p.m.February 26th, 1:00 p.m.San Luis recently starting offering burritos ala carte (to go only) on Wednesdays and Fridays for only $3.95. This might have been in response to La Palma (just up the Boulevard) offering their normally $4.50 burrito for $3.99 on Fridays. Hooray for

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-63334892759992029432010-01-30T16:30:00.005-06:002010-03-19T09:29:07.125-05:00

Señor Salsa15927 South Halsted StreetHarvey, IL 60426 MAP(708) 596-0337Hours:24/7January 30th, 4:30 p.m.Señor Salsa is located a couple of miles north of the Tri-State Tollway on Halsted Street. Seventeen burritos dominate the menu that also features breakfast, dinners, seafood, tacos and tortas, and burgers, dogs, and gyros. Notable burritos include birria (goat) and a combo burrito

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-33680525290061576242010-01-22T11:30:00.004-06:002010-03-19T09:41:35.338-05:00

The Burrito Shop2310 LaPorte AvenueSuite 500Valparaiso, IN 46383 MAP(219) 464-3200Hours:Sunday - Saturday: 11:00 a.m to 9:00 p.m.January 22nd, 11:30 a.m.The Burrito Shop is a fairly new addition to the Valparaiso quick/casual dining scene having opened sometime in mid to late 2009. Not a true taqueria, this restaurant is similar in style to a Chipotle or Moe’s only without the Subway-style

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-90078576490353148472009-12-18T12:30:00.007-06:002010-03-19T09:28:17.099-05:00

La Hacienda Azteca1150 East 150th StreetHammond, IN 46327 MAP(219) 933-8870Hours:Monday - Thursday: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Friday - Saturday: 7:00 a.m. to MidnightSunday: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.December 18th, 12:30 p.m.In the same location as Johnathon’s Mexican & American Food and sporting the same phone number is La Hacienda Azteca. A fairly large breakfast menu featuring pancakes, French toast

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-74660188346876294062009-12-01T12:00:00.004-06:002010-01-25T11:39:45.038-06:00

Taqueria La Frontera572 Torrence AvenueCalumet City, IL 60409 MAP(708) 862-1742Hours:Monday – Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.December 1st, 12:00 p.m.Tucked in the back of the La Frontera grocery store are a small kitchen and a counter with a few stools. Typical taqueria fare is offered including tacos, gorditas, tortas, tostadas, and of course, burritos.For $4.99

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-53024613348515554192009-11-30T14:30:00.004-06:002009-12-31T17:42:23.428-06:00

La Hoya4802 Drummond StreetEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-2281Hours:Monday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.Sunday: ClosedNovember 30th, 2:30 p.m.La Hoya is a small neighborhood grocery store and taqueria/kitchen with apartments blaring Jay-Z tunes above it. There is no real reason for anyone aside from those living in the area to go there due to its limited selection of goods and

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-84135180519785558342009-10-30T12:30:00.004-05:002010-08-11T13:16:52.606-05:00

Jesse's Family Restaurant1941 Summer StreetHammond, IN 46320 MAP(219) 937-8339Hours:Monday – Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.August 11th, 2010 UPDATE: New Ownership - Gorditas el PuebloOctober 30th, 12:30 p.m.Jesse’s opened this summer in what appears to be a lousy location and site of more than a few failed ventures. There was only one other patron in the

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-18807033445374909152009-10-17T21:00:00.003-05:002009-11-24T22:39:09.525-06:00

Taco & Burrito Place Los 3 Panchos1155 West Diversey AvenueChicago, IL 60614 MAP(773) 935-3198Hours:Sunday – Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m.Friday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.October 17th, 4:00 p.m.Well, I have to say, as far as when and where to do a guest review, I sure lucked out on a good place! My husband (John, The Burrito Blogger) and I were

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-74116970164494553542009-09-30T17:00:00.005-05:002009-10-31T22:18:48.438-05:00

Gorditas Tangamanga4714 Indianapolis BoulevardEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-6780Hours:Tuesday – Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to ?Monday: ClosedSeptember 30th, 12:30 p.m.Tangamanga is a massive park located in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. The restaurant's logo features the roof and spire of the Caja del Agua from within the park. I have no idea if gorditas are the regional specialty in that part of

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-26098399785113631552009-09-25T16:00:00.003-05:002009-10-30T17:52:38.141-05:00

Valentin Restaurant3809 Main StreetEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-6591Hours:Monday – Sunday: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.September 25th, 1:30 p.m.El Ranchero closed its long standing original location earlier this year (now focusing on its New Chicago location), and Valentin Restaurant quickly filled its void. With a fairly empty belly from missing breakfast and not getting to lunch until 1:30,

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-3040351155834688352009-08-31T16:30:00.004-05:002009-10-30T17:55:50.322-05:00

Lucy's Restaurant6004 Calumet AvenueHammond, IN 46320 MAP(219) 803-7677Hours:Monday – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Friday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.August 31st, 11:30 a.m.I'm cutting it close by squeezing in my second review of the month on the last day and just before embarking on a trip to Put-in-Bay, Ohio. I will not be looking for burritos in

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-83020297487971153792009-08-25T14:00:00.007-05:002009-10-31T22:22:23.242-05:00

Adrian's Mexican Restaurant1208 S. Carroll StreetEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-5951Hours:Monday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m to 1:00 a.m.Sunday: ClosedAugust 25th, 2009. 12:30 p.m.Located west of the South Shore station, Adrian's features a sizable lounge and tables adorned with pickled jalapeños and carrots. The restaurant appears to appeal to a mixed crowd as I found the dining room was occupied

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-53327838924739402632009-07-24T18:00:00.006-05:002009-08-27T23:10:55.635-05:00

La Palma2040 Indianapolis BoulevardWhiting, IN 46394 MAP(219) 659-2152Hours:N/AJuly 24th, 2:30 p.m.This weekend is Pierogi Fest in Whiting. While I'll be getting my fill of Polish food on Saturday, today I headed to La Palma to get my bi-monthly steak burrito fix. The last time I went to a supermercado for a burrito I got a mouthful of mediocre steak and wilted, near slimy lettuce. This visit I

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-6474909642897315382009-07-17T15:30:00.005-05:002009-07-24T19:19:36.017-05:00

Taco Delight3806 Euclid AvenueEast Chicago, IN 46394 MAP(219) 397-TACO (8226)Hours:Monday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m to 1:00 a.m.Friday: 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.Saturday: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.Sunday: ClosedJuly 17th, 2009. 3:30 p.m.Taco Delight is a carry-out only restaurant that has been in business since 1962. In addition to Mexican food, they also offer gyros, fried shrimp, and breaded lake perch.

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-68035093590569673432009-06-30T19:00:00.007-05:002009-07-07T20:49:58.758-05:00

Elio’s Hot Dogs & Mexican Food6210 West 5th AvenueGary, IN 46406 MAP(219) 944-8155Hours:Monday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m to 7:00 p.m.Sunday: ClosedAs the first review since the death of Michael Jackson, I chose to venture into Mr. Jackson’s hometown of Gary for my burrito fix. Not that I wanted to do a tribute of sorts to him and use cheesy prose such as, “The hot sauce was so good, you just can’t

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-31596404097483813792009-06-19T20:00:00.006-05:002009-07-06T21:52:29.616-05:00

Supermercado Ortega7234 Kennedy AvenueHammond, IN 46323 MAP(219) 845-5899Hours:Monday – Sunday: 11:30 a.m to 7:00 p.m.June 19th, 2009. 12:30 p.m.A faded hand written sign in the front window of Supermercado Ortega says, “Now Open Taqueria La Cabaña.” Tucked in the back corner of the store next to the meat counter are a few stools, a table or two, and a counter to order from. The menu on the wall

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-26327543357826156042009-05-28T17:00:00.013-05:002011-01-02T16:34:48.820-06:00

Johnathan’s Mexican & American Food1147 150th StreetHammond, IN 46327 MAP(219) 933-8870Hours:Monday - Saturday: 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.Sunday: 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.Update: December 18th, 2009.CHANGED OVER TO LA HACIENDA AZTECA.May 28th, 2009. 12:30 p.m.Formally Jonathan’s Pancake House, Johnathan’s has kept the breakfast and lunch menu and added Mexican food and an “h” for some reason to their

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-41909502709710694762009-05-15T20:00:00.006-05:002009-06-11T19:16:38.927-05:00

Javi’s Mexican Restaurant4417 Indianapolis BoulevardEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-6618Hours:Monday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.May 15th, 2009. 12:30 p.m.Javi’s is a new Mexican restaurant on the Boulevard a couple blocks north of Chicago Avenue. Looking at their menu I found a few interesting dishes. Most notable is their house specialty “Cecina Al

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-60035226265494853642009-04-24T20:00:00.003-05:002009-05-09T10:42:51.327-05:00

Zantes3619 169th StreetHammond, IN 46320 MAP(219) 844-0222Hours:Monday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.April 24th, 2009. 5:00 p.m.First off, Zantes is a Greek fast food restaurant known primarily for their gyros (big surprise). I discovered they offered burritos, steak only, when I stopped in for a sub sandwich and some soup last winter. They also feature

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-66753839663891718912009-04-08T15:00:00.005-05:002009-04-19T18:09:22.912-05:00

El Michoacano2003 BroadwayEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-0251Hours:Sunday – Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.mFriday – Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.mApril 8th, 2009. 3:00 p.m.Right next door to the Fiesta Palace banquet hall in East Chicago is El Michoacano. Upon review of the steak burrito and chips and salsa at El Michoacano, I believe it is pretty much the same as Fiesta Palace #2 in

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-39907764719865473762009-03-31T15:00:00.007-05:002009-04-08T00:50:05.962-05:00

Don Andres #15318 Hohman AvenueHammond, IN 46320 MAP(219) 937-0000Hours:Monday – Saturday: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.Sunday: 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.March 31st, 2009. 3:00 p.m.Don Andres #1 bills itself as a Mexican & American restaurant. Breakfast features typical diner fare such as two eggs with choice of meat, pancakes, omelettes, and skillets as well as Mexican favorites like huevos rancheros, and

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-79137529580832754422009-03-20T17:00:00.003-05:002011-01-02T16:29:39.181-06:00

El Paisano8241 Hohman AvenueSuite CMunster, IN 46321 MAP (219) 836-2919Hours:Monday: ClosedTuesday – Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Update: November 21st, 2009.CLOSED!March 20th, 2009. 12:00 p.m.El Paisano (The Countryman) is primarily a carry-out restaurant although there are a couple of tables available if you choose to eat inside. I ordered my burrito to go and

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-92007164778892356292009-02-27T15:30:00.004-06:002009-03-18T10:14:22.115-05:00

Tacolandia4204 Indianapolis BoulevardEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-6009Hours:Monday – Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.February 27th, 2009. 3:30 p.m.You would think with a name like Tacolandia that the menu would be skewed towards said tacos. That is not the case at all as tacos are listed as a side order for $1.25 each and in the appetizers section as two tacos, rice, and beans for $4.50

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-2653044987997859962009-01-30T17:00:00.003-06:002009-03-18T09:59:21.999-05:00

Plaza Garibaldi4302 Indianapolis BoulevardEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-2237Hours:24/7January 29th, 2009. 11:45 a.m.Being open 24 hours is a beautiful thing for those seeking a late night meal from somewhere other than a diner or fast food joint. Other than the nasty Swanel pop, Plaza Garibaldi does not disappoint.I ordered my burrito to go (while asking for a handful of chips to be thrown

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-46887670605649098372009-01-21T20:15:00.003-06:002009-01-31T11:00:06.942-06:00

Casa Lupita533 West Columbus DriveEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 398-9334Hours:Monday - Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.January 21st, 2009. 1:30 p.m.Lately I’ve been getting my burritos to go and not getting a chance to munch on chips and salsa before my burrito arrives. I’ll have to change that.The menu at Casa Lupita, aside from containing hamburgers, hot dogs, and hot wings, is entirely Mexican

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-4449161026037538872009-01-09T22:00:00.004-06:002009-01-25T22:18:07.894-06:00

Vallarta Restaurant3825 Main StreetEast Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-3337Hours:Monday - Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Sunday: ClosedJanuary 9th, 2009. 1:00 p.m.Vallarta’s specialty is tacos al vapor. These steamed tacos are available with cabeza, cachete, or lengua (beef head, cheek, or tongue) served in a steamed corn tortilla and garnished with onions, cilantro, and salsa. In addition to

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-80307420700322280442008-12-11T16:30:00.005-06:002009-01-09T23:32:11.303-06:00

Las Salsas6022 South Columbia AvenueHammond, IN 46320 MAP(219) 937-9370Hours:Monday - Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.December 11th, 2008. 2:45 p.m.My first impression of Las Salsas was very positive. Upon entering I was happily greeted by the young lady behind the register. As I ordered my burrito to go I also noticed the cleanlines of the restaurant and the nicely stocked coolers filled with a

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-50372157730747401462008-12-03T16:00:00.003-06:002008-12-04T23:06:53.383-06:00

Gomez Tacos & Pizza922 Hoffman StreetHammond, IN 46327 MAP(219) 937-4016Hours:10:00 a.m. to midnightDecember 3rd, 2008. 1:45 p.m.With three locations (the other two in Chicago and Calumet City) and a four page menu that features everything from traditional Mexican fare to pizza, fried chicken, burgers and dogs, and even catering, there is something for everyone at Gomez Tacos & Pizza. This

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-74891332611963570442008-11-20T19:00:00.002-06:002008-12-30T19:49:42.530-06:00

Taqueria San Francisco640 East Gostlin StreetHammond, IN 46327 MAP(219) 853-9657Hours:N/ANovember 19th, 2008. 2:15 p.m.This place has some of the weirdest dining tables I’ve ever seen. Probably vintage 1970’s, the tabletops resemble small seashells suspended in lime jello. I last ate at this restaurant at least 6 years ago when I was a tech for Ameritech (R.I.P.). I believe it had a different

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-36080012881666751852008-11-19T18:00:00.002-06:002008-11-27T16:27:22.444-06:00

Gorditas Los Metates4542 Hohman AvenueHammond, IN 46327 MAP(219) 933-7554Hours:N/ANovember 19th, 2008. 1:45 p.m.Metates are grinding stones used to turn corn into masa to make tortillas. With 11+ varieties it’s not surprising that gorditas (little fat ones) are the specialty at this restaurant. The name of the restaurant should give you a clue as well.Unfortunately, burritos are not remotely

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-59347967061993503202007-10-27T21:30:00.000-05:002007-11-10T12:40:06.630-06:00

El Farol6136 South Archer RoadSummit Argo, IL 60501 MAP(708) 563-1022Hours:24 hoursOctober 27th, 2007. 4:30 p.m.Is it El Farol or El Faro? In the phonebook and anywhere on the web it’s El Farol (the lantern), but the restaurant sign and employees’ shirts say El Faro (the lighthouse). Signage and marketing materials don’t lie, however I’ll leave the “l” on the end as long as it’s known that way on

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-35744613502484082772007-10-27T20:15:00.000-05:002007-10-29T20:40:35.349-05:00

Taqueria Los Gallos6222 South Archer AvenueChicago, IL 60638 MAP (773) 585-8835Hours:Sunday - Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.Friday - Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 a.m.October 27th, 2007. 3:00 p.m.Cockfighting is commonplace in Mexico, and Taqueria Los Gallos (the roosters) has depictions of these events on their walls and menus. That’s all I have to say about that.Pickled cauliflower and carrots

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-32199474295117441422007-10-24T18:00:00.000-05:002007-10-29T18:18:59.922-05:00

La Loma2501 Chicago RoadChicago Heights, IL 60411 MAP(708) 754-4808Hours:N/AOctober 24th, 2007. 5:00 p.m.I had hoped that the steak burrito at La Loma would be as good if not better than the one I got at La Balanza seeing as they are both grocery stores with fresh meat and produce. Unlike La Balanza, you can dine in at La Loma and get chips and salsa and grab a beer from the cooler if desired (or

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-18112239623677535062007-10-22T19:45:00.000-05:002007-10-29T15:54:12.848-05:00

Los Alteños6736 Kennedy AvenueHammond, IN 46323 MAP(219) 845-0500Hours:Monday - Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Friday - Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.October 22nd, 2007. 5:45 p.m.Los Alteños starts you out with excellent tortilla chips served up warm with a thin red salsa that was fairly hot as far as spiciness goes. You could order pico de gallo for $1.00 or guacamole if the salsa is not to

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-66527289835494320202007-06-26T22:15:00.000-05:002007-06-27T00:01:34.991-05:00

Memo’s Taco Mex2128 45th StreetHighland, IN 46322 MAP(219) 934-7300Hours:Monday: ClosedTuesday - Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Friday: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.June 26th, 2007. 7:00 p.m.This was the third time I went to Memo’s for a burrito review. The first two times my Canon SD400 camera geeked out and corrupted the CF cards. A

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-51624967041496665192007-06-25T21:16:00.002-05:002011-01-02T16:27:19.625-06:00

Casa Del Rio2225 West Lincoln Highway (Route 30)Merrillville, IN 46410 MAP(219) 769-0688Hours:N/AUpdate: December 21st, 2008.CLOSED!June 25th, 2007. 7:30 p.m.I’ll start right off saying I wish Stones Bones was still at this location. I would much rather have had some ribs on this night than the poor excuse for a steak burrito I got at the House of Rio.Chips arrived warm and unsalted with a good

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-46148425452668240672007-05-22T19:13:00.000-05:002007-05-24T15:43:50.196-05:00

La Balanza19100 Burnham Ave.Lansing, IL 60438 MAP(708) 889-0224Hours:Monday - Sunday: 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.May 22nd, 2007. 6:30 p.m.You wouldn’t think you can order food when passing La Balanza. It is, after all, a supermercado. Rest assured, back by the meat counter is a full blown carry out taqueria.After ordering my burrito, the guy behind the counter grabbed a sizeable amount of seasoned

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-5759790681834172042007-05-21T20:52:00.000-05:002007-05-24T15:46:46.328-05:00

Steak Burritos3028 W. 45th StreetHighland, IN 46322 MAP(219) 924-6667Hours:Monday - Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday: ClosedMay 21st, 2007. 5:30 p.m.What an ideal name for a restaurant to be reviewed by this blog. The name is rather deceiving, though, as you look at their menu and can order a Chicago Style hot dog, gyro, Philly cheesesteak, Italian beef sandwich, or a Maxwell Street

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-12706825785061748972007-04-14T23:00:00.000-05:002007-05-24T15:48:31.705-05:00

El Burrito Mexicano936 W. AddisonChicago, IL 60613 MAP(773) 327-6991Hours:Monday - Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.Friday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 a.m.Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.April 14th, 2007. 7:00 p.m.For some reason (something stupid like friendship I suppose) I went with my friend Sean to suffer through a Cubs game from one of the famous rooftops. Unfortunately, the Cubs won. Go

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-30678329529293431902007-02-23T19:16:00.000-06:002007-05-24T15:50:18.531-05:00

El Mariachi2013 Hart StreetDyer, IN 46311 MAP(219) 322-9566Hours:Monday - Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Friday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.February 23rd, 2007. 1:00 p.m.Not to be confused with El Mariachi in Lansing, Illinois, this restaurant operates under different ownership and has been open only a matter of months (as evidenced by the temporary

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-64746705440771837862007-02-22T18:23:00.001-06:002011-01-02T16:25:52.563-06:00

Los Magueyes2562 45th StreetHighland, IN 46322 MAP(219) 922-9720Hours:N/AUpdate: October 11th, 2008.CLOSED!February 22nd, 2007. 4:00 p.m.A quick Google search informs me that magueyes are a species of agave plant from which tequila is made. Rather interesting since no alcoholic drinks are served at Los Magueyes. Maybe they’re working on their liquor license.This relatively new restaurant offered

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-28791518642498591532007-02-19T20:07:00.000-06:002007-05-24T15:52:31.564-05:00

El Charro5031 East 81st Ave. (Route 30)Merrillville, IN 46410 MAP(219) 947-1737Hours:N/AFebruary 19th, 2007. 6:00 p.m.El Charro, similar to other establishments I reviewed, does not specifically offer a steak burrito a la carte on their menu. This is usually a sign of bad things to come. When the waiter said they could do a steak burrito for $4.50 (chicken or beef burritos are $3.49), I knew I

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1158110860815468752006-09-12T20:27:00.002-05:002006-11-17T23:13:11.066-06:00

El Gallo Tapatio13642 S. Cicero AvenueCrestwood, IL 60445 MAP(708) 371-9668Hours:Sunday – Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.Friday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m.September 9th, 2006. 1:00 p.m.After introducing my wife to the train wreck that is Swap-O-Rama in Alsip, southbound on Cicero we went in search of a place to eat lunch. After about a mile we came to El Gallo Tapatio.If you order at

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1157781377560153622006-09-09T00:56:00.000-05:002006-09-12T20:02:25.700-05:00

Camino Real6821 Grand AvenueHammond, IN 46323 MAP(219) 554-1626Hours:N/ASeptember 7th, 2006. 2:30 p.m.In the shell of a late ‘70s/early ‘80s Taco Bell stands Camino Real. Unfortunately, as you’ll soon see, I would have been better off going to Taco Bell for a burrito than this place.Upon ordering, the waitress informed me that their burritos come with sauce and cheese on top. I stated I wanted to

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1156210752797999172006-08-21T20:39:00.001-05:002011-01-02T16:21:58.627-06:00

Fiesta Cancun1491 E. 82nd AvenueMerrillville, IN 46410 MAP(219) 791-0830Hours:Monday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Friday – Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Update: August 4th, 2008.CLOSED!July 28th, 2006. 8:00 p.m.Burrito: Steak, lettuce, pico de gallo, and cheese. Good steak flavor although a little dry. Overall kinda bland. Nominated for crappiest fold

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1154133562140975812006-07-28T19:39:00.001-05:002011-01-02T16:21:00.427-06:00

Las Piñatas7805 Taft St.Merrillville, IN 46410 MAP(219) 736-6050Hours:Monday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Friday – Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.Sunday: ClosedUpdate: June 19th, 2008.CLOSED!July 25th, 2006. 12:00 p.m.Las Piñatas just opened this summer and is easy to miss due to its location. No doubt this is why flags are strung across the parking lot.Dining as a party of one this day I

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1150492971841179062006-06-16T16:20:00.000-05:002007-05-24T15:54:28.513-05:00

The RodeoI-65 & Indiana Rt. 10Lake Holiday PlazaRoselawn, IN 46372 MAP(219) 345-4511Hours:N/AJune 16th, 2006. 1:30 p.m.I would have never found this place had I not been working in Roselawn/Demotte for the week. The billboard off the interstate directed me to the restaurant in the Lake Holiday Plaza, which is pretty much all there is to Roselawn.The exterior and interior of The Rodeo fail to

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1148948694213814972006-05-29T19:24:00.000-05:002006-09-08T18:16:57.690-05:00

La Quesadilla10033 Wicker Ave. (Route 41)St. John, IN 46373 MAP(219) 365-7357Hours:N/AMay 29th, 2006. 4:30 p.m.One of the owners told me they have a couple restaurants in Tennessee and decided to venture this way and grab a piece of the dining dollar pie. They must be successful down there as they sure spent some dollars on the building décor and signage unlike most small Mexican joints (i.e. the

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1145503416649807792006-04-19T22:23:00.001-05:002009-06-26T22:30:06.205-05:00

Burritos Jalisco 508 North HalleckDemotte, IN 46310 MAP(219) 987-5056Hours:N/AApril 16th, 2006. 8:00 p.m.Last time I checked, the word burrito had two rs in it. They must have bought the sign for Burritos Jalisco on clearance. The thoroughly underwhelming exterior of this strip mall restaurant is matched equally by the interior. As with any burrito joint, aesthetics are usually not an indicator

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1142218689281836912006-03-12T20:58:00.000-06:002006-09-08T18:16:08.546-05:00

Taqueria Los Comales4841 Indianapolis Blvd.East Chicago, IN 46312 MAP(219) 397-2192Hours:N/AMarch 12th, 2006. 6:30 p.m.It seems odd to me that chips and salsa are not available at Los Comales. I don’t just mean that they weren’t served up before my burrito arrived, but they are not even listed on the menu (although guacamole is for $3.99). Each table does however have a two-gallon tub of pickled

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1137386514033838112006-01-15T22:41:00.001-06:002009-02-07T23:56:15.025-06:00

Fiesta Palace 26220 BroadwayMerrillville, IN 46410 MAP(219) 887-3377Hours:Sunday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.January 15th, 2006. 7:15 p.m.Note to self: Don’t wait over one month to write a review after visiting a Mexican joint. Things get a little fuzzy you know.While driving blindly this Sunday evening, I came across the Fiesta Palace. It used to be an Italian

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1136168740724752322006-01-01T20:25:00.000-06:002007-05-24T11:54:06.012-05:00

Taqueria El Charro3655 East 106th St.Chicago, IL 60617 MAP(773) 734-3584Hours:N/AJanuary 1st, 2006. 2:15 p.m.I can’t believe it’s been over two months since my last review. Working a new job that takes up 70+ hours a week not to mention being on call 24/6 has seriously been eating into my burrito time! So let’s start off 2006 with a trip to Chicago’s East Side and hope we come away happy.The

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1130043226788436442005-10-22T21:00:00.001-05:002011-01-02T16:19:53.379-06:00

Habaneros1058 Joliet StreetDyer, IN 46311 MAP(219) 864-9333Hours:Monday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Friday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Update: November 30th, 2007.CLOSED!October 22nd, 2005. 1:30 p.m.Upon entering Habaneros, I was greeted by a clean, nicely decorated interior (the restaurant is quite new) and Mexican music that was on the loud side. I

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1129696483360672552005-10-17T19:30:00.002-05:002011-01-02T16:37:55.766-06:00

Las Brisas6000 Calumet Ave.Hammond, IN 46320 MAP(219) 932-3406Hours:Monday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Update: August 31st, 2009.CHANGED OVER TO LUCY'S.October 17th, 2005. 5:00 p.m.Las Brisas not only serves Mexican food; they offer gyros, rib tips, fish sandwiches, burgers, and pizza puffs. You order at the counter and grab a seat in the somewhat disheveled interior.The small basket of

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1129695423525460592005-10-14T21:10:00.000-05:002005-11-16T20:18:12.000-06:00

El Loro99 Willow BendCrystal, MN 55428 MAP(763) 537-9688Hours:N/AOctober 14th, 2005. 4:00 p.m.Coming back from our trip to Canada, we stopped in Minneapolis to go to The Mall of America and do whatever else we had time for (yeah, right). I came across El Loro when searching the web for recommended Mexican restaurants in the Minneapolis area.Chips and salsa were very good. There was also what I

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1129693238070181332005-10-09T22:30:00.000-05:002005-11-14T21:04:45.986-06:00

Acapulco1303 34th St. SWFargo, ND 58103 MAP(701) 297-0355Hours:Open daily at 11:00 a.m.October 9th, 2005. 11:15 a.m.When planning our trip to Winnipeg, Manitoba to visit friends we met on a cruise, I knew I wanted to get in a couple of burrito reviews along the way, eh? Fargo seemed like a good stopping point, and after a quick web search I found Acapulco to be the most favored restaurant in the

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1129594998741346942005-10-02T21:15:00.003-05:002011-01-02T16:16:13.451-06:00

Chela’s Authentic Mexican Kitchen3325 45th St.Highland, IN 46322 MAP(219) 924-6833Hours:Monday: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Tuesday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Friday: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Update: August 11th, 2009.CLOSED!October 2nd, 2005. 7:00 p.m.Chela’s is a great place for a family meal or for a quick bite for one (like

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1124255352770788552005-08-15T21:45:00.000-05:002007-05-24T15:56:47.694-05:00

Rios Mexican Food2715 Franklin St.Michigan City, IN 46360 MAP(219) 878-1802Hours:Monday – Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.August 15th, 2005. 6:30 p.m.No frills and to the point. That’s the way food is served up at Rios and that’s the way this review will go. Residing in a former location of the now defunct Hot ‘N Now restaurant chain, customers can either walk up or drive through to order. You can

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1123997046990924392005-08-08T21:20:00.000-05:002007-05-24T12:03:06.193-05:00

Morelia Restaurant208 LincolnwayLaPorte, IN 46350 MAP(219) 325-8855Hours:N/AAugust 8th, 2005. 7:15 p.m.Morelia is a restaurant/grocery store located almost directly across the street from Colima. The evening of this review found the restaurant devoid of customers (I believe it hasn’t been open too long). I was, however, greeted by a near blaring TV tuned into a typically overdramatic Mexican soap

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1123127068272873422005-07-20T21:40:00.000-05:002007-05-24T15:58:26.224-05:00

Colima 301 LincolnwayLaPorte, IN 46350 MAP(219) 324-0355Hours:N/AJuly 20th, 2005. 5:45 p.m.A quick web search tells me that Colima is a small state in Mexico bordering on the Pacific Ocean. According to this website, the regional cuisine features “the ocean's bounty of fresh seafood, and the typical ranch dishes of western Mexico.” Apparently tortilla chips aren’t the specialty in the state of

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1122862623098914012005-07-08T20:10:00.000-05:002007-05-24T16:00:26.521-05:00

La Bamba1905 Glenn Park AvenueChampaign, IL 61821 MAP(217) 355-6600Hours:Monday – Sunday: 11 a.m. to ?July 8th, 2005. 5:00 p.m.When I first conceived this blog I knew I had to include a review of La Bamba. Their slogan, “Burritos as big as your head!” is well known at Big Ten campuses as well as other college towns and cities throughout the Midwest. I first ate at La Bamba at their Carbondale,

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1120709947360898362005-07-01T17:15:00.000-05:002007-05-24T16:01:18.305-05:00

Mexico Chiquito Restaurant1950 E. Commercial Ave.Lowell, IN 46356 MAP(219) 696-4660Hours:Monday – Sunday: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.July 1st, 2005. 1:30 p.m.I’ll just get right to it with this review. When in the south county area of Northwest Indiana, make your way to Mexico Chiquito. Before writing this review I found this brief article from The Times that gives reason enough to patronize this

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1119997187700365052005-06-18T18:30:00.000-05:002007-05-24T12:02:37.813-05:00

El Bracero burrito digest review4100 Franklin St. (US 421)Michigan City, IN 46360 MAP(219) 872-0760Hours:N/AJune 18th, 2005. 2:30 p.m.After spending the morning on the beach at Mt. Baldy on Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, it was time for a late lunch. My wife and I drove around a little looking for a small, undiscovered Taqueria. No such luck. We went to El Bracero (meaning “the farmhand”)

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1118884871882159882005-06-09T20:00:00.001-05:002009-01-21T18:00:18.200-06:00

La Chiquita2577 Portage MallPortage, IN 46368 MAP(219) 763-6413Hours:N/AJune 9th, 2005. 12:00 p.m.Upon seating myself in the non-smoking section at La Chiquita, I had the unpleasant experience of having my knees sticking to the clear vinyl that was covering the tablecloth. I quickly ordered the burrito ($7.95!) and awaited the chips and salsa that I hoped would take my mind off the vinyl.The

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1117938860655601352005-06-04T20:30:00.002-05:002011-01-02T16:12:55.351-06:00

Taqueria Los Comalitos6929 Calumet AvenueHammond, IN 46324 MAP(219) 852-0380Hours:Monday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Update: July 17th, 2008.CLOSED!June 4th, 2005. 4:00 p.m.My wife and I were coming back from the Livin’ It skate/BMX ministry in Tinley Park, Illinois when hunger hit us both. After dodging rain, we hopped into a restaurant neither of us had

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1117748975149391652005-06-02T16:45:00.002-05:002007-05-24T16:03:22.014-05:00

El Mariachi18331 Torrence AvenueLansing, IL 60438 MAP(708) 889-1937Hours:Monday-Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Friday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.June 2nd, 2005. 1:30 p.m.Located about a mile south of I-80/I-94 on Torrence Avenue in Lansing is El Mariachi. I had driven by there before but never stopped in to eat. Time to change that. This restaurant

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1117149193246225802005-05-26T19:30:00.002-05:002011-01-02T16:14:35.991-06:00

El Caliente2486 W. 81st AvenueMerrillville, IN 46410 MAP(219) 757-3876Hours:Monday - Sunday: 10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Update: March 25th, 2008.CLOSED!May 26th, 2005. 11:30 a.m.Today I was very hungry. I was running on a glass of milk and some vitamins since 6 a.m. What better way to fill one’s gullet than feasting on a steak burrito!This was my first trip to El Caliente which according to their

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1116193265515362592005-05-14T20:20:00.000-05:002007-05-24T11:58:08.416-05:00

Sabor A Mexico3246 169th St.Hammond, IN 46323 MAP(219) 554-0394Hours:Monday - Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.May 14th, 2005. 8:15 p.m.With hunger still lingering after my last review, I headed north to Taste of Mexico. I now hoped that I wouldn’t become too full from eating two burritos.The restaurant was pretty warm inside as was the salsa. Not spicy but temperature-wise. I’m not a fan of this

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1116165465488085542005-05-14T19:30:00.002-05:002011-01-02T16:00:23.235-06:00

Rancho Grande8401 Indianapolis Blvd. (Next to Ultra Foods)Highland, IN 46322 MAP(219) 972-7966Hours:Monday - Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.Update: May 17th, 2010. 12:00 p.m.I ordered a chicken burrito and found it very good although a little runny due to excessive chicken juice and sour cream. Burritos are now $4.69. This particular example weighed 15.6 ounces and was 6.5" in length and 9" in

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1116104020815704532005-05-07T17:30:00.003-05:002011-01-02T16:14:12.430-06:00

Chachan City Burritos9071 E. 109th St.Crown Point, IN 46307 MAP(219) 663-0600Hours:Monday-Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Friday-Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.Update: December 31st, 2010.OUT OF BUSINESS - FALL 2010.May 7th, 2005. 5:30 p.m.I thought I’d start this post with a history of Chachan City and its influence on the flavor of Mexican food (Mayan, Aztec,

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1116095722520043972005-05-06T18:45:00.002-05:002009-10-24T11:28:07.578-05:00

El Amigo312 W. Lincoln Highway (Route 30)Schererville, IN 46375 MAP(219) 865-3022Hours:N/AMay 6th, 2005. 6:45 p.m.I’ve been going to El Amigo since 1993 or so and have always enjoyed their food. My dad even won $100 from the pop-top of a bottle of grapefruit flavored Jarritos there. This restaurant also gave me the idea of the Burrito Digest and has what I considered a benchmark steak burrito. So

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1116095588222309592005-04-29T13:30:00.000-05:002005-11-14T21:12:00.856-06:00

El Ranchero Restaurant3559 Michigan St.New Chicago, IN 46342 MAP(219) 962-4228Hours:Monday-Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.April 29th, 2005. 1:30 p.m.El Ranchero is not only a restaurant but also a full-blown Mexican bakery. Enter to your right and you’re faced with dozens of freshly baked breads and pastries.But alas, we’re here for a steak burrito, so go left and

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1116095508203875142005-04-22T11:20:00.000-05:002007-05-24T12:01:20.600-05:00

San Pedro’s1239 West 37th Ave. (Ridge Road)Hobart, IN 46342 MAP(219) 947-4449Hours:Monday - Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Friday - Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.April 22nd, 2005. Around 11:20 a.m.San Pedro’s is a little more “upscale” than most of the burrito joints I like to frequent although the prices are reasonable. The interior is more sophisticated and

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1116095398414633322005-04-08T11:45:00.003-05:002011-01-02T16:13:35.298-06:00

El Señor Sombrero7856 East 37th Ave. (Ridge Road)Hobart, IN 46342 MAP(219) 963-3243Hours:Monday-Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Friday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Update: March 31st, 2009.Changed over to Don Andres.April 8th, 2005. Around 11:45 a.m.El Señor Sombrero is your typical strip mall Mexican restaurant (or taqueria, if you prefer) shod with slippery

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1158111090822673802005-04-01T20:30:00.025-06:002009-11-30T19:21:41.369-06:00

Restaurants ranked by total score(Value rating + (2 X Flavor rating)) / 3**For you non-algebra types, the above equation merely states the flavor rating is weighted twice as much as the value rating. Simpler yet, flavor is more important to me than cost.9.000 Chachan City Burritos9.000 Don Andres #19.000 El Mariachi - Lansing9.000 Tacolandia8.833 El Mariachi - Dyer8.833 El Señor Sombrero8.667 El

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12896613.post-1116208915960134592005-03-31T12:00:00.000-06:002006-07-09T00:14:14.616-05:00

I’ve loved eating authentic Mexican food ever since my parents used to take me and my brother to Mexican restaurants on Chicago’s East Side and throughout East Chicago, Indiana in the late ‘70s. Eating at these restaurants made Taco Bell seem like a Mexican White Castle. I even recall my brother and myself grossing out at the sight of pig brains in the meat case at the Supermercado next to the

Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08083593443469329194noreply@blogger.com