I got there about 11:30 the place was crowded but the line moved pretty well the cook's really know what they're doing at this place the burrito was delicious the portion was huge and the price was reasonable 5-star. read more

Great late night taco joint. Milanesa (breaded steak) torta was delicious. Quick service, very reasonable prices. Go!

The best tacos burritos anytime of the day! Known the family since childhood.. every time I go.. never fails great quality meat and the customer services hands down the best at any time of the day read more

This is my favorite one! Because I love there burritos inside of cow's tongue because they are very good taste. And I like to see there coworkers who cooking and does busy day. So I saw some people came here because they have ton of good foods & drinks too. It's nice place! read more

Second Time they mess up my order! 've been going here for the longest and ever since This corona virus they Been messing up. read more

Been going to this place since i was a kid. Now 25 years old and to this day cannot duplicate the taste of El Faro anywhere. a 100% recommendation to any and all of my friends looking for a great tasting and consistent place to get a burrito and more. Thank you El Faro! read more

Always have to stop by when I'm back in the neighborhood. Steak burrito with sour cream and guacamole is a must. If you can eat there or close, try a steak tostada. It needs to be eaten as close to when it's made or the tostada steams in the foil and makes it hard to eat. Parking is a little difficult sometimes but park down Archer road and walk. There's usually a line to give your order but somehow they get to to you without messing it up. Just place your order and step to the right. read more

When a food is great, I always cannot stop myself but to return on the place and that is why I came back here in El Faro. When I went here for the first time, it is because my friends keep on telling me that the food in here are really good especially their burritos and I was able to confirmed it. It is not the food alone but also the place. The service in this place is great too. The staffs are all friendly and helpful and the service is quite fast even though there is a lot of customers. On my recent visit to this place, I got a steak burrito. They also have other options and their menu is actually wide with lots of different authentic Mexican food options. I got my burrito and they are right on their menu saying the giant burrito because the burrito is a real giant with its huge portion. The burrito is so good that I was able to finish it within a few minutes. Their burrito is good and definitely all of their food and the prices is fair and reasonable. This is definitely one of the best spots in the area. I highly recommend this place especially to those people out there who loves burrito and other Mexican foods and I swear that you would not regret if you pay this place a visit! read more

It's a Mexican fast food place. Prices are very reasonable but the food lacks flavor and the salsa was mediocre they have chiles en vinagre but they also need more flavor. I give it 3 stars because it was clean when I went in. I'm not sure if it's as clean late night. I had a giant burrito but it was the basic ingredients and no avocado (you can add it for a price). This is a good spot when you're coming home from a night out and you have to eat something. This would not be my #1 for Mexican. read more

I love El Faro!!!! They have always done a great job!!! The food, service, and cost is great!!!! Thanks El Faro!!!

El Farol was a staple of my not-so-well-balanced diet as a teenager, and into my college years when I would come home to visit with family and friends. It sits in the loveliest (sarcasm) part of Argo/Summit and is a crossroads for so many parts of Chicago. Sitting just off of I-55 on Archer, it is only a few blocks from Harlem, 63rd, 1st Ave- and therefore right where the southwest part of the city meets up with both the south suburbs, and the near-western suburbs. Why does this matter? Simply because it is perfectly positioned to offer a huge variety of people from in and out of town massive burritos and greasy-Americanized Mexican food. As a kid I thought this was the epitome of "Mexican" food, but that was only because I was an ignorant guerro whose only Mexican-American friends were much more American than Mexican. In fact, most of the time I have ever been in El Farol I realize that it is mainly non-Mexicans eating there. I tend to like my tacos garnished with some chopped raw onions, lime (insert Oxford-comma here?) and cilantro- but unless you let them know- they will top tacos with cheese, tomatoes (another Oxford-comma?) and lettuce. Once again- I think more of an American influence on how things are done there, which isn't necessarily a bad thing- just something to keep in mind if you want to check them out (side note- they do offer things like lengua/tongue there- so it isn't totally Americanized). That isn't to say that the food is bad, because it isn't true. If you are looking for big-ass burritos that are enough to feed two or three reasonably sized people, this is the place for you! These burritos are stuffed and packed tight too, and all for a VERY cheap price. If you happen to order a carne asada burrito, you will notice they pull the meat from a Chitchen Itza-sized mound of steak being cooked on their flattop. Plus- the escabeche (pickled hot peppers, cauliflower, carrots and onions) is very good here. Despite knowing now that their food really isn't all that- I will say that they are three-star quality simply for offering a lot of food for little money. Oh- and their jukebox is a great mixture of different types of music, much like the people who come here to stuff themselves with massive burritos. Thumbs up for having Gap Band on their jukebox probably since "You Dropped A Bomb On Me" first came out. read more

Brain: It's 2 in the morning, you're a little tipsy and tired, lets get to bed. Stomach: Yeaaaaa, about that....I'm kinda hungry... Brain: C'mon man its late. Stomach: Dude....Burrito Brain: You're crazy, I'm heading home Stomach: You know I can't let you do that... Brain: Ha, like you can stop me! Stomach: So...chicken or steak on your burrito? Brain: .....Steak It's greasy, it's a little run down... But its open all night and sometimes a giant football sized burrito just hits the spot, and who ya gonna call? read more

I've only ever ordered a steak burrito from El-Farol because it's what I crave every time I'm there; I can't possibly stray from my usual. There are plenty of closer Mexican/burrito establishments in my neighborhood, but this is worth hopping into the car for a quick burrito run, God bless it. This had to be my prime meal of the weekend as it's been a while since we last stopped by. As we pulled up to park on the street, I noticed a line to the door of patrons waiting to order or to get their food. I usually hate standing in line for food since there are plenty of other great places to eat, but I happily got into line and I wasn't going to leave until I got my burrito. [Note to vegetarian/vegan readers: The following material may be carnivorously graphic and explicit.] This isn't a huge place, so most people like to take their food to-go, but I have to admit I imagined plopping myself down in a booth and scarfing down my burrito as soon as I would get it. I wanted to dive into the huge land-fill sized pile of chopped-up steak on the grill and start eating my way through it, slithering through its fleshy goodness. I wanted to savor each and every flavorful morsel starting with the rarest, reddest, juiciest bits. I wanted to wash it all down in a sea of sweet, Horchata before diving back in and starting the process all over again. And again, I dive.... *CJ snaps out of daydream at cash register to pay.* We took our burritos home and, for how ravenously hungry I was, I was only able to eat half of it (they're very huge and filling). I carefully wrapped up the other half and stowed it away into the fridge for the best leftovers life could possibly provide me this weekend. And I lay back and reminisced on the beautiful meal from El-Farol. They rock. read more

The time is 6:00 AM and I am craving a burrito. This is the place to go hands down. This place is a dive - a run down joint. I have known people to be scared away from going in here just because of the way the place looks. They have a good size menu and the price is right on everything. It is not the greatest quality but It is a good value and these guys are fas, fast, fast serving you up. Even when this place is busy the get you your stuff quickly. read more

Amazing!!! Came in after Sox game and love the food! Service was quick. The steak in the burrito was full of flavor and tender...not like the usual over cooked steak we get at other places. Definitely will be back! read more

As authentic as it could get. The burritos are amazing, and I've had carnivore friends tell me that their steak tacos are outta the world. I love how I live only 5 minutes away from here and I could come down here any time I want, as this place is open 24 hours. The last time I came here, a good friend tagged along. The night was still young, but a bunch of cops were around, as there was just a shooting that occurred across the street and a bullet went through one of the windows. The cooks and the customers were nonchalant about it (as if that kind of stuff happened every day), my friend (who's from Downers Grove) freaked out, and I was fascinated. I asked the cops a bunch of questions until my friend dragged me out. Their burritos are worth dodging a pesky bullet or two. I'll be back. read more

I have been here before a few times and never thought the beef tacos and tortas where really that great. Today, I tried something different. I ordered the same thing my dad ordered...A Burrito de Lengua! A tongue burrito. It was so so delicious. Just perfect flavor and texture. The orchata was just right. Great customer service. The young guys there are very attentive, nice, friendly and fast. read more

El Faro - Tongue burrito - Mexican Near Me - Summit, Illinois

See all

The moment you walk in you start wondering how many health code violations this place has going for it. You don't know any of the code provisons, nor does it matter; as the dogma goes "the greasier the joint, the better the burrito". And you ARE coming here for a burrito. They are expecting you. There is a mound of steak meat on the griddle, deliciously browned and ready to be roled into a Giant Steak Burrito that the place claims to be "the home of". This is a no frills place with fast service, loyal customer base and satisfying food to stuff your gullet on a budget, all while watching a Hispanic soap on the TV hanging high up on the wall. A south side working class frequents this place and I highly doubt the Prius/Whole Foods crowd would find El Faro appealing. They do have a menu of Mexican foods but a burrito for a few coins south of 5 dollars after tax is hard to beat. read more

Like many other reviewers I too came here as a gangly youth and discovered a burrito that was larger than life. There was no way I could eat such a monstrosity...but I did...and it was good. DAMN GOOD!!! So we kept coming back after a night of hellraising and the burrito was always there for us. Back in the day there were cops directing traffic. Not so much anymore, but the burrito is still the best- better than El Famous which is right down the road (though I'll give that 4 stars). This is a very well put together burrito, though it is the size of an infant it isn't messy like one even with extra cheese and sour cream. The seasonings are perfect and the atmosphere....well...let's just say it can only truly be appreciated at around 3 in the morning. Biting into one of those burritos brings me back to my happier days hanging with my friends without a care in the world. read more

I've been coming in here for YEARS!! Best burritos, tacos, tortas ever! And the people are so friendly. Perfect place to come after a night out at the bar. read more

It's a landmark from my days of teen angst. I remember the first time I had ever heard of the "burrito". It was a hot summer day in 1990, and I was skating at Oak St beach with some friends. We were on summer vacation from high school. It had to be 100 degrees out that day. At the end of the day, one of my friends had mentioned there was a place on 61st and Archer that had a burrito to put all other burritos to shame. This greatness was at a place called El Faro. We packed in to a 1980 Oldsmobile and headed south. No air conditioning, six foul smelling teens, and a desire to find the burrito of our future. I remember walking in the door, and having a feeling that I would soon get to know this place well. From that day on, every time I walk in, I have that same excited feeling. Last night was no different, but it was actually better. Around 9:30, a friend and myself decided to pay a visit to our old favorite. Just expecting a great burrito as usual, and a fun trip down memory lane. We were pleasantly surprised to have each of those, and the added bonus of witnessing first hand at how well they operate. The people behind the counter are just as fantastic as the food they make. My hat is off to all of you at El Faro. You're a great example of how hard work shines through. See you again in a few weeks. ;) read more

If I could, this place would schventy five stars from me. So it's been two weeks since I last showed up tonight and crave my usual- giant steak burrito just sour cream and extra cheese - and get it. i get to the cashier, the lady/owner (?) tells me it's 4.80. i reach into my wallet and give her six and turn around. she says to me to hang on tell me to take the dollar back and wait for my two dimes. and does it. she refused a tip. lemme say it again. she refused my mediocre tip of one dollar and twenty cents. if this place ever closes down, i will seriously cry. (ps. they now take credit card purchases OVER ten bucks.) read more

They have a solid burrito at this place. The burrito is huge! This is the only thing I get there. The restaurant is open 24/7. Nothing flashy here. The steak isn't the greatest quality but the service is professional and fast. read more

See all

I ordered some quesadillas, the tortilla was so hard that I couldn't chew them, the rice water tasted like water and sugar, when I asked Maria (the cashier) for a different drink she refused to change it! She gave me attitude even when I told her I wasn't satisfied, I don't recommend this place specially when employees like that. read more

Why do I go here so often? The place looks like it is falling apart, te typical crowd is drunk, and they make me go up a few notches on the scale!. I think it must be the illegal substances they put in this stuff to make it so good. Plus you can't beat the prices either. I need to hit the gym for an extra 1/2 hour today to work off this food I ate last night. read more

Been going here for years, and I always am amazed at the huge mound (see it and you will understand) of steak cooking on the griddle when you walk in. It is just a steak burrito lovers dream! This place has it down---from the way they make their football sized burritos to the service, and the hospitality. I highly recommend the other items on the menu---you will not be disappointed. My personal favorite is their Chile Rellenos which you can also order as a burrito ingredient. It will just leave your tastebuds singing! read more

I used to be a loyal El Famous patron for years throughout high school and college, etc. however, el farol won me over with the quality of their hot carrots. These are award winning carrots people...it's pure heaven dipping these carrots in the sour cream that comes out of the 55 gallon drum behind the counter. I did visit here the other day and was greeted by a cockroach climbing up the wall next to my table...if it's not cat/dog meat I am eating, than why not rub a little roach in for taste. All in all a decent place. But as many would probably agree...it has lost some flair the older and soberer you come here. read more

The burrito I got looked like it just swallowed another burrito. The thing was huge. It was $5.00 and I managed to make two meals out of it. I got the steak burrito, it was good. My wife got the 3 taco special. Also good. The Horchata had a little extra sweetness to it, which I like. I will be back again. read more

I will start out by saying I am a huge fan of Mexican food! They are a late night spot for sure, they're open 24 hours! They are one of the cheapest burrito joints around here & the steak is excellent. Tacos come with just lettuce & tomato but they are that good with the steak that you don't need cheese or anything else. Tostadas are HUGE for a small budget & their burritos are great! I have had many nights out for drinks that have ended there & I will say you haven't lived until you've had EL~FAROL! Don't go into the bathrooms though because they are pretty rank. read more

Muy bueno! Im not a big mexican food fan in general, but this place surprised me. I was greeted by a long line out the door, then i was waited on by being asked: what do you want... which made me hesitant but i gave it a shot anyways. I got a steak burrito with chips and pico. It was stellar. Everything was fresh and my burrito was jam packed with food and flavor. Great place. read more

El Faro - Mexican Near Me - Summit, Illinois

El-Farol is THE place to go for burritos and pick-up Mexican. Seemingly, everyone has that hometown joint notorious for serving the biggest, baddest, spiciest Mexican grub. The primetime hours of these places, invariably, is 2 am. My hometown has one, so does my university. I've made a point to travel to as many of these hole-in-the-wall taco stands I could find. I'm yet to try something better than El-Farol. Places like Qdoba and Chipotle who try to capitalize on their giant burritos don't hold a candle to the kind of authenticy that El-Farol offers. Their burritos are wrapped in giant corn tortillas, filled with slow-grilled beef, and all the necessary extras (not just half a pound of white rice). Their traditional salsas are outstanding. Best of all, you practically make money by eating there it's so cheap. read more

This place has the best burrito in town. How can you beat $5 for a steak burrito that's bigger than your appetite? Open 24 houts, fresh steak, moist pulled chicken, fresh avacado...need I say more? This is the best deal you will find in town. Get it with a horchata, and of course, add a chile rellano on it for a buck. Plenty of red and green sauce around to spice it up. In the early hours, breakfast burritos are to die for. Seriously, get in there ! read more

I used to be in love with El Faro for the wrong reasons. I always got the vegetarian burrito and I was happy. The food is good, well when I go there, I get a veggie burrito with no cheese and no sour cream. Eating here just doesn't feel right.... It is one of those places where you go and then you just kind of regret it in the morning. Check the place out and find out for yourself. Homeless people also stand outside the restaurant and ask you for money on your way in and out. read more

Hadn't been here before and I was craving guacamole! I stopped in and ordered a steak burrito plate, along with chips and guac. The chips were nice and thin, unlike other authentic Mexican restaurants that make them thick and hard. The guac needed more salt, but it was very good once I added that. The burrito was as big as my head, and the steak was cooked perfectly. The rice and beans easily won me over. The rice was seasoned nicely and the beans were nice and creamy. And you can't beat 24 hrs! Amazingly quick service too. Don't know that I'd eat in....not the prettiest place for sure. read more

El Faro - Steak burrito plate - Mexican Near Me - Summit, Illinois

It's not good anymore. My burrito was cold and old . I didn't see him break the egg for my steak and burrito . I did not see where he got the meat from. Then I asked for red sauce and they told me it was in the bag. There were two green sauces that were sour and this made the burrito even worst. Do not come to this place . It's boring and aweful. read more

My wife and I decided after so many years of going to El Famous Burrito down the street that we'd try El Farol, and boy were we disappointed! My wife ordered the vegetarian burrito and I got the steak burrito, we also ordered the chips with guacamole. First off my wife's burrito wasn't tightly wrapped like in most places, so it was constantly unraveling to the point where you couldn't hold it. Then, after eating half she pulled out a long dark hair, she was done with that. We both noticed that the guacamole was bland, lacking any salt, pepper, maybe this batch was meant to be added to something. My steak burrito on the other hand wasn't that bad except for the several pieces of gristle that I kept pulling out. I had originally wanted Chorizo with egg, but they said they were out, and my next choice would have been ground beef but they don't have that, so I decided on steak, which they had plenty cooking on the griddle. I just have a fear of what I might find, and sure enough that's what happened, gristle galore. Would I go back no, I'll stick with tried & true El Famous, I've been to most locations throughout the area, and have not had a problem, yet. read more

Consistently good burritos. Been going here for the last 15 years. Doesn't disappoint. Plus, it's open all day and night. I'm more of the daytime crowd as of late. read more

Best. Burrito. Ever. and it's so cheap! Go there. Now. And then you can go rollerskating nearby afterwards and have a super time. I hardly ever leave the city, but I would drive here for this. And believe me, there really isn't any other reason to drive to summit, il. read more

In grade school, my dad used to take me here after hockey games at Fleetwood Roller Rink. In high school, my friends and I used to come here after a long day of class. In college, I used to go here after the party was over to fill my belly with delicious burrito goodness to combat my cheap beer fueled decisions. Now, I come here when I haven't eaten all day and a giant pork or steak burrito is needed to fill that empty void in my stomach. The green sauce and pickled carrots/peppers are a reason to come even if you don't like their standard fare. But when it comes to the burritos, you can get a massive one for under $5 that will fill your belly and make you wonder why you haven't come here sooner. And if you come late at night, you will be treated to drunken shennanigans and possibly even a hobo/crack whore confrontation. I've had some many burritos at this place and yet it never gets old. Some people may have noticed that the food does taste a bit different than it did before they closed for renovations earlier this year. I can't say for sure why it tastes different, but my guess is the new grills have something to do with it. I mean years and years of meat juices basting the flattop added a certain something to the burritos. Now that they've only been re-opened for 6 months, some of that magic is gone. But it is still a place worth visiting if you're in the surrounding neighborhood for a cheap and filling meal. read more

What can I say!! I love Mexican food & El Faros does tacos & burritos right! I've been going here for over 25 yrs & the food still satisfy me. I always have chicken or steak tacos. The burrito will last you at least 2 days. The steak is soooo tender! They are open 24 hrs & never close so I can get my fix any time of the day or night. read more

See all