Crunch into the Best Nachos in Chicago: Satisfy Your Cravings Today!

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Craving the best nachos in Chicago? Look no further! From loaded toppings to crispy chips, these spots have got you covered.


When it comes to nachos, Chicago has no shortage of options. From the classic cheesy and meaty nachos to the more unconventional toppings, there's something for everyone in the Windy City. However, if you're looking for the best nachos in town, there are a few standout options that you simply can't miss. Whether you're a die-hard fan of this Mexican-inspired dish or just looking for a new place to try, these nachos will surely catch your attention.

First on the list is Big Star, a popular spot in Wicker Park known for its incredible tacos and, of course, nachos. Their version of the dish features a heaping pile of tortilla chips topped with queso fundido, black beans, crema, and pickled jalapeños. The combination of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors is simply irresistible, making it one of the best nachos in Chicago.

If you're looking for something a bit more unique, head over to Antique Taco in Bridgeport. Their Chilaquiles Nachos are a fusion of nachos and chilaquiles, a traditional Mexican breakfast dish. The crispy tortilla chips are smothered in salsa roja, crema, queso fresco, and a fried egg for an extra protein boost. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for any time of day.

Another must-try spot for nachos in Chicago is L'Patron Tacos, a tiny taqueria in Logan Square. Their Nachos de Camarones are a seafood lover's dream, featuring crispy tortilla chips topped with sautéed shrimp, guacamole, pico de gallo, and cotija cheese. The combination of fresh seafood and classic Mexican flavors is simply mouth-watering.

For those who prefer a more classic take on nachos, check out Xoco in River North. Their Totopos feature a simple yet delicious combination of tortilla chips, queso blanco, black beans, and salsa. The ingredients may be basic, but the quality is top-notch, making it one of the best traditional nachos in Chicago.

If you're in the mood for a little bit of everything, head over to Broken English Taco Pub in the Loop. Their Mega Nachos are loaded with all the classic toppings like queso, beans, and pico de gallo, but also include unexpected additions like braised short rib, chorizo, and bacon. It's a decadent and indulgent dish that will satisfy any craving.

No matter what your preferences are when it comes to nachos, Chicago has something for everyone. So why not try them all and find your new favorite spot? From classic nachos to unique twists on the dish, these restaurants are sure to impress even the most discerning foodies.


Introduction

When it comes to satisfying your cravings for something cheesy, crunchy, and loaded with toppings, nothing beats a plate of mouth-watering nachos. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a full meal, Chicago has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best nachos in the Windy City that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.

The Franklin Room

If you're looking for a place that takes its nachos seriously, check out The Franklin Room. This upscale gastropub in River North serves up some of the most delicious nachos in the city. The nachos are made with crispy tortilla chips and topped with melted cheddar cheese, guacamole, pico de gallo, and your choice of protein (chicken, beef, or pork). The portion size is generous, making it perfect for sharing with friends over drinks.

Birrieria Zaragoza

For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, head to Birrieria Zaragoza in Archer Heights. This family-owned restaurant is known for its birria (a spicy stew made with goat meat) but their nachos are equally delicious. The nachos are made with freshly fried tortilla chips and topped with refried beans, melted cheese, and your choice of meat (chorizo, steak, or chicken). Don't forget to add some of their homemade salsa for an extra kick!

Big Star

Big Star in Wicker Park is a popular spot for tacos and margaritas, but their nachos are also worth trying. The nachos are made with house-made tortilla chips and topped with queso fresco, pickled jalapeños, and crema. You can add your choice of meat (pork belly, chicken, or brisket) for an additional charge. The atmosphere is lively and casual, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.

Broken English Taco Pub

With locations in the Loop, Lincoln Park, and Old Town, Broken English Taco Pub is a popular spot for Mexican-inspired cuisine. Their nachos are made with crispy tortilla chips and topped with queso blanco, black beans, pico de gallo, and your choice of protein (chicken, steak, or pork). The portion size is generous, making it perfect for sharing. Don't forget to try one of their signature margaritas while you're there!

Bar Takito

Bar Takito in the West Loop is known for its creative take on Latin-inspired cuisine. Their nachos are no exception. The nachos are made with blue corn tortilla chips and topped with queso fresco, pickled onions, and your choice of protein (skirt steak, pork carnitas, or tofu). The dish is finished with a drizzle of chipotle crema and cilantro. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to leave you satisfied.

Taco Joint

Taco Joint has two locations in Chicago (Lincoln Park and River North) and is a go-to spot for tasty tacos and margaritas. Their nachos are also worth trying. The nachos are made with freshly fried tortilla chips and topped with melted cheese, pico de gallo, and your choice of protein (grilled chicken, carne asada, or pork carnitas). The portion size is generous, making it perfect for sharing with friends.

El Cid

If you're looking for a cozy spot with delicious food, check out El Cid in Logan Square. The nachos are made with crispy tortilla chips and topped with melted cheese, black beans, pico de gallo, and your choice of protein (chicken, steak, or pork). The portion size is generous, making it a great option for sharing. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual night out.

Frontera Grill

Chef Rick Bayless is a household name in the Chicago culinary scene, and his restaurant Frontera Grill is a must-visit for foodies. While the menu changes frequently, the nachos are a staple. The nachos are made with house-made tortilla chips and topped with melted cheese, black beans, guacamole, and crema. You can add your choice of protein (grilled chicken, braised pork, or sautéed vegetables) for an additional charge.

Conclusion

Whether you're a fan of classic nachos or prefer something more creative, Chicago has plenty of options to choose from. From upscale gastropubs to cozy neighborhood spots, there's something for everyone. So next time you're in the mood for some cheesy goodness, head to one of these restaurants and indulge in some of the best nachos in the Windy City.


The Cheesy Goodness: The Best Nachos in ChicagoNachos are a classic snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether you're watching the game or just hanging out with friends, there's nothing quite like the cheesy goodness of a plate of nachos. And if you're in Chicago, you're in luck because the city has some of the best nachos around. From traditional to unconventional flavors, there's no shortage of options when it comes to finding the perfect plate of nachos.A Match Made in Heaven: The Perfect Combination of Toppings on NachosWhen it comes to nachos, the perfect combination of toppings is key. You want just the right amount of cheese, meat, and other toppings to create the ultimate flavor explosion in your mouth. One of the best places to find the perfect combination of toppings is at Big Star. Their Loaded Nachos come with chorizo, queso fresco, pickled jalapeños, crema, and cilantro. Each bite is packed with flavor and the perfect amount of crunch from the homemade tortilla chips.The Ultimate Game Day Snack: Chicago's Top Nacho SpotsIf you're looking for the perfect game day snack, look no further than Jake Melnick's Corner Tap. Their Ultimate Nachos come with house-made tortilla chips, cheddar cheese sauce, black beans, tomato salsa, jalapeños, guacamole, sour cream, and your choice of chicken, beef, or pulled pork. This plate of nachos is big enough to share with friends and pairs perfectly with a cold beer while watching the game.The Crunch Factor: Where to Find the Best Nachos with the Perfect Chip-to-Topping RatioOne of the most important factors in a plate of nachos is the chip-to-topping ratio. You don't want too many chips and not enough toppings, or vice versa. At Antique Taco, their Nachos come with crispy corn tortilla chips, queso fresco, black beans, avocado, pickled jalapeños, and crema. The chips are perfectly crispy and the toppings are generously portioned, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors.Nachos with a Twist: Unconventional Flavors that Will Blow Your MindIf you're looking for nachos with a twist, head to Broken English. Their Chorizo Nachos come with house-made chorizo, black beans, pico de gallo, and queso fundido. But what sets these nachos apart is the addition of crispy tater tots on top. The combination of flavors and textures will blow your mind and leave you wanting more.The Big Leagues: Chicago's Best Sports Bars for Nacho LoversWhen it comes to sports bars and nachos, there's no shortage of options in Chicago. But one of the best places to go is The Scout Waterhouse and Kitchen. Their Scout Nachos come with chili con carne, cheddar cheese sauce, pico de gallo, sour cream, and guacamole. And if you're really hungry, you can add chicken or beef for an extra protein boost.A Vegetarian's Dream: The Best Meatless Nachos in ChicagoVegetarians don't have to miss out on the nacho fun in Chicago. At Handlebar, their Vegan Nachos come with black beans, vegan queso, salsa, guacamole, and pickled jalapeños. The vegan queso is made with cashews and nutritional yeast, creating a creamy and cheesy flavor without any animal products.A Taste of Mexico: Authentic Nachos that Will Transport You South of the BorderIf you're looking for authentic Mexican nachos, head to Mercadito. Their Nachos de la Casa come with queso fresco, black beans, guacamole, tomato salsa, and pickled jalapeños. The tortilla chips are made fresh in-house and the toppings are traditional Mexican flavors that will transport you south of the border.The Ultimate Hangover Cure: Where to Find the Best Nachos for BrunchIf you're looking for the ultimate hangover cure, look no further than The Bongo Room. Their Chorizo Breakfast Nachos come with scrambled eggs, house-made chorizo, cheddar cheese, black beans, pico de gallo, and sour cream. These nachos are the perfect combination of breakfast and lunch and will cure even the worst hangover.A Party on a Plate: Where to Find the Best Nachos for Sharing with FriendsNachos are the perfect snack to share with friends, and there's no better place to do that than at El Hefe. Their El Nacho Grande comes with seasoned ground beef, queso, pico de gallo, jalapeños, black beans, and crema. This plate of nachos is big enough to feed a group and pairs perfectly with a pitcher of margaritas.In conclusion, Chicago has some of the best nachos around, whether you're looking for traditional or unconventional flavors, meatless options, or the perfect game day snack. So next time you're craving some cheesy goodness, head to one of these top spots and indulge in a plate of nachos. Your taste buds will thank you.

The Best Nachos in Chicago: A Perspective

Introduction

Chicago is home to a plethora of delicious cuisines and dishes, but when it comes to nachos, there are some clear contenders for the title of best. As a food enthusiast, I have tried numerous nachos in the city and can offer my perspective on which ones stand out. In this article, I will be discussing the pros and cons of the best nachos in Chicago and providing a comparison table of the key points.

The Contenders

Before we dive into the pros and cons, let's take a quick look at the three top contenders for the best nachos in Chicago:

  1. Big Star

    Big Star is a popular taqueria located in Wicker Park that serves up a mean plate of nachos. Their nachos are topped with queso fresco, crema, guacamole, salsa, and your choice of meat or veggies.

  2. Frontera Grill

    Frontera Grill is a Mexican restaurant located in River North that offers a variety of delicious dishes, including their famous nachos. Their nachos are made with crispy tortilla chips, black beans, roasted tomatillo salsa, and melted chihuahua cheese.

  3. Taco Joint

    Taco Joint is a casual Mexican restaurant with multiple locations throughout the city. Their nachos are made with crispy tortilla chips, black beans, melted cheese, guacamole, pico de gallo, and your choice of meat or veggies.

The Pros and Cons

Now that we know the top contenders, let's take a look at the pros and cons of each:

Big Star

  • Pros:
    • Generous portions
    • Great variety of toppings
    • Their homemade chips are delicious
  • Cons:
    • Can be quite crowded during peak hours
    • Their prices are on the higher side
    • Some may find the portion sizes too big

Frontera Grill

  • Pros:
    • Their tomatillo salsa is amazing
    • Great quality ingredients
    • Their portion sizes are just right
  • Cons:
    • Can be quite pricey
    • Not as many topping options as other places
    • Some may find the cheese to be too heavy

Taco Joint

  • Pros:
    • Reasonable prices
    • Great variety of toppings
    • Their guacamole is delicious
  • Cons:
    • Their chips can be hit or miss in terms of texture and freshness
    • Some may find the portion sizes too small
    • Their cheese can be a bit bland

Comparison Table

Restaurant Pros Cons
Big Star Generous portions, great variety of toppings, delicious homemade chips Crowded during peak hours, higher prices, large portion sizes may not be for everyone
Frontera Grill Amazing tomatillo salsa, great quality ingredients, just the right portion sizes Can be quite pricey, not as many topping options, cheese can be too heavy
Taco Joint Reasonable prices, great variety of toppings, delicious guacamole Chips can be hit or miss, portion sizes may be too small, cheese can be bland

Conclusion

When it comes to the best nachos in Chicago, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, after considering the pros and cons and comparing the top contenders, my personal favorite is Big Star. Their generous portions and variety of toppings really set them apart from the rest. But don't take my word for it - try them all out and decide for yourself!


The Best Nachos in Chicago: A Guide to Satisfying Your Cravings

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best nachos in Chicago. We hope that it has been informative and helpful in your quest to find the perfect plate of nachos in the Windy City. We know that everyone has their own preferences when it comes to food, but we have tried to cover a variety of options to suit different tastes.

If you're looking for traditional nachos with all the classic toppings, we recommend trying out places like Big Star or Antique Taco. Their nachos are loaded with cheese, beans, guacamole, and sour cream, making them a filling and satisfying option.

For those who prefer a little spice in their nachos, we suggest heading over to L'Patron in Logan Square. Their nachos come with a spicy chorizo that gives them an extra kick, and the generous portion size means you won't leave hungry.

Meanwhile, if you're looking for a more unique take on nachos, you might want to check out the offerings at Frontera Grill. Their duck carnitas nachos are a delicious twist on the classic dish, and the upscale ambiance makes it a great spot for a special occasion.

Of course, we couldn't forget about vegan and vegetarian options. The Chicago Diner offers a tasty vegan nacho plate that is loaded with vegan cheese, black beans, and fresh veggies. And for those who prefer a meatless option, try the nachos at Handlebar, which are made with seitan chorizo and topped with avocado and salsa.

No matter which spot you choose to visit, we highly recommend trying out some of the local craft beers while you enjoy your nachos. Chicago has a thriving beer scene, and there's no better way to wash down a plate of cheesy goodness than with a cold brew.

Finally, we want to remind you that this is by no means an exhaustive list. Chicago is home to countless amazing restaurants and bars, and we encourage you to explore beyond the options we've highlighted here. Whether you're a lifelong Chicago resident or just visiting for a short time, there's always something new and delicious to discover.

Thank you again for reading our guide to the best nachos in Chicago. We hope it has inspired you to get out and try some of these amazing dishes for yourself. Happy eating!


People Also Ask About Best Nachos in Chicago

What are the best places for nachos in Chicago?

Chicago is home to some of the best nachos in the country. Here are the top places for nachos:

  • Big Star
  • Frontera Grill
  • Antique Taco
  • Mercadito
  • Broken English Taco Pub

What makes a good plate of nachos?

A good plate of nachos should have:

  1. Crispy tortilla chips that can hold up to toppings
  2. A variety of toppings such as cheese, meat, beans, and vegetables
  3. Well-balanced flavors that complement each other
  4. A good amount of toppings on each chip
  5. A variety of textures such as crispy, creamy, and crunchy

What are the most popular types of nachos?

The most popular types of nachos are:

  • Traditional nachos with cheese, meat, beans, and vegetables
  • Loaded nachos with extra toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, and jalapenos
  • Breakfast nachos with eggs, bacon, and sausage
  • Seafood nachos with shrimp, crab, and fish
  • Vegan nachos with plant-based cheese and toppings

Are there any vegetarian or vegan options for nachos in Chicago?

Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options for nachos in Chicago. Here are some restaurants that offer them:

  • The Chicago Diner
  • Quesadilla La Reina del Sur
  • Handlebar
  • Clever Rabbit
  • Purple Sprout Cafe