ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Avondale & North Center
Best Burritos in Avondale & North Center
Master Critic Review
El Tezcal Mexican Restaurant
8.0
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
El Tezcal anchors a stretch of Kedzie with a broad menu of fajitas, combination plates, and seafood dishes in a casual, family-friendly room. It’s the kind of spot where neighborhood regulars settle into booths for big platters and pitchers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne asada dinner, Chicken fajitas, Guacamole
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Neighborhood sit-down Mexican spot with big combination plates and fajitas.
Who should go: Families and groups wanting roomy booths and big platters.
When to visit: Weekend dinners or early weeknights for easier seating.
What to order: Carne asada dinner, chicken fajitas, guacamole.
Insider tip: Consider sharing platters; portions tend to be generous.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Kedzie and nearby residential side streets; usually manageable but can fill up on weekends.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, tees, and relaxed outfits are totally fine.
Noise level: Moderate — lively during peak meals but normal conversation is still doable.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours depending on group size.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several veggie tacos, enchiladas, and combo options.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications, but choices are fewer.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free dishes like grilled meats and corn tortillas, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, low-pressure dates than romantic nights — it’s welcoming and unfussy rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are common, especially for small groups, though peak weekend times may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — booths, friendly service, and familiar dishes make it comfortable for families, including younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Large portions, relaxed sit-down service, and dependable neighborhood Mexican comfort food.
Skip if: You’re looking for chef-driven tasting menus, trendy atmospheres, or niche regional Mexican cooking.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday12pm - 8pm
Wednesday12pm - 8pm
Thursday12pm - 8pm
Friday12pm - 8pm
Saturday12pm - 8pm
Sunday12pm - 8pm