• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Tacos Before Vatos – Authentic Mexican Tacos & Flavorful Sauces in Crest Hill, IL

Tacos Before Vatos is a hidden gem in Crest Hill, IL, offering authentic Mexican flavors in a cozy, family-run setting. Known for their perfectly grilled chicken and Al pastor tacos, this spot delivers bold, fresh tastes that keep customers coming back. The chips and salsa stand out, especially the fiery Haina/Vato sauce that adds an exciting kick. Though primarily a take-out eatery with a few small tables, the welcoming staff and reasonable prices create a warm, inviting vibe. If you crave genuine, flavorful tacos paired with exceptional service, Tacos Before Vatos is a must-visit destination.

Tacos Before Vatos at a glance

  • Address 1701 N Larkin Ave Suite 317, Crest Hill, IL 60403, United States
  • Phone +1 815-630-4064
  • Restaurant type Restaurant .
  • Popular for Lunch , Dinner , Solo dining .

Photos & Gallery

Tacos Before Vatos: Reviews & Ratings

Molten1
5

Excellent chips and salsa. Chicken tacos are great. The service is kinda slow but I know to expect it now

Mary Pirc
5

We stopped for tacos at Tacos Before Vatos at Clayton’s Rail in Morris and the food was awesome! I had chicken tacos and they were delicious, the best I’ve ever had. Tom had steak tacos which were also good. It not as good as the chicken. The chips and green salsa were excellent too, the salsa had just the right amount of heat. Our server was very good and attentive! We’ll be back!

Nathan L
5

Great little hole-in-the-wall shop behind the Food 4 Less in the back section of the strip mall. Prices are fair, food quality is great and the staff are friendly. Small place mainly for take-out, but a comfy atmosphere. I had the Al pastor tacos, and they were cooked wonderfully and tasted great, as well as the elote! It all looks, smells and tastes great. I highly recommend trying this place for some great tacos. Maps will send you to the wrong location though and I think that's criminal. Hopefully it will be resolved and this place will continue to thrive. I'll definitely be coming back when I get a craving for some authentic, delicious tacos!

Angie G
5

Awesome little out of the way eatery. Located behind Food 4 Less grocery store. Plenty of parking. Small take out diner. A few small tables if you wish to eat in but really a take out establishment. Nothing fancy. Authentic and clean. Reasonably priced. This family run business has great food. We had tacos. Chicken was nicely cut not shredded which was very good. They even gave us a sample taco since we had not been there before. Try this authentic and tasty take out establishment. You will be pleasantly surprised. This is now our go to place for authentic Mexican food. Fabulous $2 taco Tuesday. Very welcoming owner/staff.

Edwin Reinoso
5

Amazing taste!! One best authentic Mexican tacos flavor in the area. Must try their haina/Vato sauce it’s fire spicy sauce with amazing taste. RECOMMEND!!

Location

  • Tacos Before Vatos
    Tacos Before Vatos
    1701 N Larkin Ave Suite 317, Crest Hill, IL 60403, United States Hotline: +1 815-630-4064

Tucked away behind Food 4 Less in Crest Hill, Illinois, Tacos Before Vatos serves up some of the most authentic Mexican flavors around. This no-frills, family-run spot is perfect for those who prioritize genuine taste over fancy decor. The restaurant’s hallmark is its Taco Plate — a vibrant mix of tender, well-seasoned meats and fresh ingredients that bring authentic Mexican street food straight to your plate.

If you’re a fan of chicken tacos, you’re in for a treat here. Unlike shredded variants common elsewhere, their chicken is freshly chopped, juicy, and full-flavored. Steak and Al pastor options are equally impressive, cooked to perfection with a smoky char that speaks of traditional preparation. The flautes and Pambazo also deserve mention, offering variety beyond the usual taco fare, while the Torta de Milaneza de Pollo stands out as a hearty, satisfying sandwich option.

Chips and salsa at Tacos Before Vatos deserve a special shoutout. The chips are crisp and fresh, paired with a green salsa that balances heat and flavor beautifully, delivering just the right kick without overwhelming the palate. The standout, however, is their “Haina/Vato” sauce — a fiery, spicy blend that elevates every bite, adding bold layers of heat and complexity. The Pito De Toro Sashimi brings a creative twist, injecting a fresh, raw element into the menu, showcasing their culinary range.

While primarily a takeout spot with a few cozy tables inside, the welcoming and attentive staff create a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements the food. Prices are reasonable, making it easy to return again and again, especially on Taco Tuesdays where $2 tacos make your cravings affordable. Despite minor slowdowns in service, the consistent quality and passion behind every dish make it well worth the wait.

For anyone seeking authentic, flavorful Mexican street food that captures tradition and boldness, Tacos Before Vatos is a hidden gem. Whether it’s their perfectly chopped chicken tacos, the smoky al pastor, or the spicy, addictive sauces, every dish tells a story of authentic craftsmanship that leaves you coming back for more.

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Service options
    • No-contact delivery
    • Delivery
    • Takeaway
    • Dine-in
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
    • Debit cards
    • NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards