For those who prefer Mexican food with no frills and in portions bigger than their heads, El Taco Loco is Chicago's go-to taqueria. Nestled in the heart of the Tri-Taylor area, this tiny Mexican joint rages alone against a plethora of Chinese and Italian restaurants. The unremarkable decor here plays second fiddle to the grub, for good reason. It offers a full menu of Mexican fare like tortas, tacos and enchiladas, but the finely crafted burrito keeps them coming back.

El Taco Loco does something special to its beans, rice and flour tortillas, elevating this holy trinity to absurdly delicious culinary heights. The typical (and lightning-fast) assembly-line approach lets you choose your beans, meats (like chorizo, al pastor, carne asada) and toppings. Spice-junkies will love that the heavy-handed hot-sauce ladling, and health nuts will adore the fresh guacamole. Your meal is snugly tucked into foil so you can eat in, order to go or have the precious parcel delivered to your doorstep. The massive concoction will keep you full all day, a great deal at less than four bucks a pop.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: K. Tighe