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Welcome to Birrieria El Chivo Tapatio

At Birrieria El Chivo Tapatio, the passion for authentic Mexican cuisine shines through every dish. Located in Melrose Park, IL, this unclaimed gem specializes in delicious goat birria, distinguished by its succulent flavor and tender texture. The devoted team takes pride in serving a comforting birria plate, accompanied by flavorful consommé and handmade tortillas. Customers rave about the inviting atmosphere and quick service, creating a welcoming dining experience. With a menu rooted in tradition, Birrieria El Chivo Tapatio has quickly earned a loyal following among birria enthusiasts. Here, every bite tells a story of culinary dedication and community warmth.

Birrieria El Chivo Tapatio: Reviews & Ratings

Ryne D.
Ryne D.

When we lived in the South Loop, my wife and I occasionally enjoyed going to Birreria Reyes de Ocotlan in Pilsen. Then we moved further north in the city, and were really pleased when Birrieria Zaragoza opened in Uptown. We're fans of goat, what can I say. What is frustrating though is that birria can be goat or beef, and much more often it's beef. Now that we're in the burbs I got the craving for some, but my searches were futile...I even found a place with a goat in their logo but their site says all their birria is beef! Googling though led me here to El Chivo Tapatio, and "chivo" means goat, so I knew I was on to something. We made the drive and they have a small amount of parking next to the building. We came around 1:30 and while there was only one other group eating, by the time we left there was actually a line waiting to get seated. There's a reason for it - this place is the real deal. My wife and I started by splitting a large birria plate, which comes as a huge bowl of consommé with chunks of goat throughout. It was the perfect lunch for the below freezing temps. We also got a side of hand made tortillas to make tacos and dip. The meat was super tender and the soup was flavorful without being too oily. We then split a quesabirria, which had a lot of nice contrasts going on. The crispy tortilla with the tender meat, and the cheese melting nicely into the goat. Really great and I might just go all in on quesabirrias next time. The only thing to note is that pretty much the entire menu is in Spanish, but it's pretty easy to read and there are signs that let you know that their birria is chivo which means goat, while their barbacoa is res which means beef. Service was good and they accept cash or card. My wife was really pleased with my discovery and it seems to already have a big community following, so I hope they continue to do well so we don't have to make an extra long drive just for some goat birria. Great spot!

Carla H.
Carla H.

The food is so juicy and tasty. The service is kind and fast. The ambiance is small but cute.

Carlos O.
Carlos O.

The best birria in Illinois not a fancy place but everything they serve is delicious

Location

Welcome to the vibrant world of Birrieria El Chivo Tapatio, a hidden gem nestled in Melrose Park, Illinois. This delightful eatery is dedicated to serving up the authentic flavors of traditional Mexican birria, with a particular focus on goat, or "chivo," which sets it apart from many competitors in the area. If you’re a lover of rich, savory dishes, this place is poised to tantalize your taste buds.

Located at 2216 W Lake St, Birrieria El Chivo Tapatio invites you to explore a menu that resonates with those seeking an authentic dining experience. The restaurant offers convenient takeout, ensuring that you can enjoy their stellar dishes from the comfort of your own home. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a warm atmosphere, albeit small, that exudes charm and comfort, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal.

But what really draws patrons in is the food. According to customer reviews, the birria is nothing short of exceptional. Diners rave about the large birria plate, which features a generous bowl of consommé brimming with tender, juicy chunks of goat meat. This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s a remedy for those cold, wintry days. The rich flavor profile of the broth, paired with the expertly crafted handmade tortillas, makes for a perfect taco-dipping experience.

And let’s not forget about the quesabirria—a dish that artfully combines crispy tortillas with the melting goodness of cheese and succulent goat meat. The contrast of textures and flavors here truly elevates the dining experience. As eloquently put by a customer, "It's a symphony of crispy, tender, and cheesy delights." If you find yourself torn between options, I wholeheartedly recommend going all-in on the quesabirrias for your next visit.

Service-wise, the team at Birrieria El Chivo Tapatio is known for being kind and efficient. Reviewers have commended the staff for their attentive service, ensuring that even a bustling lunch hour does not compromise the quality of your experience. While the menu may predominantly be in Spanish, the straightforward signs and friendly staff will be there to assist you, making the experience accessible for everyone.

  • Location: 2216 W Lake St, Melrose Park, IL 60160
  • Takeout Options: Yes
  • Phone Number: (708) 556-7685

Birrieria El Chivo Tapatio isn’t just a restaurant, but a community hub where the love for goat birria is palpable. With every bite, you can feel the commitment to authentic flavors and culinary traditions. So if you’re craving a dish that is both comforting and delicious, make your way to this charming establishment. Experience the rich tastes of Mexico right here in Melrose Park—your palate will thank you!