It’s said that tacos are best eaten on Tuesdays, but with all the Mexican
restaurants peppered throughout Forest Park hungry locals could realistically celebrate tacos seven days a week! Embarking on a
taco tour proved to be as colorful as it was flavorful—we savored
nachos, salads, and tacos with a multitude of memorable fillings!
MELISSA ELSMO
Get ready for a fun fiesta in Forest Park.
Food Writer
Macho’s Grill, 7300 Roosevelt Rd., focuses on fare from Guerrero, Mexico, but a dish with origins in Jalisco has found its way onto the menu. A quesadillataco hybrid, quesabirrias, feature braised beef folded into a tortilla with molten cheese. The cozy dish is served with a cup of consommé for dipping. The unassuming restaurant has a loyal following—folks are flocking to Machos’ for nachos, quesabirrias, or Cecina estilo Guerrero and you should, too! Mexican Republic Kitchen and Cantina, 7404 Madison St., serves a menu focused on traditionally known Mexican fare like tacos, enchiladas, and burritos as well as authentic entrees like carnitas and chile rellenos. While these dishes are popular with people who know Mexican food, Mexican Republic puts their own spin on tradition. No matter what you order be sure to make the most of their generous patio — it is even more comfortable with a premium margarita in hand!
Discover a Fiesta Macho’s Grill
Cactus Grill
Mexican Republic Kitchen and Cantina
42 | 2022 FOREST PARK COMMUNITY GUIDE
Nadia Mondragon, owner of Cactus Grill, 315 S. Harlem Ave., has been serving up homestyle Mexican fare in a festive environment since 2018. Their menu, catering to breakfast, lunch and dinner lovers alike, is chock full of tamales, enchiladas, chilaquiles, burritos and menudo. Employees are quick to recommend the fish tacos. For less than $9 you get two pieces of crispy fish on corn tortillas garnished with house made pico de gallo and spicy chipotle sauce. Served with rice and beans this meal is sure to fill you up.
Tacabron, 7330 Harrison St., is nestled in a quiet section of Forest Park just south of the Ike. Though the restaurant is a little off the beaten path, taco lovers have made Tacobron a regular mealtime destination. Vegetarians will clamor for the zucchini and yellow squash taco salad while their novel goat tacos should appeal to adventurous meat eaters. Traditional chicken, al pastor and shrimp options Forestparkreview.com
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