Fab Review: Antique Taco

I count myself lucky to be living in Chicago for many reasons. One of them is the endless amount of ethnic foods you can find here. Mexican food is definitely at the top of my list of favorites. After all, #TacoTuesday is an excuse to try out new taco joints and drink margaritas. So it is fitting to share my soft spot for Antique Taco, one of many taco joints in the bustling Wicker Park neighborhood.

{Ambiance}
Antique Taco stuck out to me in more ways than one. Upon entering, you are greeted with a kitschy space, which is heavily decorated with vintage items (that are also for sale). From the large pane windows that allow natural sunlight to the tables made from reclaimed wood, the vibe is cheery and inviting.

During the warmer months, they open up their nice long patio, complete with picnic tables and colorful murals painted on the brick walls.

This counter-service concept from husband-and-wife duo Rick (Chef) and Ashley (Designer) Ortiz came to life when they had the idea of combining his passion for food and her love for antiques.

The tacos are non-traditional but they are thoughtfully prepared. Their price points are higher than normal but are justified by the quality of the food.

{Food}
Drink up their refreshing margaritas. They have a signature margarita, made with rosemary infused simple syrup as well as a variety of seasonal options. The ever changing flavors are dependent on what’s fresh and seasonally available. I had the pleasure of trying the watermelon margarita this past summer (fresh watermelon and lime juice, mixed with tequila). It was the perfect afternoon drink on a nice warm day in Chicago. For a more decadent route, try the Horchata milkshake, made with rice milk, Mexican cinnamon, banana, almonds and vanilla ice cream… so rich, creamy, and delicious.

For starters, I was immediately drawn to the chili cheese curds. The crispy and cheesy nuggets sit atop a bowl of warm chili. There’s a little heat to the dish but not too much where it overpowers the whole dish.

I also love the creamed elote, which is basically creamed corn with all the elements of the popular Mexican street food snack. They make it with lime butter, Cotija cheese, chili powder, crema, and hot sauce. It’s creamy and zesty and has just the right amount of spice that will have you clamoring for more.

Even the baked potato flautas are beautifully executed and incredibly tasty. The tortilla is crispy and jam packed with creamy potatoes, Nueske’s bacon, Brunkow cheddar, scallions, jalapeños, and cilantro cream. This is how I envision a great flauta would taste.

You can’t go wrong with any of their tacos, but here are some of my favorites. Let’s start with the most popular one, crispy fish tacos. It was literally love at first sight and bite. The flaky fish is lightly coated in a tempura batter resulting in an airy and crunchy exterior. They are topped with smoked cabbage, Sriracha tartar sauce, scallions, and sesame which puts the whole dish over the top. Hands down, this is the best fish taco in the city.

Moving onto the pork carnitas which are rubbed in Adobo seasoning and served with crispy bacon, tamarind glaze, spinach, onion, avocado, and queso fresco. It may seem like a lot of ingredients in one taco, but it was a beautiful symphony of flavors and textures.

I also like the well seasoned and grilled rib eye, topped with roasted tomato salsa, peppery arugula, red onion, lime, and cilantro. The meat was nicely charred and tender while the bright acidity of the salsa helped cut through all the richness.

I had mediocre expectations for the garlic shrimp tacos but once I tasted them, my mind was completely blown away by the texture and flavors. The small but sweet shrimps were succulent and laid the perfect foundation for the rest of the components. I love the unexpected crunch from the kale chips, creamy cauliflower elote, and basil avocado salsa. Wow!

Last but definitely not least, is the Abuelita Pop Tart. You must get it! The flaky pastry encases the melted ooey gooey Mexican chocolate and marshmallow filling. Paired with cold vanilla ice cream with lots of cinnamon on top, the combo of hot and cold temperatures make this dish so addicting.

{Experience}
Overall my experience with Antique Taco was great. From the hand made tortilla to the locally sourced ingredients, this place serves some of the best unconventional tacos I have ever tasted. This updated taqueria has a style of its own that is both eclectic and inviting. The service was friendly although a little slow but well worth it in the end. Antique Taco is a fun yet casual place to bring a bunch of friends and order a nice variety of fresh menu offerings to share.

FAB TIP: Each taco order comes in two hefty portions and will cost you about $7-$9. Unfortunately, you cannot mix and match the flavors.

{Location}
Antique Taco
Wicker Park || 1360 N. Milwaukee, Chicago, IL || P: (773)687-8697

{Price Range}
$$ ($11-$35)

{Fab Rating: 4 Fabs}

Are there any unique taco joints that I need to know about? Please comment below because I am always on a lookout for something different and exciting!

Savor Every Moment,
Sherrie

Note: This meal was not complimentary. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer.