Chavela's - Elgin

#11 - Seafood - Elgin, Mexican, Coffee

Chavela's

★ 4.5 / 5 (2474 reviews)

Nestled near Elgin, this restaurant stands out for its consistently delicious offerings, warm and efficient service, and welcoming atmosphere. Diners can expect a range of prices from $10 to $20, making it an accessible choice for all. Popular menu items include the Chips and Salsa, Chicken Burrito, and the standout Cubana Torte sandwich. While some visitors noted that service can occasionally falter, the overall experience is often hailed as excellent, bolstered by a charming patio for outdoor dining. With generous portions and fresh flavors, it has earned its reputation as a go-to spot for authentic Mexican cuisine.

Last update: 17.01.2026 from: lisa

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★ 4.5 / 5 from 2474 reviews

Was William at Chavela's a mag?
The service and food have always been great! We usually eat here at least 1 to 2 times a month. Service: Dine in Meal type: Dinner Price per person: $10–20 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Recommended dishes: Chicken Chorizo, Carnitas Pork Fajitas, Chips and Salsa Parking space: Plenty of parking Parking options: Free parking lot View all feedback.

What Tiffany Steakhouse dislikes about Chavela's:
Chips were extremely stale, Rice was full of oil, and the chili relleno and the refried beans were good. I asked for fresh chips and was told by the server they would have to cut and drop new ones, and they are really busy right now and that they couldn 't do that. she also explained that the Chips were kept under a warming lamp, Which means they have been sitting there for a while to be as stale and hard as they wer... View all feedback.

JRue

13.03.2025

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

First time here with my wife, son and his fiance and two others who has been here before. The food was great and the service was okay until the two waitresses keep hovering around waiting on us to get up after we were done eating. We were just talking and I ordered another beer and waitress said they are waiting on this table. Sorda rude. Also, The receipt we received had all these random amounts printed it looked like an adding machine so not sure what each amount was because nothing was listed beside it. Never seen a restaurant not listing what the amount was for individually. We will never be back as well as the other two who was there who invited us because we felt we were being run off. Sticking with San Jose. At least the bill has what the charges were for....

Eugene

13.03.2025

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Awesome food. Great service. Food was amazing.. Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

Tim

13.03.2025

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Loved this place! Friendly service with tasty Mexican food and great tasting margaritas! Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Noise level: Quiet, easy to talk Group size: 1 person, 2 people, 3-4 people, 5-8 people, 9+ people, Suitable for all group sizes Wait time: No wait Seating type: Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio terrace, Booth seating

lisa

13.03.2025

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Stopped for lunch and had a great experience Food was really good, staff very friendly and place is clean and inviting Check iting Service: Dine in Meal type: Lunch Price per person: $10–20 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

JulieAnne

13.03.2025

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The best Mexican cuisine. Very family friendly! Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Noise level: Quiet, easy to talk Group size: 3-4 people, Suitable for all group sizes Wait time: No wait Seating type: Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio terrace

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