Taqueria El Pilon

After seeing the wait times on a Friday night at two sit-down restaurants and finding out that the Old Country Buffet at Chicago Ridge Mall was closed, my husband and I were on our way to a fast-food joint when I reminded my husband of this new Mexican spot, located where the old Maxwell Street Station used to be. (bAs a matter of fact, the sign is still up and lit up at night.) As long as the place accepts cards was my husband's only request. In we went.

Decor-wise, it looks like the owner went to the used restaurant furniture outlet center and got his booths and tables from there. Necessary for a new business but I hope they redo it or upgrade soon. Robin's egg blue is not my idea of a nice tabletop color. Neither was the orange placemat where some silk flowers sat in a red meta bucket. Wall decor was a mix of Mexican Indian prints and some other artistry plus pictures of the owner's family. (!)

Food-wise: on the mark! I ordered a steak quesadilla ($5.79) which was made with what appeared to be a homemade wheat burrito-sized tortilla. The sauces that were served with the dozen chips (count 'em!) at the beginning of the meal were great add-ons to the food itself. One was guacamole based (my husband thought it was hot) and one was a traditional SPICY red sauce. Both taste great. My husband ordered steak tacos ($1.83 ea.) which he absolutely loved. The meat was smoky and well-cooked with no gristle. The onion and cilantro were fresh. No lime wedges were presented, though, although the sauces easily took their place.

The pop was cold (glass bottle of Jarritos pina) but my horchata did not have ice. Also, they do not automatically serve ice water unless asked. I didn't like that my drink was served in a styrofoam cup: it came across as cheap but I guess when most of your business is take out, styrofoam is the way to go. If paying by card, ask for a receipt as they looked like they were just printed out ad infinitum from the register without being given to the customers. The TV was tuned to a spanish station and the owner had enough foresight to turn the volume down when my husband and I came in.

Overall, I really enjoyed the flavor of the food. Ambiance could use some work as could the little extras like ice water,  lime wedges and maybe two handfuls of chips. The two little girls that were present were cute as buttons but I hope they are not there as the restaurant gets more customers. I would definitely go back.