Frequently Asked Questions About Tamales Mexican Restaurant

Welcome to the Tamales Mexican Restaurant FAQ page. We have put together answers to the questions our guests ask most often, covering everything from our menu and opening hours to catering, private events and reservations.

General

Where is Tamales Mexican Restaurant located?

Tamales Mexican Restaurant is located at 493 Central Ave, Highland Park, IL 60035, in the heart of downtown Highland Park. We are within walking distance of the Highland Park Train Station, Ravinia Festival shuttle and the Renaissance Theatre. Parking is available in nearby commuter lots.

What are the opening hours at Tamales Mexican Restaurant?

We are open Sunday through Thursday from 4:30pm to 9:00pm and Friday through Saturday from 11:30am to 9:30pm. Hours may vary on public holidays — please call (847) 433-4070 to confirm before visiting.

What is the phone number for Tamales Mexican Restaurant?

You can reach Tamales Mexican Restaurant by calling (847) 433-4070. Our team is available during opening hours to take reservations, answer questions and help with catering or private event enquiries.

How long has Tamales Mexican Restaurant been open?

Tamales Mexican Restaurant has been serving the Highland Park community for over 20 years. We are one of the most established and celebrated Mexican restaurants on the North Shore of Chicago.

Who owns Tamales Mexican Restaurant?

Tamales Mexican Restaurant is owned and operated by Bandido Inc., a family-run business based in Highland Park, IL. Owner Jeff is well known throughout the community for his personal, hands-on approach to hospitality and his dedication to every guest's experience.

Has Tamales Mexican Restaurant won any awards?

Yes. Tamales Mexican Restaurant has been voted Best Mexican Restaurant on the North Shore by Best Magazine. This recognition reflects our long-standing commitment to authentic cuisine, quality ingredients and outstanding service.

Menu and Food

What type of food does Tamales Mexican Restaurant serve?

We serve authentic Mexican cuisine with a fresh, modern twist. Our menu includes house-made tamales, tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas, salads, soups and desserts. We offer both a full Dinner Menu and a Street Menu, with a wide range of options for all tastes and dietary needs.

What are the most popular dishes at Tamales Mexican Restaurant?

Our most loved dishes include the duck tacos, pumpkin and mushroom tamales, skirt steak fajitas, chicken tinga tacos, shrimp tacos in Red Guajillo Chile Sauce, Quesaburria Tacos, salmon burrito and our signature Key Lime Pie. Our craft margaritas are also a North Shore favourite.

Does Tamales Mexican Restaurant offer vegetarian options?

Yes. We offer a range of vegetarian dishes including the Mushroom Tamale, Vegetable Fajitas, Grilled Vegetable Burrito, Chiles Rellenos, vegetable quesadillas and various salad options. Tortillas can also be substituted with lettuce wraps across many dishes.

Does Tamales Mexican Restaurant have a kids menu?

Yes. We have a dedicated kids menu for guests under 12, featuring options including Chico's Nachos, Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Kids Cheese Quesadilla, Kids Mexican Pizza, Kids Steak or Ground Beef Taco, Kids Chicken Taco and Chicken Nuggets, all priced from $9.95.

Does Tamales Mexican Restaurant accommodate food allergies?

We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies. Please inform your server of any allergies or requirements when ordering and we will advise on suitable options. For specific allergy questions before your visit, call us at (847) 433-4070.

What margaritas does Tamales Mexican Restaurant serve?

Our margarita menu includes the House Margarita, Skinny Margarita made with El Jimador Reposado and Agave Nectar, and the Top Shelf Cadillac Margarita made with El Jimador Reposado and Gran Gala. We also offer a rotating Flavor Del Dia Margarita. All available on the rocks or frozen. Our full bar includes an extensive selection of top-shelf tequilas, Mexican beers, wines and spirits.

Reservations and Dining

Does Tamales Mexican Restaurant take reservations?

Yes. Reservations are recommended for Friday and Saturday evenings and for groups of six or more. Walk-ins are welcome at any time subject to availability. Book online through our Reservations page or call (847) 433-4070.

Does Tamales Mexican Restaurant offer outdoor seating?

Yes. We offer outdoor seating which is available during spring and summer. Our patio is a popular spot for al fresco dining in downtown Highland Park.

Is Tamales Mexican Restaurant family friendly?

Yes. Tamales Mexican Restaurant has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that is well suited to families with children. We offer a dedicated kids menu and our team is experienced in making families feel at home.

Is Tamales Mexican Restaurant good for groups?

Yes. We regularly host group dinners and celebrate special occasions with parties of all sizes. For groups of six or more, we recommend making a reservation in advance. For groups of 12 or more, please contact us directly or use our Private Parties page to arrange your visit.

Does Tamales Mexican Restaurant offer takeout?

Yes. Takeout is available. You can order online through our website or call us at (847) 433-4070 to place a takeout order.

Does Tamales Mexican Restaurant offer delivery?

Yes. Delivery is available from our Highland Park location. Order online through our website for the most up-to-date delivery options and availability.

Catering

Does Tamales Mexican Restaurant offer catering?

Yes. Tamales Mexican Restaurant offers full-service Mexican catering for events across Highland Park and the North Shore. We cater corporate lunches, graduation parties, birthdays, weddings, rehearsal dinners, bar and bat mitzvahs, school events and community gatherings. Catering is available for groups of 20 or more.

What areas does Tamales Mexican Restaurant cater to?

We serve Highland Park, Glencoe, Deerfield, Winnetka, Lake Forest, Northbrook and surrounding communities across Lake County, IL. Contact us to discuss your event location and we will confirm availability.

How do I request a catering quote from Tamales Mexican Restaurant?

Submit a catering enquiry through our Catering page and include your event date, location, estimated guest count and any dietary requirements. We typically respond within one business day with menu options and pricing. You can also call us directly at (847) 433-4070.

What is the minimum group size for catering?

Our catering service is available for groups of 20 or more. For smaller private events, please contact us to discuss your needs and we will do our best to help.

Private Events

Can I hire Tamales Mexican Restaurant for a private event?

Yes. Tamales Mexican Restaurant offers both semi-private dining and full restaurant buyout options for private events in Highland Park, IL. We host birthdays, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, anniversaries, office parties and more. Contact us through our Private Parties page or call (847) 433-4070.

What is included in a private event at Tamales Mexican Restaurant?

Private events at Tamales Mexican Restaurant include access to our full menu or a custom menu tailored to your event, signature craft margaritas and flexible bar packages, and the use of our audio-friendly space suitable for speeches and music. Our team handles all food and drink details so you can enjoy the occasion.

How do I book a private party at Tamales Mexican Restaurant?

Submit your enquiry through our Private Parties page with your preferred date, guest count and event type. For same-week availability or urgent enquiries, call us directly at (847) 433-4070 and we will check the calendar for you.

Ready To Visit Tamales?

Reserve your table, browse our fresh Mexican menu, or start planning your next event with us.

Bandido Inc., DBA Tamales Mexican Restaurant

Modern, fresh Mexican cuisine in the heart of Highland Park. Dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering & private parties.

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493 Central Ave
Highland Park, IL
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