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This Evanston mainstay offers a new take on what Mexican food can be in America. All our meats and vegetarian fillings are marinated to perfection and paired with toppings that fully compliment the flavors. No need to build your own because La Principal has it covered. Order, eat, enjoy, repeat.
Contemporary Mexican street food served in chic, relaxed digs with a bar & a walk-up coffee window.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 700 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202
Phone: (224) 307-2444
Website: https://www.laprincipalevanston.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=gmb&utm_campaign=lp
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Order and Reservations
Reservations: toasttab.com
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Related Web Results
La Principal Evanston, IL | Mexican Street Food | Pickup and Delivery
La Principal is Southeast Evanston’s go-to Mexican restaurant, featuring delicious tacos on handmade tortillas, amazing margaritas, awesome craft beers, …
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Thanks for choosing to order direct. By ordering directly from our website, you’re directly supporting our business. We hope you enjoy your order! Order …
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La Principal, Evanston. 2369 likes · 7 talking about this · 4298 were here. Southeast Evanston’s go-to Mexican restaurant.
Reviews
Carlos Aréchiga
I visited La Principal for late lunch on a Sunday and everything was great, from the drinks to the appetizers to the meal itself. Our server was super friendly and made the visit a very enjoyable one. Will definitely be back. My favorite thing was their queso fundido and steak tacos. Check them out!
… moreAnna Schafer
I’ve been here a few times, sitting both outside in the summer and inside. The decor on the inside is very calming and pretty. The food has always come quickly and is always delicious. I like that I can order multiple different tacos to try different flavors. Everything is plated and presented very nicely. I’ll definitely be back again!
… moreAnna
Loves this place! Visiting from out of town, it’s always a maze trying to find somewhere everyone will enjoy. The food was outstanding– not greasy (which is all too common in Mexican cuisine), and a variety of options that were all so unique and quite authentic. As a chef who’s visited Mexico, I’d definitely return here! (The service was also quick and friendly, and they have great outdoor seating!)
… moreLauren Carter
Le Principal is a great local spot for the Evanston community!
The service was absolutely incredible! The staff is personable and trained to handle any situation with grace and humor. Eric Young, the owner, was very present in the restaurant. You can tell a love of food and community was poured into Le Principal.
Also, the churros are a must if you love a sweet treat!
… moreThe service was absolutely incredible! The staff is personable and trained to handle any situation with grace and humor. Eric Young, the owner, was very present in the restaurant. You can tell a love of food and community was poured into Le Principal.
Also, the churros are a must if you love a sweet treat!
Katie Post
My boyfriend and I are regulars here and are never disappointed! The food, drinks, and vibes are perfect. Shout out to Isaac who always contributes to the experience! Hands down amazing server. See you guys next week!
… moreM F
Low reviews? I don’t get it. This is our go-to “fancy” Mexican. Yes, there are tons of mom/pop divey Mexican restaurants we love. But when we’re in the mood for a nicer/cooler atmosphere, creative food, and excellent drinks we come here.
We always start with the queso fundido and it’s amazing. Great texture, tons of flavor. Not a huge heaping bowl of cheese, but a nice, gooey/crunchy starter dish. I’ll take quality over quantity any day. And even though it’s not a massive dish it more than quells our stomachs.
We also order the elotes; off the cob, easier to share. Yum.
Short rib mole tacos are soooo good! Love the shrimp tacos, carnitas, al pastor.
While the starter dishes aren’t huge they’re more than enough. After the queso fundido and the elotes my husband only has room for one taco. I can sometimes manage two but it’s pushing it. The tacos are very generous so we leave happy.
I’d go for the drinks alone. Excellent house margarita w/agave nectar. Always tough to decide between that and the smokey/spicy margarita. Just tried the mezcal/grapefruit Paloma and it was so good!
We finish off each meal with the homemade churro with chocolate dipping sauce. What else to say? It’s the best!
… moreWe always start with the queso fundido and it’s amazing. Great texture, tons of flavor. Not a huge heaping bowl of cheese, but a nice, gooey/crunchy starter dish. I’ll take quality over quantity any day. And even though it’s not a massive dish it more than quells our stomachs.
We also order the elotes; off the cob, easier to share. Yum.
Short rib mole tacos are soooo good! Love the shrimp tacos, carnitas, al pastor.
While the starter dishes aren’t huge they’re more than enough. After the queso fundido and the elotes my husband only has room for one taco. I can sometimes manage two but it’s pushing it. The tacos are very generous so we leave happy.
I’d go for the drinks alone. Excellent house margarita w/agave nectar. Always tough to decide between that and the smokey/spicy margarita. Just tried the mezcal/grapefruit Paloma and it was so good!
We finish off each meal with the homemade churro with chocolate dipping sauce. What else to say? It’s the best!
Tick Tock24
I’ve been here MANY times and have decided never again. FIRST, the service is good EXCEPT for one server, a woman with brown curly hair.
I’ve had her many times and every time the exact same thing. Slow, inattentive, drifting. I suspect if I had a STRING attached to tug when I needed something she’d be confused.
Im sat…have to FLAG her down to start a drink. That gets done.
Shes gone but visable. Place isnt busy at all. I wait. I have to FLAG her down because I’ve finished my drink ages ago, would like another and to order. I find myself trying to PACE MYSELF to her lack of one.
TWICE I’ve wanted to come in, saw her, decided not.
Gave this place another chance though she was the only server.
SAME thing except this tine my table was loaded with dirty dishes and empty drink glasses I STACKED to give her a HINT. There was only 2 tables in service and one that just got sat and THEY waited as I observed them becoming agitated.
Its like she never worked in tje service industry as she’s working in the service industry.
I spent a lot of money that day and regrettably some will go to her as a reward for me stacking those dishes.
Those dishes were on the table as I got up and went for my check as I couldnt wait any longer.
Id bet the staff knows who im referring to because I’ve worked in the industry and we know who we have to prop up constantly.
Also, having “been” a somewhat regular, the owner who floats in not to at least acknowledge shows a certain lack of character.
… moreI’ve had her many times and every time the exact same thing. Slow, inattentive, drifting. I suspect if I had a STRING attached to tug when I needed something she’d be confused.
Im sat…have to FLAG her down to start a drink. That gets done.
Shes gone but visable. Place isnt busy at all. I wait. I have to FLAG her down because I’ve finished my drink ages ago, would like another and to order. I find myself trying to PACE MYSELF to her lack of one.
TWICE I’ve wanted to come in, saw her, decided not.
Gave this place another chance though she was the only server.
SAME thing except this tine my table was loaded with dirty dishes and empty drink glasses I STACKED to give her a HINT. There was only 2 tables in service and one that just got sat and THEY waited as I observed them becoming agitated.
Its like she never worked in tje service industry as she’s working in the service industry.
I spent a lot of money that day and regrettably some will go to her as a reward for me stacking those dishes.
Those dishes were on the table as I got up and went for my check as I couldnt wait any longer.
Id bet the staff knows who im referring to because I’ve worked in the industry and we know who we have to prop up constantly.
Also, having “been” a somewhat regular, the owner who floats in not to at least acknowledge shows a certain lack of character.
Dana King
If you’re looking for an authentic and delicious Mexican dining experience, LA Principal is a must-visit restaurant. From the moment you step through the door, you’re greeted with warm hospitality and a colorful, vibrant atmosphere that sets the mood for an unforgettable meal. The menu is packed with traditional Mexican dishes, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, which burst with flavor and authenticity. Whether you’re in the mood for classic enchiladas, mouth-watering tacos, or sizzling fajitas, LA Principal has something for everyone. And the drink selection? It’s just as impressive, with an extensive range of tequilas, margaritas, and other refreshing cocktails to choose from. The service and staff are second-to-none, providing attentive and friendly service that ensures you feel right at home. Overall, LA Principal is a top-notch Mexican restaurant that truly captures the spirit and flavors of Mexico, and is sure to leave you satisfied and wanting more.
… moreEmily Brink
Love their Birria beef and their margaritas. It is safe for my gluten intolerant friend to eat here, which is a huge plus! The staff is also friendly and helpful. They have a cool outdoor seating area when the weather is nice. It’s also right next to the Metra train stop, which is really convenient but loud if you sit outside.
… moreKyleigh Ardoin
Honestly underrated place. The carne asada is so tender and delicious. The waiters are so bubbly and happy and pleasant. And large portions!
… more