Antojitos Tonatico
About This Spot
Stepping into Antojitos Tonatico feels like entering a beloved neighborhood treasure where the rhythm slows just enough to savor the moment. The modest, warmly lit space hums with the quiet energy of familiar faces and lively conversations, infusing the air with a genuine sense of community. It’s the kind of spot where the pace eases into something unhurried, inviting you to settle in and share more than just a meal.
Here, flavors unfold with an effortless authenticity, rooted deeply in traditional Mexican and Latin American roots. The kitchen’s laid-back confidence shines through in dishes full of honest, robust textures and layered tastes—whether it’s the richly comforting warm bowls that feel like a gentle embrace on cooler days or the gentle crunch of handmade tortillas cradling vibrant fillings. The bursts of tang from pickled habanero and the gentle refreshment of aguas frescas lend a subtle complexity that makes each bite and sip feel like a small discovery.
The atmosphere carries a welcoming warmth found not only in the food but also in the thoughtful gestures of the staff. There’s a quiet attentiveness here—servers who navigate the liveliness with patience and good humor, helping to make every visit feel personal and unhurried. This place isn’t about rushing through; it’s about arriving, pausing, and appreciating the comfort of familiar flavors done with care.
In a town like Waukegan, Antojitos Tonatico invites you into a humble celebration of food that’s rich in both tradition and local spirit. It’s a spot where a simple plate becomes part of a story shared, where the everyday becomes something quietly memorable.
What’s Available Here
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Fast service
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Serves local specialty
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Wheelchair-accessible toilet
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Catering
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Trendy
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Groups
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Locals
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
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Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | 10:00 AM - 08:00 PM | |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM - 08:00 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | Closed | |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM - 08:00 PM | |
| Friday | 10:00 AM - 08:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM |
Robert Guadagno 10 Jan 2026
Very authentic Sopes, Tacos, and outrageously flavorful salsas for everything! My server was apologizing for the wait, they were PACKED when I got there. I had to reassure her several times that I'm as easy as Sunday afternoon (it was a Sunday afternoon). The only "disappointment" is the tinga (chicken) was very 'wet' and it went through the tortillas making them mushy corn... But the flavor, and portion size more than made up for that.
Michelle Saldana 05 Nov 2025
This place is known for their gorditas and menudo, which are fire. I wanted to try something new and ordered chilaquiles. I genuinely don’t recommend them. They were soggy and too spicy. I also ordered them to go and they forgot to put sour cream, cheese, and onion.
Eff M. (Eff) 29 Oct 2025
Absolutely delicious! I work in Waukegan and end up driving by this location about once or twice a month, so I've been meaning to try it out for a while. I should not have waited so long! Friendly service, well lit, and simply amazing food. I will be making this a regular stop. (Picture is of the cute plant with braids that was over my table.)
Mickey 24 Oct 2025
I cannot say this enough, this is the best restaurant in Waukegan! The menudo is to die for, not to mention the pickled carrots and the hand made tortillas. The customer service is amazing. Juan and Cynthia are the best.
Rik Rob 13 Oct 2025
Great food. Everything was great. They have blueberry muffins so im going back 100%
Jerry Aguilera 05 Oct 2025
Anyone can cook menudo. But to cook an authentic Mexican style, world class, top of the line menudo, you’ve got to have access to ancestral recipes. These folks have cooked what I consider the best menudo (period) for generations, and they never stop impressing me.