Chicago's Best Mexican & Latin Grocery Stores
Bring Authentic Latin Flavors Home With you
Chicago is home to an incredible selection of Mexican and Latin grocery stores, offering everything from freshly made tortillas to specialty chilies, traditional snacks, and imported pantry staples.
I find myself so inspired by the diverse Mexican restaurants and taquerias across the city that showcase how vast and colorful Mexican cuisine can be. From the array of complex moles highlighted at Manchamanteles, to the innovative ways the teams at Mi Tocoya and Vela showcase masa, and the thoughtful seafood preparations at Mariscos San Pedros and Allegrias Seafood, Chicago is overflowing with both tradition and innovation on the Latin food scene. And this is just the tip of the iceberg! I encourage you all to explore, and have fun bringing these flavor profiles into your own kitchen.
Whether you’re looking for the best place to pick up authentic ingredients for home-cooked meals or simply want to explore new flavors, these markets have you covered.
Where to Buy Freshly Made Tortillas
Nothing elevates a homemade taco or quesadilla like fresh tortillas, and several local markets specialize in making them daily.
El Milagro
A Chicago staple, El Milagro produces some of the best tortillas in the city. You can find their fresh corn and flour tortillas at their retail locations or many local grocery stores.
Tortilleria Atotonilco
This family-run shop is known for its incredibly fresh corn tortillas (or check out their whole wheat tortillas), perfect for tacos, enchiladas, or simply enjoying with butter and salt.
Best Shops for Mexican & Latin Pantry Staples:
For home cooks looking to stock up on authentic Mexican and Latin ingredients, these grocery stores have everything you need:
Cermak Fresh Market
La Casa del Pueblo
Supermercado El Guero
Where to Find Authentic Mexican Snacks & Beverages
If you’re craving Mexican candies, chips, or refreshing beverages, these stores have the best selection:
Supermercado Morelia
A top destination for Latin staples and classic snacks like Takis, Duvalín, and De La Rosa Mazapan.
Armitage Produce
This Puerto Rican market is great for picking up aguas frescas, Jarritos, and Matla- A famous non-alcoholic carbonated malt beverage.
Tropical Taste
While not a market per say, this authentic Dominican restaurant is a hidden gem for those who love Latin American sodas, juices, and treats.
Best Butcher Counters for High-Quality Meat
A good carne asada or birria starts with the right cut of meat. These grocery stores have high-quality butcher counters with expert butchers who can help you select the best cuts:
Carniceria Guanajuato
Known for their fresh cuts of beef, pork, and chicken, as well as marinated meats ready for grilling.
Food Market La Chiquita
A fantastic option for house-marinated carne asada, chorizo, and hard to find specialty meats and fish.
Supermercado La Internacional
Offers a wide selection of meats, including specialty cuts like tripas and lengua for traditional Mexican dishes. (Top Secret: Check out the mouth watering tacos sold in the back of the store)
Where to Buy Specialty Salsas, Moles, and Spices
Take your home cooking to the next level with freshly made salsas, mole pastes, and hard-to-find spices:
Supermercado El Gallo
Offers an amazing selection of dried and fresh spices, as well as house-made guacamole and salsas that perfectly accompany their tamales.
Dulcelandia
While primarily known for candy, Dulcelandia carries a great selection of dried chilies and Mexican cooking essentials.
Shopping at Latin Markets in Chicago
Whether you’re preparing a traditional Mexican feast or simply want to elevate your home cooking with authentic ingredients, Chicago’s diverse Mexican and Latin grocery stores will keep you coming back to test new fun ingredients. From fresh tortillas and top-quality meats to unique snacks and pantry staples, these stores make it easy to bring bold flavors into your kitchen.
Looking for more guides to Chicago’s best markets? Explore our recommendations for Chicago’s top butcher shops and the best Asian grocery stores in Chicago to expand your culinary adventures!