El Faro Restaurant

Located in the heart of downtown Elgin, El Faro Restaurant offers an authentic and flavorful Mexican dining experience that’s both comforting and vibrant. Specializing in classic Mexican cuisine, El Faro invites guests to indulge in a rich variety of dishes crafted with fresh ingredients and a passion for tradition.

The menu is a treasure trove for lovers of Mexican fare. Start your meal with the creamy, perfectly seasoned guacamole with chips or the tantalizing steak nachos–a single-layer delight on crisp, cut-up tostadas, generously topped with beans and melted cheese. For breakfast or any time of day, the Breakfast Burrito and the savory Carne Asada Con Huevos Burrito provide hearty, satisfying options that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors.

Lunch or dinner here is a celebration of classic Mexican favorites such as the Enchiladas with Rice and Beans and the uniquely satisfying Enchilada w Mole, which comes smothered in El Faro’s homemade signature mole sauce and served with a vibrant side of beans, rice, avocado, and fresh lettuce. The Two Gorditas paired with sides of rice, beans, and a canned drink make a filling and flavorful combo, especially popular on Mondays.

For a truly indulgent experience, the Steak Fajitas Dinner and the Steak Taco Dinner deliver tender, marinated steak accompanied by sizzling grilled peppers and onions, alongside traditional Mexican sides. The Quesadilla "Farito", filled with your choice of chicken or steak and melted cheese, with sides of sour cream and guacamole, adds another layer of comfort and satisfaction.

The weekly specials—like the three regular burritos served Wednesday, the steak or chicken fajita dinner on Saturday, and the tortas bursting with beans, sour cream, lettuce, tomato, and cheese—offer excellent value while showcasing the restaurant’s flavorful variety.

Dining at El Faro isn’t just about the food; it’s a warm, friendly atmosphere where the staff’s genuine hospitality shines through. Customers frequently praise the welcoming nature of the team, the cleanliness of the space, and the attention to detail in every dish served. Dan Nikolic raves about the “wonderful guacamole and great steak chicken and shrimp Supreme,” while Joe Myers highlights the “really tasty Mexican food” and the restaurant’s prime location near the Pace Transit Center, making it an ideal spot for travelers and locals alike.

Though parking in the downtown area can be a bit challenging, customers like Carm A remind diners that the inviting ambiance and generously portioned meals make it well worth the effort. Many have also noted that the food remains consistently fresh and bursting with flavor, a testament to El Faro’s commitment to high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes.

Whether you’re craving the rich, complex flavors of mole, the spicy zest of Mexican steak tacos, or the crispy delight of flautas paired with steak nachos, El Faro Restaurant promises a satisfying and memorable Mexican meal. It’s a true gem in Elgin’s culinary scene—authentic, flavorful, and inviting.