You wouldn’t expect to find so many Mexican restaurants in the Midwest, but there’s a small Illinois town that proves you don’t have to be in the South to enjoy authentic eats. With a town name reminiscent of one of our southern neighbors, you might expect more fried chicken or BBQ than authentic Mexican fare.
You don’t want to miss the best Mexican food Illinois has to offer. Keep scrolling for all the details.
Obviously we’re not talking about “Music City” when we talk about Nashville in Illinois. This small town sits in the southern portion of the state near the border with St. Louis and has a population of about 3,200.
Flickr/Ron Reiring
Attractions in this quiet town include a petting zoo, a vintage movie theatre, and an old train depot. The town is most popular during its festivals such as the annual tractor pull and fall fair.
Flickr/Jeff Sharp
What most don’t know about Nashville is that it is home to a delicious Mexican restaurant. El Indio was founded as a tortilla factory in 1940 and moved to its current restaurant location in 1947.
Google Maps
The owner of the restaurant, Ralph Pesqueira Sr., was the first to build a fresh tortilla machine that pumps out these flat wraps faster than any human. Today, the restaurant is known around the world for its work sending care packages to soldiers fighting in past U.S. wars.
Facebook/El Indio
The restaurant is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner items. You can eat in or takeout, and it also offers catering for parties and events.
Facebook/El Indio
Menu items include taquitos, burritos, tacos, chimichangas, tostadas, enchiladas, and more, and you can get them with seafood, chicken, or beef. There are also kids’ meals which include small portions and french fries.
Facebook/El Indio
Patrons enjoy hearty portions, never leaving hungry. Pair a meal like this with a fruity cocktail or beer for a complete meal.
Facebook/El Indio
Of course, you can’t skip dessert. Try a pumpkin burrito, rice pudding, flan, or brownies to cap your amazing meal.
Facebook/El Indio
El Indio is located at 1620 S Mill Street in Nashville, Illinois, and you can get more information on its Facebook page or website.
Flickr/Ron Reiring
Flickr/Jeff Sharp
Google Maps
Facebook/El Indio
Live too far away for a quick visit? Check out 10 more Mexican restaurants around Illinois you’re sure to love.
Have you ever visited this small town restaurant? Share your experiences and photos with us!
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