Crystal Lake tacos and Italian Beef

I had business in Crystal Lake Saturday. I had lunch and dinner there. I don’t get there very often (way too far). Is it even considered Chicagoland for this board.

I had lunch at La Rosita Grocery Store. While they have a small grocery they do tacos, burritos, etc there. I had 3 steak tacos. I had read an article in the Trib (3 or so years ago) about them. They are excellent, some of the best I have ever had.

For dinner I went to Tommy’s Red Hots, on the recommendation of someone at the meeting. Tommy’s is a standard beef, hot dog stand. I had a beef (hot), fries, and a shake. I thought the beef had a nice flavor and was a decent serving. I was disappointed in the giardiniera and the bread. I don’t know where they get their bread, but it didn’t taste as good as bread I have gotten at other beef stands.

However, I couldn’t believe how bad the fries were. They were not very good. Given what other area beef stands can do, you would think places like this would be better. The shake was ok.

La Rosita Grocery
131 N Main

Tommy’s Red Hot
363 Virginia (Rt. 14)

D.

I have been to La Rosita, but the lack of cleanliness and surly service did me in. I did a mini taste test one day. I ordered carne asada tacos from Las Combres and La Rosita and ate them while sitting in my car.I've have never returned to La Rosita again. Las Combres is fabulous, family run, very clean, with great food!!!! Just the hole in the wall with terrific food

Taqueria Las Cumbres
93 Grant Street, Crystal Lake
(815) 455-8200
And Tommy's? eh. Especially when Portillo's is just down the street

I think that the food at LaRosita is probably the best you will find in a taqueria in Crystal Lake. However, I like the other poster can not get over the general lack of cleanliness in the restaurant portion of establishment. And it is not just the "rush" period.

Personally, if I am looking for a cheap and quick lunch in the area, I head over to Joseph's Supermarket on Rt. 14. The food is generally pretty good and the specials are the cheapest around. Last week, I had a good panini, chips and a Coke for $2.75.

I agree with you about the cleanliness. As I waited in line, I decided to get my order to go. I did not have a problem with the service. I thought their food preparation area looked clean; it was just the dining area.

I don’t get to Crystal Lake that often, but next time, I will give Taqueria Las Cumbres a try. As for Tommy’s I can’t see me going back, but I am not a fan of Portillo’s either.

D.

I suggest packing your own lunch the next time you head to Crystal Lake.