A Lincoln Square icon for more than 30 years makes some of the best burritos in the city

In the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood, Garcia’s Restaurant has been serving up the flavors of Jalisco, Mexico for over three decades—and it all began with a dream. In the early 1990s, Rigoberto and Luis Garcia, two brothers who had spent more than 15 years working in other restaurants, decided it was time to bring their own vision to life. In January 1991, they opened the doors to Garcia’s Restaurant, a family-owned and operated spot that would go on to become a beloved staple in the community.

Photo byGarcia's Restaurant

Today, that legacy is proudly carried forward by the next generation. Braulio Garcia and his cousin Oscar—both of whom grew up inside the walls of Garcia’s—are now co-owners, working hard every day to keep the family dream alive and growing. “We want to keep it going for future family members,” Braulio says. “It’s more than a business—it’s our home.”

Named simply after their last name, Garcia’s has always embraced authenticity, offering dishes inspired by the family’s roots in the Los Altos region of Jalisco. It’s not a trend or a marketing angle—it’s the food they know and love, prepared the way their fathers and uncles did before them. The result is a menu full of rich, satisfying, and deeply personal recipes that have stood the test of time.

The Garcia brothers.Photo byGarcia's Restaurant

Among the most popular dishes: the sizzling fajitas, which arrive at the table still smoking on a hot plate, packed with perfectly sautéed meat and vegetables; Chicago’s Best Burrito, a mouthwatering blend of steak and al pastor, stuffed with sour cream, avocado, beans, lettuce, and tomato, then smothered in melted cheese and ranchero sauce; and the Tampiqueña, a classic combination of grilled skirt steak served alongside a cheese enchilada, rice, beans, and guacamole.

Photo byGarcia's Restaurant

Running a small business for 35 years hasn’t been without its challenges. From navigating rising food costs to surviving the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Garcia family has poured their time, energy, and dedication into keeping things going. “It takes so much to run a restaurant,” Braulio says. “But when you see regular customers coming back, generation after generation—it reminds you why you do it.”

That sense of community is a driving force at Garcia’s. Over the years, they’ve watched families grow, children who once sat in high chairs now coming back with kids of their own. “Being part of people’s lives in that way is beautiful,” says Braulio. “It makes all the work worth it.”

Photo byGarcia's Restaurant

While Garcia’s on Lincoln Avenue remains the family’s flagship location, the Garcias have continued to build on their legacy with new ventures—including Amor y Tequila, a more upscale Mexican dining concept, and their soon-to-open BBQ spot, Bull and Barrel. Each new location is an opportunity to grow and evolve while staying true to the same core values: family, tradition, and great food.

The goal moving forward is simple: keep delivering the high-quality food and warm hospitality Garcia’s is known for, while continuing to grow in meaningful, sustainable ways. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a celebration with friends, Garcia’s Restaurant is the kind of place where everyone feels like part of the family.

Operating Hours and Location

Garcia's Restaurant is open:

Everday: 11am to 11pm

4760 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

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