El Atoradero

Taste the authentic flavors of Mexico—the state of Puebla, to be exact—in Prospect Heights at El Atoradero. The small, home-style cantina is done in white tile, exposed brick, potted cactii and painted pineapples on the wall. A communal table up front is a good place for groups to gather over chalupas, tacos al pastor and quesadillas with zucchini blossoms. Co-owner and chef Denisse Lina Chavez unlocked the secret to multi-layered, irresistible mole poblano from studying her mother and grandmother's methods. She makes blue corn tortillas in-house, along with wonderful salsas of varying heat. Her black beans are head-turning, so it's a surprise to learn they're lard-less and safe for vegetarians. Chavez changes the menu frequently, but basic staples like guacamole, enchiladas and massive tortas and cemitas are always on hand.