de cero - Permanently Closed

3.8

332 Reviews

$30 and under

Mexican

Top Tags:

You will love de cero; which translates into "from scratch" - which is exactly what they do -everything is made from scratch! Hand pressed tortillas, freshly made crema -its clean, whole mexican food with a modern casual twist. de cero is known for its amazing taco menu; specializing in 15 different types of gourmet tacos. Try their signature tacos; such as the grilled ahi tuna taco with spicy habanero mango salsa, grilled skirt steak taco with chipotle mayo and potatoes, battered shrimp taco with avocado crema, or the chile rubbed pork al pastor taco with charred pineapple. While at de cero you must order the duck nachos, they are simply devine! The margaritas are made with fresh lime juice and range from a tart guava margarita to the popular pineapple jalapeno margarita. If you are a rum lover, try the raspberry basil mojito, very interesting flavor combination. de cero is a great place to take a date, host a birthday party, or just get a quick bite to eat.

Permanently Closed

This restaurant is permanently closed.

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Elegant
Cuisines
Mexican, Mexican / Southwestern, Vegetarian / Vegan
Hours of operation
Sunday Brunch: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Starting April 3: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Lunch Tue - Fri: 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Dinner: Tuesday & Wednesday: 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. bar until 10:00 p.m. Thursday - Saturday: 5:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. bar until 11:00 p.m. Sunday: 3:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. bar until 10:00 p.m.
Phone number
(312) 455-8114
Website
http://www.decerotaqueria.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Smart Casual
Executive chef
Jason Slimak
Catering
De cero caters parties from 20-150. We offer a full range of catering services. Please email: decerotaqueria@gmail.com to request more information
Private party facilities
We offer private rooms for parties of 20-150. Please email decerotaqueria@gmail.com
Private party contact
Angela Lee: (312) 455-8114

Location
814 W Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60607
Neighborhood
West Loop
Cross street
Halsted
Parking details
Street parking in area or valet in front for $10.
Public transit
Blue Line, Milwaukee and Grand.
Entertainment
Great place to go before or after a Bulls, Blackhawks Game, or a show at the United Center.
Additional
Banquet, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Liquor, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 332 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

3.8

3.8 based on all time ratings

4Food
3.7Service
3.5Ambience

Noise • Energetic

297 Reviews

o
opentablediner354
Chicago
81 reviews
vip
5.0
81 reviews
Dined on January 14, 2012
overall5food4service5ambience4
We ate a decero before catching a play at the Goodman. We were there on the early side, and there were several families with kids there and they space wasn't too full. By the time we left, it was packed with a younger crowd. The service was fantastic, but not overbearing. The guacamole was good and the taco platter a great way to try various tacos. Some were just so-so, and some were great, but we would definitely go back to try more.
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M
Maratin
Chicago
83 reviews
vip
3.0
83 reviews
Dined on January 6, 2012
overall3food3service3ambience3
Good place. Little pricey. This time around although flavorful shrimp tacos they were salty and then tilapia tacos were dry.
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M
Mark
Chicago
8 reviews
4.0
8 reviews
Dined on December 31, 2011
overall4food4service4ambience3
Interesting and delicious Margaritas! Prices are not bad, there was a bit of a long wait, but nice bar area to hang out at. Food was delicious! I had the quesadillas and jalapeno margarita. Very fun!
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b
bea3
Chicago
31 reviews
vip
4.0
31 reviews
Dined on December 30, 2011
overall4food5service4ambience4
Amazing food and fun crowd. The margaritas are VERY pricey. $14 each or $50 a pitcher.
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F
Foodie2008
Chicago
9 reviews
vip
5.0
9 reviews
Dined on December 29, 2011
overall5food5service5ambience5
Absolutely the best Mexican food in the west loop! Definitely order the duck confit nachos and the tray of tacos. Great selection of salsas. Fantastic margaritas with some very unusual flavor choices.
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LP
LP21
Chicago
59 reviews
vip
5.0
59 reviews
Dined on December 29, 2011
overall5food5service4ambience3
We go to de cero often; it is one of our favorites. The food is delicious. Margaritas are great but expensive. It can get noisy and it is dark. Overall a terrific place though. Everyone we bring is always impressed and can't believe how good the food is. We keep coming back every time we have guests because it simply the best for that. The food is great for all types of tastes and it is a fun atmosphere.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
3 reviews
2.0
3 reviews
Dined on December 28, 2011
overall2food2service2ambience3
The food and drinks were way overpriced.
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j
joelr
Chicago
9 reviews
3.0
9 reviews
Dined on December 23, 2011
overall3food3service2ambience3
Inattentive server. Pozole soup was not very good.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Los Angeles
3 reviews
3.0
3 reviews
Dined on December 22, 2011
overall3food3service2ambience2
This place is very ehhh. It's not bad, it just its that great either. The margs were goods, but the pours for Tequila on the rocks are very weak. Tacos are just ehhh. Nothing too creative here.
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l
luv2dine
Chicago
5 reviews
vip
1.0
5 reviews
Dined on December 10, 2011
overall1food2service1ambience3
firstly, we were made to wait 40 minutes for our table even though we had a reservation. and they were neither apologetic about it nor did they offer us any freebies for making us wait that long. the food was very average. the tacos had so much sauce on them that you could barely taste the meat and fish. drinks were decent, and probably the only reason why you would even consider going here. and to top it all off, the waiter messed up our final check. but we were so eager to leave that we didn't even bother arguing. i wouldn't recommend this place to anyone.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on December 10, 2011
overall4food4service5ambience3
The food was good, but not amazing for the price. I feel like we spent a whole lot more for Mexican food than the food warranted. That said, the location and energy were fun and the margaritas 1.) come in a pitcher - nice for larger groups, and 2.) were really tasty. Our waiter was fantastic and the scene was upbeat and fun. So, a good overall experience, but better food for far less can be found in hole-in-the-wall spots.
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K
Keif39
Chicago
4 reviews
vip
4.0
4 reviews
Dined on December 10, 2011
overall4food5service3ambience4
Food was out of this world. Service could of been a little better. Server seemed quite busy and a little surly. Bus boys were around a lot and were very attentive. Overall it was outstanding and will be going back very soon.
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l
latenighteater
Chicago
17 reviews
vip
4.0
17 reviews
Dined on December 7, 2011
overall4food4service5ambience4
We had a group of 13 for dinner and everything went smooth. The food was delicious and we were never short on chips or drinks!
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i
ieatanything
Chicago
32 reviews
vip
5.0
32 reviews
Dined on December 3, 2011
overall5food5service5ambience5
always a pleasurable experience at de cero
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on November 25, 2011
overall4food4service3ambience5
De Cero intrigued us because of its "from scratch" approach to Mexican food. It didn't disappoint: we enjoyed the food we ordered a lot, and thought their preparations were imaginative and delicious. The menu barely had any vegetables on it (maybe one salad), and the meal we had seemed skewed toward protein and carbs (whaddya expect, it was a Mexican restaurant). I think we would have enjoyed having a few more options on the menu, especially some varied approaches to cooked and salad-style vegetable side dishes. I thought the liquor side of the menu was pricey: beers starting at $6 and margaritas at $10, with a special on wine at $8 a glass--it seemed rather exorbitant to us.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
10 reviews
4.0
10 reviews
Dined on November 19, 2011
overall4food4service4ambience4
Second time here, just as good as the first. These were tasty: duck confit nachos, oaxaca tamal, horchada bread pudding, mango margarita. buen provecho!
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J
Jazzy
Chicago
3 reviews
3.0
3 reviews
Dined on November 18, 2011
overall3food3service5ambience3
We had the taco platter and found the choices unique, but sadly too much fat and few veggies. They should have provided a platter with lettuce, peppers, tomatoes and perhaps some spicy carrots to add to the tacos. If I go again, I will probably order the one salad that I saw on the menu and a taco as a side. I'm not a health nut, but I think one can provide flavor without so much fat.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 12, 2011
overall4food4service5ambience5
We had a party of six at 8pm. Table was ready after a minute and we were whisked through the crowds to a side area that actually had a curtain. A huge plus from us since we could talk and actually hear each other during the meal but still felt like we were in a fun restaurant. Food as usual was on par. Yes, the tacos are small and pricey but still delicious. Just watch out for those pitchers! At $40 a pitcher for sangria or margaritas we got hit hard. Ouch.
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TN
ThanhN
Washington DC
3 reviews
vip
3.0
3 reviews
Dined on November 11, 2011
overall3food5service2ambience3
The food was very good. Service was not very good. We arrived a few minutes early for a 7:30 reservation but the hostess said we were too early and made us wait until 7:40 while there were plenty of tables clearly available. Then our waiter charged us for something we did not order.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on November 4, 2011
overall3food4service3ambience4
Besides waiting over 20 minutes for our table to be ready, it was a great experience. They provided guacamole on the house for our wait, but it was still discouraging to have to wait over 20 minutes when I had made a reservation. The tacos are really delicious, as are the flavored margaritas.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on October 26, 2011
overall3food3service2ambience2
Everything was good. Our server kept drawing our attention to the more expensive drinks and food options - he was overselling and it became way too obvious. Food choices are not plentiful - lots of tacos which is fine if that is what you're in the mood to eat. Overall a good experience but not great.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on October 14, 2011
overall5food5service5ambience5
duck confit nachos. just trust me.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
New York Area
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on October 12, 2011
overall5food5service5ambience5
The service was prompt and very friendly, the food was terrific, and we look forward to our next visit!
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JV
JamesV
Chicago
11 reviews
4.0
11 reviews
Dined on October 4, 2011
overall4food4service4ambience4
I love this place. It's a great taqueria with awesome pazole.
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b
brunch
Chicago
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on October 1, 2011
overall3food4service2ambience3
The food was delicious, but the portions were very small yet very expensive. We spent a lot of money, but left still hungry.
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HT
HappyTraveler
Chicago
34 reviews
vip
4.0
34 reviews
Dined on September 30, 2011
overall4food4service4ambience4
First time to De Cero. Food was very good but a little pricey for what you get. First time I've been to a Mexican restaurant where salsa and chips are not put on your table for free. Sat in the back room which was much better for conversation because the noise level was not as great.
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L
Lisa
Chicago
71 reviews
vip
3.0
71 reviews
Dined on September 29, 2011
overall3food3service5ambience3
Although I did not see any children, it would easily accommodate them because the prices are great and the noise level loud enough that an occasional whine wouldn't stick out. Good place to go before a United Center event, but easy to get to for any event (right off the expressway). De cero is an easy, uncomplicated meal which is always good. The service is always amazing, right down to the valet parking.
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DB
DamonB
Detroit
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 23, 2011
overall5food5service3ambience3
Wow, what a delicious place. If you like spicy food, it is even better. I'm told the shrimp taco is to die for. I personally loved the three cheese, and well, everything else. The food is fresh, delicious, hot, spicy and fast. The drinks are amazing. You won't regret eating here.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 22, 2011
overall5food4service5ambience4
Great place to share tacos with a group of people. Lively and intimate atmosphere, although tables are close together. Great food and drinks!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
14 reviews
4.0
14 reviews
Dined on September 16, 2011
overall4food4service2ambience2
Cocktails (margaritas) are overpriced and not that good. However, tacos and guacamole were excellent! I will go back for the food and get wine next time. Atmosphere is nice, but be prepared, when busy, it's loud. We'll be back.
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RT
RandyT
Chicago
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on September 16, 2011
overall5food4service5ambience5
Great spot. Our server was fabulous. Food was unique and very good. Great chips and guacamole. Fabulous margaritas. As a mid-50's person, I may have been the oldest person there, but i did not feel out of place and, while it was an energetic location, it was NOT too loud. I recommend highly.
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p
passion4food
Chicago
37 reviews
vip
4.0
37 reviews
Dined on September 10, 2011
overall4food5service4ambience4
we luv this place and have been back many times! greeaaat food and awesome margaritas! Keep doing a great job De Cero!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
London
5 reviews
vip
3.0
5 reviews
Dined on September 9, 2011
overall3food4service2ambience2
pretty good food, esp tacos - steak were great! however, really really loud - to the point where i had to shout across the table for my bf to hear me. service was ok - had to ask several times for more water. strange policy for margarita pitchers - would not let you purchase a pitcher (4 drinks) unless you had a table of 4 or more. this rule effectively doubled your price for drinks. passionfruit margaritas were amazing though. still reasonable priced, good mexican food, great place in the neighborhood. they also deliver now!
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LP
LopaP
Chicago
12 reviews
3.0
12 reviews
Dined on September 9, 2011
overall3food3service3ambience3
The food is still average, drinks are average (below average to me, considering it is a Mexican place). Considering this, prices are a little too high, at least for the drinks.
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m
matty
Chicago
18 reviews
4.0
18 reviews
Dined on September 9, 2011
overall4food4service4ambience4
Will go back and NOT fill up on the wonderful chips and guacamole next time! Everything was yummy.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on September 9, 2011
overall3food3service3ambience3
I would go back for the tacos and tamales. The night's special enchiladas were drenched in cheese which made the dish extremely greasy and salty. I'm thankful that the staff were accommodating to our request to prepare our guac without cilantro. Not a bad place but it fell a bit short for the price.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
4 reviews
vip
2.0
4 reviews
Dined on September 8, 2011
overall2food2service2ambience2
Not as good as the hype. The taco flight was decent, but not great, and our guacamole was cleared before we were done with it.
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NB
NatalieB
Chicago
46 reviews
vip
3.0
46 reviews
Dined on September 2, 2011
overall3food3service3ambience2
Tables were so close together 1 of us had to awkwardly walk around all other tables to get to seat. SO LOUD. Couldn't hear boyfriend across the table. Waitress didn't smile or make eye contact, she looked very bored and we didn't feel welcome but the host was friendly. Cool spot in the city but the food wasn't worth the price. Guac was very good but worth $8? Nah.. Got taco platter with chorizo (sorry but tasted like spicy Taco Bell meat), panko tilapia (delish), chipotle chicken (smoky, good), and skirt steak (nothing special). Total bill (including a beer) was $54...not worth it in a foodie gem like Chicago. Won't return, but glad I tried it!
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f
foodie
Raleigh
9 reviews
vip
4.0
9 reviews
Dined on September 2, 2011
overall4food5service4ambience3
What a gem! we enjoyed an interesting and varied selection of entrees and great sides. The beer selections could be better. the place was very busy, which made it fun. We went again the next night!
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G
Gonzo
Chicago
92 reviews
4.0
92 reviews
Dined on September 1, 2011
overall4food4service5ambience4
Service was prompt, food was delicious. Best guacamole in town.
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FAQs

de cero - Permanently Closed offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (312) 455-8114.

de cero - Permanently Closed is rated 3.8 stars by 332 OpenTable diners.

Permanently Closed

This restaurant is permanently closed.

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for de cero - Permanently Closed

814 W Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60607

Additional information

Cross street
Halsted
Neighborhood
West Loop
Hours of operation
Sunday Brunch: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Starting April 3: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Lunch Tue - Fri: 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Dinner: Tuesday & Wednesday: 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. bar until 10:00 p.m. Thursday - Saturday: 5:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. bar until 11:00 p.m. Sunday: 3:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. bar until 10:00 p.m.
Cuisines
Mexican, Mexican / Southwestern, Vegetarian / Vegan
Dining style
Casual Elegant
Dress code
Smart Casual
Parking details
Street parking in area or valet in front for $10.
Public transit
Blue Line, Milwaukee and Grand.
Payment options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Jason Slimak
Entertainment
Great place to go before or after a Bulls, Blackhawks Game, or a show at the United Center.
Additional
Banquet, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Liquor, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.decerotaqueria.com/
Phone number
(312) 455-8114
Catering
De cero caters parties from 20-150. We offer a full range of catering services. Please email: decerotaqueria@gmail.com to request more information
Private party facilities
We offer private rooms for parties of 20-150. Please email decerotaqueria@gmail.com
Private party contact
Angela Lee: (312) 455-8114

de cero - Permanently Closed

Permanently Closed

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Menu

What 332 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

FAQs

Does de cero - Permanently Closed offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is de cero - Permanently Closed restaurant rated?

Permanently Closed

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information