Avondale, Chicago, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and among its many treasures are some truly exceptional nachos. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the best 15 nacho spots in Avondale, helping you navigate the cheesy landscape and find your perfect cheesy fix. We'll explore everything from classic combinations to innovative twists, ensuring your next nacho craving is satisfied with a truly memorable experience.
Top 5 Classic Nachos in Avondale
These spots deliver on the promise of perfectly executed, traditional nachos:
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The Friendly Tap: Their nachos are legendary amongst locals. Generous portions of perfectly seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar, and a side of their homemade salsa are the hallmarks of this Avondale institution. They often have happy hour specials that make this a budget-friendly option for a nacho feast. Expect a lively atmosphere and fast service.
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Pilsen's Famous Nachos: While not technically in Avondale, it's close enough and undeniably worth the short trip. Their secret ingredient is a carefully crafted blend of cheeses, creating a uniquely creamy and flavorful topping. Their generous portion size consistently impresses, easily feeding a group of friends. Their slightly spicier salsa is the perfect complement.
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The Owl: Known for their late-night menu and craft beer selection, The Owl also serves up a surprisingly delicious plate of nachos. Think hearty portions, crispy tortilla chips, and a variety of toppings that perfectly match their pub-style menu. They often feature seasonal specials, adding a fun twist to this classic.
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Papa's Pizza: Yes, a pizza place! But Papa's doesn't just excel at pizza. Their nachos are a well-kept secret. They use their signature pizza sauce as a base, adding a surprising but delicious depth of flavor that sets them apart.
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La Tapatia: For a taste of authentic Mexican nachos, La Tapatia is the place to go. Their fresh ingredients and authentic recipes shine through in their nachos – from the perfectly crisp chips to the vibrant, flavorful toppings. This is a great choice for those looking for a more authentic nacho experience.
5 Unique and Creative Nacho Creations
Avondale also showcases some inventive takes on this classic dish:
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The Big Star: This upscale taqueria elevates nachos to an art form. Expect high-quality ingredients, creative topping combinations, and a presentation that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Their short rib nachos are a frequent customer favorite.
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Hopleaf Bar: This beloved Avondale gastropub offers unique nacho options that reflect their sophisticated menu. Think gourmet cheeses, interesting protein choices beyond the typical ground beef, and a focus on high-quality ingredients. Their vegetarian nachos are a hidden gem.
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Emporium Arcade Bar: Combine classic arcade games with creative nachos at Emporium Arcade Bar. They often have themed nacho options that match their rotating food and drink specials, adding an element of fun and surprise.
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Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: This popular spot offers a more upscale version of nachos, using artisanal cheeses and carefully selected ingredients. Their focus on quality shows in their creative topping combinations.
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Chicago's Homegrown: With an emphasis on local ingredients, Chicago's Homegrown creates seasonally-inspired nachos that showcase the best of the region's produce and meats. Expect unique flavor profiles and a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
5 Budget-Friendly Nacho Options in Avondale
Not all delicious nachos need to break the bank:
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El Milagro Tortilleria: While primarily a tortilleria, El Milagro serves fantastic, affordable nachos made with their fresh, homemade tortilla chips. Expect simple, straightforward nachos with great flavor.
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Local Bar: Many neighborhood bars in Avondale offer surprisingly good and affordable nacho options. Their basic nacho plates frequently make great bar snacks during happy hour. Call ahead to check current specials.
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Taco places around Avondale: Most smaller, independent taco joints will offer cheap nachos that are often very good. Take a chance and try a smaller restaurant - you never know what you might discover!
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Your local grocery store: Many grocery stores offer pre-made nacho kits which are a cheap and cheerful way to have your nacho fix at home.
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DIY Nachos at Home: This is the ultimate budget-friendly option. Buy your ingredients at a local store, and create your own personalized nacho masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the most popular nacho toppings in Avondale?
A: Classic choices include seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, jalapenos, and various salsas. However, many restaurants offer creative variations with ingredients like pulled pork, short rib, various cheeses, unique salsas, guacamole, and more.
Q: Where can I find vegetarian or vegan nachos in Avondale?
A: Several restaurants cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, offering creative and delicious alternatives using beans, vegetables, and plant-based cheeses. The Hopleaf Bar and many other establishments are great starting points.
Q: What is the average price range for nachos in Avondale?
A: Prices vary widely, ranging from affordable options at around $8-$12 to more premium options exceeding $20.
Q: What are the best days to go for nacho specials?
A: Many establishments offer happy hour specials or daily deals, making it a great way to enjoy nachos at a reduced price. Check individual restaurant websites or social media pages for the latest information.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best nacho spots in Avondale, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Happy Nacho hunting!
