Home United States Massachusetts Mexican restaurants Chilacates South End Mexican restaurants

Chilacates South End

4.4 294 reviews 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM 275 Shawmut Ave, Boston, MA 02118, United States

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Chilacates South End, located in the heart of Boston at 275 Shawmut Ave, has swiftly captured the hearts of locals with its authentic Mexican street food. Customers rave about the Birria Tacos, praised as "the singular best dish" by repeat patrons. The simplicity of the restaurant's offerings enhances the dining experience—it's all about the food, as noted by a customer who found the ambiance secondary and the food "phenomenal."

Whether you choose the pollo tinga or al pastor tacos, or even a hearty carnitas tamale, the freshness is evident in each bite. Diners have noted the welcoming and friendly staff adds to the charm, making it a must-visit spot for taco enthusiasts. One reviewer emphasized the joy of dining outdoors, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the South End on a beautiful day, truly highlighting how the setting complements the meal.

While some may have reservations about certain fillings, like the al pastor in the quesadilla, the consensus is clear: Chilacates South End is where quality ingredients meet bold flavors. If you're searching for the best Mexican food in the area, make sure to stop by and indulge in the culinary delights this gem offers.

Photos

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Amenities & More

Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • No-contact delivery
  • Delivery
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in

Popular for

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining

Dining options

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Restroom

Atmosphere

  • Casual
Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Chilacates South End before visiting.

Reviews for Chilacates South End

4.4
294 reviews
5
100%
4
24%
3
7%
2
4%
1
10%

Review highlights

Based on 294 reviews

Chilacates South End is widely praised for its authentic Mexican street food, consistently delivering fresh, high-quality dishes that resonate well with both takeout and dine-in customers. The restaurant is known for standout items like Birria Tacos and traditional offerings such as pollo tinga, al pastor, and carnitas tamales, which are frequently mentioned for their rich flavors and careful preparation. While the venue primarily operates as a takeout spot with limited on-site seating, the atmosphere, particularly when dining outdoors, adds to the overall positive experience. Reviewers often highlight the welcoming and friendly staff, contributing to a warm and approachable service environment. Overall, Chilacates South End is recognized for its flavorful, genuine Mexican cuisine served in a casual, neighborhood-friendly setting, making it a favored choice for those seeking both convenience and quality in the South End area.

Growing Green
Jun 26, 2025

The Birria Tacos are the singular best dish I’ve ever had at a Mexican food place. Ordered them late at night to try something new and I was not disappointed.

Casi Rich
Jun 16, 2025

It's hard to rate the service and atmosphere because this is essentially a take out place that serves a handful of customers on site. The food is just phenomenal. It's nothing fancy, just the way all the best food is.

Joseph McGrath
Jun 14, 2025

This is where Wholly Grain coffee shop used to operate. Chilacates has done a great job transforming the space. I tried the pollo tinga and al pastor tacos. Both were quite good. As was the carnitas tamale. Staff was very welcoming and friendly!

Tim Lambertson
Jun 04, 2025

Authentic, delicious, Mexican street food in the heart of the South End. We shared a bowl and the Birria Tacos. Everything was delicious. I would absolutely go back. I rated the atmosphere a 5, because we sat outside on a beautiful day and enjoyed the atmosphere of the South End. It was perfect. Highly recommend!

Vahe Yacoubian
Apr 30, 2025

I ordered takeout from Chilacates for Cinco de Mayo. I had the Taco Plate with Chicken Tinga and the 10 Inch quesadilla with Al Pastor. Overall, this place has been the best Mexican food that I have found in the area. Food tastes extremely fresh and tastes like it is made with quality ingredients. 1) Taco Plate with Chicken Tinga (5/5) - very delicious with a create-your-own taco style, which was very unique. 2) 10 inch quesadilla with Al Pastor (4/5) - The quesadilla was good, but I was not a fan with the al pastor filling. It didn't have nearly the amount of taste as the tacos. I would next time go for chicken or even beef filling.

Edualyn Rojas
Apr 25, 2025

I went on a Friday around lunch time and it was not that busy wait time was about 5 minutes I ordered two tostadas and two elotes also ordered churros and let me just say everything was perfection and fresh I enjoyed the elote the most and I will be coming back to try the rest of the menu. I also got a agua Fresca and it was also very refreshing I definitely recommend and the prices are ok not to expensive

Nathanel Johns
Apr 22, 2025

This spot??? Absolutely Clutch... They are open late and have all the eats... I only experienced them through DoorDash since i was in a hotel but each time my food was fresh and absolutely delish. I ordered from there twice and had the Horchata, Elote, Burris Burrito, Madurai, & Grilled Chicken Burrito. Whew... each item was a home run and im thinking about going back to Boston to have this food again. They even called me to clarify my order since they were about to close and didn't want to make any mistakes. From what i can tell most people don't dine in, that this is more of a good food fast type of place. But i would definitely like to sit in and eat the food fresh.

Matt Coughlin
Apr 18, 2025

Service was quick, order was accurate and the food was great

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Quick info

Address
275 Shawmut Ave, Boston, MA 02118, United States
Price range
$10–20
Category
Mexican restaurants

Opening hours

  • Monday (Today) 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Tuesday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
  • Saturday 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
  • Sunday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Location

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