Authentic Mexican – Penelope’s in Chicago
Operating as a vibrant and inclusive community hub, Penelope’s Vegan Taqueria is a celebrated pioneer and is Chicago’s very first fully plant-based taqueria. This family-owned, chef-driven concept honors the rich heritage of Mexican street food using fresh, organic, and entirely plant-based ingredients. An innovative menu reimagines traditional favorites, featuring meticulously crafted versions of street-style elote, rich pozole, burritos, and loaded asada fries alongside an extensive selection of plant-based tacos that include masterfully seasoned al pastor, carnitas, chorizo, and barbacoa. Beyond a curated dessert selection of cinnamon buñuelos and sundaes, the restaurant hosts a popular happy hour showcasing signature margaritas, fresh guacamole, and loaded nachos.
Founded by the husband-and-wife duo of Chef Juan Lisandro Ramirez and Paloma Piña-Ramirez, and affectionately named after their young daughter, the taqueria specializes in converting time-honored family recipes passed down by their mothers and grandmothers into vibrant, meat-free dishes without ever sacrificing the bold, authentic flavors of Mexico.
Authentic Mexican – Calaveritas in Atlanta
Calaveritas Taqueria Vegana is nestled in Chamblee-Doraville, a diverse and culinary-rich pocket of the Atlanta area within the perimeter. This woman-owned and Latina-operated eatery is an established pioneer for high-quality, plant-based Mexican street food. Calaveritas founder and co-owner Mayra Peralta launched the concept as a highly sought-after local pop-up during the summer of 2020.
Expect rich, bold traditional flavors and non-GMO, plant-powered ingredients that capture the true essence of a classic taqueria that offers a high-end feel to each meal. Innovative menu items include completely veganized versions of Mexican classics such as signature birria tacos, adobo-marinated al pastor, king oyster mushroom carnitas, citrus-grilled pollo asado, papas con ‘chorizo,’ loaded nachos, and traditional burritos. Creative beverage and dessert selections feature house-made hibiscus agua fresca, artisan vegan horchata, fresh-baked vegan cookies, and more.
