Get a taste of Mexico close to home at Burrito Parrilla Mexicana, a fast casual restaurant in Naperville. Since 2011, the local eatery has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine at their location on Ace Lane, just south of the intersection of Route 59 and 111th Street on the town’s south side.
“People know good quality food,” said David Perez, director of retail operations for all Burrito Parrilla Mexicana locations. “We have a lot of repeat customers and they keep coming back because they know everything is made fresh and with high quality ingredients.”
Along with eight different types of tacos and Mexican staples such as burritos, enchiladas and fajitas, diners rave about the Parrilla platters, salads and the endless baskets of chips and freshly made salsa.
Here’s the dish on this local favorite.
On the menu: Burrito Barilla Mexicana serves authentic Mexican breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. From huevos rancheros to fajitas, burritos, salads and complimentary chips and homemade salsa, there is something for everyone at this eatery.
About the owners: Brothers Martin and Gerardo Hernandez have been in the restaurant business for more than two decades and are the owners of five Burrito Parrilla Mexicana locations in the Chicago area. The word “parrilla” translates to “grill” which is how they prepare their meats. The Naperville spot was opened in 2011 and is the second of the five locations.
Our philosophy: “We use high quality fresh ingredients,” Perez said. “We can customize things because everything is homemade and made to order.”
Décor: The Naperville location was formerly an Arby’s restaurant before the Mexican grill opened in 2011, which is why there is a drive-thru window that is still in use. Easy to understand menus are on large boards so diners can place their order at the counter before receiving a number to bring to their table. When the food is ready, a server brings it out.
Food specialties: Perez said they are known for their al pastor, which is marinated pork that is stacked onto a long spit and then roasted vertically, similar to how shawarma is prepared, and then sliced for tacos and burritos. Their salads are also popular, featuring spring mix, shredded cheese, tortilla strips, red peppers and avocado topped with grilled chicken, steak or veggies.
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We’re different because: Perez said it is the quality ingredients and high quality authentic Mexican food that makes them stand out.
Extras: There is a nice patio that’s available for dining al fresco or you can even order a whole meal without leaving your car at their convenient drive through window. They also cater parties big and small.
Price range: Starters like the freshly made guacamole ($4.29) or nachos ($5.99 or $8.49 with meat added) are popular, as are the tacos which are sold a la carte (flour or corn tortillas) for $2.59 or a three taco platter with rice and beans for $9.99. Fajitas, enchiladas and chimichangas range from $10 to $12 and desserts like the flan, churros or chocolate cake are under $5.
Logistics: Burrito Parrilla Mexicana is located at 5059 Ace Lane (just south of the Route 59 and 111th Street) in south Naperville. They are open every day from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, go to www.burritopm.com
Jane Donahue is a freelance reporter for the Naperville Sun.