El Gallo De Acero — Restaurant in Joliet

I'll preface this review by saying that I went in with no expectations.

The name of the place first and foremost, is unique to the area nd alone helps in making a name for itself. Catchy in its own right.

Through a recommendation from a friend, I gave this place a fair shot. (They used to take orders over the phone, to my knowledge-disappointingly that is no longer a thing.) My first impression of the establishment is that it does look clean. That being said it could use a modern face lift. Seems a little early 2000's.

The staff-if and when possible greet you immediately. That's a great sign. That let's me know alot about the people up and down the line, in charge of making my food. I appreciate that.

The options comparitively speaking are less but condensed. The god ol' "Less is more" definitely applies. I was looking for something with beef. They sell it by half a kilo or a full kilo. Comes with 3 sides of your choice. If you don't math, it's a considerable amount of food that could reasonably feed 4 to 5 people, just in meat alone. Mine came with a dozen tortillas. The sides are in small containers as well. Given the price I find it hard to believe anyone capable of complaining. The order came out to about 38 bucks as I ordered an extra side and tortillas. Some have made the suggestion to go to the nearby store and purchase 1 maybe 2 packs of tortillas. I would have to agree with that assessment. There's so much meat in there you'll probably need it.

The food itself: I have to admit, the food is suspiciously delicious. The meat is cooked to very delicious medium well I would say. Personally I'm a fan of some char. I'm sure upon request that can be arranged. The meat is seasoned proper with repeat visits you may find inconsistency. Fortunately, it's been a case of too little as opposed to too much.

Refried beans and rice, staples in they're own right. Making mexican cuisine proud. The versatility of these 2 foods stand firmly and proudly along side the main course. The beans are not canned and the rice is not microwaved. They the texture and flavor tell the story. Fresh. The flavor is that of a traditional "mama or abuelitas" rice and beans that has fueled many generations. Unless you absolutely do not enjoy these 2 sides, these are a must. Hands down.

The guac has the flavor texture that you know and love. It's more on the side of texture and flavor as opposed to spicy. The pico similiar however, it's the only thing that been a bit hit or miss personally. It goes good with chips. But I found it had a hard time competing with the other flavors.

The salsa is actually a sleeper hit with me. It only comes with 2 small containers. The flavor and the spiciness hits all the right chords with me. You'll just have to experience that for yourself.

All in all, this is a fantastic place worthy of you hard earned money. It is bang for your buck as the pricing stands. You couldn't go to the grocery store and get all of this, especially cooked. Very solid tasting food that I can promise will surprise the biggest skeptics.

Give these folks a chance to have a place in your home on the weekend.

Pros: Great for weekend meal. Great for small to medium size gatherings. Very affordable. Tasty.

Cons: seriously very little...

1st time experience. I called over the phone and the girl that answered ( Spanish) needs some training. I got chicken and steak. The bigger portions. They come with 3 sides. French fries,, mashed potatoes, and small potatoes in salsa. I also got the Mac and cheese. Also got the Guacamole. Again. This is my 1st time could be an off day. Chicken had good seasoning but dry. Steak (aracherra) was soft and tasted great. But dryish. The sides : Mac and cheese yummy. Mashed potatoes yummy. Small potatoes in salsa 👎 guacamole 👎 to many onions . On my way to this place I passed Pollos Locos. I'll try them next. I do want to add although I did take my food to go the dinning area looked ample and inviting a...

This was my first time here, the cashier and the waitress where wonderful. The food came out fast and my goodness this is one of the best pollo adobados I have ever tasted. It was marinated to perfection. Don’t get me started on the sides, the arroz was nice fresh and fluffy, the frijoles where rich in flavor. The nopalitos where fresh and delicious. Mashed potatoes where awesome & the salsa was nice & spicy. Good amount of food for the price. Will definitely go again.

Edit as today my husband placed an order for takeout 06/30

Do not sleep on the pozole!! The pozole is so good the best I’ve tried in a long time. Tastes homemade!! The salsa they put on the side to add spice is...