La Laguna Market — Restaurant in Sterling

Nestled at the back of a quaint Mexican grocery store in Sterling, IL, La Laguna Mexican restaurant is a hidden gem that truly encapsulates the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine. From the moment you step in, the warm welcome of chips and hot sauce sets the tone for a culinary adventure that's both engaging and delightful.

The steak tacos, a perennial favorite, are a testament to the kitchen's commitment to flavor and quality. Each bite is a harmonious blend of tender, perfectly seasoned meat, fresh toppings, and soft tortillas. However, the real game-changer for me has been their Gorditas. On my latest visit, I decided to venture beyond my usual order, and I'm thrilled to say the Gorditas have stolen my heart. Stuffed with an abundance of savory fillings, these Gorditas boast a perfect texture and depth of flavor that elevates them to "new favorite" status.

The hot sauce lineup is not for the faint-hearted, ranging from the eye-watering kick of habanero to the nuanced heat of red chili, the tangy zest of tomatillo, and the creamy richness of avocado. Each sauce offers a distinct flavor profile, allowing diners to customize their dishes to their desired level of spice.

La Laguna's ability to offer such authentic Mexican fare at reasonable prices is indeed commendable. The culinary experience here rivals that of the offerings found on the border towns of Texas and Mexico, which is no small feat. The charm of La Laguna lies not just in its food but in the overall experience - from the unassuming location within a grocery store to the genuine hospitality and the vibrant flavors that await within.

For anyone craving genuine Mexican cuisine without the need for a passport, La Laguna in Sterling, IL, is a must-visit. It's a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, served up with a side of charm and warmth that's as inviting as the food is delicious. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of Mexican cuisine or a curious newcomer, La Laguna promises an unforgettable dining experience that's bound to leave you planning...

Thee Best Tacos, for that they offer, around these small towns! My families fave here! 😋👌🏽🌮😍 Their Gringa and their torta are also faves of ours. Just like their Tacos, but any of the meats with all of the same toppings/garnishments you could want, but on 3 different types of bread products... large, flour tortillas for the gringa, bullio bread for the torta, and small, corn tortillas for the tacos. Only thing I can say that's a little on the down side is that the price of their little, great Tacos has jumped up like 35% in price over the last year... Everything is inflating yes, but any place that is now serving their tiny tacos for like $3.50-$4 a piece is just a bit too high is all.. This huge increase has led to mi familia barely ever being able to enjoy a meal from them anymore.. which super sucks as this is our Fave Mexican Restaurant around these...

Skeptical about $4 sopes until I opened my take out box and realized they were the size of my head. Was gonna wait until I got home to eat them, but ate them with my hands in the parking lot instead. People looked at me. I was a mess. Not until I went to write this did I realize a fork on my lap. That big. That good. Top button on my pants unbuttoned. Will definitely do it again...and again. Definitely don’t have to cry about not living in Chicago anymore and eating sopes...