Abuelita Coco — Restaurant in Worth Township

I almost don't want to share my love for this place because I'm afraid of it becoming too popular to get a seat (but don't worry, that's not the case now).

Close your eyes and picture any Mexican restaurant you have eaten at in the last 20 years (or 30, or 10). What do you see? What do you smell?

Now, open your eyes in Abuelita Coco's to find a completely different aesthetic and atmosphere (for the better).

I walked in planning to grab a quick takeout so I could give the food a spin. It was SO homey and welcoming that I ended up wandering to a table and ordering in. I NEVER do this. I stick to my plans. This speaks volumes for how impressed I was and how I instantly wanted to spend time here.

The owners are the most lovely and down-to-earth people, which adds to the inviting vibe this place exudes. The style is like someone's (really beautifully and thoughtfully) decorated home. So comfortable, but crisp and professional. I don't know how else to describe it. Don't let the outside fool you (because it sure fooled me for a while). This is like Dorothy stepping out of the house in Oz when everything that was black-and-white is now in Technicolor.

The menu has more options than I thought, including breakfast, lunch and dinners, as well as deserts, smoothies, coffees, and other treats. Homemade ice cream, homemade flour and corn tortillas, homemade...everything. This is all pro-level cooking and ingredients, but with that extra Abuelita homemade charm that you just can't get at a restaurant...except now you can.

And, of course, this is a vegan spot, so people who are looking for a steak to cut into are not going to find that here. But if meat substitute or vegan isn't your thing, I can bet that you'll find SOMETHING that IS your thing here. How do I know? I'm not vegan! I have had vegan foods and ingredients and like it, but I kinda love it at Abuelita's.

The meat alternatives I tried were the taco trio of "asada" which is seasoned oyster mushroom chop in a light sauce, the birria, which is shredded jackfruit in a chile adobo, and the Al Pastor, which is another oyster mushroom mix, complete with the guajillo and pineapple. These are served on street-style corn tortillas with cilantro, and a side of frijoles and arroz. The asada taco was my favorite (with the Al Pastor a close second), and I'm actually craving that flavor again even though I just had this yesterday (AND today for lunch with leftovers). Good, good, good.

My daughter had the acai bowl, which was loaded with fresh fruit, acai, almond butter and delicious granola. We split an order of zanahorias en vinagre (escabeche/pickled carrots and jalapenos). Those are outstanding if you love those as much as I do.

Because I didn't intend to stay (because I had eaten a short while before), I didn't order chips, salsa, guacamole, dessert, coffee - all the things I would have loved to try but had no room.

The prices are pretty decent and competitive with restaurants, but given the quality and atmosphere, I'd say it's extremely in-line with what you'd expect.

Give it a try and see if you're as surprised as I was, and if you swear that you found a new favorite...

Abuelita Coco is truly a hidden gem that feels like a warm embrace from the moment you walk through the door. The ambiance is cozy, vibrant, and filled with heartfelt touches that make you feel as if you’ve been personally welcomed into someone’s cherished family home. Every dish is a masterpiece, rich with authentic flavors and cooked with obvious love and care. From the first bite, you can tell that the recipes are deeply rooted in tradition — soulful, comforting, and absolutely unforgettable. It’s clear that Abuelita Coco’s kitchen is fueled by a passion for real food made the right way: slow, loving, and deeply satisfying. Under Cassandra’s leadership, the service is impeccable. She has cultivated a team that radiates warmth, hospitality, and genuine kindness. Cassandra herself is often present, greeting guests like old friends, ensuring that every experience is special. Her personal touch is woven into every detail, and you can feel the sincerity in how much she cares about each customer. Dining at Abuelita Coco is more than just eating — it’s participating in a story of family, heritage, and love. Cassandra has created a place where you can sit back, enjoy extraordinary food, and feel like you’re part of something timeless. Every visit leaves you not only full but fulfilled. Abuelita Coco is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place you find yourself dreaming about afterward — where the food is incredible, the atmosphere is heartwarming, and the people are truly unforgettable. Cassandra’s vision shines brightly, and you can feel the spirit of family, tradition, and hospitality in every single moment. Five stars isn’t enough for a place as special as this. Thank you, Cassandra, for creating a true treasure for...

The owner Cassandra is the second coming of her Aubela Coco! The decor is very clean, modern with a Nuvo-Mex twist. The ambiance is great, the staff is very friendly and the amount of historical, current and nutritional information provided is a heathy dietary education.

Now the secret sauce: The food is delicious and the portion sizes are HUGE! We stumbled in all the way from Indiana and will make the trip regularly until we’re Regulars! Visited with my 2 non-Vegan Grandkids who loved their dishes (Kid quesadillas and a massive Tofu Burrito). The food is delicious delicious delicious!!!!

This restaurant is soooooo good I’m sure it will soon be reservations required so hurry hurry.

Honestly, Cassandra deserves a HUGE THANK YOU for stepping out on faith in today’s heritage sensitive environment. She treated my Soulmate & I and the grandkids like we were family. The food kept coming and we all left with over-filled stomachs and 3 takeout containers it was so much food.

Some other reviews complain about prices but, I think you pay for the entire experience not just the food. For me a gastronomic experience in Chicago that yells, cultural pride, open minded spirit (everyone was so welcoming) and delicious healthy food, this restaurant is a hidden GEM.

The large community table that seats 10, is a priceless gift in Chicago for those who wish to learn from shared experiences with authentic people over great food and a warm environment.

Oops: almost forgot to mention: There are nutritional books, foods, supplements and spices for sale also.

Thanks again Cassandra! See you again soon: Farrah...