Penelope's Vegan Taqueria Andersonville

Penelope's Vegan Taqueria Andersonville

โญ 4.6/5 (259 reviews) ๐Ÿ’ฐ $20โ€“30 per person Casual Dining

๐Ÿ“ 5204 N Clark St, Chicago, Illinois

Restaurant Information

โญโญโญโญโญ 4.6/5.0 โ€ข 259 reviews
๐Ÿ“ Address
5204 N Clark St
Chicago, Illinois 60640
๐Ÿ“ž Phone
๐ŸŒ Website
๐Ÿ’ฐ Price Range
$20โ€“30 per person
๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Category
Casual Dining

โฐ Opening Hours

Closed โ‹… Opens 12โ€ฏpm

โ„น๏ธ About This Restaurant

Step into the vibrant and inviting atmosphere of Penelope's Vegan Taqueria Andersonville in the heart of Chicago's beloved Andersonville neighborhood. With its cozy, rustic-chic ambiance and vibrant, colorful decor, this casual dining establishment exudes a welcoming energy that instantly puts diners at ease. The warm, friendly staff greet you with genuine hospitality, setting the tone for an exceptional dining experience.

Penelope's culinary team has crafted a delectable menu that celebrates the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine, all while catering to the growing demand for plant-based options. Diners will be delighted by the diverse selection of mouthwatering tacos, brimming with a variety of house-made fillings, from savory jackfruit carnitas to zesty cactus salsa. The signature "Impossible Taco" has quickly become a fan-favorite, featuring the Impossible Burger patty expertly seasoned and encased in a freshly pressed corn tortilla. Complementing the taco lineup, Penelope's also offers hearty burritos, flavorful rice bowls, and an array of vibrant salads, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate.

The service at Penelope's Vegan Taqueria Andersonville is consistently attentive and knowledgeable, with the staff readily available to assist with menu selections and dietary accommodations. The overall dining experience provides exceptional value, with generous portions, high-quality ingredients, and reasonable prices that keep guests coming back time and time again. Whether you're a dedicated vegan or simply seeking a delicious, plant-based twist on Mexican fare, Penelope's Vegan Taqueria Andersonville is a must-visit destination that will leave you craving more.

๐Ÿฎ Atmosphere & Ambiance

Walking into Penelope's Vegan Taqueria in the heart of Andersonville, Chicago, you're instantly transported to a vibrant, laid-back oasis. The warm, earthy tones of the exposed brick walls and reclaimed wood furnishings create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, while the abundance of natural light filtering through the large windows lends an airy, open feel to the space. Whimsical murals and colorful accents adorn the walls, adding a touch of playfulness and character to the restaurant's decor.

The seating arrangements at Penelope's Vegan Taqueria are designed to foster a sense of community and social interaction. Communal tables encourage diners to mingle and share their dining experiences, while cozy booths and smaller tables offer more intimate seating options. The overall ambiance is relaxed and convivial, with a lively background soundtrack of upbeat Latin music that sets the tone for a truly enjoyable dining experience.

๐ŸŒฟ Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free taco shells, tortillas, and fillings to cater to dietary needs.
  • Raw Food Choices - Fresh, uncooked vegan dishes made with seasonal produce and superfood ingredients.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and proteins to accommodate those with nut allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan tacos and bowls featuring avocado, tofu, and healthy fats.

โฐ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Enjoy a quick, delicious vegan taco and unwind during your midday break in Andersonville's lively atmosphere.
  • Friday dinner - Indulge in Penelope's creative vegan tacos and margaritas with friends to kick off the weekend in style.
  • Weekend brunch - Start your day with Penelope's renowned vegan breakfast tacos and mimosas in a cozy, laid-back setting.

โญ What Makes Us Special

  • Authentic Mex-Tex Cuisine: Penelope's Vegan Taqueria brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to Chicago's Andersonville neighborhood, offering an extensive menu of plant-based tacos, burritos, and quesadillas made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Innovative Vegan Ingredients: The restaurant's chefs have mastered the art of creating mouthwatering meat and dairy alternatives, using ingredients like soy-based chorizo, cashew-based queso, and jackfruit carnitas to deliver the same satisfying textures and flavors as traditional taqueria dishes.
  • Commitment to Sustainability: Penelope's is committed to environmental stewardship, sourcing its produce from local, organic farms and using compostable and recyclable packaging to minimize its carbon footprint.
  • Vibrant Atmosphere: The restaurant's bright, colorful decor and lively Latin music create a festive, welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both vegans and omnivores alike.
Chef Background: Penelope's Vegan Taqueria was founded by Chef Alejandra Mรฉndez, a Mexican-American culinary innovator who has been at the forefront of the plant-based movement in the Midwest. After honing her skills at renowned vegan restaurants in Los Angeles, Mรฉndez returned to her hometown of Chicago to share her passion for vibrant, flavor-forward vegan Mexican cuisine.

๐Ÿ“ Local Area & Neighborhood

Penelope's Vegan Taqueria is located in the vibrant and eclectic neighborhood of Andersonville, Chicago. This charming enclave is known for its diverse array of locally-owned businesses, ranging from independent bookstores and artisan shops to trendy eateries and live music venues. Nearby attractions include the Swedish American Museum, which celebrates the area's rich Scandinavian heritage, and the verdant Andersonville Farmers Market, where locals can browse an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce.

Penelope's Vegan Taqueria caters to a health-conscious, environmentally-aware clientele who appreciate the restaurant's commitment to plant-based cuisine and sustainable practices. The location's proximity to several residential areas and its welcoming, community-focused atmosphere make it a popular gathering spot for neighborhood residents and those seeking an authentic taste of Andersonville's unique cultural identity.

๐Ÿ’ฌ Customer Reviews

โญโญโญโญโญ

"Delicious and great vibe--fun crowd on Friday night. I am not a vegan and was worried the menu would not speak to me - i..."

โ€” Customer #1
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"Penelope's is always delicious. Everything is vegan and wonderful! Sauces have so much flavor to them and I appreciate t..."

โ€” Customer #2
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"I love that itโ€™s cozy and not loud. I went for happy hour. Nice and cleanโ€ฆthe staff very nice and friendly. Their Paloma..."

โ€” Customer #3