Little Mexico in the Burbs

In the relatively remote suburbs of Northlake, IL ( yea even I haven't heard of it, and I live 15 miles from there ), on the corner of grand and wolf road, lies a hidden secret that even Indiana Jones couldn't un-cover...the shack known as "El Pollo Vagabundo", the vagabond chicken.

Three years ago, the place only had bar stools and about 2 tables, and barely any heat. Now, they still have the barstools, and about 8 tables, and still barely any heat during the cold days of winter. It's in a strip mall, where parking is limited and not known. So why this place?

Two words: "The Chicken". It's marinated, and char grilled fresh. They make the usuals, burritos and tacos, or you could just order the chicken by it self with a side of rice, beans and tortillas. On that note, their tortillas... freshly made. You see them make it in front of you too and not behind closed doors. They run their kitchen, which is also fully visible, by one philosophy; one skillet per customer. No mass production, no scooping from some big pot to serve you. One skillet, per order. They make it fresh, just for you. That is a rarity in days where there are so many "cost cutting" measures.

To accompany you're meal, is a small humble spread of salsas, just about 14 different types. I bet if he had a little more space, he could have easily increased that amount. There are salsa's ranging from the mildest form, of cilantro and avocado to the daring yet flavorful habanero salsa, for those who want to venture . Either way, you can never go wrong with freshness.

So if you're ever that way, and have a craving for a hot mexican meal, or just itching for flavor and boldness, El Pollo Vagabundo is the place to be.