El Lago
About This Spot
Walking into El Lago feels like stepping into a cherished neighborhood gathering spot where familiar faces and warm hellos greet you like old friends. There’s a gentle, easy rhythm here, the kind that invites you to settle in and take your time. The hum of conversation mingles with the clink of glasses and the comforting sizzle from the kitchen, crafting an atmosphere both lively and unpretentious.
This is a place where mornings stretch into afternoons with the inviting scent of fresh breakfast—imagine plates of golden French toast alongside sizzling skillets brimming with colorful veggies and savory meats. Whether you’re starting your day or winding down, the kitchen offers a heartfelt nod to Mexican-American flavors that feel both comforting and vibrant. From the tang of a well-made margarita to a satisfying bowl of pozole, every bite is a chance to savor the layers of tradition and homegrown flair.
There’s an undeniable ease here, a sense that the food and the people exist in harmony. Service is attentive without ever rushing you, encouraging you to linger over your meal and enjoy the authentic moments that make El Lago feel like more than just a restaurant. It’s clear why regulars come back year after year—whether for a hearty breakfast, a midday taco, or a late afternoon snack, El Lago offers a quietly joyful place to connect, celebrate local tastes, and create new memories.
What’s Available Here
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Takeout
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Fast service
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Great beer selection
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Great coffee
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Serves local specialty
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair accessible entrance
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Wheelchair accessible parking lot
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Wheelchair accessible restroom
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Wheelchair accessible seating
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Alcohol
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Beer
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Cocktails
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Hard liquor
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Private dining room
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Wine
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Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Restroom
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Casual
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Cozy
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Quiet
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Groups
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Tourists
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free parking lot
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Free street parking
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Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | 07:00 AM - 01:00 PM | |
| Tuesday | 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
| Wednesday | 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
| Friday | 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 07:00 AM - 02:00 PM |
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Eddie Taylor, Jr. 07 Jan 2026
To me, when I think of Zion, I think of El Lago. I love this restaurant. The nachos are , don’t sleep on those bad boys!
Deplorable Rob 24 Dec 2025
I apologize for the delay in leaving a shining review for the local-owned Mexican-American venue but it was late December last year that we stopped in last. I guess being a foodie, I'm all over the place and sadly I tend to forget greatness only a few minutes away from home sometimes. Before this trip here it was at least a couple of years dining in here and was missing it. I really like both the traditional American breakfast and Mexican fare here. Dining area is always clean with friendly service servin' up great food at still reasonable prices. Hope to get back here soon, starting to get that craving again and always try my best to support local. Hope for continued success & prosperity for the owner(s).
jamey rehm 01 Nov 2025
We were greeted immediately and sat down. Got chips salsa and nacho cheese. Food was absolutely amazing. Great homemade salsa. Horchata was amazing!!!!!! Steak was tender and seasoned perfectly!!!! My daughters ate all of their food and started eating mine, which was rare! Definitely coming back to try more dishes!!!
Madison Yonke 30 Oct 2025
I've been going to El Lago for about 20 years, since I was a kid. They are simply the best! Everyone is super friendly and familiar. The food is delicious! It's always hard to choose what to get when my family goes because there's so many tasty options. We love El Lago and that will never change.
Douglas Longtin 18 Oct 2025
good food great service the atmosphere was good but the air conditioning was rough.chilled to the bone several times.
Diane Wilczenski 15 Oct 2025
Update: 2-17-25 Everything was excellent again!!! Ordered two scrambled eggs and the beef taco salad. I combined them to make myself a breakfast beef taco salad. Excellent food and very reasonably priced. Taco Salad was very flavorful!!!
Johnny “El Dred” Gato 17 Sep 2025
5+5+5 I go there for the breakfasts, my wife loves the soups. The skillets are fantastic, I've eaten at almost every restaurant in Waukegan, Zion, and Kenosha. And quite a few in Libertyville and Racine. El Lago stands Head and shoulders above almost all of the restaurants I've eaten at as far as breakfasts go. Their skillets have amazing flavor, and, I will share this. I had gotten an emergency call to pick up our granddaughter right after we ordered food. My wife stayed, I had to leave and get her, I came back an hour later. They made me a whole new breakfast because mine was cold. At no charge! They didn't have to, but they did. That sold me on them forever.