By noon, the line for $5 flautas stretched onto the sidewalk, the smell of simmering tomatillo sauce luring people in from 95th Street. Inside, neighbors filled Tamales y Tacos Mi Chula, scooping chips and dunking them in smoky salsa roja.
The family-run Mexican restaurant officially opened its Oak Lawn location on Valentine’s Day. On Wednesday, it celebrated with a ribbon cutting at 4955 W. 95th St., drawing a steady crowd of diners, Chamber of Commerce members and village officials.
Tamales y Tacos Mi Chula is owned by Nicolas Aguado and managed by his nephew, Marco Aguado. Both live in Oak Lawn, where the Aguado family has resided for more than 25 years.
“We’re bringing authentic Mexican food to Oak Lawn,” Marco Aguado said.
This is the family’s second location. Their first location opened in January 2023 at 4638 N. Kedzie Ave. in Chicago.
The restaurant specializes in tamales, tacos, flautas and other classic dishes served in a casual, welcoming space.
During the ribbon-cutting, guests were treated to complimentary chips and salsa, raffle prizes, and a flautas special that packed the lunchtime crowd.
Oak Lawn Mayor Terry Vorderer praised the business during the ceremony.
“We want to thank you for your investment in our community, and I know you are going to do well,” Vorderer said. “The food is excellent, and the decor is beautiful.”
Tamales have quickly become a standout item, according to Jennifer Aguado, Nicolas’s daughter.
“They’re flying off as fast as we can make them,” she said. “Get here early, especially on the weekends.”
Sweet, spicy, and cheese tamales are among the most popular, Jennifer said.
“Everything is amazing,” she said.
Tamales y Tacos Mi Chula is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The Aguados said they hope the restaurant becomes more than a lunch stop — a neighborhood staple where people come together.
