El Chaparral Mexican Restaurant

Welcome to El Chaparral Mexican Restaurant, a delightful culinary gem nestled at 7849 W Taft St, Merrillville, IN. If you’re searching for a place that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to the Midwest, look no further. This beloved establishment has earned rave reviews for its authentic dishes and warm hospitality, making it an essential stop for both locals and visitors.

From the moment you step inside, the charming atmosphere envelops you. The decor reflects a festive Mexican vibe, setting the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff eager to guide you through their extensive menu filled with Mexican classics.

  • Quesadillas: The Chaparral Quesadilla Dinner, layered with a medley of shrimp, chicken, and Mexican sausage, comes with a comforting side of rice and beans. It’s a feast for the senses.
  • Tortas: A must-try is the Torta Dinner, showcasing a filling of your choice of meat, complemented by fresh vegetables and creamy avocado.
  • Specialty Drinks: Refresh with their Horchata, a large cinnamon and vanilla rice drink that is perfect for quenching your thirst.
  • Live Music: On special evenings, enjoy the ambiance enhanced by live music, adding to the lively experience.

Customer reviews echo a common sentiment: the food at El Chaparral is nothing short of exceptional. One satisfied patron, Willie Eatmon, proclaimed it as some of the best Mexican food he has ever had, emphasizing its flavor-packed offerings. Jennifer G. echoed similar thoughts, particularly praising the Bistek Chaparral and the attentive service. It's clear that the team takes pride in every dish served, ensuring that each plate is crafted with care.

For those looking for a cozy and clean dining environment, El Chaparral is the place to be. Many have discovered it as a hidden gem, citing delicious homemade chips and enchiladas that simply do not skimp on ingredients like cheese. As Lisa Medellin shared, the authentic flavors have propelled El Chaparral to the top of her list for Mexican cuisine.

In summary, El Chaparral Mexican Restaurant is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Mexican culture and cuisine. Whether you're sampling the flavorful enchiladas, relishing the fish tacos, or indulging in a sweet flan, you are sure to have a delightful culinary experience. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, make a point to visit El Chaparral. Your taste buds will thank you!

Menu

Location

Address: 7849 W Taft St, Merrillville, IN 46410, United States
Phone: +1 219-472-0328

🕓 Work Hours
MON 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
TUE 12:00 AM - 9:00 AM 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
WED 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
THU 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
FRI 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
SAT 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
SUN 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Business info

  • Wheelchair-accessible Car Park
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Entrance
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Seating
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Toilet
    Yes
  • Offers Takeaway
    Yes
  • Serves Dine-in
    Yes
  • Delivery
    No
  • Fast Service
    Yes
  • Great Beer Selection
    Yes
  • Serves Great Cocktails
    Yes
  • Popular For Lunch
    Yes
  • Popular For Dinner
    Yes
  • Good For Solo Dining
    Yes
  • Serves Alcohol
    Yes
  • Serves Beer
    Yes
  • Serves Cocktails
    Yes
  • Serves Coffee
    Yes
  • Serves Comfort Food
    Yes
  • Serves Food
    Yes
  • Quick Bite
    Yes
  • Serves Small Plates
    Yes
  • Serves Spirits
    Yes
  • Serves Vegetarian Dishes
    Yes
  • Serves Wine
    Yes
  • Serves Lunch
    Yes
  • Serves Dinner
    Yes
  • Serves Dessert
    Yes
  • Seating
    Yes
  • Toilet
    Yes
  • Casual
    Yes
  • Cosy
    Yes
  • Trendy
    Yes
  • Good For Groups
    Yes
  • Accepts Reservations
    Yes
  • Accepts Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts Debit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts NFC Mobile Payments
    Yes
  • Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Good For Kids
    Yes
  • High Chairs Available
    Yes
  • Kids' Menu
    Yes
  • Free Of Charge Street Parking
    Yes
  • Free Parking Lot
    Yes
  • Plenty Of Parking
    Yes

Last Reviews

  • Author: Willie Eatmon

    17 May 2025

    Excellent food, great service, good prices. Some of the best Mexican good I've ever had. Everything was flavorful.

  • Author: Jennifer G

    13 April 2025

    Stopped on our way out of Chicago. Food was amazing! Staff were awesome, our waitress, maybe Cindy? She was on our beverages before we had to ask. I asked for recommendations, she named a few and I asked her to pick her favorite. I am glad she did she picked the Bistek Chaparral. Best Mexican meal I have had hands down. There was an awesome live band too. Thanks for a great dining experience!

  • Author: gilbert jimenez

    11 April 2025

    Food was very good and great taste. I had a steak with shrimp plate my wife's plate had a bed of rice topped with chicken, shrimp mushrooms and veggies..both plates were very good .the place is always clean.

  • Author: Lisa Medellin

    07 April 2025

    My mom wasn't feeling well but asked me if I could find her some " Mexican chicken soup" so being that I'm still not familiar with places here in Crown Point I posted a question to the Crown Point page I'm in and a few were mentioned but this place was in my way. So I called asked the very friendly girl who answered the phone if they in fact had this soup and she said yes, and you called the right place lol man that made my day. But sadly I've passed this restaurant a 100 x"s and really never noticed it back there ( maybe I should pay more attention) so anyway for mom's soup and as I was sitting there looking at the menu I decided to get me the enchilada dinner, with rice, beans ( with the red sauce you chose red or green) and pork. Let me tell ya'll after mom and I going to certain " Mexican " places this one is TOP of our list for authentic delicious, flavorful Mexican food. So thank you, Thank you and we will be back.