Chimichangas: The Ultimate Milwaukee Guide

Greater Milwaukee serves up some of the Midwest's most spectacular chimichangas—from award-winning South Side institutions to creative fusion spots in the suburbs. Whether you're craving a crackling, golden-fried classic stuffed with seasoned beef and cheese or an innovative bite-size version with house-made adobo, this comprehensive guide covers every neighborhood from the North Shore to Oak Creek. Pack up the family and prepare for a deep-fried adventure through Milwaukee's best Mexican restaurants.

The chimichanga—that glorious deep-fried burrito that originated in Arizona but found a devoted following across the Midwest—appears on menus throughout the Milwaukee metro area. What makes this region special is the diversity: authentic family-owned spots on the South Side serving recipes passed down for generations, trendy farm-to-table versions in Bay View, and suburban favorites with extensive protein options. Families will find something for everyone, from $4.25 a la carte classics to giant portions that feed the whole crew for days.

North Shore destinations

North Shore families seeking chimichangas have three solid options without driving into Milwaukee proper. Jose's Blue Sombrero at 8617 N Port Washington Rd in Fox Point has served as the North Shore's go-to Mexican destination for decades. Their $14.99 chimichanga features your choice of shredded beef, chicken, pork, ground beef, beans, or cheese rolled with melty cheese and beans, then deep fried to golden perfection. Served with rice and beans, portions run huge—multiple reviewers describe them as generous enough for leftovers. The lively Tex-Mex atmosphere features colorful Southwest décor and Latin music, with a full kids' menu ($3.99 items including tacos, quesadillas, and chicken tenders) that makes this genuinely family-friendly. They're open Monday through Saturday 11am-9pm (until 10pm weekends), closed Sundays. Phone: (414) 351-9280.

Highland House in Mequon (12741 N Port Washington Rd) offers a creative twist with their California-Caribbean-Mexican fusion chimichanga ($14.99-$17.99). What sets theirs apart is the unexpected jalapeño cream cheese and cheddar jack filling that gets quick-fried and topped with sour cream and pico de gallo. Choose from ground beef, marinated chicken, char-grilled steak, or pork, with a possible plant-based Impossible option worth confirming. Open daily 11am-9pm (until 8pm Sundays), they accept reservations through OpenTable and maintain a 4.8-star rating across 172 reviews. This is where families seeking something beyond traditional should head. Phone: (262) 243-5844.

For budget-conscious North Shore families, La Casa Mexicana at 430 W Silver Spring Dr in Glendale offers a lunch chimichanga for just $8—the most affordable North Shore option. Their flour tortilla comes filled with beef tips or shredded chicken, topped with queso dip and ranchero sauce, served with Mexican rice, refried beans, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and guacamole. This smaller establishment is cash only but offers delivery and takeout. Phone: (414) 962-9999.

Milwaukee's South Side

The Latino corridor along S. 5th Street and Mitchell Street represents Milwaukee's heartland for authentic Mexican cuisine. Botanas Restaurant (816 S 5th St) has earned the #1 Mexican restaurant ranking from Shepherd Express, Milwaukee Magazine, WISN A-List, and OnMilwaukee over its 25+ years of operation. Their chimichangas receive consistent raves: "Hands down the favorite was the chimichangas—we got one beef, one chicken, and both were amazing." The Big Chimichanga runs $14.95, served with rice and beans. Multiple reviewers describe portions as enormous—"so loaded with perfectly seasoned chicken and cheese, this will feed me for 3 days." The atmosphere features hand-painted walls with elaborate Mayan art, a massive outdoor courtyard patio, and a bar stocking over 100 tequilas. They offer a free parking lot plus street parking (rare for this neighborhood), making it genuinely accessible for families. Open Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday until 11pm. Phone: (414) 672-3755.

Just blocks away, Guadalajara Restaurant (901 S 10th St) has operated since 1987 from a converted residential home that radiates authenticity. Their chimichangas come in at exceptional value: $10.95 for two deep-fried flour tortillas filled with your choice of meat and yellow cheese, or $4.25 a la carte. The Infatuation praised their chimichanga specifically, noting the "tortilla is always fried just right with a crispy crunch." This Latinx and women-owned establishment welcomes families (rated good for kids on Yelp) and maintains an intimate, authentic neighborhood feel with pool tables, outdoor seating, and occasional live entertainment. They're open Monday and Wednesday-Friday 9am-8pm, Saturday-Sunday 8am-8pm (closed Tuesdays). Phone: (414) 647-2266.

Cielito Lindo (733 S 2nd St in Walker's Point) draws families for both the beautiful murals depicting Mexican culture and chimichangas that inspire loyalty. One regular declared: "Good service, homemade chips and salsa, and chimichanga is THE BEST and will not eat anywhere else!" Their lunch special (Monday-Friday 11am-3pm) offers discounted chimichanga with rice and beans. The colorful, relaxing atmosphere works for private parties and family gatherings. Open Monday-Thursday 10am-10pm, Friday-Saturday until midnight, Sunday 8am-11pm. Phone: (414) 649-0401.

Bay View and the East Side

Café Corazón operates two locations—the original at 3129 N Bremen St in Riverwest and a Bay View spot at 2394 Kinnickinnic Ave—both serving farm-to-table Mexican with notable chimichanga options. Their preparation involves flour tortilla filled with rice, beans, your choice of protein, and cheese, deep fried and smothered in house-made queso sauce. What distinguishes Café Corazón is their extensive vegetarian and vegan options: soy chorizo, tofu, or cremini mushrooms alongside traditional carnitas, ground beef, chorizo, and asada. They source ingredients locally from Redeker Farms and their own urban garden, making this the conscious choice for families prioritizing sustainability. Bay View location hours: Monday-Thursday 3pm-8pm, Friday 3pm-9pm, Saturday 10am-9pm, Sunday 10am-8pm. Phone: (414) 544-2774.

Bel Air Cantina brings creative fusion to multiple locations including 1935 N Water St downtown and 2625 N Downer Ave on the East Side. Their standout is the Korean Beef chimichanga ($11.87+)—marinated beef with sriracha crema that represents their "Oaxacan meets L.A. food truck" philosophy. The California beach-inspired atmosphere with garage doors opening for near-al fresco dining in summer creates an energetic, family-friendly vibe. Both locations open Monday-Wednesday 11am-10pm, Thursday-Friday until 11pm, Saturday 10am-11pm, Sunday 10am-10pm. Downer phone: (414) 964-1190.

Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant (2317 S Howell Ave in Bay View) received the ultimate accolade: Family Destinations Guide named it "The Best Chimichangas in the Midwest." Run by owners from Guanajuato, Mexico using authentic family recipes, their chimichangas feature a "crackling, golden crust" with perfectly seasoned meat and melty cheese. Protein options include chicken, steak, pork, ground beef, or shredded beef. The festive interior decorated with Mexican artifacts and ceramics creates vibrant atmosphere, while legendary generous portions often provide enough for two meals. Open seven days for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Phone available via website at guanajuatorestaurant.com.

The chimichanga specialist restaurant you need to know

Taqueria y Chimichangas Ashley's puts chimichangas right in their name for good reason. Operating from 3161 S 92nd St near Greenfield with two additional food truck locations in West Allis (5330 W Lincoln Ave and 2535 S 108th St), this family operation has earned a 4.6-star rating from over 1,000 DoorDash reviews.

Their chimichanga dinner ($13) comes with choice of chicken, steak, beef, pork, or birria—that trendy slow-cooked, chile-marinated beef that's swept through Mexican restaurants nationwide. Reviews consistently praise the execution: "Chimichanga Dinner was fried for the perfect amount of time—soft yet hot still" and "Hands down my favorite place!! Chicken Chimichanga Dinner are always cooked to perfection."

What makes Ashley's particularly appealing for families is their buffet option featuring chimichangas alongside other Mexican favorites. The explicitly family-friendly environment includes validated parking and private party space for special occasions. Restaurant hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-10pm, Sunday 11am-9pm (closed Mondays). Phone: (414) 210-4808.

Western suburbs

Señor Luna (1901 S Calhoun Rd, New Berlin) boasts the most comprehensive chimichanga menu in the greater Milwaukee area. Their nine filling options with clear pricing make ordering easy:

Chicken, ground beef, carnita pork, barbacoa pork, and pastor pork run $17.99; steak, barbacoa steak, and seafood cost $18.99; and the vegetarian black bean and corn option comes in at $15.99. All are served with lettuce, tomatoes, and two sides (Spanish rice, refried beans, Spanish-style corn, or black beans). The meat versions come topped with mild red sauce, melted Monterey Jack and cheddar blend, and green onions, while the seafood chimichanga gets topped with white lobster sauce—a unique preparation worth seeking out. Combo plates ($17.99) pair chimichangas with tacos or tostadas.

The casual cantina atmosphere features Mexico City art and heated outdoor seating. Open Tuesday-Sunday 11am-9pm (closed Mondays). Phone: (262) 782-8633.

La Estación (319 Williams St, Waukesha) stands out for its unique train station motif with actual indoor train car dining and #1 Mexican Restaurant in Waukesha TripAdvisor ranking with over 1,000 five-star Google reviews. For families feeding a crowd, their Fiesta Platter ($49.95) includes 6 chimichangas (ground beef or chicken), 6 flautas, 3 mini-burritos, and 3 chicken quesadillas with fresh guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, chips, and both red and green sauces—feeding 10+ people. The colorful authentic décor, full service bar, and seasonal outdoor patio create a festive atmosphere perfect for birthday celebrations. Open Sunday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday until 10pm. Phone: (262) 521-1986.

Hector's Mexican Restaurant in Wauwatosa (7118 W State St) has served the community since 1989 with remarkably budget-friendly pricing: $3.50 a la carte chimichangas and combo dinners around $10. Their Bean Tostada and Ground Beef Chimichanga Combo with rice and beans hits that value sweet spot. Ground beef, shredded beef, chicken, pork, and bean fillings are available. The small but vibrant space offers seasonal patio seating. Phone: (414) 258-5600.

Plaza Garibaldi (2301 Silvernail Rd, Pewaukee) deserves attention for their seafood chimichangas—two flour tortillas stuffed with crab, scallops, shrimp, onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, topped with white sauce and garnished with avocado slices, served with rice and beans. One reviewer called their standard chimichanga "life-changing due to its crispy exterior packed with flavorful fillings." Standard versions run around $12.29. Open Tuesday-Saturday 6am-10pm, Sunday 11am-8pm (closed Mondays). Phone: (262) 446-0889.

Casa Tequila (1405 W Capitol Dr, Pewaukee) offers three chimichangas for $14.49 served with Spanish rice and choice of refried or black beans. Save room for their Fried Cheesecake Chimichanga dessert—a sweet version topped with caramel and raspberry. Combo platters let you pair chimichangas with enchiladas, tacos, or tamales. Open Sunday-Monday 11am-9pm, Tuesday-Saturday until 10pm. Phone: (262) 746-6966.

Southern suburbs

Habanero's Mexican Kitchen (7700 W Layton Ave, Greenfield) showcases creative chimichanga variations beyond the standard. Their menu includes the Poblana Chimichanga ($20.99) with slow-cooked pork and mole sauce, Verde Spinach Chimichanga for vegetarians, and Chipotle Tinga Chimichanga featuring chicken in smoky chipotle sauce. Each comes with sour cream, guacamole, Mexican rice, and beans. The casual atmosphere welcomes dogs on the outdoor patio. Open Monday-Saturday 11am-9:30pm, Sunday until 8:30pm. Phone: (414) 282-5000.

Cozumel in Oak Creek (8201 S Howell Ave) earns enthusiastic reviews—one Texas transplant declared it "hands down the best Mexican food I've ever tasted." Their standout is the Soft Pork Chimichanga Verde wrapped in spinach tortilla, topped with green sauce, guacamole salad, sour cream, and pico de gallo. The Shrimp Chimichanga features a deep-fried flour tortilla filled with shrimp, topped with cheese sauce. Standard chimichangas run $15.50. Open Monday-Sunday 11am-10pm (until 11pm Friday-Saturday, 9pm Sunday). Phone: (414) 574-5144.

El Beso operates two family-friendly locations: 909 W Layton Ave and 5030 S 74th St in Greenfield. Their chimichanga ($13.95) comes with choice of ground beef, chicken, chorizo, or cochinita pibil (Yucatan-style pulled pork), rolled with cheese and deep-fried, served with rice, beans, and flour tortilla. The Steak and Shrimp Chimichanga draws raves: "Off the chain!!!!" Reviews consistently praise the huge portions—"Chimichangas are HUGE! Lots of leftovers for tomorrow!" The beautiful outdoor patio features a fish waterfall and stonework, creating memorable atmosphere for special occasions. Open Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday until 10:30pm, Sunday until 9pm. Phone: (414) 817-0362.

Little Cancun (7273 S 27th St, Franklin) offers extensive combo options featuring chimichangas. Their #2 combo pairs chile relleno, chunky beef burrito, and chicken chimichanga for $14.95. A la carte chimichangas come with choice of chunky beef, ground beef, chicken, or pork (steak, crab, or shrimp available for additional charge). The cozy atmosphere with booths and a recently built outdoor patio works well for families. Open Monday-Sunday 11am-9pm (until 10pm Friday-Saturday). Phone: (414) 761-6200.

Mezcalero (6869 W Forest Home Ave, Greenfield) serves the Chimichanga Grande for $11.95 (add $3 for steak)—a crispy fried flour tortilla filled with beans, cheese, and choice of protein, served with lettuce, pico de gallo, and Mexican rice. Their combination platter includes one chicken mini chimichanga alongside a taco al pastor and chicken enchilada. Karaoke nights and live entertainment add energy. Open Tuesday-Thursday 4pm-10pm, Friday 4pm-1am, Saturday 11am-1am, Sunday 11am-9pm. Phone: (414) 897-8296.

Downtown and hidden gems worth seeking

Lazo's Taco Shack (641 N James Lovell St, near Marquette) operates as a veteran-owned hidden gem where one customer declared "it was the best chimichanga he has ever had." Founded by a retired Milwaukee police officer, with Chef Nely Silva from Oaxaca executing the menu, they've built a 4.5-star rating from over 4,000 DoorDash reviews. Birria options can be applied to chimichangas for trendy flavor. Open Monday-Saturday 11am-7pm (closed Sundays). Phone: (414) 988-6567.

Al Pastor (6533 W Mitchell St, West Allis) innovates with Bite Size Chimichangas—three pieces for just $6 with a 97% approval rating as their #2 most-liked item. Full Chimichanga Dinner runs $12.50. The al pastor (marinated pork in house adobo sauce) filling stands out with "earthy flavor hinting of chipotle." Urban Milwaukee called their patio "the best in all of West Allis, maybe Milwaukee area." Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-9 or 10pm, Sunday 11am-9pm. Phone: (414) 226-6334.

Insider tips for your chimichanga adventure

Timing matters for the best experience. Lunch specials at Cielito Lindo (Monday-Friday 11am-3pm) and Guadalajara offer significant savings. Ashley's buffet provides variety for indecisive families. Weekend brunch at Guadalajara (opening 8am Saturday-Sunday) means chimichangas are available all day.

Portion planning saves money. Botanas, El Beso, and Ashley's consistently earn "huge portion" reviews—consider sharing between kids or planning for leftovers. The Big Chimichanga at Botanas literally "feeds someone for 3 days."

Vegetarian options exist but require knowing where to look. Café Corazón leads with soy chorizo, tofu, and cremini mushroom chimichangas. Señor Luna's black bean and corn version ($15.99) works well. Jose's Blue Sombrero offers beans and cheese fillings.

Seafood chimichangas concentrate in a few spots. Señor Luna's lobster-sauce-topped seafood chimichanga, Plaza Garibaldi's crab-scallop-shrimp version, and Cozumel's shrimp chimichanga represent your best bets.

Parking varies dramatically. Botanas wins with both a free parking lot and street parking. Downtown options like Lazo's require street parking patience. Suburban spots universally offer lot parking.

For large groups and parties, La Estación's $49.95 Fiesta Platter (feeding 10+ with 6 chimichangas plus more) or Ashley's private party space work perfectly. Jose's Blue Sombrero offers catering with chimichanga party pickup options.

Conclusion

Milwaukee's chimichanga scene rewards exploration across every neighborhood. Families seeking authentic tradition should head to the South Side triumvirate of Botanas, Guadalajara, and Cielito Lindo. Those wanting maximum variety will love Señor Luna's nine-filling menu or Ashley's specialty focus. Creative eaters should try Bel Air Cantina's Korean Beef fusion or Café Corazón's farm-to-table vegetarian versions. And North Shore families can count on Jose's Blue Sombrero and Highland House for convenient quality.

The through-line across all these restaurants is genuine family-friendliness—kids' menus, welcoming atmospheres, and portions sized for sharing. Whether you're celebrating a birthday with sombreros at Jose's, enjoying train-car dining at La Estación, or introducing the kids to authentic South Side flavors at Guadalajara, Milwaukee's chimichanga destinations deliver crispy, cheesy, perfectly-fried satisfaction for the whole family.