El Rinconcito Mexican Grill
About This Spot
Nestled on a quiet stretch of South Main Street in Bloomington, El Rinconcito Mexican Grill feels like a welcoming neighborhood gem that invites you to slow down and savor the moment. Walking in, you’re greeted by bright blue walls that breathe freshness into the space and a gentle hum of friendly conversation, setting a relaxed pace where time seems to linger just long enough for good company and better food.
This is the kind of place where the care and warmth of the staff shine through — a reminder that every meal here is more than just sustenance; it’s a shared experience. The rhythm of plates arriving at tables, the mingling aromas of grilled meats and fresh salsas, and the clinking of ice in glasses of cold Mexican Coke create a comforting soundtrack that feels both familiar and special.
The atmosphere is unpretentious yet vibrant, a true reflection of the flavors that come from the kitchen. It’s easy to find yourself lifting a bite of the carne asada tacos, accented with creamy avocado and zesty lime, while the colorful pico de gallo adds a bright contrast that enlivens each mouthful. Whether you’re here for a quick lunch or a leisurely meal with friends or family, the sense that you’ve stumbled upon something genuine stays with you.
El Rinconcito is also a small culinary discovery for those who cherish quality ingredients and authentic touches — the nuanced spice of chorizo, the comforting sweetness of horchata, or the addictive heat from the house-made salsas. This connection to tradition and freshness sets it apart from the common crowd and keeps locals — and visitors alike — returning.
Beyond the food, the simplicity of the space extends a warm invitation to settle in without hurry. It’s a spot where the love for Mexican flavors and the joy of community quietly coexist, tucked into a little corner of Bloomington, promising a genuine taste of home no matter where you’re from.
What’s Available Here
-
Delivery
-
Takeaway
-
Dine-in
-
Fast service
-
Lunch
-
Dinner
-
Solo dining
-
Wheelchair-accessible car park
-
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
-
Wheelchair-accessible seating
-
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
-
Comfort food
-
Quick bite
-
Small plates
-
Lunch
-
Dinner
-
Dessert
-
Toilet
-
Casual
-
Family friendly
-
Accepts reservations
-
Credit cards
-
Debit cards
-
NFC mobile payments
-
Credit cards
-
Good for kids
-
Kids' menu
-
Free of charge street parking
-
Free parking lot
-
Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | 11:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
| Friday | 10:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
| Sunday | Closed |
Danielle Cozzola 01 Jan 2026
Don't pass this place up! Amazing Mexican food, great service, tasty salsa, fair prices, and a broad menu. Will be back whenever I'm in town. Would recommend both of the green salsas. So delicious!!
Jeff S 25 Dec 2025
Favorite taco place in central illinois. I'm from champaign-urbana, and we have plenty of good Mexican, but El Rinconcito is consistently better than any other tacos. Been here many times for lunch. Great salsa, but the best part is their meat quality. Was also able to order suadero (not on menu but my favorite), and had a different custom order on a previous visit, and they always are happy to make what you want. Very good and very friendly!
Lara Ward 24 Dec 2025
If I could give 10 stars I would! Seriously delicious food. The staff are awesome and I love the atmosphere. The bright blue walls really give the space a fresh feeling. We tried the special today, it was the barbacola. I hope they add that the regular menu. It was fantastic!
Dan Patrick Photography 06 Dec 2025
Great food and I would say this is probably number one in Bloomington for Mexican food. They also had pupusas and churrasco. If you think El Porton is good this place is even better. I would say they also beat Vera Cruz. The food is delicious and the place is clean. Service is always friendly. Check out the little corner and the grocery next store. The quality of the meat I had was great.
Angela Campos 20 Nov 2025
Seriously the best torta & tacos I have tasted! My family and I are from Texas and were in town visiting. We stopped here for dinner and it did not disappoint!! We are mexican and these tacos tasted just like the ones from Mexico! If we ever come back to IL we will definitely stop here again
Jared Gahm 07 Nov 2025
This is a block away from the gym I own and has now become my new favorite restaurant. I even have the guys from the gym coming here. This is the definition of a hidden gem restaurant in town. I have had several items here and I have not had a single bad meal yet. This is a small place for take out or dine in. Stop by and you will love it
Jessica Lynn Shull 27 Oct 2025
Fresh and flavorful ingredients! The service was friendly and fast, and the quality of the ingredients was top notch. We had carne asada tacos with cilantro, onions, lime, cheese and avocado and enjoyed every last bite. We can't wait to come back and try their burritos. There is some seating inside, but not a ton so I wouldn't recommend coming with a big group of people, instead you can do carry out and leave the adorable booths for groups of 2-4. There is also a bar along the window with stools.