Gish-Bac

This family-style Mexican spot in Arlington Heights is known for its brilliant barbacoa, a signature of the owners’ based on an old family recipe. While a few varieties are offered here, the goat enchilada marinated with spicy guajillo chile and served falling off the bone is unmissable. This recipe passed down through generations of Chef Maria Ramos’ family is pure and delicious comfort.

That's no knock on Ramos’ take on other specialties, including densely spiced moles, like the negro with pulled chicken in a tamal, or thin and crispy tlayudas topped with refried beans, quesillo and choice of meat. All of this pairs nicely with refreshing horchata with delightful additions of diced cantaloupe and cactus fruit sorbet.