Discover the Authentic Flavors of Maiz Barro Mexican Grill Cantina
Nestled in the heart of Oak Forest, Illinois, Maiz Barro Mexican Grill Cantina stands as a vibrant culinary destination dedicated to bringing the rich, complex, and deeply satisfying tastes of traditional Mexican cuisine to the local community and beyond. Located conveniently at 6050 W 159th St, this establishment is more than just a place to eat; it is an immersive experience where authentic recipes meet a warm, inviting atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of slow-cooked meats, freshly prepared salsas, and simmering spices transports you straight to the bustling streets of Mexico. We pride ourselves on honoring the heritage of Mexican cooking, utilizing time-tested techniques passed down through generations to ensure every dish served is a testament to quality and flavor.
At Maiz Barro, our philosophy centers on quality ingredients and genuine preparation. We believe that the best Mexican food starts with the freshest components, handled with care and respect for their natural flavors. Whether you are seeking a quick, satisfying lunch or planning a memorable evening out with friends and family, our cantina offers a diverse menu designed to cater to every palate. We strive to create a space where conversation flows as easily as the perfectly crafted margaritas, making every visit a cherished occasion. Our commitment extends beyond the plate; we aim to foster a genuine connection with our patrons, making them feel like honored guests in our culinary home.
Exploring the culinary landscape of Oak Forest reveals a gem in Maiz Barro Mexican Grill Cantina. We are deeply rooted in providing an experience that is both familiar and excitingly new. Our chefs are passionate about showcasing the regional diversity of Mexican gastronomy, moving beyond the commonly known staples to introduce patrons to lesser-known, yet equally delicious, regional specialties. This dedication to authenticity and depth of flavor is what sets us apart in the competitive culinary scene of the Chicagoland area. We invite you to explore the depth of our offerings and discover your new favorite dish.
Key Highlights of the Maiz Barro Experience
What makes Maiz Barro Mexican Grill Cantina a must-visit location in Oak Forest? Our focus remains steadfast on delivering an unparalleled dining experience rooted in tradition and quality. Here are a few aspects that define our commitment to excellence:
Commitment to Traditional Preparation: We adhere closely to authentic Mexican cooking methods. This means slow-simmering sauces, hand-pressing tortillas when possible, and utilizing traditional marinades that allow flavors to fully develop over time. This dedication ensures a depth of taste that mass-produced alternatives simply cannot replicate.
Vibrant Cantina Atmosphere: The "Cantina" aspect of our name reflects our lively and welcoming environment. Designed for socializing and enjoyment, the space balances traditional Mexican aesthetics with modern comfort, making it the perfect backdrop for both casual gatherings and special celebrations.
Diverse and Flavorful Menu Offerings: Our menu is curated to represent a broad spectrum of Mexican culinary artistry. From robust, smoky moles to bright, fresh ceviches, there is a journey of flavors waiting for every diner. We continuously refine our offerings to ensure variety and seasonal relevance without compromising core authenticity.
Focus on Fresh, Quality Ingredients: We prioritize sourcing the freshest ingredients available to build the foundation of our dishes. This commitment to quality is evident in the vibrancy of our vegetables, the richness of our meats, and the brightness of our accompanying salsas and garnishes.
These pillars—tradition, atmosphere, variety, and quality—form the foundation upon which Maiz Barro Mexican Grill Cantina has built its reputation. We strive to ensure that every visit is memorable, encouraging patrons to return time and again to explore more of what our kitchen has to offer.
Your Next Culinary Adventure Awaits
Maiz Barro Mexican Grill Cantina, situated at 6050 W 159th St in Oak Forest, IL, is poised to become your go-to destination for genuine Mexican dining. We understand that in today’s fast-paced world, finding a restaurant that offers both exceptional food and a truly relaxing environment can be challenging. We have worked diligently to create that perfect balance.
We invite you to step away from the ordinary and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of flavors that Mexican cuisine offers when prepared with passion and precision. Whether you are a long-time enthusiast of Mexican food or someone looking to explore its depths for the first time, our team is ready to welcome you. Come experience the warmth, the vibrancy, and most importantly, the unforgettable taste that defines Maiz Barro Mexican Grill Cantina. We look forward to serving you soon and sharing a piece of our culinary heritage.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as Latino-owned
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Fireplace
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great dessert
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
Locals
Tourists
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Menus
Photos
Reviews Maiz Barro Mexican Grill Cantina
Melba Lee
12-12-2025
Its was ok… not good, not bad .. just ok. The burritos were mostly beans. I got a veggie burrito and was hoping for some avocado on there but it was mostly beans. Same with the chicken burrito… mostly beans.. the salsa was good, it was … More
christine b
17-09-2025
I'm a new regular any time I'm visiting from Indianapolis. I fell in love with this place after my first visit. The atmosphere is very traditional and festive. The service is friendly with and with a smile. I enjoyed meeting Elvia … More
Andrew Bolek
06-09-2025
The food is always incredible. I've tried and enjoyed most of the menu. The specials are also always worth a try. There has been only one item I was slighty off about. Don't get me wrong, it was good, except the balance was off. My torta that day had too much bun, not enough meat. I'll have to try it again.
The atmosphere is fun, colorful, and engaging. The place is loud and welcomes an "outdoor" voice. Groups and children are welcome.
I've edited my service rating which has only gotten better. Everyone is friendly, welcoming, and polite. Personally, I'm great with faces, and it’s nice to get a familiar nod from time to time.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Bianca Vande Werken
30-07-2025
We come to Maiz & Barro regularly and cannot recommend it enough! After living in the Tinley area for almost 3 years, I can confidently say you will not find better Mexican food or nicer staff. It's absolutely the best - handmade tortillas, … More
Lillian Watson
20-07-2025
Their nachos are the best that I've ever had! My search for good nachos is finally over! 😋 😋 😋 My husband really enjoyed his tacos as well. … More
Mike D
31-03-2025
Wow! This place exudes a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The dishes are incredibly tasty, bursting with flavor and generously portioned. The drinks are refreshingly made with freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice. Everything is homemade, and the attentive and friendly service adds to the overall experience. The bartender, Marco, is exceptional, providing great recommendations based on your taste preferences. Probably the best Mexican food I’ve had in years. This is going to be my new go-to spot after this great first impression!! Just amazing!!!! If you’re in the area, check them out.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Recommendation for vegetarians
Highly recommend
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free of charge parking lot
Angela Vaughn
17-03-2025
So... my husband and I stumbled upon Maíz and Barro trying to find something to eat while we were in Oak Forest. First of all, it’s a whole vibe when you walk in. We started off with some chips and salsa. I had the mango mojito. The flavor … More
Richard Wyatt74
12-03-2025
This is a very good quality Mexican food place. The attention to detail is excellent. They are very attentive to cleaning and looking after their customers. They make you feel at home. It was pretty empty when I was there. But the … More
CherryBomb737
13-02-2025
After one of the pickiest foodies I know suggested Maiz & Barro so our family stopped in for an amazing meal and drinks and fresh made pastries. Everything here is made from scratch, and tastes amazing. The owner operators each have over … More
Heather French
07-02-2025
Maiz & Barro means Corn and Clay. I had to ask on my second visit to this south side Mexican restaurant owned by chef Mario Lopez and pastry chef Elvia Granados, a husband and wife team. The food is just outstanding here. Mexican food can be so pedestrian and after my first visit, I knew I had to return to taste more on the menu. Everything they make is elevated. On my first visit, we tried the barria tacos, chicken tacos and fajitas. Every dish has so much attention to detail. I asked for my steak on the fajitas rare and it was. So nice. On my second visit, I tried the Pezole soup on the specials menu and it tasted like so much love and time and care went into this soup. It was also enough for two meals. My husband tried the chilaquiles and the chips were so saucy and delicious.
I must admit that I once worked with the owner of this restaurant, Mario, at an Italian restaurant called Vivo almost 30 years ago. It was a real hotspot in the day. I love that he now has a place of his own and it is busy and loved by the community. I’ll be here as often as I can in the future and I hope you will be too.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Pozole
Noise level
Moderate noise
Reviews Maiz Barro Mexican Grill Cantina