Hale Street Dining Row
A vibrant dining row in downtown Wheaton, known for its lively street atmosphere and a mix of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More relaxed dining experience
Hale Street Dining Row
Best Time
More relaxed dining experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant dining row in downtown Wheaton, known for its lively street atmosphere and a mix of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine.
"Enjoy the festive atmosphere and some praised appetizers, but be mindful of mixed reviews on food and drinks."
🤔 Mixed Menu Reviews
Some find the new menu bland; ask for recommendations or stick to praised apps like guac & flautas.
🍹 Margarita Watch
Feedback on margaritas is inconsistent. Try a specific recommendation or be open to it being just 'ordinary.'
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Open-Air Ambiance
Street-level seating
Enjoy the vibrant street scene on warm evenings from their open-air entrance.
Flautas & Guacamole
Appetizers
These appetizers are frequently praised for their flavor and generous portions.
Brisket Enchiladas/Burrito
Main Courses
A popular choice, served hot with good flavor, offering a hearty meal.
Elote
Sides
This Mexican street corn side dish is highlighted as particularly excellent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Menu & Margaritas
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤔 Mixed Menu Reviews
Some find the new menu bland; ask for recommendations or stick to praised apps like guac & flautas.
🍹 Margarita Watch
Feedback on margaritas is inconsistent. Try a specific recommendation or be open to it being just 'ordinary.'
👍 Service Varies
Service can be hit or miss. If you experience slow service, consider speaking up politely.
💰 Price Point
Expect prices to be on the higher side, especially for appetizers and drinks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤔 Mixed Menu Reviews
Some find the new menu bland; ask for recommendations or stick to praised apps like guac & flautas.
🍹 Margarita Watch
Feedback on margaritas is inconsistent. Try a specific recommendation or be open to it being just 'ordinary.'
👍 Service Varies
Service can be hit or miss. If you experience slow service, consider speaking up politely.
💰 Price Point
Expect prices to be on the higher side, especially for appetizers and drinks.
🌳 Great Street Vibe
Enjoy the festive atmosphere, especially when seated outside on Hale Street.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hale Street Dining Row offers a lively atmosphere and some standout appetizers like guacamole and flautas, with brisket dishes also receiving praise. However, reviews are mixed regarding the revamped menu's flavor and the consistency of margarita quality. Service can also be inconsistent, and prices are noted as being on the higher side.
"Went with a group killing time between a wedding ceremony and reception late afternoon on a Saturday . Cool decor, average service - place was practically empty but server was not thrilled having to accommodate our group of 20. We ordered apps and drinks. Didn’t like the margaritas at all. Beans and rice were meh but salsa, guac and flautas were all good. Guac was the size of a scoop of ice cream. Everything was pricey. Would choose an alternative place next time."
Laura Eder
"Great open air entrance restaurant on a warm summer eve in downtown Wheaton.
Great mango margarita on the rocks!
We ordered Brisket Enchiladas and Brisket Burrito. Served hot and with good flavor. Great atmosphere inside and outside looking out onto the canopy covered street scene."
Rhonda
"I've given the new menu several tries, but it just isn't it for me. Every time I've had the chicken, like in a burrito or quesadilla, it is sopping wet and flavorless. Last time we ate here, the server constantly forgot drinks and seemed rushed even though there was barely anyone in the restaurant. I used to love this place when it was more Tex-Mex and they had unique menu items. Now, you're better off going to El Zarape or really any other Mexican restaurant."
Elizabeth Beyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hale Street Dining Row is located in downtown Wheaton. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation, such as Metra commuter rail, also serves the Wheaton station, which is a short walk away.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in the downtown Wheaton area, close to the dining row.
Absolutely! The Wheaton Metra station is conveniently located within walking distance, making it easy to access Hale Street Dining Row without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are generally recommended, especially for weekend evenings or larger groups, though walk-ins are often accommodated.
Operating hours can vary, but typically the restaurants on Hale Street are open for lunch and dinner, with extended hours on weekends. It's best to check their individual websites for the most current times.
No, there is no admission fee to enter Hale Street Dining Row. You only pay for the food and drinks you order at the individual establishments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hale Street Dining Row features a variety of restaurants, with a strong presence of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. You can find everything from tacos and enchiladas to other international flavors.
Most Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants offer vegetarian options like bean burritos or cheese enchiladas. Vegan options might be more limited, but it's worth inquiring with specific restaurants about their offerings.
Based on reviews, the flautas, guacamole, brisket enchiladas/burritos, and elote are frequently recommended. Some diners also enjoy the fish and chicken tacos.
Reviews on margaritas are mixed. Some find them great, while others describe them as ordinary or lacking a kick. It might depend on the specific bar or drink ordered.
Some diners find the prices to be on the higher side, particularly for appetizers and drinks, suggesting it's not the most budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-air entrance and the canopy-covered street scene offer great photo opportunities, especially during the evening when the lights are on. The vibrant decor inside also makes for good shots.
Yes, the street lights and restaurant ambiance create a warm and inviting atmosphere for evening photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit