The upscale taco place can be a hard sell when there are so many delicious cheap taco places in Chicago.  Taco Joint bridges the gap by providing a modern atmosphere, twists on the traditional menu and a manageable price.  We started off with the TJ Margarita flight.  Although the Sangria was a little basic, the Beergarita with refreshing frozen lime and Negro Modelo and the traditional Margarita with a perfect balance of liquor and fresh lime, were satisfying.  Our starter was the esquites guacamole, with corn and cotija cheese.  We snagged some hot salsa to perk up the flavor.

The main reason, however, that you should grace Taco Joint with your presence is the Torta Panela.  Panela cheese is a Mexican cheese, much like Indian Paneer, that remains semi firm when heated.  The torta bread and panela, perfectly grilled, were paired with watercress, charred avocado and chipotle sauce.  Vegetarian heaven, we say!