After 14 Years, De Cero Tacos Closes on Randolph

There’s another vacancy along Randolph Restaurant Row, as De Cero — the Mexican restaurant that specialized in serving large groups and out-of-town guests — closed right before New Year’s Day. The fancy taco spot at 816 W. Randolph Street lasted 14 years and saw the West Loop morph from meatpacking center to its current trendy state.

Owner Angela Lee told the Tribune that current business climate wasn’t one where DeCero could sustain success. DeCero is the second Mexican restaurant to close along Randolph Street in recent months. Perez Restaurant closed in September. Newer Mexican options in the neighborhood include La Josie, Bar Takito, Cruz Blanca/Leña Brava, and Federales.

Many customers would gripe about De Cero’s prices, unaccustomed to paying higher prices for Mexican food compared to a late-night taqueria. But the tacos had homemade tortillas, the salsas were fresh and flavorful, and the menu has vegetarian options.

De Cero’s last day was Saturday, December 30. There’s no word about what may replace De Cero. There’s now a trio of high-profile vacancies along Randolph including The Lunatic, The Love & The Poet and Won Fun/2Fun spaces.