I went to Villa’s seafood three times pretty close to opening and thought it was straight up bad. Really wanted to like it but it just wasn’t there, even as a mid-tier Villa’s apologist. The fried stuff was over sauced and mushy, the grilled fish was sad and dry. The vegetarian tacos were alright.
This was almost a year ago now, but I haven’t been back. And El Faro is just up the street so I can’t imagine why I would return unless someone here says something great.
This super dice has pretty much always been the case with their proteins, it’s my main complaint about the original. They do still grill over mesquite, or they did at the first HLP location as of 11/2025, just on a grill set up on the sidewalk on the south side of the parking lot. Maybe it’s weather dependent?
avoid at all costs - has all the problems with Villa’s (undercooked/gummy tortillas, proteins chopped to shit, salsas too wet & one note) PLUS the bad vibes of commodity farmed fish in the mix.
Mariscos El Faro is so good. Easily imo one of the top places in Highland Park
Also if you got a fish taco craving Mariscos El Faro also has fish tacos. 2 of those and that sea bass should make anyone very happy!
Also check out Cevicheria Altata nearby:
It’s so bad right now lol
Ugh I love them, and need to go more, but I’m celery averse (meaning I absolutely hate it) and their ceviche is the most celery-studded I’ve ever seen. 
You had their lobina?
I don’t think so! Is that my move? I’ll try soonish and report back.
Nice find! Looks like they put salsa negra
love amigo amore but just pointing out the “cocktails” are wine/soju-based, not actual cocktails.
Is it good, ha? Went the week they opened and was not compelled to return, but that was the week they opened!
Don’t have a photo but the Carrot Salad @ Queens Raw Bar is really damn good. Chunky carrots tossed in pesto w/ dill and crispy peanuts on top is super delightful
