About The Outpost

Anna Kamilis
Owner & Founder

Anna Kamilis thrives where the pace is fast, the stakes are high, and every detail matters. The Chicago South Side native has spent over 25 years shaping unforgettable dining experiences—from working in her family's restaurants to leading sales and events for some of the city's most celebrated hospitality groups.

Her path has spanned restaurants, hotels, and corporate events, working with renowned names such as Gibsons, José Andrés, One Off Hospitality, and Cornerstone. But her brother's love of tacos sparked her most personal venture yet: The Outpost Mexican Eatery, a concept built around the perfect everyday taco. Kamilis opened her first location just two weeks before the pandemic shutdown, persevering through challenges by delivering family meals, hosting pop-ups, collaborating with chefs, and leading Zoom cooking classes. She doubled down—opening a second restaurant mid-pandemic—and today, both continue to thrive.

Passionate about giving back, Kamilis supports women's shelters, DuPage Pads, and local schools, and this fall, Dress for Success. Chicago remains her muse.

The Outpost Mexican Eatery is more than a restaurant — it's a family story rooted in Chicago's South Side, where good food isn't just expected, it's a way of life. What began as an investment and a craving for fresh, authentic tacos quickly became something far greater: a family-owned business built on passion, community, and an unwavering commitment to quality. As founder Anna Kamilis likes to say, the concept was born because #mybrotherlovestacos.

At The Outpost, everything is made from scratch, including our house-made seasonings. No preservatives, no lard, no gluten. Just clean, fresh, satisfying food at a price that respects your family's budget. We've held our $3 Taco Tuesday tradition despite industry pressure, because our customers come first, always.
We're not a franchise. We were built by our customers, our community, and our families — not corporations or banks.

The majority of our team has been with us since day one. Each location has a dedicated leader who brings their own personal creative touch, and that's what makes The Outpost feel like home no matter which door you walk through. Our employees aren't just staff — they're people building their own dreams, and we're honored to be part of that journey.

The Outpost is deeply woven into the communities we serve. From partnering with local schools and fundraisers, to supporting women's shelters and Dress for Success through meal donations and monthly fundraising, to being recognized by the Chamber of DuPage with awards for customer service, best family-owned business, and best new business. We show up because this community showed up for us first.

Award-winning. Family-owned. Community-driven. That's The Outpost.

The Outpost continues to grow with a clear vision: expand access to high-quality, affordable Mexican food while leading in catering, delivery, and community-driven dining experiences.

Anna's mission remains simple—serve great food, support people, and build something that lasts.