Chicago is a city that is known for its diverse culinary scene. You can find almost any type of cuisine in the city, but the Latin food scene is particularly impressive.
Latin cuisine is known for its bold flavors, use of fresh ingredients, and rich history. From Mexican to Cuban to Peruvian, there is no shortage of Latin restaurants in Chicago.
These restaurants offer a taste of Latin America that is hard to find elsewhere. They use traditional cooking techniques and authentic ingredients to create dishes that are bursting with flavor.
Whether you are in the mood for spicy Mexican tacos, comforting Cuban sandwiches, or fresh Peruvian ceviche, you can find it all in Chicago.
In this blog post, we will be reviewing some of the best Latin restaurants in Chicago. We will be highlighting the dishes that you must try, the ambiance of each restaurant, and the overall dining experience.
So, whether you are a local or a visitor, this guide will help you discover some of the best Latin restaurants in the city.
1. Irazu Costa Rican Restaurant & Catering
Irazu Costa Rican Restaurant & Catering offers a delicious taste of Costa Rican cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making the dining experience enjoyable.
The menu features fresh ingredients and unique flavors that stand out from other Latin restaurants in the area.
The outdoor patio seating is a great addition, perfect for enjoying a meal on a warm day. The restaurant is also BYOB, adding to the affordability of the dining experience.
Whether you're a fan of Latin cuisine or looking to try something new, Irazu Costa Rican Restaurant & Catering is worth a visit.
2. Amaru
Amaru is a Latin fusion restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Central and South American flavors. The food is well-balanced and delicious, with generous portions that are perfect for sharing.
The wait staff is attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, and the owner is passionate about food preparation and quality.
The ambiance is cozy and vibrant, making it a great spot for a date night or a night out with friends.
The Holywater drink and the ceviche are highly recommended, as well as the Guatemalan ribs and the Pulpo a la plancha. Amaru is a must-visit for anyone interested in Latin American cuisine.
3. XOCO
XOCO offers a delicious selection of Mexican street food with a unique twist. Chef Rick Bayless puts his own spin on traditional dishes, resulting in bold and flavorful options.
The carnitas tortas and short rib tacos are a must-try, and the churros and cheesecake are the perfect ending to a satisfying meal.
The restaurant has a casual, counter-service setup and offers tap beers to complement the food.
While the dishes can be a bit salty, the overall taste and quality of the food make XOCO a great option for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.
4. Casa Yari
Looking for a cozy BYOB restaurant that offers Latin-inspired cuisine in a homely atmosphere, Casa Yari is the perfect spot.
This restaurant serves authentic Puerto Rican and Honduran food, with a wide variety of flavorful vegan options to choose from. The food is well seasoned with bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and the portions are great for the price.
Although the restaurant can get busy, the staff is friendly and attentive. The outdoor café in the back is breezy and cool, making it a great place to enjoy a meal.
Don't forget to try their seasonal and temporary menu items, like their vegan slice of cake, which is super delicious!
5. Cafe Central
Cafe Central is a small and casual Puerto Rican restaurant that serves up delicious comfort food.
The menu features classic dishes like jibaritos, alcapurrias, and beef stew with rice and beans.
The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with friendly staff that make you feel at home.
The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous. It's a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Don't forget to BYOB!
6. Cafe Con Leche
Cafe Con Leche is a trendy Latin fusion restaurant that serves a variety of breakfast and lunch dishes. The food is well-seasoned and cooked to perfection.
The staff is polite and attentive, making for a great dining experience. The restaurant has a nice atmosphere and offers indoor and outdoor seating options.
The menu includes traditional Latin American dishes, as well as some American breakfast items. The coffee is also excellent and pairs well with the food.
Cafe Con Leche is definitely worth a visit for those who enjoy Latin cuisine or are looking for a unique dining experience.
7. Estrella Negra
Estrella Negra is a Latin American restaurant with a unique take on classic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant's Day of the Dead decor creates a hip and modern atmosphere.
The food is delicious and reasonably priced, with standout dishes such as the coconut crusted fried avocado and pozole chicken rojo.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, offering vegetarian and vegan options.
The service is fast and efficient, making it a great spot for a quick meal or a night out with friends. Don't miss the Tamarindo wings, a must-try on the menu.
8. CRIO
CRIO is a must-visit Latin American restaurant. The vibrant artwork on the walls and the inviting bar create a lively atmosphere.
The empanadas and muscles are highly recommended by the friendly and knowledgeable staff.
The grilled chicken mole is outstanding and the churros are scrumptious. The brunch is also a hit, with the steak skillet and chilaquiles being crowd favorites.
The flavored margaritas are a must-try. Despite the busy crowds, the food is carefully and creatively crafted, making the wait well worth it.
9. La Esperanza Restaurant Pilsen
La Esperanza Restaurant Pilsen is a Latin American restaurant that serves some of the most authentic Mexican food in town.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is top-notch. The restaurant offers a dedicated plant-based menu with great vegan options.
The mole enchiladas are a must-try and the homemade tortillas are delicious. The coffee of the day is perfect and the agua de horchata is a refreshing drink option.
The prices are reasonable, and the portion sizes are generous. La Esperanza Restaurant Pilsen is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for great Latin American food.
10. La Celia Latin Kitchen
La Celia Latin Kitchen offers a delightful culinary experience with its broad range of Latin American, Cuban, and Mexican cuisine.
The vibrant and colorful ambiance of the restaurant is a treat for the eyes. The friendly staff is prompt and attentive to the diners' needs.
The menu offers a unique blend of flavors and sauces that will leave your taste buds tingling. The maduros-fried plantains are a must-try, and the churrasco and torta de chilaquiles come highly recommended.
BYOB is an added bonus. La Celia Latin Kitchen is a fantastic choice for those looking for an authentic Latin American dining experience.
11. Deborincuba Restaurant
Deborincuba Restaurant is a Latin American restaurant that serves delicious food with generous portions at reasonable prices.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making customers feel welcomed and taken care of. The menu offers a variety of flavorful dishes, including the must-try Bistec sandwich con queso and the Besitos Tropicales.
The empanadas and the Puerto Rican chicken stew are also highly recommended. The homemade guava dipping sauce is a delightful addition to any dish.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making customers feel like they are at a family gathering. Deborincuba Restaurant is a great place to enjoy authentic Latin American cuisine and experience the warmth of Latin American hospitality.
