Must Try Latin American Cuisine in Chicago

Chicago’s food scene is unparalleled in flavor, diversity, and vibes. Chicago has such a distinct personality and just does food really well. I love trying new restaurants and having an “experience.” Here are some must try Latin-American cuisine in Chicago.

Taco Tacombi

Taco Tacombi is a cute, casual Mexican spot tucked off Randolph Street in the West Loop. The colorful, patio-style seating taco spot has a concise yet indelible menu. The flavors are stunning and really pack a punch! One of my tacos even came with a soup/broth to dip it in. Here’s what we ordered:

Avocado Tostada

Beef Birria (my favorite)

Rice and Beans (of course)

Baja Crispy Fish

Al Pastor

Amerikas 

Amerikas, a Latin fusion place, is in Oak Park, so technically not Chicago, but it has all the Chicago amenities (like CTA), so I say it counts. We went to Amerikas for my first Mother’s Day, and we thoroughly enjoyed it! The inside is a little small, but we snagged a spot and got to eating. Here’s what we ordered:

Tortilla Soup Shots

Chips & Guacamole

Breakfast Burrito 

Chicken Jibarito with a Plantain Bun

Ipanema Sunset Cocktail

Churro 

Cabra

Cabra is a Peruvian inspired restaurant located in the West Loop. Sitting on the 4th floor of the Hoxton Hotel, the interior is incredible with high ceilings, a long bar, and spacious seating with great views. The food is some of the best food I’ve ever had in my life. Everything on the menu pairs really well together and also with the drinks! You can’t really go wrong here. Here’s what I’ve ordered:

Avocado Dip

Salchipapas

Goat Empanadas

If you love dining in the West Loop, check out some of their coolest restaurants.

Maya del Sol

Another spot in Oak Park, Maya del Sol is the perfect place for a nice summer dinner. We ate on the back patio, but they also have great indoor seating. Maya del Sol serves Latin American fusion and I absolutely loved their food! Here’s what we ordered:

Cochinita Pibil (marinated pork tacos)

Enchiladas

Sangria

Margarita

Cookie skillet with ice cream 

Taco Mucho

Taco Mucho is - another - Oak Park restaurant. It’s authentic Mexican food, artistic interior, and incredible flavors make it an authentically unique spot. We came for the grand opening a few years ago because our friend had actually painted the mural inside! We ordered some food and were impressed. It’s been so long that I don’t remember what we ordered, but we got tacos that were amazing, and their classic mango margarita with a tajin rim.

Costera Cocina Tulum

Costera Cocina Tulum recently opened in the West Loop and it’s all the rage. The interior is dim with decor reminiscent of a beach vacation in Tulum (hence the name). Macrame beaded chandeliers adorn the ceiling, and stone floors really create a fun vibe. The food is also good, and we enjoyed eating here last summer with my cousins! Since we had our baby, we ate outside where it was lighter and we could hear each other better. Here’s what I ordered:

Camaron Tacos (passion fruit glazed shrimp)

Beaches of Tulum cocktail

Churros & Ice Cream (iconic)

Until nex time - may your weekend be full of creativity and style.

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