## Short answer: Upscale Mexican restaurants in Chicago offer a fusion of authentic and modern cuisines with upscale ambiance, cocktails, and service. Some popular options include Mi Tocaya AntojerĂa, Lena Brava by Rick Bayless, Topolobampo, and Frontera Grill.
How Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Chicago are Reinventing Traditional Cuisine
Upscale Mexican restaurants in Chicago are taking traditional cuisine to the next level. They are using modern techniques, ingredients and styles to create an unforgettable culinary experience that showcases the rich Mexican culture and history. From upscale street carts to elevated taco stands, these restaurants offer a unique spin on old classics while still celebrating authentic Mexican flavors.
If you’re looking for a sophisticated dining experience, look no further than one of Chicago’s trendy upscale eateries. These hotspots put a modern twist on traditional dishes, incorporating upscale ingredients like truffles or wagyu beef into classics like guacamole or tacos al pastor. The atmosphere is chic and stylish with a keen focus on artfully-plated food presentations, expert wine pairings and creative cocktail programs.
One fine dining establishment stands out from the crowd when it comes to reinventing traditional Mexican cuisine. Pujol, located in Mexico City – often included in lists rating the best restaurants in Latin America – has set itself apart from its peers by reimagining classic dishes through innovative techniques and unique flavor combinations.
As we explore Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Chicago – traditionally known for steak houses and “deep dish” pizza joints – there are some truly standout examples that help pave the way for sophisticated Latin cuisine in this diverse city.
The vibrant colors of mezcal margaritas dotting handsome table tops draw diners’ eyes immediately upon entry into one notable restaurant such as Mi Tocaya AntojerĂa which rotates menus seasonally all while featuring standout entrees such as lamb barbacoa with consomme; tamales stuffed with ricotta salata atole (corn pudding) sweetened with belizean honey; yes crab dip made “reina style”, and fluffy corn masa pancakes topped with chile sauce reminiscent of divine handmade empanadas without shells’ pockets.
Another example of Upscale Mexican Restaurants around Chicago offering Oaxacan-influenced meals include “Casa Enrique”, which offers a gastronomic feast of moles (sauces made from chili peppers, seeds and nuts) in various flavors, such as negro (black), amarillo (yellow), and coloradito (reddish-brown).
For style conscious guests looking to enhance their experience with traditional bites like Taqueria La Oaxaquena who combine big portions at reasonable prices without pricy tableside performances. They offer everyday flavors not presented on a silver platter but rather freshly pulled pork sizzling away on the grilltop or handmade corn tortillas crisply slapping together before getting stuffed with spicy green chiles. This will definitely not disappoint.
Upscale Mexican restaurants are also taking advantage of other avant-garde cooking techniques. For example, “Mango Pickled,” an expert pairing of grilled octopus with sweet mango and pickled jalapeno provides a tantalizing balance between sweet and sour notes that create harmony within the dish itself.
In conclusion, chefs in Chicago’s upscale Mexican restaurants are putting forth masterful renditions of traditional dishes—dishes
A Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your Perfect Meal at Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Chicago
For anyone who loves Mexican food, finding the perfect upscale restaurant can be quite the challenge. With so many options in Chicago, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up at a mediocre establishment that leaves you feeling unsatisfied. But fear not, we’ve got a step-by-step guide to help you find your perfect meal at upscale Mexican restaurants in Chicago.
Step 1: Research
Do your research before heading out to dine. Check out websites like Yelp or OpenTable for reviews from previous customers. Pay attention to what people have said about the atmosphere, service, and of course the food. Keep an eye out for recommendations on must-try dishes.
Step 2: Embrace Authenticity
When looking for upscale Mexican cuisine, don’t be afraid to embrace authenticity. Look for restaurants that focus on traditional Mexican fare rather than Americanized versions of Mexican dishes made with heavy cream sauces and cheese.
Step 3: Appetizer Something Unique
To start off your meal, why not try something unique? Look for appetizers like sopes (a small corn masa pastry topped with beans, meat, and veggies), ceviche (a tasty seafood dish), or even huitlacoche quesadillas (made with a type of mushroom found on ears of corn).
Step 4: Consider Traditional Street Foods
Another option is exploring street foods which are super authentic in Mexico such as tacos el pastor (marinated pork served on a miniature tortilla) and cochinita pibil (tender shredded pork marinated in citrus juices).
Step 5: Go Beyond Tacos
While tacos may always be popular because they’re delicious—true gastronomic explorers should branch out beyond tacos to explore new varieties such as molotes (fried masa pockets filled with potatoes and chorizo) or chiles en nogada (roasted poblano peppers stuffed with picadillo—a mixture containing sweet yet tangy fruits—then topped with a creamy walnut sauce, parsley, and pomegranate seeds).
Step 6: Ask About The Margaritas
Many Upscale Mexican restaurants has a variety of margaritas to choose from. Some made with top-shelf tequila, some include fruits like mango or passion fruit or signature versions spiked with spicy jalapeño peppers.
Step 7: Keep It Sweet
Every meal deserves dessert! Try something like churros—these tasty fried dough sticks are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, then shaken in cinnamon-sugar and served with cajeta (a goat milk caramel). Flan is another delicious option—it’s a silky-smooth and sweet custard topped with caramel sauce.
In conclusion, discovering your perfect meal takes research, an appreciation for authenticity, a sense of adventure stretching past tacos only and keeping it sweet. By following these steps when exploring upscale Mexican restaurants in Chicago you are sure to end up satisfied and longing to return for more culinary delights soon again!
FAQ for Dining at Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Chicago: What You Need to Know
If you are planning to dine at an upscale Mexican restaurant in Chicago, there are some things you need to know beforehand. Here is a list of frequently asked questions to help guide you through your dining experience:
1. What should I wear?
It depends on the restaurant’s dress code, but most upscale Mexican restaurants in Chicago have a smart casual dress code. Men can wear collared shirts and pants or nice jeans with a blazer, while women can opt for dresses, skirts or dressy pants with elegant tops.
2. Is it necessary to make reservations?
Yes, it’s highly recommended that you make reservations ahead of time. Upscale Mexican restaurants tend to be popular and could get fully booked quickly, especially on weekends.
3. What are some must-try dishes?
There is a wide variety of traditional and modern Mexican dishes served at upscale restaurants in Chicago. Some popular choices include ceviche, guacamole made table-side, tacos al pastor, chile rellenos and mole.
4. Are there vegetarian/vegan options available?
Most upscale Mexican restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options such as salads, roasted vegetables or tofu dishes that still maintain the authentic flavors associated with Mexican cuisine.
5. Do they serve alcohol?
Yes! Many popular cocktails like margaritas and tequila shots complement the rich flavors present in most common Mexican dishes.
6. Does it cater to large groups / private events?
Most upscale restaurants offer space for private events such as corporate dinners or birthday parties with their own banquet rooms that can accommodate both small intimate fireside dinners& cocktail hours up to larger even arrangements suitable for wedding ceremonies.
7 . How much would I expect to spend?
The cost will depend largely upon where you go (downtown vs suburbs), what type of food is offered and “how fancy” the atmosphere/ambiance feels overall – typically between $50-$100 per person.
8. Is it family-friendly?
Most upscale Mexican restaurants in Chicago offer a range of kid’s menus with options such as chicken fingers, quesadillas and tacos— making it an inclusive experience for the whole family.
In conclusion, dining at Upscale Mexican Restaurants is Chicago is a must try experience especially if you loves authentic and modern Mexican cuisine! With this Guide you have been furnished with nearly all you need to know beforehand before going out to enjoy quality meals that will leave everyone craving for more. So what are you waiting for? Book your reservation today!
