Cozy cafe filled with vibrant decor and Latin music playing softly in the background. Friendly atmosphere feels like being in a home kitchen, with comfortable seating and plenty of space. The environment welcomes people looking for a relaxed spot with authentic Latin flavor.
Homemade salsas come fresh and pack a perfect kick. The Verde salsa stands out as creamy and delicious, served alongside dishes like empanadas.
Empanadas stand out with options like the pollo and pabellon varieties, both packed with flavor. They pair well with coffee and baked goods, making them a tasty choice for a quick bite.
Good to know
The cafe offers a variety of coffee, arepas, and empanadas.
Expect slower service during busy hours due to limited staff.
The cafe is located near the Ashland and Irving Park bus stops.
Small space filled with eclectic decor and real plants creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Classic hip hop music plays, setting a chill vibe throughout. Outdoor patio and kiosk ordering add to the casual, comfortable experience.
Salsas here bring earthy roja, smoky flavors, and a house-made verde that stands out. They pair well with dishes like spicy beef empanadas and tacos.
Spicy and perfectly fried empanadas stand out here. Potato empanadas come with a great dipping sauce that complements their crispiness.
Good to know
Everything at this place is halal, as indicated by the logo.
There are many vegetarian options available on the menu.
Reservations are recommended during peak hours.
Mexican street food spot offers a cozy, homey atmosphere with bright chairs and a small, inviting space. The vibe stays lively and casual without feeling crowded, accompanied by fantastic music that enhances the experience.
Verde and chipotle salsas add authentic flavor to dishes like burritos. The green salsa served on the side has a noticeable kick that pairs well with empanadas.
Empanadas come fresh and hot, with a roasted filling that stands out. Varieties like chicken mushroom and spinach offer distinct flavors, paired well with sauces like the Puerto Rican mayo-ketchup.
Good to know
Street parking is available on a late Saturday afternoon.
The process of placing a pickup order is super easy and smooth.
Expect a wait during busy times due to to-go orders.
Small dining room offers a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere with generous portions and authentic pupusas that arrive piping hot. Operated by a husband and wife duo, the place maintains a clean, cozy setting with reasonable prices and a BYOB policy.
Salsa comes fresh and flavorful, served alongside classic savory pickled cabbage. It complements the pupusas well and adds a good balance to the dish.
Empanadas feature a plantain dough that creates a unique texture. They come out both crispy and soft, especially the dessert ones made with plantain dough.
Good to know
Pupusas take about 15-20 minutes to cook.
During lunch rush hours, customers should expect a wait.
It was BYOB.
Small cafe with colorful murals and funky decor creates a lively, quirky atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a shaded patio ideal for small groups. Empanadas stand out as authentic and highly praised.
A spicy sauce comes on the side to add more flavor and a kick to the empanadas. This side salsa is highly recommended and enhances the dish without overpowering it.
Empanadas here come in decadent homemade varieties that melt in your mouth. Options like ham egg, spinach and feta, and poblano pepper stand out, with a secret Nutella Banana empanada adding a sweet twist. A salsa on the side adds extra spice and flavor.
Good to know
Cafe Tola accepts only card payments.
There is no seating inside and only a small patio outside.
The empanadas cost $6 each.
Bright, seaside-style interior with thoughtful decor creates a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Loud Mexican and Latin music fills the space, making conversation challenging amid the busy service environment. Tables often sit close to kitchen activity, adding to the lively, energetic vibe.
Crab Rangoon empanadas stand out with a crab filling and come with a hot sauce that many want to take home. Ham and cheese empanadas offer a tasty combo that complements the seafood options well.
Good to know
Monday night deals offer great value for diners.
Expect delays if events start later than scheduled.
Reservations are recommended for busy nights to avoid long waits.
Mexican restaurant with quirky 80s-90s style and colorful decor featuring wall murals and nostalgic toys. Atmosphere feels funky yet authentic with loud music adding charm. Free mini Atari arcade games offer entertainment while waiting.
Salsa here is tangy and hot enough to add a kick. The homemade red salsa pairs well with empanadas and comes across as delicious and fresh.
Empanadas feature rich fillings like chicken mole, black bean with goat cheese, and potato with poblano peppers and cheese. Each costs around $6 and two to three make a satisfying meal with gooey cheese and balanced flavors.
Good to know
They often run out of more than half of their options before 10:30 am.
The portions are huge for a very reasonable price.
They specialize in empanadas, with many varieties made fresh throughout the day.
Mexican restaurant with beautiful decor and an energetic vibe featuring a live DJ and upbeat music. Two bars with TVs add to the lively atmosphere, complemented by a fire show and flaming desserts. The place draws a crowd enjoying great margaritas and flavorful dishes in a clean, vibrant setting.
Salsa comes with awesome guacamole and chips. It tastes fantastic and servers check often, happy when you enjoy it.
Shrimp and chicken empanadas come with cheese and offer a fried texture. Shrimp empanadas pair well with mole and quesabirrias, making them standout choices.
Good to know
Happy hour starts at 3 PM.
Ask for the $10 margaritas special on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Street parking is easy to find and free on Sundays.
Modern steakhouse with sleek black decor and comfortable seating creates a friendly yet elegant atmosphere. The vibe balances casual and sophisticated, welcoming guests in casual clothes. Excellent margaritas and steaks complement the stylish setting.
Chips and salsa come as a homemade treat with a hint of sweetness in the salsa. The combination turns a simple snack into an elevated experience.
Empanadas stand out for their flavorful chicken and beef fillings and are served thoughtfully cut in half. They pair well with spicy margaritas and complement other dishes like queso fundido and steak tacos.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $10 margaritas and unique appetizers.
Tacos are $10 for three during happy hour.
Reservations are recommended for the dueling pianos event on weekends.
Mexican restaurant with sombrero decor and a chill patio offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere suited for festive occasions and casual dining. Colorful flags and themed decorations create a cozy, vibey spot with multiple seating areas including a large hidden back room. Strong, fresh margaritas and generous portions complement the energetic vibe.
Free chips and salsa come with every order. The salsa is great and a nice touch to snack on while checking the menu.
Chicken empanadas stand out with their tasty, meaty filling. Spinach empanadas offer an amazing flavor. Baked empanadas come alongside other dishes like tamales and pork with green tomatillo sauce.
Good to know
Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available even on weekends.
Expect large portion sizes, making it a good value for the price.
Free street parking is available on nearby residential streets.
Mexican restaurant offers a vibrant, festive atmosphere with laid-back, inviting dรฉcor and lively music. The space fills with a warm, energetic vibe that suits bold, fresh Mexican-American street food. Guests enjoy freshly made margaritas alongside flavorful tacos and other standout dishes.
Salsas come homemade with a smoky taste and are not very spicy by default. Drink mixers are also made in house and pair well with the salsas.
Chicken empanadas stand out with rich flavor and tender filling. Chorizo and sweet potato versions add a sweet and savory twist, making the empanadas a delicious highlight alongside other dishes.
Good to know
Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.
Tacos range from $4.50 to $6.00, while enchilada dinners cost $19.
Expect a total cost of around $54 for three tacos and two drinks.
Tiny space with a cozy vibe and a cute outdoor patio captures a street vendor feel. A toppings bar offers customization, attracting those who enjoy varied flavors. The atmosphere suits casual, flavorful taco and empanada experiences.
Salsas here range from terrific hot salsa on the side to a watery salsa verde that lacks kick. The veggie breakfast burrito comes with lots of authentic red salsa.
Empanadas stand out for their flavorful fillings like green pork, ropa vieja, and chicken mole. The crusts stay crispy while the guava and cheese and chicken tinga options add a sweet and savory mix.
Good to know
Expect to pay around $20 for a meal, which includes an empanada and drink.
The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian empanada fillings.
Catering services are available for events, but inquire in advance.
Small space filled with colorful local art on walls and tabletops creates an intimate, vibrant atmosphere. Loud and lively, it feels like an underground art party with a modern Mexican and Chicano vibe. Busy weekends call for reservations.
Salsas here come spicy and pair well with chips. They stand out alongside great pozole and fantastic refried beans.
Spinach artichoke empanadas stand out with their rich filling. An empanada sampler offers a variety of flavors alongside fried avocado wedges that leave a lasting impression.
Good to know
Margaritas cost $7 on Tuesday nights.
Estrella Negra hosts loterรญa and brunch events regularly.
Live jazz band plays on the 4th Wednesday of each month.
Urban Latino spot with a hidden patio and chic dive bar vibe offers live DJ sets mixing old jams and Spanish music. Indoor space feels dark and loud, especially when music peaks, while patio seating provides a quieter atmosphere for conversation. The place fills up with people enjoying singing and dancing, creating a lively energy.
Salsa here stands out for its authentic flavor and amazing taste. Chips come with excellent salsa that invites ordering more.
Shrimp and tinga empanadas come with a special sauce that stands out. Mushroom empanadas tend to be greasy, while shrimp empanadas get noted as very good.
Good to know
Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during busy hours.
Parking is available on the street next to Ashland, and paid parking is in front.
It can get busy after 5 PM, so be prepared for a wait.
Rotisserie chicken stands out with juicy, tender meat and perfect seasoning. Interior offers a clean, well-maintained space with interesting decorations and a plasma TV. The place stays busy with both dine-in and carry-out, serving affordable, generous portions.
Spicy salsas stand out here, especially the green salsa which is very hot and intense. The regular spicy salsa also holds its own, but not everyone likes the salsa overall.
Empanadas come crispy and tasty with a chicken filling that stands out. Sauces complement the flavors well.
Good to know
The restaurant strictly serves chicken dishes only.
Dine-in customers receive a free chicken soup.
Prices are affordable, feeding a group of six for about $50-60.
Walk-up window with limited sidewalk seating defines the setup, creating a laid-back, welcoming vibe despite nearby busy traffic noise. The place draws people seeking authentic Mexican tacos and phenomenal al pastor flavors. Outdoor dining feels casual but constrained by proximity to the road.
Homemade salsas bring strong flavor boosts. The green salsa stands out as very good and a favorite for many.
Crunchy texture stands out in the empanadas, with a notably dry finish. Pumpkin filling offers a tasty twist among the options.
Good to know
Edgewater Tacos is a walk-up only option with no dine-in seating.
Prices for tacos can be high, with two tacos costing around $43.
Parking is difficult; consider using nearby Walgreens but be cautious of towing.
Open dining area with outdoor patio creates a lively, family-friendly atmosphere filled with pleasant music and a buzz of conversation. Fresh seafood dishes and generous portions draw a steady crowd, while complimentary parking adds convenience.
Salsas come with dishes like crab and house ceviche, offering two top-notch options as a welcome touch. They are flavorful and authentic, complementing tostadas, seafood, and veggies well.
Seafood empanadas come in generous portions and taste delicious. Four empanadas cost about $15, making them a solid choice for sharing or a snack.
Good to know
There is complimentary parking right next door, accessible through the alley.
The meal is affordable, with each taco costing $5.
Reservations are not required on Thursday nights due to ample seating.
Small restaurant with family-friendly atmosphere and relaxing Spanish music creates a welcoming vibe. Clean space includes extra tables beyond the main area. Colombian dishes like empanadas and arepas stand out for their flavor and authenticity.
Green salsa stands out with its bold flavor and generous portions. Salsa chimichurri adds a unique twist, and side orders come with three different salsas, including a ketchup.
Empanadas stand out with beef and chicken fillings that are consistently delicious. Both varieties offer a tasty, satisfying flavor that pairs well with other dishes like arepas.
Good to know
They don't have a diaper-changing station for babies.
Check your receipt carefully to avoid unexpected charges.
Expect higher prices than advertised due to added taxes.