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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Chicago

Mexican food and nightlife

You need a place where the Mexican food is as reliable as the nightlife is energetic.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated April 2026
01
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 1
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 2
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Restaurant combines unique decor with a warm, welcoming vibe and top-tier music including hip-hop, R&B, and afrobeats. Atmosphere feels both like a casual takeout spot and a lively club under the right circumstances. Clean environment supports a positive, chill energy throughout.

Tacos come with homemade-style corn tortillas and are loaded with toppings at no extra charge. Options include steak tacos that are tender and flavorful, as well as salmon and lamb chops, all served fresh and tasty.

Colored lights create a club vibe that feels lively yet relaxed. The spot blends lounge atmosphere with a hidden gem appeal for those avoiding typical bars and clubs.

People are saying

"I experienced unique, great customer service here."

"FiFi made my Mexican food order quickly and with a smile."

"It's got a cool club vibe with colored lights."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with affordable drinks for dine-in only.

2

Live DJ performs on Taco Tuesdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect a fun vibe on Fridays when the DJ is present.

02
Valedor image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail lounge blends Japanese and Mexican fusion with a luxe, spacious design and captivating decor. Music features a live DJ that sets a chill, vibey atmosphere, though it can be loud. Small bites and creative cocktails complement the stylish, swanky vibe.

Cantina hour features complimentary appetizers with cocktails. Drinks include horchata two ways with thick foam and a juicy, fun lychee cocktail.

Upscale cocktail lounge offers awesome cocktails and a small but impressive food menu. The lounge has a cute vibe and can be a spot to impress friends if you find a seat.

People are saying

"The cocktails at Happy Hour are amazing and there's a huge variety."

"The Mexican food here is a creative fusion with Japanese flavors."

"The nightlife here has an amazing happy hour with free tapas."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the place is not very big.

2

Valedor offers a happy hour from 5 to 7 PM every day, including weekends.

3

Valedor advertises rotating complimentary tapas during happy hour with cocktail orders.

03
The 101 Bar, Grill & Rooftop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a rooftop bar offering spectacular city views and multiple seating options including fire pits and private couches. Live music creates a lively atmosphere that balances well with conversation. Cocktails and food receive strong praise, contributing to an overall vibrant and welcoming vibe.

Fish tacos and lobster sliders feature prominently alongside elote that differs from the traditional style. Various Mexican-inspired dishes like shrimp tacos and jicama salad appear, but some tacos lack flavor.

Outdoor lounge tables by the firepit create a relaxed vibe for groups and dogs. Friendly hosts add to the welcoming atmosphere that invites easy socializing.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

"RJ, the bartender, made our nightlife unforgettable with his amazing cocktails."

"The Mexican food here is tasty and affordable with a great view."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available 7 days a week from 5-7pm.

2

Reservations are typically required, but walk-ins may be accommodated if available.

3

The happy hour offers a great selection of drinks and appetizers at unbeatable prices.

04
Stolen Saddle image 1

Multi-leveled bar with mechanical bull and live music creates a lively, spacious environment. Atmosphere blends cool Southern vibe with rustic charm and energetic fun. Crowd enjoys games and dancing, making it feel like a vibrant country-themed club.

Tacos feature brisket, steak, fish, and shrimp cooked perfectly and plump. Drinks include fresh, balanced margaritas and a spicy watermelon margarita. Happy hour offers tacos, quesadillas, chips & salsa, margaritas, and espresso martinis.

The venue operates more like a club than a traditional country bar, playing club music instead of country tunes. The space evolved from an old club spot into a country-themed bar but kept a club vibe.

People are saying

"The bartenders here make great drinks and keep them flowing."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, thanks to the attentive and friendly staff."

"The nightlife here is amazing, the bartenders were so attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu includes tacos, quesadillas, chips & salsa, margaritas, and espresso martinis.

2

Food and drink specials are available during home games.

3

Children are welcome until 8 p.m.

05
The SoulFood Lounge 2 image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small soul food restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere with an all-black aesthetic and live music featuring jazz and saxophone. The vibe stays laid back and refreshing, suited for quiet dinners or date nights. Space is limited, creating a cozy but sometimes cramped setting.

Bayou blackened shrimp tamales offer bold, awakening flavors and work well for sharing. The BBQ beef brisket quesadillas come with phenomenal street corn as a side, though tamale dishes can be doughy and less satisfying.

An intimate lounge with a perfect number of tables keeps the space from feeling overcrowded. Guests enjoy live music, great service, and timely food delivery in a clean, safe setting.

People are saying

"The American Food here, like the turkey leg, is off the bone and delicious."

"The food and atmosphere here are amazing for nightlife."

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to secure a spot inside the restaurant.

2

Parking can be difficult, often requiring a walk from 1-3 blocks away.

3

The restaurant has a 'No Share Policy' for events like 'The Grand Tasting'.

06
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse blends trendy club vibe with live DJ sets and bold neon decor. Atmosphere feels lively and energetic, with music often loud enough to dominate conversations. Cocktails stand out as fresh and flavorful highlights amid the setting.

Wagyu steak tacos stand out with rich flavor, often paired with truffle fries and mushroom arancini. Quesadillas and short rib options also feature during happy hour, offering a solid variety of Mexican dishes.

A club atmosphere dominates with loud music typical of a young adult club. The noise level makes conversation difficult and the vibe is not suited for quiet or romantic settings.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, truly the best."

"The nightlife here feels like a young adult club with loud, danceable music."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a one-hour wait for a table during peak dining hours.

3

Cocktails are priced at $9 during happy hour.

07
Moe's Cantina - River North image 1
Mexican restaurant

Massive Mexican restaurant with ample seating and a unique design that shifts into a nightclub on weekends. Lively atmosphere with energetic music, including reggaeton and clear TV audio for games. Outdoor seating and artistic decor add to the vibrant vibe.

Torta skirt steak and al pastor gringas stand out as flavorful dishes. The amazing salsa and queso with steak add great depth, while enchiladas with mole and Carne Asada dinner offer solid variety.

Vibrant nightlife centers on a great dance club atmosphere with efficient bartenders enhancing the experience. Security staff provide helpful directions, supporting a smooth night out.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the Mexican food experience so friendly and attentive."

"The nachos here are so delicious, I loved them."

"Miguel was the highlight of my night, super nice and professional."

Good to know

1

Expect a $20 cover charge for entry during club hours.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

3

All guests must arrive together to avoid additional cover charges.

08
S2 Southside Bar & Grill image 1

Upscale club atmosphere with vibrant dรฉcor and a small eating area featuring metal stools. Music stays lively all night thanks to a dynamic DJ, while bartenders craft strong, flavorful cocktails. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, perfect for a chill night out.

Taco Tuesday offers a chill vibe with incredible tacos like chicken, beef flour, and lamb chop entrees. Margaritas made by Qiana add to the experience.

Upscale club vibes dominate with a lounge that stays nice and chill. It operates mainly as a nightclub that serves food, not a restaurant turning into a club later.

People are saying

"The food here was served piping hot and fast."

"Taco Tuesday here is a lively event with good tacos and drinks."

"The drinks here are on point and the food is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 drinks and a $10 food menu.

2

Entry costs $10, regardless of whether you order food.

3

An 18% gratuity and 3% surcharge are added to the bill upon seating.

09
Pantano's Restaurant & Bar image 1

Large, comfortable space offers a lively and energetic vibe with loud music and a party atmosphere at night. Mornings bring a family-friendly and calm environment with a pure Venezuelan atmosphere. Music and social activities like dancing and singing shape the dynamic experience.

Seafood shines with shrimp tacos, ceviche, and a seafood dinner served in a pineapple half. Tacos come with chipotle mayo, and the guacamole and green salsa dip stand out. Margaritas, especially the Strawberry and Watermelon, complement the meal.

The club offers a lively atmosphere with a focus on dancing and socializing. Their house tequila comes from a Costco or Sam's Club signature brand, adding a unique touch to the drink selection.

People are saying

"The shrimp and fish tacos with chipotle mayo are amazing."

"The Ceviche here is amazing, truly 10/10."

"I really liked the Colombian event last night."

Good to know

1

Every Saturday features events celebrating a different nationality.

2

Latin night highlights Venezuelan music, but other genres are mixed in.

3

The restaurant only accepts cash or Zelle for payments.

10
Pizza Cantina image 1
Pizza restaurant

Industrial-style space combines pizza restaurant, sports bar, and dance area with foosball tables and TVs showing sports and cultural events. Loud music and a DJ create a high-energy atmosphere that fills the space, making conversation challenging. Groups gather here for margaritas, bottomless mimosas, and lively nights.

Brunch features chilaquiles with Salsa verde and steak fajitas that stand out. Tacos match the fajitas in flavor, and the Tres Leches French toast offers a unique twist.

Looks like a bar/lounge vibe rather than a club. Feels casual on a weekday with some ambiguity between arcade and sports bar elements.

People are saying

"The pizza here is amazing, thanks to Jocelyn's attentive service."

"I was unsure if this place was a club or a bar; it was empty."

"The chilaquiles here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect a $20 cover charge for men, even with a reserved table.

2

A 20% automatic gratuity is added to all bills.

3

Soda refills cost $3 each, served in small glasses.

11
Hacienda Dโ€™Suarez image 1
Mexican restaurant

Loud music with intense bass and a live DJ creates a club aura with great vibes for dancing and celebration. Lighting enhances the energetic atmosphere, attracting many people who enjoy the music and dancing. Lines form after 10 PM, indicating a popular spot for lively nights.

The menu features a guacamole and salsa trio with chips that sometimes come stale or undercooked. A 10 taco platter and quesadillas offer solid options, while burritos can be pricier than expected due to billing quirks.

Lighting creates a club aura that sets the mood. A very awesome DJ spins tunes at the bar, keeping energy high.

People are saying

"The DJ played a great mix of salsa, reggaeton, and rap."

"The bar's atmosphere was really good with dope lighting."

"The nightlife here has an awesome DJ and a club aura."

Good to know

1

Expect a line after 10 PM on weekends; arrive early.

2

Drinks cost around $14 each, which is on the higher side.

3

No cover charge is required for entry.

12
LH Rooftop image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop bar offers unparalleled city views including river and Gothic architecture. Atmosphere is lively with loud music, making conversation difficult. Outdoor space features igloos and fire pits, with indoor area hosting a live DJ to maintain energy.

Vegan tacos and chicken empanadas stand out among the Mexican dishes. Plates like lamb chops, pork tostones, and coconut shrimp accompany the menu. Churros sometimes come as a birthday treat.

Rooftop views stand out with both indoor bar and outdoor lounge areas. The vibe shifts to a club atmosphere when the bar fills up, often making seating scarce before last call.

People are saying

"The rooftop city views are stunning and beautiful."

"The nightlife view from the rooftop is breathtaking."

"The Mexican food here has amazing views of the city."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table at LH Rooftop due to limited space.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Bring your ID as it is required for entry; no photos accepted.

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