Best Traditional Mexican Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

Chicago

Neighborhoods

Gold Coast / StreetervilleHyde ParkLincoln ParkLogan SquareRiver North (Chicago)Uptown

Top Rated

CharmingGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunchGreat for happy hour

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

13 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Costera Cocina Tulum restaurant

1. Costera Cocina Tulum

4.5

Awesome(1081)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • West Loop

Booked 63 times today

Costera Cocina Tulum brings the vibrant flavors of Tulum's coastal and Mayan cuisine to life, blending land-and-sea principles with traditional Mexican dishes. Step into a lively yet serene atmosphere that captures the essence of Tulum's unique intersection of jungle, beach, and bohemian nightlife. Experience our day-to-night philosophy, where "the jungle has two attitudes," and enjoy a dining experience that transports you to this enchanting Mexican getaway.

2. Vela

4.7

Exceptional(214)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • River North (Chicago)

Booked 17 times today

Vela Bar y Cocina is a true gem in the heart of River North, Chicago, offering an authentic taste of Mexico City with a modern flair. Chef Jorge Angulo crafts each dish with love, ensuring the flavors burst with authenticity and innovation. Guests rave about the "phenomenal food" and "exquisite drinks," highlighting the Pollo a la Leña, tacos, and empanadas as standout dishes. The ambiance is described as "warm and inviting," complemented by attentive service that leaves a lasting impression. With its vibrant atmosphere and expertly curated cocktails, Vela promises a cosmopolitan dining experience that's perfect for any occasion.

3. Tzuco

4.7

Exceptional(1014)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • River North (Chicago)

Booked 87 times today

Located in the bustling River North neighborhood of Chicago, Tzuco, helmed by the Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán, offers a blend of authentic Mexican flavors and sophisticated French techniques. Named after Chef Gaytán’s hometown, Huitzuco, the restaurant boasts a menu rich in ceviche, seafood, and traditional Mexican dishes, served in a spacious dining room, lively bar, lounge, and an all-weather outdoor terrace.Tzuco’s captivating interiors, designed by the acclaimed Cadena + Asociados Concept Design, tell a story of Chef Gaytán's heritage with preserved materials from Mexico and handcrafted furnishings, ensuring guests not only savor exquisite dishes but also relish an immersive cultural experience.

4. Barrio

4.5

Awesome(2973)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • River North (Chicago)

Booked 56 times today

Located In The Heart Of River North, At 65 West Kinzie Street, Dineamic Hospitality Added Its First Mexican Restaurant, Barrio, To The Hospitality Group'S Culinary Roster In 2017. A Creative Take On Traditional Mexican Fare With American Influences, Barrio Is A 6,000-Square-Foot Space Accommodating 200 Guests Indoors And Throughout Our 3 Private Dining Spaces And 70 Guests Amongst Our Expansive Outdoor Patio. Barrio Is Located Near The Chicago River, Right On The Cusp Of Downtown In River North.

A photo of La Victoria Barra + Cocina Mexicana restaurant

5. La Victoria Barra + Cocina Mexicana

4.4

Awesome(389)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Logan Square

Booked 84 times today

La Victoria Barra + Cocina Mexicana is a vibrant gem nestled in Logan Square, Chicago, celebrated for its authentic Traditional Mexican cuisine. This lively restaurant is renowned for its "delicious and beautifully crafted dishes," which transport diners straight to the heart of Mexico with a fiesta spirit. Guests rave about the "super tasty food" and "attentive waitstaff," making every visit a memorable experience. The restaurant artfully blends traditional flavors with modern twists, offering a unique culinary journey. With a lively atmosphere and exceptional service, La Victoria is more than just a dining spot; it's a sanctuary of joy and connection, perfect for any celebration.

A photo of Federales - Fulton Market restaurant

6. Federales - Fulton Market

4.7

Exceptional(41)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • West Loop

Booked 13 times today

Federales is a lofty, open-air restaurant and bar concept with a casual atmosphere. Centered around tasty drinks, delicious tacos, and an urban industrial vibe, it's the go-to bar for guests looking to have a good time and a memorable experience.

7. Ceiba

4.7

Exceptional(86)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Lincoln Park

Booked 5 times today

Ceiba in Lincoln Park offers an unparalleled Mexican/Southwestern dining experience, blending traditional flavors with modern culinary artistry. The chef, inspired by Oaxaca's classic flavors, crafts dishes that are both innovative and authentic. Diners rave about the "incredible sesame salmon" and "fantastic Chicken Pollo," highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor. The atmosphere is inviting, with impeccable service that makes every visit memorable. As one customer exclaims, "For the quality of food, attentive service, and active ambiance, the experience is an incredible deal!" Ceiba is truly a gem in Chicago, promising a delightful culinary journey that diners will cherish.

A photo of Kie Gol Lanee - Logan Square restaurant

8. Kie Gol Lanee - Logan Square

4.7

Exceptional(33)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Logan Square

Booked 7 times today

Logan Square is home to our second Kie-Gol-Lanee location with the first one being in the Uptown neighborhood, recognized by the Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2020.Kie-Gol-Lanee is a family owned restaurant, ran and operated by the Mendoza Ramos family since 2016. “Kie Gol Lanee” is the phonetic spelling of “Quiegoloani” and the name of the small village in Oaxaca, Mexico where we are from: Santa Maria Quiegolani, which means “piedra antigua” in our Zapotec language. We take pride in offering a dining experience that connects you with our rich Oaxacan culture. Each recipe comes from our grandparents and parents with a touch of our own flavor inspired by watching them cook while growing up. We've have been fortunate to be recognized by the Michelin Guide, The New York Times, Chicago Tribune and Chicago Magazine among others, but our highest recognition comes when our client smiles and nods after taking the first bite. Join us for dinner or brunch and see what the fuzz is all about!

A photo of Su Casa Mexican Restaurant restaurant

9. Su Casa Mexican Restaurant

4.4

Awesome(50)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 1 time today

We are thrilled to welcome you back to restaurant dining inside or on our patio!Opened in the 1960s by Ike Sewell, better known for inventing ‘Chicago Style Deep-Dish Pizza’ at nearby Pizzeria Uno, we quickly became one of the most popular places for Mexican food in Chicago. The atmosphere is warm and inviting. Su Casa is truly a little slice of Mexico planted in the heart of a great city.We are located in a converted 1867 carriage house, which adds plenty of character to your experience as you dine on traditional, Mexican fare. The burritos are not to be missed, and neither are the margaritas.

10. Estrella Negra

4.8

Exceptional(36)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Logan Square

Estrella Negra, nestled in the vibrant Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago, is a hidden gem that elevates Cocktail Bar cuisine to an art form. Known for its "next level" margaritas and a wide selection of craft cocktails, this lively spot offers something for every palate. Diners rave about the "super flavorful" concoctions that are crafted with precision and flair, making each sip an experience to savor. Their "magical concoction" for special occasions adds a whimsical touch to their already enticing menu. With its friendly staff and cozy, artistic atmosphere, Estrella Negra is the perfect destination for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a unique and memorable experience.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Explore OpenTable

Neighborhood
Cuisine Nearby
Traditional mexican Cuisine

Little Italy / University Village

Traditional mexican

Lincoln Park
Cicero
Andersonville
Albany Park
Gold Coast / Streeterville
Evanston
Irving Park
Glenview
Northbrook
Oak Park
Skokie
South Side
Lakeview / East Lakeview
River North (Chicago)
Park Ridge
Near North
Roscoe Village
Wilmette
West Loop
Bucktown / Wicker Park