Delicious Xoco Menu Overview
Nestled in Chicago's vibrant River North district, XOCO offers an extraordinary journey through authentic Mexican street food. This energetic spot, crafted by renowned Chef Rick Bayless, delivers bold flavors and traditional recipes in a casual, inviting atmosphere. Whether you're craving a quick lunch, dinner, or a comforting brunch, XOCO's menu bursts with delicious options catering to every palate, including vegetarians and food enthusiasts looking for genuine tastes of Mexico.
Starters
Begin your meal with XOCO's vibrant starters that masterfully blend crisp textures and rich flavors. The Guacamole Almost Naked features roasted garlic and tomatillo guacamole served with your choice of tangy tomatillo salsa or spicy three-chile salsa alongside just-made chips. For a heartier option, try the Fully Dressed Guacamole topped with smoky bacon, spicy roasted poblano, crispy chicharrón, and local tomato. Other delights include crunchy Chicharrones with tamazula hot sauce and queso añejo, Papas Rancheras—crispy smashed potatoes with spicy chipotle salsa and cilantro crema—and the nutty Sikil Pak pumpkin seed dip served with freshly made chips. Don't miss the Oaxacan Spicy Peanuts for a perfectly seasoned snack bursting with chile and garlic.
Mains
XOCO's mains showcase a stellar selection of tortas, soups, and traditional Mexican classics, each bursting with layers of flavor. The Ahogada Torta features golden pork carnitas swimming in an aromatic arbol chile broth, topped with black beans and pickled onions for a perfect balance of spice and tang. For beef lovers, the Pepito Torta boasts slow-cooked barbacoa, caramelized onions, artisan Jack cheese, and pickled jalapeños. The Cochinita Pibil Torta offers wood-roasted suckling pig with achiote and habanero heat, enhanced by black beans and pickled onion.
Seafood aficionados will appreciate the Shrimp a la Diabla Torta, featuring spicy red-chile shrimp paired with sweet golden plantains and creamy Napa cabbage. The Milanesa Torta delivers crispy Gunthorp chicken with artisan Jack cheese and a vibrant tomatillo-avocado salsa, while the Woodland Mushroom Torta offers a vegetarian delight with earthy mushrooms, homemade crema, and salsa verde. Other highlights include the Cubana Torta with smoked pork loin and chipotle mustard, the Baja Chicken Torta with chipotle mayo and radish slaw, and comforting bowls like the Pork Belly Chilaquiles with scrambled eggs and roasted tomatillo sauce or the classic Chilaquiles Verdes.
Warm up with hearty soups such as the Tortilla Soup, rich with pasilla chile, roasted tomato, avocado, Jack cheese, and thick cream, or soothe your palate with the Seafood Caldo packed with blue shrimp, mussels, catfish, and vegetables simmered in a spicy red chile broth. The Wood-Roasted Chicken Pozole, featuring sweet pozole corn and lime, offers a traditional taste of Mexican comfort food.
Desserts
Conclude your meal with XOCO's irresistible desserts offering traditional Mexican sweets with a twist. The Pistachio Churro features perfectly fried dough coated in a nutty pistachio glaze, while the classic Churros come with a luscious chocolate dipping sauce. For a creamy indulgence, try the Xoco Flan Cake, marrying silky flan with moist cake for a truly memorable finish.
Drinks and Specials
Complement your meal with an array of beverages including rich hot chocolate, authentic café con leche, and a curated selection of tap beers and cocktails. XOCO's vibrant drink menu pairs wonderfully with their food, enhancing every bite and sip. Don't miss the chef's special offerings, which regularly spotlight innovative takes on Mexican street food classics, ensuring every visit brings something new and exciting.
- Authentic Mexican street food from tortas to caldos and churros provide a rich, traditional taste journey.
- Fresh ingredients like roasted garlic, artisan cheeses, and hand-made salsas elevate every dish.
- Variety to please all from hearty pork and seafood to vibrant vegetarian options.
- Signature drinks and specials that perfectly complement the bold flavors of the dishes.
