BIB GOURMAND

La Josie

Chicago, United States

Discover La Josie: A vibrant gem in Chicago's West Loop Mexican dining scene.

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's trendy West Loop at 740 West Randolph Street, La Josie offers an intimate and inviting atmosphere for lovers of refined Mexican cuisine. This upscale yet welcoming spot honors the classic dishes of Jalisco, blending authentic flavors with modern twists that excite foodies and casual visitors alike. Whether you're stopping by for brunch, lunch, dinner, or a vibrant happy hour, La Josie delivers a memorable experience with its handmade tortillas, tender steaks, and exceptional black beans that have guests raving.

A feast for the senses: menu highlights and ambiance

Step inside La Josie to enjoy three distinct bars—including a rooftop bar that offers stunning city views—perfect for savoring expertly crafted mezcal and tequila flights. The menu features vibrant dishes like shrimp ceviche, shrimp quesadillas, and the celebrated Chapuzon, all made fresh to delight your palate. Guests appreciate the knowledgeable and warm service, often highlighting the lively yet comfortable vibe that makes every visit special. Whether you’re seeking robust cocktails, hearty tacos, or gluten-free options, La Josie caters thoughtfully to diverse tastes.

Why La Josie stands out in Chicago’s Mexican dining scene

With its combination of authentic flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere, La Josie has quickly become a favorite in the West Loop. Guests often commend the attentive staff who provide excellent recommendations, making it ideal for groups and special occasions. Though located on a busy corner, the open-window seating and rooftop space create a lively urban dining experience. Keep in mind, parking can be tricky due to construction and one-way streets, but convenient valet parking is available.

Frequently asked questions about La Josie

  • What are the operating hours of La Josie? La Josie operates Monday to Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Thursday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Friday from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM, Saturday from 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • Does La Josie accept reservations? Yes, La Josie accepts reservations through their website.
  • Is there parking available at La Josie? Parking can be challenging due to construction and one-way streets. Valet service is available.
  • Is La Josie wheelchair accessible? Yes, La Josie is wheelchair accessible.
  • Does La Josie offer gluten-free options? Yes, La Josie offers gluten-free options on their menu.

Community sentiment and what to expect

The community embraces La Josie for its lively yet cozy vibe, where authentic Mexican flavors meet attentive and friendly service. Diners frequently praise the tacos, guacamole, and inventive cocktail selections, especially the mezcal-based drinks and tequila flights. The rooftop bar adds an extra dimension, offering guests an unforgettable urban dining experience under the sky. While the spot can be a bit lively and prices are on the higher side, many agree that the exceptional food and atmosphere justify the splurge.

La Josie: A vibrant culinary gem in Chicago's West Loop

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's dynamic West Loop neighborhood, La Josie is a standout upscale-casual Mexican restaurant that has quickly become a favorite destination for food lovers seeking authentic flavors and a lively dining experience. Specializing in classic dishes from the Jalisco region, La Josie offers a rich tapestry of tastes, featuring everything from handmade tortillas to tender, juicy steaks and vibrant black beans that have garnered widespread acclaim.

Traditional Jalisco cuisine meets modern flair

La Josie's menu highlights the culinary heritage of Jalisco, a region in Mexico famed for its bold flavors and comforting family recipes. Diners can expect a carefully curated selection of dishes that emphasize freshness and authenticity—such as succulent shrimp quesadillas, decadent shrimp ceviche, and the ever-popular quesabirrias. Complementing the food offerings, the restaurant boasts an impressive array of mezcal-based cocktails and tequila flights, perfect for enthusiasts eager to explore distinctive agave spirits.

A milestone in culinary excellence

In 2023, La Josie was honored with the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand award, recognizing its commitment to delivering exceptional quality and value. This accolade has cemented the restaurant's status among Chicago's top dining establishments and highlighted its ability to blend tradition with an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere. The award reflects not only the superior flavors and ingredients but also the attentive service that guests rave about.

Experience and ambiance

Beyond the exquisite food, La Josie offers a vibrant setting with three distinct bars, including a coveted rooftop bar that provides scenic views and an inviting space for socializing. Whether you visit for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the atmosphere is consistently energetic and warm, blending the feel of mom’s home cooking with the sophistication of an urban eatery. The restaurant welcomes groups and caters to a wide range of preferences, including vegetarian options, ensuring everyone can find something delightful on the menu.
  • Michelin Bib Gourmand award received in 2023, recognizing outstanding quality and value.
  • Three vibrant bars including a scenic rooftop bar, enhancing the dining experience.
  • Traditional Jalisco dishes served with modern refinement, including handmade tortillas and fresh seafood specialties.
  • Mezcal and tequila flights that showcase carefully selected spirits for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

La Josie at a Glance

Nestled in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, La Josie offers a refreshing take on Mexican cuisine, blending traditional Jalisco dishes with a modern flair. This intimate eatery boasts three distinct bars, including a rooftop space that provides stunning views of the city skyline, making it an ideal destination for both casual diners and those seeking a lively social atmosphere. With its vibrant ambiance and attentive service, La Josie invites guests to explore a menu bursting with flavor, alongside an extensive cocktail selection that highlights seasonal ingredients and artisanal spirits.

Pros

  • Vibrant atmosphere Attentive service Flavorful Mexican cuisine Extensive cocktail menu Rooftop bar with city views
  • Rooftop seating Handmade tortillas

Cons

  • Higher prices
  • Occasional noise levels

Ideal For

La Josie is perfect for food lovers looking to indulge in authentic Mexican flavors while enjoying a lively dining experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, on a date night, or simply enjoying a casual gathering with friends, La Josie accommodates all with its inviting atmosphere and flavorful offerings. The rooftop bar, in particular, becomes a hotspot during warm evenings, providing the ideal backdrop for socializing and enjoying signature cocktails under the stars.

Things to Know Before Visiting

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when the restaurant tends to experience heavy foot traffic. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu that caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian options. With both dine-in and outdoor seating available, La Josie provides a comfortable setting for any occasion. The availability of curbside pickup and delivery makes it even easier to enjoy their delightful dishes from home. Additionally, while the restaurant allows for family dining, it is important to note that it is not specifically designed for children.

Overall Impression

La Josie stands out in the Chicago dining scene for its commitment to quality and authenticity, offering diners a chance to savor the rich flavors of Jalisco in a vibrant urban setting. From the handmade tortillas to the carefully crafted cocktails, every aspect of the dining experience is thoughtfully curated. Although the prices may be on the higher side, the experience, combined with attentive service and a lively atmosphere, more than justifies the cost. For anyone seeking a memorable night out, La Josie is a must-visit destination.

FAQs

  • What are the operating hours? La Josie is open for lunch and dinner, with brunch on weekends.
  • Is there parking available? Yes, valet parking and paid street parking options are available.
  • Does La Josie offer vegetarian options? Yes, the menu includes a variety of vegetarian dishes.
  • Can I make a reservation? Yes, reservations are encouraged, especially during peak hours.

Plan Your Visit

With its prime location at 740 W Randolph St, La Josie is a culinary gem that should not be missed. Whether you are a local or just visiting, make sure to stop by to experience the rich flavors and vibrant atmosphere that this establishment has to offer. Book your table now and immerse yourself in a delightful culinary adventure!

4.1

Mexican

Closed - Opens 4:00 PM

Monday

16:00–23:00

Tuesday

16:00–23:00

Wednesday

16:00–23:00

Thursday

12:00–23:00

Friday

12:00–00:00

Saturday

11:00–00:00

Sunday

11:00–22:00

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