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Chicago

Azul is celebrated for its lively ambiance and a menu that showcases a fusion of Latin-inspired seafood dishes. The restaurant offers a variety of options, including brunch and dinner services, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Guests appreciate the attentive service and the option for private events. However, some reviews mention that the noise levels can be high, which might affect the dining experience for those seeking a quieter environment. Additionally, the valet parking fee has been a point of contention for some patrons.

Azul, located in the vibrant West Town neighborhood of Chicago, plays a significant role in the local community by offering a welcoming space for gatherings and celebrations. This lively restaurant not only serves delicious Latin American seafood dishes but also engages with local initiatives, making it a hub for both residents and visitors alike.

With its colorful decor and inviting atmosphere, Azul has become a favorite spot for those looking to enjoy a meal while connecting with the community. The restaurant's commitment to fostering relationships with local businesses and organizations enhances its role as a community cornerstone.

Azul collaborates with various local businesses and organizations to enhance its offerings and community impact. Some notable partnerships include:

• Local farms for fresh produce
• Nearby breweries for craft beer selections
• Community art initiatives for local artists

Azul hosts a variety of events and gatherings that celebrate the local culture and community spirit. From themed nights featuring live music to special holiday celebrations, the restaurant creates an engaging environment for all.

These events not only provide entertainment but also foster connections among guests, making Azul a lively spot for both locals and visitors.

Azul is committed to sustainability and ethical practices. The restaurant sources ingredients locally whenever possible, reducing its carbon footprint and supporting local farmers.

Additionally, Azul implements eco-friendly practices, such as minimizing waste and using biodegradable materials, to ensure a positive impact on the environment.

"Azul has become my go-to spot for brunch with friends. The atmosphere is always lively, and the food is consistently delicious!" - Jennifer S.

"I love how Azul supports local artists and businesses. It feels great to dine somewhere that cares about the community." - Yukino M.

Join us at Azul for a memorable dining experience that celebrates community, culture, and culinary excellence. Whether you're looking for a lively brunch or a cozy dinner, Azul welcomes you to be part of our story.

North America

United States

Azul, located at 1177 N Elston Ave in Chicago's vibrant West Town neighborhood, is a relaxed restaurant that showcases the rich flavors of Latin American seafood. With its colorful decor and inviting atmosphere, Azul has become a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a unique dining experience. The restaurant prides itself on its craft cocktails and fresh seafood dishes, making it a delightful destination for food enthusiasts. Established recently, Azul has quickly garnered attention for its lively ambiance and creative menu, perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings.

At Azul, the menu features a variety of tantalizing dishes that highlight the essence of Latin cuisine. Guests can indulge in a selection of seafood tapas, each crafted with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Signature offerings include the lobster empanadas, which are a crowd favorite, and the seafood enchiladas that promise a burst of flavor in every bite. The vibrant cocktails, such as the mango margarita, perfectly complement the dishes and enhance the dining experience.

Seafood Quesadilla with Creamy Dipping Sauce

Azul is conveniently situated in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago, a vibrant area known for its eclectic mix of culture and cuisine. The restaurant is within walking distance of popular attractions such as the Salt Shed, making it an ideal stop before a show. The lively atmosphere of West Town, combined with Azul's colorful decor, creates a perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a meal with friends or celebrating a special occasion, Azul offers a unique ambiance that captures the spirit of the city.

A: Yes, Azul has outdoor seating available for guests.

A: Yes, there are valet and free street parking options nearby.

A: Yes, reservations can be made in advance.

A: No, dogs are not allowed inside the restaurant.

A: Azul is open for brunch and dinner, but not for lunch.

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Azul. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a festive gathering, this restaurant is a perfect choice. Visit Azul in Chicago's West Town today and indulge in a culinary adventure that celebrates the essence of Latin seafood.

Relaxed restaurant featuring Latin American seafood dishes & craft cocktails in colorful surrounds.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2al9UbGFBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx6qly3rTD4gRLJDyWfXS5vY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2al9UbGFBEAE

We visited here for lunch on Sunday.
They offered a margarita sample at first which had a rich mango taste, it was delicious 🥰
The langostino was fantastic. We liked the garlic flavor so much!
Our server Carolina was charming and we felt that we were taken care of very much as she and also her members including a gentleman busser man checked in with us frequently (at just right moment).
I’m not in town unfortunately but I’ll definitely be back again when I visit Chicago🙌

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIcS11NTBnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx6qly3rTD4gRLJDyWfXS5vY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIcS11NTBnRRAB

We’d passed by Azul enough to try it out for dinner. We’d heard that it was a little pricey but figured that must have been due to location and quality of food or some other reasonable explanation.

We were mistaken by a lot.

We discovered the following so you don’t have to:

1. The food is just okay; not great, but not awful. Everything is tapas-sized. Outside of the huge seafood platters, everything is sized to be shareable, even the entrees. To make a full meal, you have to order at least 2-3 dishes.

2. The prices were already high but what we didn’t expect was the automatic 20% gratuity for a party of 2 people, plus a 3% surcharge. Our server also asked if we would like to tip on top of these extras and the automatic gratuity couldn’t be removed from the bill. Our server did not let us know before ordering or even when bringing the check that either of these two charges would be applied nor are either charge listed or explained anywhere on Azul’s menu or website.

3. Our server was very slow and acted as if she did not care to be there in the slightest. She wasn’t rude, but she was very inattentive and barely around the whole lower patio so we struggled to get her attention for more drinks, a takeout box, and the check.

4. The cocktails (margs, sangria, etc) are all at least $17 on average. Our server confirmed our suspicion that the margaritas are made with fruit-flavored sugar syrup instead of any real fruit (not even as a garnish) and overall were way too sickly sweet. The red sangria was okay, but again tasted more like syrup than decent sangria.

5. The view isn’t nice like you would assume for the location. There’s a big tree at the end of the patio/parking lot that blocks most of the skyline view (pictured). Additionally, there’s also a boat rental in the parking lot and people cut through the patio and duck under the bars, right next to occupied tables, to get from the restaurant to parking lot, boat dock to parking lot, boat dock to restaurant, etc (pictured with markup). We thought we had an out-of-the-way table to enjoy a partial skyline view but with all the people moving around our table to duck under the bars, we could barely move in our own seats.

TL;DR: To describe Azul in a nutshell, I would say it’s exorbitantly priced for what it offers and shockingly underwhelming. There are far better places in the neighborhood, let alone in all of Chicago, for quality Latin seafood and city views and Azul fails to deliver in all aspects.

I’m giving Azul 2 stars because our busboy was great and very attentive.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiakxTdkNREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx6qly3rTD4gRLJDyWfXS5vY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiakxTdkNREAE

Interesting experience.

Parking in the area was tough and the lot was full. Had to drive around for a while to find something, not the restaurants fault, but expect some time to park.  Nice stop before a show at the Salt Shed and walking distance.

There was an event upstairs and the music was insanely loud and vibrated the entire outdoor dining area.   We heard some people ask for it to be turned down, but no luck. Inside was even louder - but get that’s part of the party vibe at Azul.  Seems to draw a young, fun crowd.

The food was delicious  - not cheap, but we enjoyed our meal.
The ahi tuna was cooked in the tacos, didn’t expect that.   The chips and salsa was soo good.
We really enjoyed the seafood pineapple dish.  The seafood quesadilla with the creamy dipping sauce was the best!

Drinks were great.
Service was friendly.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMb3Q3OExBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx6qly3rTD4gRLJDyWfXS5vY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMb3Q3OExBEAE

We came for a mid week girls night on the rooftop. The vibe and food were absolutely amazing! The only thing we didn't care too much for were the wicker seats. We're a little fluffier so we could have used something a bit more sturdy. But all in all it was a 10.out of 10. We'll definitely be back again!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURickplU0JREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx6qly3rTD4gRLJDyWfXS5vY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURickplU0JREAE

We came here to celebrate my daughters birthday. It was a Thursday afternoon, it wasn't packed at all. The lobster empanadas are . We had the seafood enchiladas and 3 mariscadas. 2 a lq diabla and 1 grilled. Drinks we had Mexican mules, pin̈a colada and the Patron tower. The vibe was good the music was good the service was excellent and food was alright. We shall definitely be back to give a second try.

Enjoy Latin Seafood & Cocktails at Azul, Chicago's West Town Gem

Azul is an upscale mariscos (seafood) restaurant located along the Chicago River in the Goose Island neighborhood. It offers a fusion of Latin-inspired seafood dishes in a vibrant and sophisticated setting.

Azul, an upscale mariscos restaurant, opened its doors in 2021 in the vibrant Goose Island neighborhood of Chicago. With a focus on Latin-inspired seafood cuisine, it offers a unique dining experience characterized by bold flavors and a lively atmosphere. The restaurant's vision was to create a space where the community could gather and enjoy exquisite seafood dishes in a colorful and sophisticated setting.

The restaurant's vibrant decor and lively atmosphere reflect the colorful culture of Latin America, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike.

Azul's culinary offerings include a variety of seafood dishes, crafted with fresh ingredients and a touch of Latin flair. Signature dishes like the langostino and seafood enchiladas have garnered rave reviews, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor.

The restaurant's ambiance is enhanced by its colorful decor and lively music, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners.

Azul's journey has been marked by significant milestones since its inception in 2021.

• 2021: Azul opened its doors, offering a unique dining experience focused on Latin-inspired seafood cuisine.

Azul has become a beloved part of the West Town community, drawing inspiration from the vibrant culture and culinary traditions of Latin America. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients has resonated with the community, fostering a sense of connection and pride.

The founders of Azul have a deep passion for Latin cuisine and a vision to create a welcoming space for all. Their dedication to quality and service is evident in every aspect of the restaurant, from the carefully curated menu to the attentive staff.

As Azul continues to grow, it adapts to the changing tastes and preferences of its clientele while maintaining its core values. The restaurant regularly updates its menu to reflect seasonal ingredients and innovative culinary trends, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting.

Azul remains committed to its founding vision of providing a vibrant and inclusive dining experience. As it continues to serve the West Town community, the restaurant honors its roots while looking forward to a bright future.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Outdoor Seating

Parking Options

Azul is a relaxed restaurant in Chicago's West Town, featuring Latin American seafood dishes and craft cocktails in colorful surrounds. The vibrant ambiance and flavorful offerings create a unique dining experience.

Azul

Azul offers a diverse menu of Latin-inspired seafood dishes, including starters, main courses, and sides.

Lobster Empanada

Seafood Flautas

Crab Cake Slider

Mini Lobster Roll

Burger Sliders

Grilled Salmon

Huachinango (Red Snapper)

Mar y Tierra (Surf & Turf)

Paella

Skirt Steak Entree

Chicken Pozole Verde

House Salad

Refried Beans

Rice

Garlic Bread

Seasoned Waffle Fries

Side of Avocado

Side of Sour Cream

Side of Cheese

Side of Guac

Extra Azul Sauce

Extra Diabla Sauce

Extra Mojo de Ajo Sauce

Side of Cheese Sauce

Limes

Side of Salad

Azul Menu

Azul, located in the vibrant West Town neighborhood of Chicago, offers a relaxed dining experience with a focus on Latin American seafood dishes. The culinary philosophy here emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients, bringing together traditional flavors with a modern twist. The menu is designed to encourage sharing, featuring a variety of tapas-style plates that highlight the rich culinary heritage of Latin cuisine.

Lobster Empanada - A delightful starter filled with lobster claw and tail meat, complemented by chipotle aioli.

Seafood Flautas - Crispy corn tortillas filled with a mix of lobster, crab, and shrimp, served with avocado and sour cream.

Grilled Salmon - Atlantic wild-caught salmon glazed with tequila honey, served with fire-roasted salsa and garlic bread.

Paella - A vibrant dish featuring clams, langostinos, shrimp, and chorizo, served over Spanish rice.

Azul boasts a curated selection of craft cocktails, perfect for pairing with their seafood offerings. Signature drinks include refreshing margaritas and a rich red sangria, both crafted with fresh ingredients. The cocktail menu is designed to enhance the dining experience, making each meal memorable.

Azul accommodates a variety of dietary preferences, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options. The menu clearly indicates allergens, ensuring a safe dining experience for all guests. This inclusivity allows everyone to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Latin cuisine.

For a truly unforgettable experience, the chef recommends the Mar y Tierra, a sumptuous surf and turf dish featuring grilled seafood and marinated skirt steak. Seasonal highlights also include the Huachinango, a grilled red snapper served with a citrus chimichurri salsa, showcasing the freshest catch.

Join us at Azul in Chicago for a vibrant dining experience that celebrates the best of Latin American seafood. Whether you're enjoying a casual dinner with friends or a special occasion, Azul promises a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.

Savor authentic flavors at Azul in Chicago’s vibrant West Town! Indulge in delectable dishes that tantalize your taste buds. Reserve your table now!

Azul Restaurant in Chicago's Vibrant West Town

Cook County

Served on Sundays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Brunch

Served on Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Fridays from 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM, Saturdays from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM, and Sundays from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Dinner

Nestled in the lively West Town neighborhood at 1177 N Elston Avenue, Azul offers a colorful escape for food lovers eager to dive into Latin American seafood flavors paired with expertly crafted cocktails. This relaxed yet energetic spot beckons those who appreciate shared plates, fresh ingredients, and a festive atmosphere.

Weekends at Azul are a celebration of bold flavors and comforting dishes. Their standout brunch, priced around 31 USD, features mouthwatering plates like Chilaquiles adorned with tender braised short ribs, perfectly cooked eggs, creamy guacamole, and a vibrant mix of pico de gallo, queso, and hominy. It’s an ideal choice for those craving a hearty yet authentic Latin brunch experience in Chicago’s West Town.

Dinner with a seafood focus and Latin flair

As the evening sets in, Azul transforms into a hotspot for dinner, offering a diverse menu of seafood and Latin-inspired dishes that invite sharing and savoring. The dinner experience, also around 31 USD per dish, caters to groups and couples alike, with options designed to satisfy seafood aficionados and adventurous palates. Highlights include flavorful langostino preparations and creative entrees infused with garlic and Latin spices.

Azul’s cocktail menu is a highlight on its own, featuring fruity margaritas and classic drinks like Mexican mules and piña coladas crafted to complement the bold food flavors. Guests often enjoy a sample margarita with rich mango notes—a perfect start to the meal. The ambiance buzzes with a young, fun crowd, enhanced by lively music and an inviting rooftop space that’s perfect for girls’ nights or casual hangouts.

 – Street parking is available, but it can be busy, so allowing extra time to find a spot is advised. Valet parking is also an option for convenience.

 – Outdoor seating enhances the dining experience, especially on the rooftop where the energetic party vibe is palpable. The venue can get lively, great for those who appreciate vibrant atmospheres.

 – While some guests find the service attentive and charming, others report slower service and note that prices reflect the quality and location, with mandatory gratuity and surcharges. It’s wise to check the menu details before ordering.

 – With tapas-style dishes designed for sharing and a lively atmosphere, Azul is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or casual nights out with friends.

Located at 1177 N Elston Ave in Chicago's vibrant West Town neighborhood, Azul offers a relaxed dining experience featuring Latin American seafood dishes and craft cocktails. With a colorful ambiance and a diverse menu, it aims to provide a delightful culinary escape for locals and visitors alike.

Diverse menu with Latin-inspired seafood dishes

Azul is perfect for casual dining, special celebrations, and gatherings with friends. Its lively atmosphere makes it a great spot for those looking to enjoy a fun night out.

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

Parking can be challenging; consider using valet service.

Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

Azul presents a colorful and lively dining experience, making it a notable choice for those seeking Latin-inspired seafood in Chicago. While it boasts a vibrant atmosphere and attentive service, potential diners should be prepared for high noise levels and parking challenges. Overall, Azul is a place to enjoy good food and a festive ambiance.

Illinois

Det är en mexikansk skaldjursrestaurang, maten och atmosfären är stor, servitörerna är mycket vänliga och uppmärksamma på kundens behov, jag såg det vid mitt bord och vid borden av andra kunder. Om du vill ha en fest och utsökt mat, då är detta platsen. De tar bilder och efter ett tag kommer de tillbaka med bilderna i en glasram och säljer dem för 20 dollar per bild, jag ville att de skulle ge mig bara bilderna utan ramen och kunna betala för dem till ett annat pris, men det var inte möjligt på grund av beställningar från chefen, det var mycket otillgängligt för mig. I allmänhet var både restaurangen och terrassen otroligt.

Maken och jag provade denna plats med ett annat par vän och alla hade en fantastisk tid! Vi hittade en kampanj om Latin Restaurant Week och kunde prova deras speciella meny. 

Det mesta av maten var utmärkt. Rättvis varning till dem som inte bryr sig om kryddstark mat, är detta förmodligen inte platsen för dig. Jag älskar det dock! Tre av oss började med räkcevichen. Det var riktigt gott och väldigt kryddigt. Jag kunde också prova min mans krabba kaka slider. Detta var mycket bra och ett alternativ för dem som inte vill ha kryddan. Förrätten var vårt val av tre tacos. Jag åt en var av Ahi tonfisk, räkor och fisk. De var alla mycket bra. Tonfisken kom i ett salladsblad istället för en tortilla. Min vän åt kycklingtaco och brydde sig inte om allt, så kanske skippa den. 

Cocktails är alla mycket innovativa och ganska kryddig. Jag älskade min Mexican Candy. Det var väldigt sött men också väldigt kryddigt. Bloody Mary var inte bra. 

Servicen var långsam men vänlig. 

Parkering är betjänad park endast trots att det finns mycket där.

Experience vibrant Latin-inspired seafood at Azul in West Town, Chicago. Enjoy rooftop views, private events, and diverse menu options.

Azul Chicago - Latin Seafood & Rooftop Dining in West Town

Savor delicious Latin seafood dishes at Azul, the top Chicago restaurant for brunch, dinner, outdoor seating, and private events in West Town.

Discover Azul Chicago - Best Latin Seafood & Brunch Spots

Join us at Azul for an unforgettable Latin-inspired seafood experience, with event spaces, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Chicago.

Enjoy Latin Seafood & Cocktails at Azul, Chicago's West Town Gem

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