Cariño tasting menu overview in Chicago's vibrant Uptown district.
Nestled in the heart of Chicago's Uptown neighborhood, Cariño invites you on a spectacular culinary adventure with its Latin-inspired tasting menu crafted by Chef Norman Fenton. This carefully curated menu highlights the rich tapestry of flavors and ingredients found across Latin America, promising a truly immersive dining experience.
Starters
Begin your meal with standout starters that showcase inventive combinations and exquisite textures. The Michelada Oyster tantalizes with fresh oyster served in a tajín-coated shell, accompanied by clamato-infused tomato dashi, clamato pearls, sweet white soy, citrus notes, and a light crown of Modelo beer foam. The Huitlacoche Ravioli offers a decadent bite of corn fungus enveloped in delicate pasta, enhanced with airy corn foam, crunchy fried corn silk, popcorn, freeze-dried sweet corn, and a drizzle of truffle butter for that luxurious finish. For those craving a savory treat, the Duck Confit Tetela melds tender duck confit with masa, smoky chipotle peppers, tart gooseberries, sweet potato purée, and fragrant hoja santa leaves.
Mains
Cariño's mains continue to impress with bold flavors and creative flair. Savor the Sweetbreads, fried to perfection and served alongside a rich mole chiapaneco, complemented by sweet plantain and earthy parsnip elements. The Lamb Tartare Tostada is a captivating dish featuring finely chopped lamb seasoned with al pastor spices, topped with freeze-dried pineapple for a hint of sweetness, all served on a crisp tostada shell.
Drinks
Complement your meal with a selection from Cariño’s cocktail offerings. The Mi Campo Margarita is a standout, blending smooth tequila with the herbal complexity of green chartreuse, fresh lime juice, natural agave syrup, and served cold over ice, delivering a refreshing and balanced sip.
Specials and Experience
Cariño’s tasting menu is more than a meal—it’s a journey through Latin American culinary landscapes. Diners often praise the restaurant's lively yet casual atmosphere, where friendly chefs engage guests, especially during the famed taco omakase experience available at night. This spot is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking inventive dishes with heartfelt roots in authentic Latin flavors, enhanced by elegant presentations and innovative techniques.
- Starters Michelada Oyster, Huitlacoche Ravioli, Duck Confit Tetela.
- Mains Sweetbreads with mole chiapaneco, Lamb Tartare Tostada with al pastor spice.
- Drinks Mi Campo Margarita cocktail blending tequila, green chartreuse, and lime.
