chilam balam menu overview
Nestled in the heart of Chicago's Lake View East, Chilam Balam offers an exquisite journey through seasonal Mexican cuisine with a modern, farm-fresh twist. This cozy basement restaurant invites you to indulge in a vibrant menu crafted for sharing, perfect for food lovers seeking authentic, bold flavors in an intimate setting. Bring your own tequila or favorite drinks to complement the culinary adventure.
starters
Begin your meal with artfully prepared starters that showcase the kitchen’s creativity and bold flavors. The classic Guacamole features ripe avocado, fresh tomato, onion, cilantro, lime, and crispy tostadas for dipping. For a zesty seafood option, the Ono Ceviche combines tender ono fish with habanero, tomato, cucumber, and a bright lime finish.
- Young Greens with roasted poblano dressing, orange, pickled onion, cucumber, avocado, and roasted pepitas
- Roasted Cauliflower served with sikil pak, creamy burrata, salsa macha verde, sesame, and pepitas
- 1000 Layer Potato layered with chipotle cream, crème fraîche, and tobiko for a textural delight
- Roasted Brussel Sprouts elote style with chipotle glaze, chorizo, and queso cotija
- Memelas crafted from corn masa, black beans, aged goat cheese, arbol salsa, and dressed arugula
- Empanadas filled with shiitake mushrooms, queso Oaxaca, and salsa verde
- Flautas featuring chicken thigh, rajas, chipotle sauce, pickled cabbage, carrots, and crema
main courses
Chilam Balam’s mains deliver rich, satisfying flavors with a contemporary Mexican flair. The Pork Milanesa is served alongside sweet potato coconut purée, drizzled with hot honey, and paired with a refreshing strawberry and tomato salad accented by mint. Steak lovers will appreciate the Skirt Steak marinated in guajillo, accompanied by roasted potatoes and crispy onions.
- Pork Ribs glazed in honey pasilla sauce with radishes, crema, and queso fresco
- Gringa featuring al pastor, queso Chihuahua, pineapple pico de gallo, and guacasalsa
- Plato Placero with beef brisket, daily salsas, queso Oaxaca, roasted plantains, tostadas, and lettuce wraps
- Beef Short Rib bathed in pecan mole, served with a kale Caesar salad for a hearty finish
desserts
End your meal on a sweet note with innovative desserts that balance traditional Mexican flavors and creative twists. The Chocolate-Chile Mousse features a spiced goat cheese center paired with toasted marshmallow sauce for a rich, layered flavor experience.
- Sweet Empanadas filled with peanut butter, dulce de leche, and Oaxacan chocolate
- Flan infused with hibiscus, seasonal compote, and topped with candied pepita
- Chef's Dessert of the Day showcasing fresh and seasonal inspirations
drinks and specials
Chilam Balam offers a unique BYOB policy, encouraging guests to bring their own beer, wine, or tequila to enjoy alongside the vibrant flavors of their expertly crafted dishes. The restaurant also features a house-made margarita mix to perfectly complement your tequila selection. While the kitchen cuisine evolves frequently with seasonal specials, every visit promises a fresh and exciting culinary journey.
Experience the lively and flavorful essence of modern Mexican cooking at Chilam Balam, where each dish is thoughtfully composed for sharing and savoring in a spirited and intimate space. Reservations are recommended to secure your spot in this popular Chicago gem.
