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Located at 445 N Clark St in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, Topolobampo is a renowned restaurant that showcases the innovative and refined Mexican cuisine of celebrated chef Rick Bayless. This culinary gem is known for its unique dishes that celebrate the rich flavors of Mexico, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience authentic Mexican food in an elegant setting.

Topolobampo offers a diverse menu that features a variety of traditional and contemporary Mexican dishes, crafted with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Highlights include:

Oaxaca: The Story of Seven Moles - A delightful introduction to the variety of Mexican sauces.

Aguachile de Pulpo y Camaron - A refreshing appetizer featuring octopus and sashimi-grade shrimp.

Hornedo de Cochinta - A standout dish with pork and foie gras that is irresistible.

Regalo de Platano Macho - A unique dessert that showcases the restaurant's creative flair.

Situated in the heart of Chicago, Topolobampo is conveniently located near several popular attractions. Visitors can explore the vibrant art scene in River North, visit the iconic Magnificent Mile, or take a stroll along the scenic Chicago Riverwalk. The restaurant's central location makes it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists looking to indulge in exceptional Mexican cuisine.

Rick Bayless' innovative, refined Mexican cuisine served in an elegant, art-filled space.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmd2VpRHRRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ25jYKrIsDogRhv_ykBvwfOQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmd2VpRHRRRRAB

"Oaxaca: The Story of Seven Moles" was a delightful introduction to the Mexican sauce and its variety of flavours. Every dish was exquisite in its own way, and the food-mole pairing was very well done. The wait staff were also patient in explaining each dish, though it was hard to catch as the accent was thick at times, but I see that as a sign of authenticity.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiZzgzODRnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ25jYKrIsDogRhv_ykBvwfOQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiZzgzODRnRRAB

This restaurant was the meal we were most looking forward to in Chicago, but it turned out to be the most shocking one. If you are unfamiliar with Mexican culture and are thinking about trying something new, think twice!

Every dish was extremely salty, and the tortillas had a strong fermented taste. One of the dishes included beef bone marrow, which was incredibly greasy and nauseating. The dessert, a pineapple and apple wrap, had such intense spices that it destroyed my sanity.

The five of us spent nearly $2,000, which I personally think was not worth it given the quality and ingredients of the food. The only redeeming feature was the upgraded wine list, which was quite good.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3NnA3X2NBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ25jYKrIsDogRhv_ykBvwfOQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3NnA3X2NBEAE

I dined here as a solo diner while in town for work and had an amazing meal. The Mexico City taco tour was a blast and a fabulous tribute. To the reviewers who didn’t enjoy their meals, I have no idea what happened because mine was amazing from beginning to end.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6NV9PbUtREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ25jYKrIsDogRhv_ykBvwfOQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6NV9PbUtREAE

Starting with the good - the food was tasty and well executed. While some dishes were lacking a bit in balance for my pallette, I recognize that these are takes on traditional dishes, that aren't always balanced, and is therefore meant to be experienced this way.
The only nit I have is for the dish with the truffle - the poblano crema has a very dominant flavor that drowns out any hint of truffle. Either add way more truffle or remove it, as it feels out of place.

For the bad - ambiance was just uncomfortable. The music was waaaaay too loud, to the point where our servers was explaining a dish and made a comment on how loud it is (and it still wasn't turned down). This was to the point of discomfort and made the relatively long waits between dishes feel even longer. It was a 2.5 hour uncomfortable experience and despite the food being great, we couldn't wait to leave.
To add to that, the couch/seat I was on was uncomfortable and the AC was running a bit too cold. This genuinely is disappointing because it for sure soured the experience for us.

Finally, service was mediocre. While our table was always expediently cleaned, but water wasn't refilled frequently, and our server forgot when that we noted at the very beginning that we won't be having alcohol and proceeded to offer the pairings some 10 minutes later. Combined with the long waits and the occasional struggle to recall dish ingredients, it did not help the issues I listed above.

All in all, the food is well worth the money, but the overall experience makes it a place I can't recommend and won't go back to.
Hopefully it was just an off night.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNKdjVqSFRnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ25jYKrIsDogRhv_ykBvwfOQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNKdjVqSFRnEAE

Starting off, the Aguachile de Pulpo y Camaron, an appetizer with octopus, avocado, sashimi-grade shrimp, and cucumber, was a refreshing palate opener. This was followed by a decent Tortilla de Maiz Nuevo Relleno. The complimentary dish, although a bit too salty for my liking, was a nice gesture.

The Mone de Pescado was wrapped in banana leaves, but it had a slightly fishy cod. However, the Hornedo de Cochinta was a standout with pork and foie gras. This dish might not be traditionally Mexican, but it was irresistible.

For dessert, the Regalo de Platano Macho and Cacao were served. The former, a dried banana slice with a brownie-like cake, was overly sweet for me. However, the latter, a chocolate cheese cake with ice cream, was delightful.

Overall, a hearty 4.5/5 for the unique experience and a great variety of food. While some of the dishes were a hit-and-miss for me, the restaurant's willingness to experiment and their generous portions made the visit worthwhile. Would recommend giving Topolobampo a try, even if you're not typically a fan of Mexican cuisine. And don't miss out on XOCO next door, it's another gem.

Topolobampo: Fine Dining Mexican Cuisine in River North, Chicago

Dine In

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Dinner

Good for Groups

Serves Dessert

Reservable

Serves Vegetarian Food

Topolobampo is a culinary gem in Chicago's River North neighborhood, renowned for its innovative and refined Mexican cuisine crafted by celebrated chefs. The restaurant offers a vibrant ambiance filled with art, making it a perfect spot for both intimate dinners and festive gatherings. Each dish showcases locally sourced ingredients and inventive presentations, promising an unforgettable dining experience.

Topolobampo

Savor exquisite regional Mexican cuisine at Topolobampo in Chicago's vibrant River North. Indulge your taste buds—reserve your table now!

Topolobampo: Fine Dining Mexican Cuisine in River North, Chicago

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