Nestled at 65 West Illinois Street in the heart of Chicago's dynamic River North district, XOCO offers an exhilarating dive into authentic Mexican street food crafted by the legendary Chef Rick Bayless. This vibrant spot is celebrated for its flavorful tortas, rich caldos, and indulgent churros that bring a true taste of Mexico straight to the Windy City. Whether you're craving a quick lunch or a lively dinner, XOCO's menu caters to all moments, including breakfast and brunch options that delight early risers.
XOCO shines with its diverse offerings that satisfy everyone from devoted foodies to families with children. The restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere with friendly, attentive service — a hallmark praised by many guests. With options like gluten-free dishes and a dedicated kids' menu, it ensures an inclusive dining experience. For those who love to dine alfresco, outdoor seating is available to enjoy Chicago’s urban vibe.
Signature dishes such as the half milanesa torta paired with savory pozole, the torta ahogada, and shrimp tacos have won the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The dessert selection, including churros drizzled with rich caramel, perfectly complements this flavorful journey. Pair your meal with XOCO's selection of tap beers, café con leches, or a refreshing michelada for the full experience.
- Does XOCO accept reservations? No, XOCO operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations.
- Is there a kids' menu available? Yes, XOCO offers a kids' menu with options suitable for children.
- Are there gluten-free options on the menu? Yes, XOCO provides gluten-free options for diners with dietary restrictions.
- Does XOCO offer takeout or delivery services? Yes, XOCO offers both takeout and delivery services.
- Is outdoor seating available at XOCO? Yes, XOCO has outdoor seating for guests who prefer dining outside.
Visitors consistently highlight XOCO’s authentic Mexican flavors and quick, friendly service. Patrons rave about the warmth of the staff and the vibrant, cozy atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot in Chicago. While many praise the delicious dishes such as the chef’s special tortas and classic tlayudas, some note that portion sizes can be modest and a mandatory service fee is added to the bill. Overall, the restaurant's passionate homage to Mexican street food leaves a lasting impression and invites repeat visits.
Situated at 65 West Illinois Street in Chicago, XOCO stands as a celebrated Mexican restaurant that has brought the rich flavors of authentic Mexican street food to the heart of the city since its opening in 2009. From the outset, XOCO distinguished itself by offering a casual yet vibrant dining experience that captured the essence of Mexican street snacks and comfort food, earning a dedicated following among locals and tourists alike.
By 2010, XOCO had introduced its now iconic tortas and caldos, which quickly became crowd favorites. These offerings exemplify the restaurant’s commitment to delivering bold, authentic Mexican flavors in a welcoming atmosphere. The tortas, robust Mexican sandwiches, and savory caldos, traditional Mexican soups, helped cement XOCO’s reputation as a go-to spot for genuine street food in Chicago.
Recognizing the evolving needs of its patrons, XOCO expanded its menu in 2015 to include gluten-free and vegetarian options, broadening its appeal to health-conscious and diverse diners. This forward-thinking approach helped maintain its popularity and ensured that everyone could enjoy the vibrant tastes of Mexico without compromise.
In 2020, amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, XOCO adapted swiftly by enhancing its takeout and delivery services, allowing fans of Mexican street cuisine to continue enjoying their favorite dishes safely and conveniently. This resilience and dedication to customer satisfaction have kept XOCO a beloved culinary destination in Chicago's dynamic dining scene.
Located at 65 W Illinois St in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, XOCO is a celebrated Mexican restaurant founded by renowned chef Rick Bayless. This establishment specializes in authentic Mexican street food, offering a cozy atmosphere and quick service. With a menu that features a variety of flavorful dishes, XOCO stands out as a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of Mexico.
The restaurant is known for its vibrant decor and inviting ambiance, making it a perfect place for casual dining. Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, XOCO promises an enjoyable experience.
With a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, the restaurant has garnered a loyal following, making it a staple in the Chicago dining scene.
The restaurant also offers outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their meals al fresco, especially during the warmer months.
Overall, XOCO is an excellent choice for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment.
Pros
• Authentic Mexican street food
• Cozy atmosphere
• Quick service
• Vegetarian and gluten-free options
• Outdoor seating available
Cons
• No reservations accepted
• 15% service charge added to all bills
• Limited seating capacity
Ideal for
• Casual dining
• Quick bites before shows
• Family-friendly outings
• Lunch breaks for locals
Things to know before visiting
• Takeout and delivery options available
• Payment methods include credit and debit cards
• Outdoor seating is available, weather permitting
• Parking options include paid street and garage parking
Overall impression
XOCO is a delightful destination for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine. With its friendly service, quick turnaround, and a menu that celebrates the rich flavors of Mexico, it is a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're indulging in their famous tacos or enjoying a refreshing drink, XOCO promises a satisfying dining experience.
Nestled in the lively River North neighborhood at 65 West Illinois Street, Xoco offers an energetic and welcoming atmosphere where you can embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through Mexico's rich street food traditions. This hotspot, crafted by the legendary Chef Rick Bayless, is a must-visit for foodies, digital nomads, and travelers seeking an authentic Mexican dining experience in Chicago.
At Xoco, the menu is a vibrant celebration of traditional Mexican flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Dive into expertly crafted tortas, rich caldos, and freshly fried churros drizzled with caramel. The chefs’ specials, such as the half milanesa torta paired with a comforting bowl of pozole, are packed with bold, authentic flavors that keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're craving succulent shrimp tacos or a robust cafe con leche, this spot has something to delight every palate.
Xoco prides itself on catering to diverse dietary needs. With a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes bursting with fresh ingredients and authentic spices, everyone can indulge guilt-free. Additionally, select gluten-free options ensure that those with dietary restrictions can also enjoy the rich tastes of Mexico’s street cuisine without compromise.
Whether you're stopping for a quick lunch before a show or settling in for a leisurely dinner, Xoco’s inviting ambiance and attentive service create a warm, welcoming vibe. Enjoy your meal in the charming outdoor seating area on pleasant days, or take advantage of wheelchair accessibility that makes dining comfortable for all guests. With options for dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup, flexibility is key to fit your lifestyle. The restaurant also welcomes breakfast, brunch, and dinner crowds, serving up delicious coffee, cocktails, and beers including local tap selections.
- Authentic Mexican street food including tortas, caldos, and churros that evoke the vibrant flavors of Mexico City.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options ensure all guests can enjoy flavorful meals tailored to their diet.
- Outdoor seating and wheelchair accessibility offer comfort and convenience for every guest experience.
- Diverse service options including dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup to fit your busy lifestyle.
- Accepts modern payment methods including NFC and credit/debit cards for a smooth checkout.
