Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Chicago, IL

North America

United States

# La Provincia – Authentic Colombian Restaurant in Chicago, IL
La Provincia is a Colombian restaurant located in Chicago, IL, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional offerings. Despite its promising concept, the restaurant has faced mixed reviews regarding food quality and service. Established to bring Colombian cuisine to the local community, La Provincia aims to create a welcoming space for both newcomers and those familiar with Colombian flavors. Highlights from reviews include a beautiful decor and ample parking, but many patrons express disappointment in the food's authenticity and overall dining experience.

## History
### The story of La Provincia
La Provincia was founded with the vision of sharing the rich culinary heritage of Colombia with the Chicago community. The restaurant seeks to provide an authentic experience that reflects the diverse flavors and traditions of Colombian cuisine. The founders aimed to create a space where Colombian culture could thrive and be appreciated by both locals and visitors.

### Milestones and growth
- **Opening**: La Provincia opened its doors to the public, eager to introduce Colombian dishes to Chicago.
- **Community Engagement**: The restaurant began hosting events to engage with the local Colombian community, fostering a sense of belonging.
- **Menu Expansion**: Over time, the menu was expanded to include a wider variety of traditional Colombian dishes, aiming to cater to diverse tastes.
- **Feedback Reception**: The restaurant has actively sought feedback from patrons to improve its offerings and service quality.

### Cultural and local influence
La Provincia has positioned itself as a cultural hub for the Colombian community in Chicago. It serves as a gathering place for celebrations, family dinners, and cultural events. The restaurant's commitment to showcasing Colombian traditions through food has made it a notable spot for those looking to connect with their heritage or explore new culinary experiences.

### Continuing the tradition
Despite facing challenges, La Provincia continues to strive for excellence in delivering Colombian cuisine. The restaurant is dedicated to revisiting its menu and service based on customer feedback, aiming to uphold the rich traditions of Colombian cooking while adapting to the preferences of its patrons.

## Community
### Community involvement
La Provincia actively participates in community events and initiatives, aiming to strengthen ties with the local Colombian population. The restaurant often collaborates with cultural organizations to celebrate Colombian holidays and traditions, providing a platform for cultural exchange and community bonding.

### Community notion about the place
The local community has mixed feelings about La Provincia. While many appreciate the effort to bring Colombian cuisine to Chicago, some express disappointment regarding the food quality and service. The restaurant's ambiance and decor have received praise, but the overall dining experience has led to varied opinions among patrons.

### Events and gatherings
La Provincia hosts various events, including cultural celebrations and food tastings, to engage the community. These gatherings provide an opportunity for locals to come together, enjoy traditional Colombian dishes, and celebrate their heritage. The restaurant aims to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home.

## Offerings
### What La Provincia offers
La Provincia specializes in traditional Colombian cuisine, offering a variety of dishes that reflect the country's rich culinary heritage. The menu includes popular items such as arepas, empanadas, bandeja paisa, and more, aiming to provide an authentic taste of Colombia.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at La Provincia has received mixed reviews. While some patrons enjoy the vibrant flavors and generous portions, others have reported issues with food quality and preparation. The restaurant's ambiance is often highlighted as a positive aspect, contributing to the overall experience.

### Events and packages
La Provincia offers catering services for events, allowing customers to enjoy Colombian cuisine at their gatherings. The restaurant also provides special packages for larger groups, making it an attractive option for celebrations and family gatherings.

### Facilities and features
- Ample parking
- Beautifully decorated interior
- Spacious dining area
- Takeout options available
- Catering services for events

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of La Provincia reveal a complex picture of the dining experience. While some customers appreciate the ambiance and the effort to provide Colombian cuisine, many express dissatisfaction with food quality and service.

### Compliments and strengths
Positive feedback often highlights the restaurant's decor and the warmth of the staff. Many patrons enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the sense of community that La Provincia fosters. Some dishes, particularly the empanadas, have received favorable mentions.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Conversely, numerous reviews point out significant issues with food preparation and service. Patrons have reported overcooked dishes, lack of seasoning, and unwelcoming service. The disparity in experiences suggests a need for improvement in kitchen consistency and staff training.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, La Provincia presents a mixed bag of experiences. While it holds potential as a cultural and culinary hub for the Colombian community, the restaurant must address its shortcomings in food quality and service to fully realize its vision.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
La Provincia is situated at 8166 W Grand Ave, River Grove, IL, a suburb of Chicago. The restaurant is conveniently located near various local attractions, making it accessible for both residents and visitors. The surrounding area features a blend of cultural and recreational spots, providing a rich context for those looking to explore the local scene.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does La Provincia serve** La Provincia specializes in Colombian cuisine, offering traditional dishes.
**Is there parking available at La Provincia** Yes, there is ample parking available for guests.
**Does La Provincia offer catering services** Yes, La Provincia provides catering options for events and gatherings.
**Are reservations required** Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.
**What are the restaurant's hours of operation** Hours may vary, so it's best to check directly with the restaurant.

## Visit La Provincia Today
La Provincia invites you to experience the flavors of Colombian cuisine in a vibrant setting. With a commitment to community and cultural heritage, the restaurant aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere for all. Despite some mixed reviews, the potential for a delightful dining experience remains. Whether you're a fan of Colombian food or looking to explore new culinary horizons, La Provincia is worth a visit.

c96a5d18-d4bd-4421-a716-e01f4e4e63b6

Over priced and not good food. $10 for a Arepa con queso? Felt like cardboard in my mouth. The papa rellena was not even crispy , it's soggy and the rice was nasty. I ordered 8 empanadas, 3 arepas , 1 papa rellena and 3 Colombians and it came out to $95 dollars. This is not good food. If you are in the area north west area, La Parilla steakhouse on Irving and Narragansett is the place you want to be . Or Arepa George on North And Kedzie. It's sad I have to write this about my own nationality.

dcb7cd8f-f0b0-4673-ac4a-ffcbc3d2b5a4

Yummy food!! I got una arepa con queso y patacón con chicharrón. I have never tried Colombian food and this was really good

2ceee6ea-f49c-4730-843c-3eddae195c04

Food over cook y desabrida. Parkin is great and location. Los que le dieron más de 4 estrellas deben ser empleados del lugar.

7a0fe765-6ad3-408b-af59-b9aaee4be7e4

I wanted to check out this restaurant for two reasons #1 it's close to my neighborhood and #2 I always want to support my fellow Colombian community. Let's start off with the positive; it's beautifully decorated, there is plenty of parking and very well situated. Here is where there is opportunity for improvement; the service was not great. It was very much let me take your order and no conversation or checking in throughout the meal. Not welcoming at all. The meal was terrible - I really wanted to enjoy this but unfortunately it was not great. I ordered 1 beef empanada and it was terrible - The outside was hot but the inside was raw. Bandeja paisa - The meat had a sauce on it that is not traditional style carne asada from Colombia and the rice had no salt and the ground meat was overly cooked. Just overall terrible. Y los frijoles were cold and the consomé was water down. I was beyond disappointed. The price tag for this meal was 44.00 - At the end of the meal the waitress asked if I enjoyed the meal and I was very transparent and honest with my feedback. This place is very new and I am really hoping they revisit their kitchen staff and get a chef that is consistent and understand Colombian cuisines. I am hoping since they have had couple bad reviews they will revisit and improve with all the feedback.

7b87798c-6466-455c-a7fb-f8c018faa040

Service was great. But I think if you see that the food is not looking good to you dont serve it. We order a piccada for 4 people. The pork belly was so soggy. The meat was dry and hard. The chicken was bad. The didnt have any can soda no water was served. We had to ask for plates for the appetizers. The only items we enjoy were the empanadas and the beans. Sorry

3c563a07-dabb-44f5-be82-ec91a4b9c35d

Calentado 2/5 Arepa- very very dry.....couldn't eat it. Beans and rice- ok Egg- good. Steak- good flavor Would've been nice if: -we were offered water -had a salsa of some kind for the food -if sugar was brought along with my coffee without asking. -coffee was watered down and there were little white flakes floating. Powdered milk??? -empanadas ... NO. Don't even waste your money. I had very high hopes and expectations for this restaurant, unfortunately, I don't think we will be back.

b0c951d4-26a7-4dd1-8fcb-15f074dfe816

First time trying and super disappointed.... 66$ for 3 arepas that where basically gross. 6 empanadas that where super oily. I wish I can get my money back. Smh.

bd307184-5346-4c67-8b55-7536e132a987

I recently visited La Providencia Colombian Restaurant with high hopes after passing by a few times, but unfortunately, my experience was nothing short of disappointing. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt awkward and unwelcoming. The layout resembled more of a bar than a restaurant, and there was no one to greet us or direct us. We felt completely lost, unsure if it was a bar, a takeout place, or a dining establishment. Eventually, we were told we could sit wherever we liked, which didn't exactly set a positive tone. Upon receiving our menus, I noticed they were printed in English but contained misspellings, which made everything feel a bit unprofessional. Undeterred, we placed our orders, only to discover that our waitress had little to no knowledge of the menu items and often had to ask her colleagues for clarification. This led to a particularly awkward moment when the manager--who initially appeared to be a customer--came over and asked if we were Mexican. When I corrected her, indicating my Colombian and Puerto Rican heritage, she merely shrugged and walked away. As for our order, I asked for a Colombiana soda, only to be told they were out of that and, in fact, out of everything--leading me to settle for water. The first dish we received was the empanadas ($3.50 each). They arrived on a single plate without utensils or extra plates. One was burnt, and they were mushy on the inside, resembling cat food--certainly not appetizing. It was painfully clear that the quality simply wasn't there. Next came the patacón with beef ($10.50), which looked like a burnt rubber sole rather than a beautifully prepared dish. The plantain was over-fried, the beef was again unappetizing, and the mound of cheese on top did little to save it. This, too, ended up untouched on our table. The main course, a mixed platter ($32.50), did nothing to redeem the dining experience. Served with a variety of meats, corn cakes, yuca, plantains, and potatoes, it fell flat. The corn cakes tasted nothing like arepas and were painfully dry. The pork rinds lacked flavor, and the pork cubes were hard and dry. At this point, we both felt defeated and decided it was time to leave. Getting our bill became another challenge, as the waitress seemed more interested in her phone than in her customers. A different waitress eventually approached, surprised to see our barely-touched food, and inquired about our experience. I expressed my discontent, and once again, she commented on our Colombian heritage, smirking as she handed us the bill of $65. When I asked for a box for the meat we had, she flung a to-go box onto the table with a laugh before walking away entirely. The entire visit was overshadowed by a bad vibe from start to finish. In conclusion, La Providencia is a place I cannot recommend. There was a clear lack of service, quality food, and genuine hospitality. I left with a sour taste in my mouth--unfortunate, given the rich culinary heritage that Colombian cuisine has to offer. 100% DO NOT RECOMMEND!!! Save your time and money; there are far better options out there.

63a17527-db10-4c86-9496-ea67cc0c7eb4

Forgot to take pictures of the delicious food... but this restaurant was so cute! We ordered a lot of food and will def enjoy it some more tomorrow. We ordered chicken and beef empanadas, ajiaco, mixed meat bandeja, seafood/salamon... the plates are EXTRA large, and the food was really good! The service was great and Alan was very hospitable. Hoping do well and have continued success! We'll be back and also ordering from DoorDash!

85603696-aadd-47b2-9f81-ca656e403118

Wait staff need training. Food was terrible. If you want good Colombian food do not go here.

Discover LA PROVINCIA in River Grove, Chicago—authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting. Experience delicious flavors and warm hospitality today.

LA PROVINCIA Restaurant in River Grove, Chicago IL

River Grove

LA PROVINCIA

Illinois

Discover LA PROVINCIA in River Grove, Chicago! Enjoy authentic Mexican dishes, lively ambiance, and nearby attractions. Book your table today!

LA PROVINCIA in River Grove, Chicago - Authentic Mexican Cuisine & Vibrant Atmosphere

Learn about LA PROVINCIA in River Grove, Chicago. A top spot for delicious Mexican cuisine, friendly service, and a vibrant atmosphere. Visit us soon!

About LA PROVINCIA, River Grove, Chicago - Your Favorite Mexican Spot

Opening hours for LA PROVINCIA, River Grove, Chicago. Find opening hours for LA PROVINCIA, River Grove, Chicago on 8166 W Grand Ave.

La Provincia Menu Overview

Platos Significativos

Bebidas y Maridajes

Opciones Dietéticas

Recomendaciones del Chef

Experimenta el Menú en La Provincia

Pompei

4Jokers

Grand Stop Bar & Grill