16 Aug Latin-Owned Gems: Chicago Restaurant Stories to Be Savored
Conoce las historias que dan forma a la experiencia gastronómica Latina en Chicago
Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene is rich with stories, especially among its Latin-owned restaurants. These establishments offer more than just delicious food; they serve up tales of heritage, perseverance, and passion that have shaped them into beloved local gems. From family recipes passed down through generations to the dreams of immigrants who brought their culture to the Windy City, each of these restaurants tells a story worth knowing. Join us as we explore the narratives behind Chicago’s finest Latin-owned eateries—stories that add a deeper flavor to every dish they serve.
Don’t miss their Latin Restaurant Weeks Menus at a special price that celebrate los sabores Latinos en Chicago now through August 30!
3063 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Website | Instagram | Facebook | (312) 783-4755
At the heart of Magnifico Coffee lies a vibrant story of family and heritage. Inspired by their spirited abuelita, Viri, the founders—proud to be a Latino and women-owned business—have come together to craft a coffee experience that’s both universally enjoyable and deeply personal. Rooted in their Colombian heritage, Magnifico Coffee celebrates their homeland’s culture through exceptional specialty coffees. Based in Avondale and accessible through their online shop, the brand infuses joy and vitality into the community, offering a taste of Colombia’s beauty with every cup. As a family-owned and independently-operated business, Magnifico Coffee invites you to connect, share, and savor the essence of their culture in each roast and sip.
Multiple locations
Website | Instagram | Facebook | (708) 442-5002
EmpanadUS began as a creative effort to fund Leslie’s tuition when she set up a booth at the Chicago Antique Market in 2010, selling “vintage made modern” clothing with the help of her parents and siblings. When sales were slow, her brother Eric suggested offering their family’s Argentine empanadas alongside the clothes, which quickly became the booth’s star attraction. The success of that simple idea led the family to focus entirely on empanadas, turning their side hustle into a full-fledged business. Today, Ruth, Ricardo, and their four children continue to share their passion for Argentine cuisine, serving a diverse array of empanadas, from savory classics to sweet treats, and keeping their family’s culinary tradition alive.
3906 North Broadway, Chicago, IL, 60613
Website | Instagram | Facebook | (773) 549-2932
In 1996, a father and his two sons embarked on a dream to bring a slice of Mexico to the Boystown/East Lakeview community with the opening of El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill. Starting with a cozy 10-table setup, their vision was simple yet profound: to share their family’s cherished recipes and the rich flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine. Driven by a commitment to quality, they meticulously crafted each dish and margarita, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that quickly won over the hearts of their patrons. As the restaurant’s popularity grew, so did its reputation for excellence, bolstered by a charming blend of handcrafted décor, intimate lighting, and festive music. Today, El Mariachi stands as a testament to the family’s enduring passion and dedication. When you visit, you become part of their story, experiencing the vibrant spirit of their heritage and the lively ambiance they’ve lovingly created.
1646 W 18th St, Chicago, IL, 60608
Website | Instagram | Facebook | (312) 988-0585
The Jibarito Stop began its journey in 2012, founded by Moraima and Cely, who, despite having no formal food industry experience, were driven by a shared dream to forge their own path and become their own bosses. They took a leap of faith by purchasing and customizing a food truck from eBay to bring their vision to life. When they launched their food truck in the Loop, their authentic Puerto Rican cuisine quickly captivated the lunch crowd, introducing beloved dishes like arroz con gandules, plantains, roasted pork, and empanadillas to new audiences. After three successful years, the duo expanded their venture by opening their first storefront in Pilsen, where they now offer Puerto Rican fare in a fast-casual setting. Their popular offerings include the steak jibarito sandwich, pollo guisado, rellenos de papa, and empanadas, continuing to delight and welcome patrons with their vibrant flavors and heartfelt hospitality.
3018 N Cicero Ave, Chicago, IL, 60641
Website | Instagram | Facebook | (773) 282-4119
Clementina Flores, born in 1947 in Guerrero, Mexico, channeled her agricultural background into a celebrated culinary career. After marrying Baldemar Bahena and helping him build a successful dairy and pork business, she shifted focus following his death to support her family. Her move to Chicago in 1993 led to significant roles, including chef consultant at Food Life and contributions to her sons’ acclaimed restaurants, Ixcapuzalco and Chilpancingo. Clementina specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine, bringing rare Guerrero specialties like mole and traditional dishes to the forefront. Her innovative approach, blending traditional flavors with contemporary techniques, continues to define her work at Sol de Mexico, earning her acclaim as a distinguished figure in the culinary world.
838 Madison St, Oak Park, IL, 60302
Website | Instagram | (708) 390-8226
As a first-generation Mexican-American, Karla has been immersed in Mexican food and culture her entire life. Every summer, she traveled to her parents’ hometown of Guadalajara, Jalisco, soaking in the rich culinary traditions of Mariachis, Tequila, and Birria. Her childhood was filled with family cooking sessions and road trips across Mexico, exploring taquerias, cenadurias, and mercados. Later, Karla honed her skills at renowned family-owned taquerias in the Chicagoland area. This deep connection to her roots and relentless passion for Mexican comfort food inspired her to create Tacos ’76. The restaurant proudly showcases the beauty of Mexico’s street food and home-cooked meals with a menu of fresh, traditional tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. Tacos ’76 offers a family-friendly atmosphere that transports guests to both modern and vintage taquerias and mercados, blending the essence of Mexico with the vibrant community of Little Village in Chicago.
Indulge in generations of Latin culinary culture
As you explore these Latin-owned treasures across Chicago, you’re not just indulging in incredible food—you’re savoring the rich cultural narratives that each restaurant brings to life. These culinary havens reflect the spirit of their communities and the dedication of their founders, offering a taste of tradition and innovation with every bite. With the serendipity of the Democratic National Convention coinciding with Latin Restaurant Weeks, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant culinary and cultural scene in one exciting moment. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to experience these unique dining destinations and celebrate the diverse flavors and stories they contribute to the city’s dynamic food scene. ¡Buen provecho and hasta luego!
Latin Restaurant Weeks runs from August 16-30 and is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the city’s delicious Latin flavors. Click here to check out our participants’ limited-time specials.
No Comments