Cruz Blanca Brewery + Mexican Kitchen
Ryan Wantland · 243 Google reviewsCruz Blanca Brewery + Mexican Kitchen — clean, consistent mexican in West Loop. The atmosphere is half the draw here. The cocktail program is serious. Julian Foster: "I also ordered three tacos, and the lamb cheeseburger was by far the best" [$$, patio]
What 1,734 diners keep saying
What 1,734 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Some of if not the best chorizo I've ever had, the Campechano tacos are absolutely incredible. And the Lime Chelada and any of the barrel aged beer is top shelf”
“If you’re anywhere near West Loop, do yourself a favor and stop into Cruz Blanca Brewery & Taquería. This place absolutely delivers on both sides of the menu — the beer and the food. The standout for me was the Praga — a crisp, beautifully balanced Mexican-style lager that’s ridiculously drinkable. Clean, light, and refreshing without being bland. It’s the kind of beer you could crush all afternoon, especially with food. Smooth malt backbone, subtle hop presence, and zero fuss. Just dialed in. And speaking of food — the carnitas are next level. Perfectly tender with those crispy edges that give you that ideal texture contrast. Juicy, flavorful, and not overly greasy. Whether in tacos or on a plate, they pair insanely well with the Praga. The beer cuts through the richness, and the carnitas bring out the malt sweetness. It’s a combo that just works. The vibe is lively without being chaotic, the service is solid, and you can tell there’s serious attention to craft here. Bottom line: Come for the Praga, stay for the carnitas — and probably order another round. 🍻”
“Absolutely the must visit brewery in Chicago! From the beers to the tacos, you will not be disappointed. We planned on stopping by for an hour and moving on, but ended up staying for 3! All of their main beers tried and most of their tacos. We have fully decided this will be a Chicago must-go staple when we return! Shout out to Jake for being a great bartender and superb connoisseur of the brews and tacos available. If you don’t try the Al Pastor here, you’re missing out!”
“Love this place! Can get super busy, but staff are great and food is amazing! Of course the beer is fantastic.”
“絕對是來芝加哥必拜訪的地方，這裡的啤酒非常的優質，食物也都很好吃，更重要的是店員人都非常的親切！沒有什麼挑惕，這次來芝加哥待了兩個禮拜，然後來了三次！”
“Solid brewery with great beer and good tacos. Service was quick and friendly, and food portions were very large.”
“Tacos and beer, or tacos y cerveza as the sign says above the kitchen. Rick Bayless and his, what, seven James Beard awards may not still be at the helm, but that doesn't mean that Cruz Blanca isn't plating quality and creative tacos. They are. And they make pretty decent beer, to boot. Tacos and beer! If you like either, then you're all set. And if you don't, then seriously? Smaller inside. Large outdoor space.”
“Delicious. Didn't have any dishes that were disappointing. Staff was very attentive. Indoor and outdoor seating available. Small cocktail menu and larger selection of beer.”
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