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Chicago Mama's Kitchen - Catering, Mixology & Culinary Experiences — top-tier food in Ukrainian Village. Order the Empanadas. Strong bar program alongside the food, and solid veggie options.
Juan A. Cano
214 reviews
“My two favorites had to be the ham and cheese and their sweet plantain and cheese Empanadas”
I had high expectation from this place after checking the reviews, so my friends picked up our order and had a great cocktail while waiting there.
I got an empanada first time ever going here food was cold in the middle couldn’t eat it I have to get to work the Puerto Rican rice or food you guys say you have is not authentic at all first and last time going it’s not a spot for Puerto Ricans that’s for sure I threw it str8 to the garbage.
I wish I could give this less than one star. When you enter the location is beautiful.
The Kitchen, 324 N Leavitt St, Chicago, IL 60612
“Inez was patient with us and was so great sharing her skills.”
Inez was patient with us and was so great sharing her skills! The coconut mojito was so delicious and the dough and fillings for the empanadas were to die for. Highly recommend it!
Gillian McLean
Jan 2026
“I recently celebrated my Sologamy wedding at Chicago Empanada Mama and I'm still beaming with joy.”
I recently celebrated my Sologamy wedding at Chicago Empanada Mama and I'm still beaming with joy! The team went above and beyond to ensure every detail was perfect. The venue was stunning, the food was delicious, and the service was top-notch. I felt truly supported and celebrated throughout the entire process. If you're considering Chicago Empanada Mama for your special occasion, don't hesitate ,you won't regret it! Thank you again to the incredible team for making my day so unforgettable.
J R
Sep 2025
“Inez is amazing! She knows how to make everyone feel happy with her food and cocktails. Superb...”
Inez is amazing! She knows how to make everyone feel happy with her food and cocktails. Superb experience! Highly recommend for private events or just an activity!
Ilana Krupetski
Aug 2025
“Really good elevated Puerto Rican food.”
Really good elevated Puerto Rican food! The tostones rellenos were a tasty appetizer and bigger than expected. Nice that you can get 3 different stuffings, I got ropa vieja and macho man (ground beef). The lechon, arroz con gandules, and yuca were also great.
Joel Salgado
Jan 2025
“Great empanadas and cocktails.”
Great empanadas and cocktails! Bright and beautiful atmosphere and a bar that is CLEAN! I had the Ropa vieja empanada with the Banana walnut old fashioned. A+
Mike Finnegan
Nov 2024
“The restaurant is so beautiful you will be drawn in as soon as you enter.”
The restaurant is so beautiful you will be drawn in as soon as you enter. The food is wonderful and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. You won't be disappointed.
Sarah Prezioso
Oct 2024
“My daughter and I drove specifically to this place for their empanadas.”
My daughter and I drove specifically to this place for their empanadas! Wow, they bursted with flavor! To start, the place is absolutely beautiful. We came when the restaurant wasn’t busy but, my guess is that at certain times it’s packed. Jessica was our server and she was great. The food was seasoned well, they’re not afraid to use salt, garlic and all those wonderful spices that make the wonderful Puerto Rican dishes so exceptional and unique. My daughter even commented “the chef cooking definitely comes from the island”. Their arroz con gandules was so tasty, I had to take some to go. My only regret was not eating more! I’ll be back to try more of this delicious menu. The owner, is extremely engaging and welcoming. It’s absolutely apparent she takes pride in her establishment. We were proud to support any Latina woman and her small businesses! Also! The Lechón is AMAZING… you have to try it!
Maria Moreno
Sep 2024
“Amazing food fresh to order took 25 minutes which I have no issue with i prefer it that way.”
Amazing food fresh to order took 25 minutes which I have no issue with i prefer it that way. The emprendas excellent arroz moist tasty and the top spot was the potato salad omg amazing. The place is so cozy and the decor is nice. Finally the service was fantastic as in the young ladies working there.
Ricardo Lara
Jul 2024
“We came on a Sunday night for the bachata lesson at 7:30.”
We came on a Sunday night for the bachata lesson at 7:30. We got $5 tequila shots and $5 empanadas. Both were great. Everyone was friendly and it was a great night. We will def be back to dance again!!
Becca
Jul 2024
“I really liked the beef and chicken empanadas.”
I really liked the beef and chicken empanadas! They only had one person working so it took a minute but it was so flavorful and good especially for lunch. Fair price too.
Lou Lou
Jun 2024
“I popped in here while waiting for a prescription at the Walgreens across the street.”
I popped in here while waiting for a prescription at the Walgreens across the street. The ambiance and decor was immaculate, and I was greeted with warm and welcoming service. I ordered an iced latte (which was fantastic) and decided to order a couple empanadas while I waited. When I tell you this is some of the best food I have had in Chicago, I’m not exaggerating. The pork and rice empanada with the chimichurri was one of the most delicious things I’ve ever eaten. I had to order two more to go with extra chimichurri to eat later. Everyone was kind and friendly, including other guests. I can’t wait to go back and try more things from the menu.
Alexandra Koder
Apr 2024
“We we greeted right away by Inez introduced herself, welcomed us as first-timers.”
We we greeted right away by Inez introduced herself, welcomed us as first-timers. Order taken fairly quickly. Nice atmosphere, low-key music, menu not overwhelming. Food comes out hot and fresh. If you want your food in 5/10 minutes, eat elsewhere. This food takes a little time, and it reflects in the taste. Great bar options as well, reasonable prices. I'm glad you're in our neighborhood. 😊🥰
Mama J
Apr 2024
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