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CERDITO MUERTO — a Chinatown mexican mainstay. Classic neighborhood feel, nothing here chasing trends. Good cocktails round out an already strong menu, and cash only. "The drinks were very good, the chicken tinga tostada was phenomenal" — Naz
Julio Avienda
28 reviews
“The service was outstanding, attentive, knowledgeable, and perfectly timed without ever feeling rushed”
1700 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608
“Excelente! Service, food, drinks. Last minute accommodations. It was just a bummer I couldn’t eat...”
Excelente! Service, food, drinks. Last minute accommodations. It was just a bummer I couldn’t eat everything but that only makes me that much more excited for the next time.
dlp
Jan 2026
“You can't make a reso online here, so when I sent an email asking about a table 24 hours ahead, I...”
You can't make a reso online here, so when I sent an email asking about a table 24 hours ahead, I wasn't optimistic about our chances of getting in. To my surprise I got an email back that night that they'd had a cancellation and could accommodate us the next day! The mood of the place is cozy, intimate, with bits of fanciful and cultural art and decor, as well as some reminders of the pool hall that the owner's grandmother used to run in the space. The staff was great, the hostess (and I think the owner's wife?) was very sweet, our server was attentive but laid back and helpful with explaining the menu, and even the owner, who was moving with alacrity stopped to thank us for coming in as we were getting up to leave. The food and drinks were also on point! I was skeptical that a taco with heirloom carrots, pepidos, pomegranate seeds, and queso fresco was going to work. But those flavors dazzled my taste buds as they came together in each bite. I was also skeptical about the clear drink I was brought after ordering a milk punch (great story about this happening to a friend in Nashville, with a less than ideal outcome). But it was delightful, I didn't even notice it wasn't creamy after my first sip. Go with friends so you can get a bunch of things to share, and be open to some interesting flavor combinations, you won't be disappointed!
Alexis Chernow
Dec 2025
“Great ambiance. Definitely going back!”
J A
Dec 2025
“Greta burger and even better service.”
Greta burger and even better service. The owner was also very attentive to the crowd.
Greg G.
Oct 2025
“They have a great ambiance, good drinks and the bartenders and owner were all wonderful and gave us...”
They have a great ambiance, good drinks and the bartenders and owner were all wonderful and gave us an amazing experience! Highly recommend
Bailey Arnett
Aug 2025
“I visited Cerdito Muerto last night with three of my girlfriends, and we had such a fantastic experience.”
I visited Cerdito Muerto last night with three of my girlfriends, and we had such a fantastic experience! From the moment we walked in, we were impressed by the beautiful ambiance — it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner date or a fun night out with friends. The food and drinks were absolutely phenomenal. Every dish was full of flavor and beautifully presented, and the cocktails were creative and delicious. The service was equally impressive — warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. We’re already talking about when we’ll be back. Highly recommend Cerdito Muerto to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Pilsen!
Estela Sorensen
Aug 2025
“Simply amazing! Best Vieux Carré in Chicago! Great food and even better service.”
Kareem Edwards
Jun 2025
“Stopped by Cerito Muerto today and was genuinely impressed.”
Stopped by Cerito Muerto today and was genuinely impressed. It has a vibrant speakeasy-style vibe that immediately caught my attention. The bartender—who’s also the owner—was super welcoming and made the whole experience feel personal and laid-back. The food? Fire. Culturally spot-on and packed with authentic Mexican flavors that reminded me of home. It’s clear they’re putting a lot of heart into everything—from the vibe to the menu. Definitely a hidden gem in the neighborhood. I’ll be back—and bringing people with me. Wishing them nothing but success. If you haven’t checked them out yet, you’re missing out.
Gabriel Salazar
Jun 2025
“I have never had a taco place make me smile more than here.”
I have never had a taco place make me smile more than here. Only 5 seats in the whole place, the food made to order by the sweetest lady ever. It is cash only, and I would brush up on your high school Spanish!
Jessica Greer
Jul 2022
“Nothing taste better than mexican food prepared by a grandma.”
Nothing taste better than mexican food prepared by a grandma. Very homey restuarant. It doesn't look like much, but the feeling of home is incomparable. Owner lady is such a sweetheart. Food is delicious.
Manuel Hurtado
Mar 2020
“The wait was very long - plan ahead.”
The wait was very long - plan ahead. The staff was friendly. The drinks were very good, the chicken tinga tostada was phenomenal. Small space, it can get pretty loud which was the downside for me. Overall good experience. Was not able to do separate checks.
Naz
Nov 2025
“Dark and narrow with a long bar and one unisex bathroom.”
Dark and narrow with a long bar and one unisex bathroom. Lots of two people tables. Date night atmosphere. Beautiful decor. Music was a bit loud for conversation. Didn't try much food but enjoyed the Potato Flautas. Drinks were excellent.
Deana G
Sep 2025
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