El Xangarrito Mex Restaurant
Dee Dee Martin · 201 Google reviewsEl Xangarrito Mex Restaurant — Lincoln Square mexican that sets the standard. Order the Mole. Expect something different from the standard lineup, and BYOB. Sameet Sapra: "I thought the mole was incredible, rich and deeply flavored" [$$, patio]
What 487 diners keep saying
What 487 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“A super charming Mexican spot in Lincoln Square with welcoming hospitality. The ceviche was a refreshing start, and the mole is the real standout - rich and well spiced + especially delicious with the flautas and enchiladas.”
“Excellent food, service, and atmoshere and priced right! I had the enchiladas and they were 10/10!”
“One of our favorite Mexican restaurants in Chicago! Super cozy and quaint atmosphere after dark. Small dining room with probably no more than 10 tables - call ahead and they’ll reserve you a table! The Queso Fundido was unique with chicken and a delicious creamy poblano sauce. Partner ordered Steak Enchiladas Mole and thought it was some of the best mole she’s ever had. I ordered the ribs and wow, the habanero cranberry sauce was savory with just a touch of heat. Our only complaint is all the food came out just slightly warm. Everything tasted so good, we easily looked past it but I hope things are hotter when we return. Super friendly service. We’ll be back to try more of their menu!”
“This food! The spices, the flavors they pop! Best Mexican food I have had. Only second to a restaurant in Mexico City. It does not disappoint. Chef Noe cares so much about his craft and his customers. My new favorite restaurant in Chicago. We got plántanos mole, miniflautas, and the poblano and mole enchilada. I will be dreaming of these flavors for weeks to come!”
“Definitely try the specials, their shrimp soup special blew me away!!”
“Pretty solid and quick service. I think they could’ve been heavier on the spices in the mole tho. And the meat was a bit dry. But overall definitely one of the better Mexican places in Chicago.”
“Food was awesome - really good, but I have to wax poetic about the service! It was honestly the best I’ve had in Chicago & that includes multiple Michelin rated restaurants. Our servers were SO attentive and pleasant making for a really enjoyable dinner. The food was terrific (I don’t want to diminish that) but I can’t say enough about the service. Will definitely be back & SO happy this is in my neighborhood.”
“Was shocked at how thoughtfully prepared and tasty the veg options are. Fantastic guacamole, al pastor mushroom tacos, and veggie fajitas are all SO flavorful. The jicama salad is so refreshing. Service is warm and quick, they really seem to work as a great team. We can't wait to come back!”
“Simply the best mexican restaurant i've been to in years. It was quite the surprise! I plan on going back regularly.”
“Very intimate restaurant with great mexican food. Everything we ordered tasted fresh and authentic. Queso Fundido, Cevice, Flautas and Tacos (Pastor and Steak) were spot on. Also closed with a Tres Leches to share for our table. The staff was very friendly. Our server (Felipe I believe) took great care of us. Glad we reserved for Cinco de Mayo bc the place was packed. It's a small place and outdoor seating when the weather allows. Parking is a bit of a hassle. I suggest booking a table ahead of time. BYOB!”
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