Category Archives: Ethnic Fare
El Mariachi – Revolucion Owner Passes
Chicago lost a great business man recently, Antonio Estrada, founder of El Mariachi and Revolucion restaurants.
1996. On a quiet section of North Broadway in Chicago, Antonio Estrada opened a cozy, 10-table Mexican restaurant he called El Mariachi. It was, he admits, a risk: the area, several blocks from Wrigley Field in East Lakeview, was then a not-so-nice section of the city.
“The neighborhood wasn’t yet gentrified…three years after I opened, they found dead bodies in a nearby hotel!” Estrada once told me.
Mexican food is a staple in most communities today. But back in 1996, the cuisine was in its infancy in the United States—even in a food-savvy town like Chicago. At first, customers didn’t really comprehend what El Mariachi’s concept—fresh, authentic Mexican food that went beyond tacos and burritos—was all about.
Times have certainly changed—and so has the Estrada family’s business, now comprised of three restaurants under the Mariachi Hospitality Group banner.
Anchored by the flagship El Mariachi Restaurant, still in the original small storefront, the enterprise also includes El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill and Revolución Mexican Steakhouse—all within a five-block stretch of North Broadway populated by restaurants, bars, boutiques and upscale grocery stores.
A native of San Juan Jalisco, near Guadalajara, Antonio Estrada emigrated to the U.S. in 1969. Then just 15 years old, with no restaurant experience under his belt, he landed a part-time job as a bus boy, and then server, at Chicago’s M&M Club. He moved on to the Hilton Hotel, where he was a member of the dining room staff for 20 years. Then, he decided, it was time to venture out on his own with El Mariachi.
“I had to learn to cook—but that was pretty easy for me,” Antonio recalls. The formula was fairly simple: he made recipes; the ones he liked became part of the menu.
Antonio built a reputation for serving authentic Mexican dishes including but not limited to tacos—offerings like carne asada suiza and grilled chicken breast dressed in mole poblano—all presented in a warm, intimate setting where high-quality ingredients and friendly, personal service proved a formula for success.
That formula is at the heart of all Mariachi Hospitality Group operates today.
His sons Jorge (Tony) and Adrian, who were raised in Lakeview and grew up in the business, are key figures in the family enterprise. “How long have I worked in the restaurants? All my life,” Tony laughs. “I was 11 when I was officially added to the schedule.” – and the brothers have been working in the business ever since!
Antonio Estrada was a hard working man and his businesses have made a great impact in Lakeview. He always made time to spend with his family. He always had a smile on his face whenever I saw him! His favorite quote was, “Success isn’t just about what you accomplish in your life it’s about what you INSPIRE others to do.”
He will be greatly missed.
Thanks to writer Kathleen Furore. Her full article can be seen here.
* When El Maricahi Tequila Bar & Restaurant opened in 2004, the painters put an image of Antonio in the ceiling, by the bar, shining down thru the clouds. Next time you stop by, have a Margarita and Salute this awesome man!
What to Do Sunday – Besides the Marathon!
Running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is the pinnacle of achievement for elite athletes and everyday runners alike. On race day, runners from all 50 states and more than 100 countries will set out to accomplish a personal dream by reaching the finish line in Grant Park.
As the Chicago Marathon weaves its way through 29 diverse neighborhoods, participants and spectators experience the history, culture, renowned architecture and vibrant spirit that make Chicago great. – I HOWEVER WILL NOT BE THERE! I hate big crowds!
Instead, I will be in East Lakeview at Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse for Brunch!
Join Us for a $24 Bottomless Mimosas Brunch 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Their superb Mimosa Brunch is enjoyed by both individuals and family groups. Bottomless Mimosa Brunch includes unlimited Mimosas and an entree from their brunch menu. They have an extensive Brunch menu which includes chilaquiles, skillets, omelettes and lots of Mexican favorites. All Breakfast items are made to order and freshly prepared.
Revolucion, also in the neighborhood, is simply perfect for any occasion.
So bring over all of the runners after an exhausting run for mimosas & brunch.
Walk-ins are welcomed, reservations are appreciated.
***AFTER BRUNCH – head over to the West Town Food Truck Social. It’s going to be a gorgeous afternoon weather wise. What better way to eat and drink all day.
***MORE FOOD AND DEMOS – Taste Talks Chicago – till 10pm. Various locations
Cost: $49-$299
Tequila Dinner September 27th
Join Us This Wednesday September 27th
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill & El Jimador Tequila Invite you for a three course custom menu paired with El Jimador’s finest Tequila. We will also feature 3 cocktails and a flight of Tequila which will include a tasting of their Silver, Reposado & Añejo Tequilas. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. and is priced at $39.99 per person. We will also provide raffles and prizes so come join us amigos!
Established in 1996, a father and his 2 sons opened a small 10-table restaurant in the East Lakeview community and gradually grew over the years by following a strict policy of only serving top quality, authentic dishes and the best margaritas in town.
For more information or to make a reservation, please call Fernando or Mike at 773-549-2932 or click the link below. We hope to see you soon amigos!
We hope to see you soon!
Dine at Fogo and Help Childhood Hunger
From Internationally-renowned Brazilian steakhouse Fogo de Chão
DINE AT FOGO, MAKE A DIFFERENCE:
HELP END CHILDHOOD HUNGER
Receive a $25 Dining Card by Visiting any Fogo de Chão Restaurant through July 23 and Donating $5 to No Kid Hungry
Fogo de Chão invites everyone to dine at any of its U.S. and Puerto Rico locations this July 10 – 23 and receive a $25 dining card (which can be applied to the purchase of two dinners upon future visit) with every $5 donation made in-restaurant to No Kid Hungry, a non-profit organization whose mission is to end childhood hunger in America.
Every dollar counts, and each $5 donation can provide up to 50 meals to the children who need it most (each dollar connects a child with up to 10 healthy meals). Learn more at nokidhungry.org. There’s much work to be done as one in six kids struggles with hunger every day in the United States.
The $25 dining card is only valid with the purchase of two dinners and can be redeemed from July 24, 2017 – October 1, 2017.
WHEN: NOW thru Sunday, July 23, 2017
WHERE: All locations throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico (click here for details)
Fogo de Chão is a leading Brazilian steakhouse, or churrascaria, which has specialized for more than 37 years in fire-roasting high-quality meats utilizing the centuries-old Southern Brazilian cooking technique of churrasco. Fogo offers guests a wide variety of simply seasoned meats that are carefully fire-roasted to expose their natural flavors. The company was founded in 1979 in Porto Alegre, Brazil, and expanded into the U.S. in 1997. There are currently 48 locations throughout Brazil, the United States, and Mexico, including locations in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and Mexico City.
Additionally, Fogo offers a gourmet Market Table & Feijoada Bar, which includes seasonal salads, soup, fresh vegetables, feijoada (traditional black bean stew with rice, fresh orange and yuca flour), and much more. Southern Brazilian side dishes such as pão de queijo (warm cheese bread), crispy hot polenta, and caramelized bananas are served family style. To further complement the dining experience, the restaurant offers an award-winning wine list, tempting dessert menu, and creative and classic cocktails. Guests may also choose between lighter seafood selections, or enjoy the gourmet Market Table only option. For more information, visit Fogo.com, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Valentines Top Picks for North Chicago
Start your Valentine’s day celebration at Revolucion Steakhouse! Chicago’s first Mexican Steakhouse. Steaks, Chops, Seafood with a Mexican flare.
We know trying to find the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day can be stressful, right? Allow us to make you a reservation and make it a perfect night for the both of you. Special Prix Fixe Menu available through Valentines – Regular Menu is avalable as well. 3443 N Broadway St. (Lakeview/Chicago).
Just click on this link and reserve today! http://ow.ly/3PTv308T6Ht
Treat your date to an intimate, candlelit dinner at El Mariachi Restaurant!
They only serve top quality, authentic dishes and margaritas. It has been family owned and operated for over 20 years. We offer a more genuine and unique experience than your typical Mexican restaurant with an extensive selection of over 100 tequilas (100% Blue Agave). Also, we are famous for tableside guacamole prepared fresh to order, and offer the most authentic regional Mexican cuisine in all of Lakeview!
They will be offering a special $35 Prix Fixe Valentine’s menu which will be available from Friday 2/10 to Tuesday 2/14. – The regular menu will also be available. Space is limited – Reserve today! 773-549-2932. 3906 N. Broadway!
Chicago Restaurant Week 2017
Chicago Restaurant Week 2017
returns on TODAY Friday 27th and continues through February 9th with two weeks of great Prix Fixe Menus all over the city!~
Two of our FAVORITE RESTAURANTS will be participating with a $33 prix fixe menu for Dinner. This is a great time to try out some amazing specialty dishes!
Revolucion Steakhouse!
3443 N. Broadway | Chicago | 773.661.9893
Revolucion Steakhouse will be offering a mouth watering 3 course prix fixe menu with many steakhouse favorites all done with a Mexican twist! We will be pairing each course with a perfect wine pairing or limited release beers such as Goose Islands Hombre Secreto or Bourbon County Stout for an additional $18 per person! MAKE A RESERVATION HERE
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill!
3906 N. Broadway | Chicago | 773.549.2932
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill will be taking you to a little tour of Mexico with their mouth watering 3 course prix fixe menu where each dish will be prepared from a different state of Mexico! You can also pair each course with a delicious handcrafted cocktails such as our prickly pear margarita or smoked pear mezcal mojito for an additional $18 per person! MAKE A RESERVATION HERE!
Chicago Super Bowl Sunday
Hosting friends at your place? GET FOOD from Revolucion or El Mariachi in Lakeview.
FANTASTIC GUACAMOLE, fresh Salsa’s, Fajitas and MORE!
Since 1996, Mariachi Hospitality Group has evolved into an assortment of several different restaurant concepts, each with its own persona, yet, each with the same standard of excellence. The restaurant group has steadily grown in popularity thanks to the support of loyal patrons in the community.
We pride ourselves on our commitment to freshness, evolution, authenticity, and most importantly, the concept of family. As founders, Antonio Estrada and his 2 sons consistently work hand in hand with their dedicated management team in the quest for perfection by keeping their concepts exciting and on the cutting edge of the hospitality industry.
Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse 1-773-661-9893
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill 1-773-549-2932
New Years Eve in Chicago
New Years Eve – and New Years Day! Make Plans now!
Don’t be left out in the cold!
Best Restaurants in Chicago
As we enter fall, Chicago’s culinary scene is more exciting than ever, with new openings ranging from an old-school diner revived by a fine-dining chef to a grab-and-go home for Chicago’s most famous cheeseburger. Here are the city’s 10 trendiest eateries right now, according to ZAGAT!
A sibling to Siena Tavern, BAR SIENA is sprawling West Loop Italian from Fabio Viviani offers regional fare such as antipasti and pizza from a red-tiled oven, backed by cocktails, beer and boot-based wines.
Tucked away in Old Town, THE BLANCHARD is an upscale destination proffers modern, refined presentations of traditional French plates (expect plenty of foie gras), along with fine wines and pastry chef–conceived desserts.
THE HALAL GUYS Sprung from a New York-based Middle Eastern chain known for gyros, falafel, chicken and hummus, this small Gold Coast storefront is a casual option for lunch, dinner and late-night snacks on weekends.
The Lettuce Entertain You folks have reconcepted L20 into INTRO CHICAGO, this high-end Lincoln Park American in the Belden-Stratford building, where a rotation of primo guest chefs turn out contemporary tasting menus.
The Scofflaw crew turns their attention to seafood at SINK / SWIM, this Logan Square hang turning out a thoroughly modern menu including oysters, creative shared plates and a handful of fish-free entrees.
READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE
Mexican Brunch and Cooking Class
BONUS BRUNCH DAY!
MONDAY, Memorial Day ! Brunch & $5 House Margaritas
Experience some of the hottest brunch spots in the
East Lakeview neighborhood.
Great places to enjoy with family & friends. An amazing expansive brunch menu. Brunch Done With A Mexican Twist!!!
Serving Brunch From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Dinner from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill (773) 549-2932
and –
Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse (773) 661-9893
***THURSDAY COOKING/EATING CLASS – ALMOST SOLD OUT!
Cinco de Mayo Chicago 2015
5 Days of Parties! 2 Locations!
El Mariachi and Revolution!!
Cinco de Mayo is a celebration held on May 5. It is celebrated in the United States and in Mexico, primarily in the state of Puebla, where the holiday is called El Día de la Batalla de Puebla. Mexican Americans also often see the day as a source of pride; one way they can honor their ethnicity is to celebrate this day. Over the years, Cinco de Mayo has gained huge popularity!
Come celebrate in Lakeview at El mariachi or Revolucion…or BOTH!
Best Places for Tacos Chicago
From Nuevo Leon to Rubi’s @ The maxwell Street Market, Chicago Eater highlights the top 15 greatest spots to grab tacos and more this week!
To the surprise of few, Chicago is home to some of the finest tacos in the country. Whether you want authentic al pastor and carnitas tacos made just like they are on the streets of Mexico, or you crave a more modern take, these all-encompassing joints are the best of the best. CHECK IT OUT!
Best Taco Bell in Chicago 2575 N. Clyburn
Did you know? Fast–food employees are the largest group of low-paid workers in the United States today.
How many times have you pulled up to a drive thru window, only to be greeted by a static filled box with garbled words by someone who could care less about you or your food order? Then while you wait for order they are goofing off, talking about last nights antics or who is having a baby. They could care less about you and your food. And I have come to accept that. That’s the world we live in.
I first went to this Taco Bell at 2575 N. Clyburn, about 2 years ago. And the young ladies voice, SMILED at me, through the speakers! You could hear her genuine friendliness. I thought OK, this is a fluke. 2 weeks later, another trip through, a different employee, and the same experience! Where am I? The Twilight Zone?
2 years later and it’s the same thing, everytime. Employees that care. Employees that are nice. Employees that pay attention. There is always napkins, a reciept and piece of candy in my bag, EVERYTIME. Do you know how hard it is to find quality employees in the fast food business or big box stores? NEXT TO IMPOSSIBLE!
I had to ask the manager today what is the deal? Latoya said she had been there for 5 years and they just really try hard to stand out in this competitive market where the consumer has choices. She hopes the consumer picks them!
Politeness and Friendliness aside, they always deliver an excellent product, well put together and not thrown into the nag. This Taco Bell does an OUTSTANDING JOB and I wanted to give them props as one of the BEST OF BEST in CHICAGO!
TACO BELL 2575 North Clybourn Avenue, at Wrightwood
Chicago, IL 60614-1940
Derrick Sorles
Best of the Best Dining and Restaurants in Chicago
Mitsuwa Marketplace, Chicago spot full of Japanese Delights including Pocky
Photo Robyn Lee
I LOVE DELICIOUS FUN UNIQUE TREATS!
Serious Eats is a great place to discover new things. Yesterday I saw these cool delicious looking Japanese Snacks on SE – they are called POCKY – and available locally!
Like monster movies, martial arts, and cartoon pornography, the Japanese are the only ones in the world who have managed to refine and re-imagine snack foods in a way that can only be described as art.
Pocky is a delicious, fun biscuit dessert from Japan. The name “Pocky” is derived from the sound that this crispy snack makes when eaten. At Asian Food Grocer, shop the many varieties of delectable Pocky treats from traditional favorites like Strawberry and Chocolate to more unusual flavors such as Chocolate coverd Coconut. Not only are Pocky sticks covered in a diverse assortment of frostings, but they also come in a broad array of styles and shapes.
Pocky is one of MANY COOL THINGS at Mitsuwa Marketplace …the largest Japanese Supermarket in the U. S. And we’re lucky to have one right here in Chicagoland! 100 E. Algonquin Road, Arlington Hts., IL 60005 TEL: (847) 956-6699
Visit and enjoy a taste of Japan.
El Mariachi – Biggest Tequila Bar, Best Guacomole and Freshest Mexican Food in Chicago
Established in 1996,
a father and his 2 sons opened a small 10-table restaurant in the Boystown/East Lakeview community. El Mariachi has gradually grown over the years by following a strict policy of only serving top quality, authentic dishes and margaritas. The restaurant steadily grew in popularity with the support of loyal patrons who loved the families recipes of authentic food.
At the newest location, El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill, they offer a much bigger menu, fresh tableside guacamole that is made to order and an extensive selection of over 175 tequilas! (all 100% Blue Agave). This makes it the biggest tequila bar in Chicago!
DID YOU KNOW? There are two basic categories of tequila: mixtos and 100% agave. Mixtos use no less than 51% agave, with other sugars making up the remainder.
When tequila is produced it can go thru many different stages and techniques, just like wines. Some distilleries cook mature agave in huge stone ovens, some may go through steam ovens, and some are allowed to ferment in wood tanks or stainless steel barrels. Each technique can produce different flavors.
Tequila is usually bottled in one of five categories:
- Blanco (“white”) or plata (“silver”): white spirit, un-aged and bottled or stored immediately after distillation, or aged less than two months in stainless steel or neutral oak barrels;
- Joven (“young”) or oro (“gold”): is the result of blending Silver Tequila with Reposado and/or Añejo and/or extra Añejo Tequila;
- Reposado (“rested”): aged a minimum of two months, but less than a year in oak barrels;
- Añejo (“aged” or “vintage”): aged a minimum of one year, but less than three years in oak barrels;
- Extra Añejo (“extra aged” or “ultra aged”): aged a minimum of three years in oak barrels.
If you’re lucky, on some evenings they pass around samplings to customers. Ask about some “sipping” tequila at the bar, and the staff will quickly educate you and even provide “flights” of tequila to show you the differences between the various grades and brands. A nice way to start off an evening. And of course the selection of Margarita styles and options is huge!
From the start, from the airy crisp fresh home-made tortilla chips to the 2 fresh flavors of salsa, the quality here is evident.
I have dined here probably a dozen times or more since this newest location opened. The food is always good and hot, presented in an appealing way, and most times comes up in a timely manner.
When I dine out, I like to split an entrée and have room to try other things as well. El Mariachi has some great starters that should not be missed. They offer one of the best black bean soups I have ever had and a delicious chipotle and tomato based tortilla soup, which is topped off with avocado and sour cream.
A nice appetizer I enjoy in the summer is their traditional shrimp ceviche. And in the winter I love their Queso Fundido. It is one of the best I have ever had. Just the right texture and not too greasy or oily. They use a very high-quality cheese.
Queso Fundido is billed as a “cheese fondue”. And I think many diners order this dish at Mexican restaurants expecting a warm semi-liquid sauce in a pot, to dip in. But it’s not. It’s more a cheese spread of sorts. It’s melted cheese, not a cheese sauce. It traditionally comes with chorizo sausage added, I like mine plain, but I have also ordered it with some chopped shrimp or chopped chicken added to it. And it is served with some flour or corn tortillas to make a little sandwich appetizer or I just like to scoop it onto their delicious chips and top it off with a dab of their salsa!
If you love guacamole, you have to get it here and they make it to order tableside. It’s ALWAYS good. Never thinned down like some restaurants will blend in sour cream. Just fresh, pure, quality ingredients. Just recently a new chef came onboard and suggested they add just a few drops of avocado oil to the guacamole which gives it a nice smooth texture and finish.
Entree’s range from a big assortment of carnes/meats, mariscos/seafood and pollo/chicken dishes. And all of the traditional Mexican favorites are here as well; Burritos, Flautas, Fajitas, Enchiladas, Tacos and a variety of combinations. People will tell me they don’t like Mexican food – I bring them here and they love it. There is something for everyone. Most of food is traditional Mexican but many come with a fresh approach. A variety of sides include Lime Rice and Mexican Corn. There are four Vegetarian dishes as well and many of the traditional fare can be made vegetarian.
The father here created a topping of specialty seasoned shrimp and sauce which he calls “Costena“. And it is available on the grilled steak, on the chicken breasts, or on the catfish, which I am told is extremely popular. I LOVE IT on the chicken!
I think most all of the entree’s here are generous portions and filling and it’s very easy to split an appetizer, share an entree and save room for a dessert. YOU WILL BE FULL!
Fresh made dessert includes traditional Flan (baked custard with light carmel sauce), Banana’s Flambéed with Tequila, melt-in-your-mouth Margarita Cheesecake, traditional Sopapillas (fried dough with cinnamon, honey and ice cream) and for the chocolate lover, a moist and rich flourless chocolate cake made with nuts and cherries and some gran marnier! See why I said you need to save some room for dessert?! Most people over eat at their meal and leave no room, and a taste of something sweet with a dash of Mexican coffee, is the perfect finish.
The back garden patio is fantastic in the summer. Unlike so many patios here in Chicago, you are shielded from the noisy street and the busy buses. Secluded with sunlight or shady spots, whatever you want…all tucked into a secret little garden in the back. Summertime heaven. The patio is not open real late at night, out of respect for the neighbors.
Also this summer, the restaurant will be offering some unique spaces on the property which will be available for rent for private parties and events. Then in the fall, the family hope to unveil their newest property; at 3445 Broadway (right by the original location 3420) in the old Triangle Photo Building will be home to their new (yet unnamed) traditional Steakhouse with Mexican flair!
There are lots of specials on various nights –
MONDAYS 1/2 Price Margaritas $16 Margarita Pitchers
TUESDAYS 1/2 Price Sangrias $15 Sangria Pitchers
WEDNESDAYS 1/2 Price Margaritas $16 Margarita Pitchers
THURSDAYS $4 Cantaritos $2 off any tequila
SUNDAYS $18 Rio Grande Margarita (60 oz.)
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS Special Brunch Menu 11 am-3 pm
$3 mimosas & bellinis $3 bloody marys
BE THEIR FRIEND/FAN ON FACEBOOK AND GET THE SPECIAL
SCOOP ON PROMOTIONS ONLY FOR THEIR FACEBOOK FANS
Adrian, one of the two brothers who helps run the restaurant has been working with his father since the age of 11! He prides himself on quality management. “We pride ourselves on selecting quality ingredients and not skimping to save a few pennies, like some restaurants might do. And we watch the restaurant very closey and listen to what the customers tell us for feedback. We run reports to see what sells best and we change the menu around as needed. We are going to launch another new menu any day now!”
The El Mariachi restaurants get awarded our FIVE CROWNS!
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill 3906 N Broadway Ph. 773.549.2932
Mon-Thurs. 5:00pm-11:00, Fri. 5:00pm-12am, Sat. 11:00am-11:00pm, Sun.11:00-10:00pm
El Mariachi Restaurant – Original 3420 N Broadway Ph. 773.549.7020
11:00am-11:00pm 7 days a week
Best Italian Food and Tiramisu Uptown Chicago
Just a few blocks from Boystown and Andersonville, is Anna Marie Pasteria– a little hidden gem with great Italian food and consistently voted best tiramisu in the city of Chicago! Service is always great and the food is always great in this quaint little spot ran by 2 sisters.
A mix of modern and traditional Italian cuisine, the cozy ristorante has long been a local favorite. Sisters Anna and Maria, originally from the Basilicata region of southern Italy, first opened the doors of Anna Maria Pasteria in 1989.
Beginning at age seven, Anna fell in love with cooking, creating her first plate of Pasta e Fagioli, a simple peasant dish which is now an Italian specialty. Enamored with cuisine and hospitality, Maria followed the family tradition and put her heart into making the best and most heavenly Tiramisu.
After nearly two decades, Anna and Maria continue to dedicate themselves to the finest home-made Italian cuisine and service.
Each entree is prepared to order with only the finest and freshest ingredients.
I have sampled many of their dishes from Chicken with Artichokes (Pollo Carciofo), traditional Veal Picatta, to special pasta dishes made with creamy pesto sauces!
Everything has a delicious taste! And the Ceasar salad dressing was excellent. – And you must save room for the Chicago famous Tiramisu! Voted the best in the city! Perfectlt proportioned amounts of expresso, lady fingers and marscapone cheese.
Entres $10- $19
Salads $5 – $7
4400 N. Clark St. @ Montrose, Chicago Tel: (773) 506-2662
Awarded our 5 CROWNS!
Best of the Best Dining in Chicago
Michael Snell
