Nicely done Mr. Rick Bayless this place is great! I stopped in on my way to a friends and ordered the steak torta (Friday special). The meat was tender. The bread was wonderful, and the green sosa was spot on. Not a huge torta but a very tasty one. Service is impeccable with everyone being very classy and attentive. Big props to them. Overall this was similar to frontera tortas. I am Mexican born reviewer and Rick knows Mexican food . Try this place read more

Xoco - Excited to try this. Service is a bit slow but I'm guessing the flavor will make up for it. - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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You know it's going to be good when it's standing room only on a Thursday night! Loved everything about it except for the minimal seating. If I was local, their tacos would be a takeout staple at least once a week for me! read more

Great to find a casual awesome food fun great margaritas little place in the heart of crazy downtown Chicago

They have this torta only on fridays that is off the chain with a special green homemade sauce. It super expensive for one sandwhich in my opinion. But I'd splurge on it only for a treat on a Friday. read more

Since the weather was nice, I sat outside. There was pretty of shade for outdoor dining. They played Latino music outside too. Service was very good. The waiter checked on me. And as for wait time, my drink and entree came out fast. Under 10 minutes. FOOD AND DRINK Beverage: Agua del dia - blueberry lime blended [5/5] Tasted really nice and refreshing. Would have preferred it to be more tarty (more lime). Entree: Spicy churro chicken sandwich [5/5] Very Delicious!!!! Great flavors. Spicy, sweet, and savory. I would order it again in a heartbeat. And reviewers were right when it's messy to eat but shoot, I don't care. If the food is good, who cares. (Plus, culturally, there are foods from the country my parents are from that you eat by hand.) read more

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We ordered takeout and will definitely be coming back! The tortas were are exceptional. So much flavor! We ordered the Cuban and milanesa. Both outstanding! The Cuban has a very smokey, BBQ flavor that pairs perfectly with the freshness from the avocado and the sauce. The milanesa is much lighter. The chicken is juicy and lightly crunchy with the perfect spicy kick from the jalapeño. read more

Xoco - Milanesa Torta - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Churro chicken sandwich (5*): So crunchy, and surprisingly it didn't feel too sweet. The chicken cutlet was cooked perfectly as well, juicy yet crunchy and the slaw and spicy chile sauce were a match made in heaven. I was almost wary of ordering a novelty item like this but it blew me out of the water Pozole soup (3.5*): The pork carnitas were fatty and delicious, and I love pozole but there was a warming spice flavor in the soup that didn't jive with me Churro (5*): they've perfected this, so crunchy and tender on the inside Chocolate hazelnut cookie (5*): Lots of good quality chocolate and hazelnuts, the combo reminded me of an elevated Mrs. Field cookie, I would get this again in a heartbeat read more

Xoco - Seasonal: Churro chicken sandwich - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great flavors! Seated right away during happy hour. We had the horchata to drink- was excellent. Chicharróns and Guacamole for apps and I have the Shrimp tacos. The crispy sweet potato shaving on the taco were perfection read more

Hands down the best chicken milanesa torta I've had. Everything was incredibly fresh, and the guacamole was delicious. I've been missing good Mexican food since moving from LA, and this absolutely hit the spot. The staff was kind and attentive--I had to leave a review. I'll definitely be back. read more

I came to Xoco while on a trip to Chicago and had an excellent dinner! To start I had the Margarita of the Day, which had melon in it - it was so refreshing! I also got the Almost Naked Guacamole which was roasted garlic-tomatillo guacamole with your choice of two toppings (I got queso fresco and grilled onion), tomatillo salsa, three chile salsa, and chips. It was some delicious guac! I also got the Golden Eggplant Torta (crispy eggplant, roasted tatume squash, smoky salsa negra, arugula, Artisan jack cheese, queso añejo, and black beans). Holy cow, it was amazing. It was sweet/caramelized somehow (the eggplant? the smoky salsa? no idea) and it was INCREDIBLE. The portion sizes for everything were very generous, such that I had leftovers for another meal. My only complaint - it took me forever to get seated despite the empty seating! But for the delicious food and attentive service once I was seated, I can overlook the wait. read more

Xoco - Golden Eggplant Torta - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I'd go just for their churros, but def don't skip on their tortas. If you go with a friend and ask to split 2 tortas, they'll serve them on separate plates for you. Loved the Ahogada which is pork served in this broth, like a French dip. Messy but worth every bite! The shrimp torta was a nice balance and robustly flavored. Always save room for their freshly fried churros that are crisped to perfection. Def pay the $1.50 to add the chocolate dipping sauce. read more

Excellent casual restaurant by Chef Rick Bayless. Tortas is the specialty. I tried the Golden Eggplant torta and had the almost naked Guacamole with roasted chilis and tomatoes - both SO delicious! Salsas are excellent as well. I got it to go so I could work in my hotel room. Best dinner I have had in Chicago! read more

I was only in once since the pandemic, maybe a year ago . It was a bustling Saturday and the food was terrific as I remembered Tonight I thought , perfect warm night for fab Xoco food. The restaurant was not full as I would have expected. I ordered cóctel de camarón, pozole with smoked chicken , and churros . Just a bummer. Nothing tasted fresh, the pozole which was a showstopper , tasted like a watered down version , with unfresh gristly chicken. The shrimp also not crispy fresh, and then I thought I'd try churros - y tu? Nothing good to say except the server was lovely . Oyy. I won't ever go back - this was a top 5 place - it now would never ever make my list again ... what a shame . read more

This is a casual dining spot but prices are fair. I got a spicy churro chicken sandwich and the bf got the pozole. Service was fast and everyone was friendly. They seem like they're known for their sandwiches. I personally liked having a sweet churro bun. Chicken was crispy and it wasn't outrageously spicy at all. It was our first time trying pozole so can't really comment on it. It is a little cold if it's cold outside and there's a long line forming since the door is constantly being opened and there's limited seating. read more

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Went on a Tues at 5:30p and barely came in time for seats for 2 on the counter top by the entrance. Service was quick and friendly! Food: started w the chips and guac from the happy hour menu since it was ending at 6p. Can't complain. Got the pozole and friend got the carnitas tacos and it hit the spot on a chilly evening! Drinks: from the happy hour menu, got the margarita and michelada. Def got us a good buzz during dinner haha Dessert: got the hazelnut and pistachio churros and I can confirm the pistachio stole the show!! It was a combo of flavors you wouldn't expect. If anything PLEASE try the desserts here!!! Would definitely come back once I visit!!! read more

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I only came for the churros. The servers seemed a bit grumpy, but maybe because we only came for the churros. I ordered every churro they had. Also ordered the chocolate sauce. They were really good. But the best one was the pistachio glazed churro. So. Damn. Good. I couldn't get over how good it was. I was a little put off and confused though because there was an extra service charge that the server kinda mumbled about as he dropped off the check and walked away. Just seems like that's something that should be mentioned as you sit down. read more

Wow! Super fast service- and attentive. Every employee greeted us and said goodbye. The food is outstanding. read more

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Phenomenal versions of great Mexican dishes in a very casual atmosphere. I had a Ahogada Torta, a pork sandwich cut in half and served cut side down in spicy, hearty tomato sauce. I love this sandwich and have it often when eat here! We also had tacos and guacamole which were excellent. Service was prompt, even on a busy Saturday afternoon. read more

Xoco - Ahogada Torta - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had the best experience at Xoco while in Chicago. First of all I followed my nose from street to restaurant. The aroma coming from the restaurant was divine. Walking into the corner venue I was greeted by friendly faces asking if I'd like a table, "of course! I said." I ordered up a Paloma margarita made with fresh grapefruit juice and the perfect amount of white tequila. It was delicious. I also ordered fish tacos made of fresh cod, avocado, cabbage and delicate onion rings...... and a special spicy sauce that pulled all the ingredients together. My conversation with Maria the manager was warm and gracious. She has been working for Rick Bayless for 13 years! Happy employees, happy customers! I will definitely be back before I leave the city. read more

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The food was excellent - the tacos and chicken tortilla soup especially so. They had a deal on churros ($1.00 each) the evening we stopped in. The service staff was excellent - attentive, but not overbearing. We arrived at the height of the Happy Hour rush, and had to wait (10 min) for a table. However, as soon as happy hour was over, the tables cleared, and we were able to snag a table. The Margaritas were good (although a bit small) - not served in traditional margarita glasses that take up a great deal of table space (purposefully, I'm guessing). I laud Rick Bayless's pricing strategy - he's increased menu prices and built in the tips into the food prices. He predominantly messages that his employees are paid a living wage. Serving staff mentions this as well. I wish more restaurants would follow suit, and stop with the stupid menu surcharges!! read more

I came here just for some appetizers and dessert because we wanted to try the churros with the chocolate dip! The churros didn't disappoint! They were light and crispy and a nice rich chocolate dipping sauce! Definitely would come back just for the churros. The chicharrones were also delicious with a nice sauce and toppings! We got seated quickly despite it being busy! The place isn't too big, but it's still nice. read more

Xoco - Churros - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Highest rating when we were looking for food in the area and it did not disappoint! FOOD We ordered the Shrimp Tacos and Chicken Tacos and they were so good. My girlfriend got the Shrimp and I got the Chicken, but we both agreed the Shrimp was better. It's a seasonal item though! But 10/10, such great taste with the sweet corn. It just came with a lime and four tacos and thats all you need. No extra sauce or nothing. AMBIENCE As for the ambience, theres great lighting outside with high stool seating. We had to sit on the high stools inside since all the tables were taken inside. It's pretty tight with space but you can be in and out quickly. SERVICE Not sure if its just a Chicago thing, but not only here but a lot of people are straight to the point here! Not a bad thing, just different from where I'm from. Food came out fairly quickly though and they came around to help quite often. In conclusion, the tacos were amazing. I would definitely go here again and recommend for anyone in downtown Chicago. read more

TLDR: Fantastic quick service Mexican eats with a great happy hour. Strong margs and amazing tortas. Vibe: 4/5. Limited seating inside and outside (mostly counter style seating) makes this place good for groups less than 4. There are a few 2-4 tops, but are sought after during peak hours. If you taking to go, walk up style ordering is available as soon as you walk in. Service: 5/5. Staff is prompt to take your order with a very fast turn around in the kitchen. Servers use handheld POS so getting you check is quick and easy. Currently they are taking an automatic 15% gratuity, but it is heavily advertised. Food: 5/5. Some of the best quick service food I have ever eaten. The tortas and corn tlayuda are amazing, using only the freshest ingredients and providing an experience well worth the price. Happy hour also has some amazing deals on food and drink making this place even more enticing. read more

Xoco - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is one of my go to restaurants, but today was not such a good experience. My guacamole was quite salty and the chicken milanesa sandwich was a bit on the dry side. Maybe it was today's chef. I hope it's better when I return. read more

Rick Bayless... the much better Bayless brother. And for good reason! He knows what the F is going on in the kitchen. Got the churro hot chicken sandwich, it was super flavorful and pretty spicy! The churro was fantastic and surprisingly goes well as bun. The prices are extremely reasonable as well. Coming from the Bay Area, I would even say the food was CHEAP. The queso fundido was amazing as well, super gooey cheese. The staff was very friendly and attentive to our needs, they checked up on us numerous times and was helpful in answering any questions we had. This was a great place to welcome us to Chicago! read more

Xoco - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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If you are in River North and are looking for an elevated street food Mexican cuisine then this is the place! Went for lunch and it was packed, the restaurant isn't that big. If you didn't know Rick Bayless is the restaurant owner so you know that's it's going to be good! Since we went on a Tuesday, we had to have tacos of course! I had the Al pastor but it was Pescado and man it was so flavorful as well as the Carnitas which were very tender. Depending on what you order the price range for 4 tacos is $10 to $18 dollars so not an everyday place to go and get tacos, with that being said would go back and try other items on the menu! read more

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Very refreshing Mexican food! The Coctel Rojo was outstanding! The avocado!!!!! The Hot Chocolate was highly rated so I had to try it. It was very rich, delicious, & savory. It was fun to have our server pour it in front of us! The Chicken Tinga tacos were perfect! The potatoes in the taco was yummy! A great spot & good for sharing with a friend! read more

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Great Mexican food and fast and friendly service! I really love the churros. Nice atmosphere too. read more

Xoco - Xoco Tlayuda - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Good but pricey--- this is a modern take on a classic torta. We ordered DoorDash and it was still warm when it arrived. read more

Xoco - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Really liked our meal here and the inside ambience. Service was friendly and quick, prices weren't too bad. Looking at the other pictures on Yelp, my only regret is not trying other menu items besides the tacos - they look incredible. Will have to go back one day! read more

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Amazing dishes for really reasonable prices. I had the BEST sandwich in my life - the Spicy Chicken Churro Sandwich. It's the perfect balance of salty and sweet and I would do anything to be able to taste the sandwich for the first time again. Everything else including the guacamole, tacos, and tortas were all amazing! Nothing was a miss. read more

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I've been here two times, once today just for the "Classic" chocolate ($3.75), and once a while ago for food. Wasn't a huge fan of the food, but the chocolate is pretty good. To be fair, food-wise I mis-ordered and got the Ahogada torta ($11), which came with a little puddle of soup at the bottom, and the two halves of the sandwich plunked into it like two sad, severed fish heads. I loathe squishy, soft foods that are originally not squishy or soft (e.g. crusty bread), so alas, this was a soggy 1-2 star sandwich for me. I also wasn't very impressed with the carnitas. The Fully Dressed guacamole ($9.5) was fine and a pretty big portion. The "classic" chocolate, however, is quite good and has an interesting, strong chocolately flavor without being overly rich or thick. On the sugar spectrum, I'd say it was right in the middle; could've been less sweet, but I also can't accuse it of being overly sweet. It only comes steaming hot and in a small, ~6oz cup. I have a vague recollection of trying the "authentic" chocolate before and being unimpressed with its watery taste, but the "classic" one is definitely a solid addition to my ongoing Chicago hot chocolate crawl. This restaurant is located right next to the section of Clark street that is closed Thursday-Sunday evenings (I think), so lots of nice outdoor dining available! read more

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A Rick Bayless cafe next to his celebrated restaurants! Seriously great. No complaints. The soups (caldo) meal in a bowl lived up to quantity and wholesome goodness. I had a seasonal barbacoa caldo that was tremendous in flavor and a ton of beef. I really thought it'd be "lite" and nope...not lite. The papas were yummy with the sauce as an appetizer. The churros a standout!!! Like best I've ever tasted. Perfect... Wife had the tortilla soup. Terrific. Son barbacoa tacos. So good! I highly recommend...great service too. read more

La cómoda excelente supero mis expectativas ... Chicago Mexican food the best!! au read more

Xoco - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Excellent Mexican food with quality ingredients and fresh housemade salsas. Great service, pleasant decor. We had the barbacoa torta and chicken tortilla soup, both delicious. Fair prices for this quality of food. read more

Great place for lunch vs brunch in River North. Highly recommend the outdoor seating during summertime. No reservations, get in line at the door on W Illinois St. Service and turn over was quick. Would say you can expect them to accommodate about a group ever 5-10 minutes. We ordered the fully dressed guacamole to start, which had a very good smoky flavor. The chips that came complimentarily tasted great, a bit thick for my preferences but to each their own. The salsas that came with the chips was too salty. Main-course, my favorite was the Ahogada Torta. Imagine a French dip, Mexican style. The torta bread itself was toasted just right. Carnitas may have been a bit dry if eaten alone, but once dipped into the surrounding broth, the flavor of the meat was enhanced. A close second was the Spicy Churro Chicken Sandwich. Reminded me a lot of Chicken and Waffles, with a twist. We also got the ONLY Saturday Special Goat Barbacoa, which surprisingly was rather plain and not too interesting despite apparent rave reviews. Overall, a great combination of flavors. Expect to be set back financially, especially with inflation currently going on - about $40 a person. read more

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I got the Shortrib Tacos and they were fire. The pictures don't do them justice. They were spicy and super flavorful. They also sent a ton of salsa which was nice. Good value. I'll be back. read more

Xoco - Short Rib Taco - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I walked pass by many times and never tried. Since the pandemic I've been either cooking myself or order the same things. It gets boring. Today I decided to try something new and I'm so glad I did! I ordered on DoorDash and food arrived quickly. Both the tortas and the tacos are good! I usually don't like to order shrimp because I don't like the frozen shrimp taste but the roasted shrimp torta is so good! I can't taste any frozen taste at all! The short rib tacos are also good and came in 4 tacos. I would definitely order again and go in person when the restaurant opens for dine in! read more

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Wow. Where do I begin. I'm not sure what happened to Rpm Steak's truffle burger for lunch but considering it wasn't $9 like this sandwich this is the BEST thing for lunch by far in the entire River North Area. I'd love to see some argue that there's something better. So many things going on in one sandwich. Sure there's the historical combination of salt from the chicken & sweet from the churro but the spicy sauce that accompanies the sandwich on the side which totally elevated it. It's an amalgam of flavors & textures to say the least. Did I mention it's $9 fckn dollars. Aside from fast food you can't get an order of fries for that price anywhere near here. This is a gem amongst giants. Don't miss out on this. Run don't walk right now to taste this. read more

Xoco - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I picked up 3 tortas and 3 churros to-go after a day at Erikson Institute, just down the block. 4 pm on a Friday was a good time to come as there was only one person in line. Counter person and host were friendly and efficient. The waiting area is awkwardly placed by the door, so I had to keep moving while guests came in and squeezed past me into the dining area, but I didn't have to wait too long. $48 for my tortas take-away, without sides, is steep so I doubt I'd return, unless it's a special occasion, but I'm guessing $12-$13 a sandwich is the going rate in the city for a fresh, handmade sandwich. Too steep for me though, especially with no sides, as my teen eats a lot and one sandwich wasn't enough. My family enjoyed their sandwiches though. My son ate two tortas and my husband ate one. I'm gluten-free and vegetarian, so I didn't order anything for myself. Xoco is a cool and unique place for a quick meal. It's out of my regular budget, but if you can afford it, I'd recommend a visit. read more

Xoco - Order line. Quiet at 4 pm on a Friday. - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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