Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in River North | Upscale Mexican Food

29 restaurants in Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in River North | Upscale Mexican Food

• Aster Hall — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through expansive windows into a sophisticated sanctuary where the vibrant energy of a modern marketplace meets the polished charm of a high-end lounge. The air is thick with the inviting scent of bubbling, thin-crust pizzas and the zesty aroma of slow-simmered barbacoa and al pastor tacos, each hand-pressed and bursting with authentic, vibrant spice. It is a stylish culinary crossroads that invites guests to linger over artisanal comfort food, offering a seamless blend of casual elegance and diverse, chef-driven flavors perfect for an urban escape.
• Grand Lux Cafe — American: Polished marble and warm, golden lighting set a stage of grand elegance, where the vibrant energy of a high-end bistro invites guests to settle into plush booths for an international culinary journey. The kitchen masterfully bridges continents, serving up everything from crispy, spice-kissed Asian nachos and tender short rib tacos to decadent double-stuffed potato spring rolls that shatter with every savory bite. It is a destination where global comfort food is elevated to an art form, offering a sprawling, eclectic experience that feels both familiar and wonderfully indulgent.
• Topolobampo — Mexican: Step into a sophisticated sanctuary where the vibrant soul of Mexico is reimagined through a lens of modern elegance and artistic flair. The kitchen orchestrates a symphony of flavors, from the bright, citrusy zing of classic ceviche to the complex depth of a seven-course tasting menu that celebrates seasonal bounty and time-honored techniques. Whether lingering over a perfectly balanced margarita or savoring the nostalgic crunch of cinnamon-dusted churros, every moment captures the rich, multi-layered tapestry of authentic Mexican gastronomy.
• Xoco — Mexican: The air at Xoco is thick with the intoxicating aroma of toasted cacao and sizzling griddles, drawing guests into a vibrant space where golden, flaky empanadas and griddle-crisped tortas celebrate the bold spirit of Mexican street food. Soul-warming caldos and creamy guacamole provide a comforting centerpiece to the meal, which inevitably concludes with the irresistible crunch of hot-from-the-fryer churros and a steaming mug of frothy, stone-ground hot chocolate.
• Frontera Grill — Mexican: Vibrant folk art and the rhythmic pat-pat of hand-pressed tortillas set the stage in this bustling culinary landmark, where the air is thick with the smoky allure of wood-grilled meats and complex chilies. Diners are swept away on a regional journey through Mexico, savoring velvety, spice-laden moles and bright, citrus-kissed ceviches that celebrate the bold, soulful heritage of the country’s diverse landscapes.
• Moe's Cantina River North — Mexican: This sprawling River North sanctuary blends industrial-chic aesthetics with the warmth of a modern hacienda, featuring soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and custom wrought-iron chandeliers that set a high-energy stage. The air buzzes with social energy as guests gather around reclaimed wood tables to savor flame-grilled skewers and vibrant Mexican-inspired plates, all complemented by the crisp zing of hand-shaken margaritas. It is a rhythmic, pulse-pounding destination where the artistry of bold flavors meets a sophisticated nightlife scene, perfect for lively group celebrations that stretch long into the evening.
• El Hefe Mexican Restaurant — Mexican: Vibrant colors and the rhythmic shake of agave cocktails set the stage at this high-energy cantina, where the air is thick with the smoky aroma of charred meats and hand-pressed corn tortillas. Guests gather around rustic tables to feast on bold, spice-forward plates that celebrate the soulful depth of traditional Mexican flavors, all served within a spirited space that feels like a perpetual fiesta.
• Big Wig Tacos & Burritos — Mexican: Vibrant energy pulses through this modern taqueria, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of seasoned meats and the bright, citrusy zing of fresh pico de gallo. Diners dive into overstuffed burritos and street-style tacos piled high with vibrant toppings, or share overflowing platters of nachos drizzled in velvety queso and served alongside creamy, hand-mashed guacamole. Every bite captures the bold, festive spirit of Mexican street food, making it a go-to destination for a satisfying, flavor-drenched escape.
• Left Coast Food — American: This sun-drenched sanctuary channels the effortless cool of the Pacific coastline, offering a vibrant menu where fresh, wellness-focused ingredients take center stage. Guests can linger over golden stacks of pancakes and savory breakfast burritos or dive into colorful acai bowls and crisp, avocado-laden toasts that burst with bright, seasonal flavors. It is a place where the breezy spirit of a West Coast morning meets a nourishing culinary experience, perfect for a leisurely brunch or a wholesome midday escape.
• Sushi-san — Japanese: This high-energy destination reimagines Japanese dining with a playful, urban edge, inviting guests into a space where traditional craft meets modern creativity. The experience unfolds through a parade of bold, shareable plates, from the spicy kick of togarashi chicken nuggets and zesty "tako tacos" to the buttery richness of lobster California rolls. Amidst the rhythmic clatter of the open kitchen, diners savor a fusion of textures and tastes that bridge the gap between classic maki and inventive, street-food-inspired bites.
• 320 River Bar — American: Bathed in the soft morning light reflecting off the water, this vibrant riverside destination offers a sophisticated start to the day where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the gentle breeze. The kitchen transforms breakfast into a celebrated ritual, serving up everything from velvet-poached eggs draped in rich hollandaise to zesty steak and eggs brightened by house-made salsa verde. It is a serene urban escape where guests can linger over artisanal avocado toast or a hearty breakfast burrito while watching the city wake up along the river’s edge.
• Cantina Laredo — Mexican: This vibrant destination pulses with the energy of a modern Mexican plaza, where the rhythmic sound of tableside guacamole preparation mingles with the clinking of salt-rimmed glasses. Plates arrive bursting with the bold colors of the sun, featuring tender cuts of meat and ocean-fresh seafood elevated by artisanal sauces and hand-pressed tortillas. The signature Casa Rita flows freely throughout the polished, contemporary space, turning an ordinary evening into a spirited celebration of authentic flavors and sophisticated elegance.
• Arbella — Mexican: This sultry, dimly lit sanctuary pulses with a global energy, where industrial-chic aesthetics and eclectic beats set the stage for an evening of liquid exploration. Expertly crafted cocktails serve as a sensory passport to far-off flavors, complemented by a menu of elevated small plates that bridge the gap between street-food soul and refined culinary technique. It is a vibrant crossroads for the modern wanderer, blending the intimacy of a hidden lounge with the spirited atmosphere of a world-class destination.
• Brett's Kitchen — American: Brett’s Kitchen serves as a sun-drenched neighborhood sanctuary where the invigorating aroma of freshly pulled espresso and the sweet, spiced notes of Mexican hot chocolate create an instantly welcoming embrace. Guests can lose themselves in the velvety depths of a perfectly frothed cappuccino or find crisp refreshment in a bold iced latte, making every visit a soulful, comforting pause in the rhythm of the day.
• Seoul Taco — Korean: This high-energy urban haunt pulses with the vibrant fusion of Korean soul and Mexican street food, where the smoky aroma of grilled bulgogi mingles with the zesty brightness of fresh salsa. Diners dive into colorful Gogi bowls and overstuffed burritos that balance sweet-and-spicy heat with creamy, melted cheese, creating a bold, handheld feast that celebrates the best of both worlds.
• Barrio — Mexican: Barrio pulses with the vibrant energy of a neighborhood gathering spot, where the air is thick with the scent of charred chilies and the rhythmic shake of agave cocktails. Diners congregate under warm, industrial lighting to share plates of street-inspired fare that burst with bold, sun-drenched flavors and artisanal textures. It is a soulful retreat where the spirit of community meets a modern culinary edge, turning every meal into a lively celebration of culture and craft.
• Shaw's Crab House — Seafood: Stepping into this timeless seafood sanctuary feels like a journey to the coast, where the lively hum of a bustling oyster bar blends seamlessly with the polished elegance of a classic supper club. The air is thick with the briny scent of freshly shucked oysters and the savory aroma of golden lump crab cakes, while dramatic seafood towers and zesty lobster tacos turn every table into a vibrant celebration of the ocean’s bounty. Every meal captures a sense of nostalgic luxury, offering a spirited atmosphere where chilled shellfish and perfectly crisped calamari are served with effortless, old-school sophistication.
• BIG & little's Restaurant — Seafood: This high-energy urban haunt reimagines the classic roadside stand as a gourmet destination, where the sizzle of the flat-top grill and the aroma of toasted brioche fill a space buzzing with unpretentious charm. Diners dive into a bold menu where crispy soft-shell crab, zesty ahi tuna tacos, and truffle-scented fries elevate casual comfort food into a vibrant, flavor-forward celebration of the city’s eclectic culinary spirit.
• Mercadito — Mexican: Mercadito pulses with the vibrant energy of a sun-drenched marketplace, where the air is thick with the aroma of charred chilies and the rhythmic sound of hand-shaken cocktails. Guests are transported to a lively cantina setting to savor bold, street-inspired flavors that celebrate the soul of Mexican cuisine through every zesty bite and smoky sip.
• Taco Joint — Mexican: This vibrant, high-energy haunt pulses with the rhythmic sound of chopping cilantro and the savory sizzle of marinated meats hitting the hot grill. Hand-pressed tortillas cradle a kaleidoscope of bold street-style flavors, where zesty house-made salsas and crisp garnishes bring a refreshing brightness to every succulent bite. The experience is anchored by the clink of salt-rimmed margarita glasses and a spirited atmosphere that invites guests to linger over shared plates and lively conversation.
• Penelope's Vegan Taqueria — Mexican: Vibrant colors and the irresistible aroma of charred spices fill this lively taqueria, where traditional Mexican street food is reimagined through a creative plant-based lens. From the smoky depth of mushroom chimichurri to the satisfying crunch of a Baja-style taco, each plate bursts with bold, authentic flavors that prove plant-based dining can be both indulgent and soulful. The experience invites guests to linger over rich, melted quesa tacos and tender barbacoa, discovering a spirited space where heritage techniques and modern innovation meet in every bite.
• Blackwood BBQ — American: The rich, intoxicating aroma of slow-smoldering wood fills the air at Blackwood BBQ, where the craft of the pitmaster takes center stage from the first light of dawn. Tender ribbons of beef brisket and succulent pulled meats anchor a menu that reimagines tradition, offering everything from hearty morning breakfast wraps to vibrant tacos piled high with smoky Mikeska sausage or savory jackfruit. It is a soulful destination where charred burnt ends and signature rubs create a symphony of deep, smoky flavors, inviting guests to savor the rustic essence of authentic pit-to-table dining.
• Zombie Taco — Mexican: Bathed in the electric glow of neon, this high-energy haunt pulses with an urban edge, offering a vibrant sanctuary where the sizzle of the grill meets a playful, late-night spirit. Bold, street-inspired flavors take center stage as inventive tacos are piled high with zesty fillings and house-made salsas, delivering a punch of spice and crunch in every bite. Whether grabbing a quick snack at the walk-up window or lingering in the industrial-chic space, diners find a spirited atmosphere that stays alive long after the sun goes down.
• Mariposa — Mexican: Mariposa unfolds like a sun-drenched sanctuary, where an airy, botanical-inspired interior sets the stage for a dining experience defined by lightness and grace. Vibrant, artfully plated dishes celebrate the bright flavors of the season, inviting guests to linger over crisp cocktails and soulful conversation in a space that feels both effortlessly chic and warmly intimate.
• Frontera Fresco — Mexican: Sun-drenched flavors and the rhythmic sizzle of the griddle define this vibrant escape, where the air is perfumed with toasted chilies and zesty lime. Hand-pressed tortillas and golden-crusted tortas showcase a soulful dedication to authentic Mexican craft, inviting diners to linger over bold salsas and bright, garden-fresh ingredients in a space brimming with modern energy.
• Tzuco — Mexican: Tzuco unfolds as a sophisticated, earth-toned sanctuary where the vibrant spirit of Mexico harmonizes with the meticulous precision of French technique. Guests are treated to a sensory journey through artfully plated dishes, ranging from the bright, coastal zest of Mayan ceviche and Baja tostadas to the comforting, savory depth of a rich French onion soup. It is a space where tradition is reimagined, inviting diners to linger over tender octopus and heritage-rich tetelas in an atmosphere that feels both elegantly modern and warmly ancestral.
• Fons — Mexican: This sun-drenched, minimalist gem transforms the traditional empanada into a vibrant plant-based masterpiece, where naturally hued, buttery crusts give way to a kaleidoscope of savory, farm-to-table fillings. The experience is a celebration of clean, bold flavors and artisanal craftsmanship, offering a sophisticated yet soulful take on handheld comfort that lingers on the palate long after the final bite.
• SeoulSpice — Korean: Vibrant energy pulses through this modern eatery, where the sizzle of flame-grilled bulgogi and the pungent, spicy aroma of house-made kimchi create an immediate sensory awakening. Guests build colorful, nutrient-rich bowls and tacos that marry time-honored Korean traditions with a fresh, contemporary flair, resulting in a dining experience that is as fast-paced as it is deeply flavorful.
• Su Casa Mexican Restaurant — Mexican: Su Casa invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the vibrant colors of traditional decor and the lively hum of conversation evoke the warmth of a spirited family home. The kitchen transforms fresh ingredients into a symphony of bold flavors, from the smoky depth of slow-cooked meats to the bright, citrusy zing of hand-mashed guacamole and zesty salsas. Every visit feels like a festive gathering, anchored by the comforting aroma of warm corn tortillas and the refreshing chill of a salt-rimmed margarita.