Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in West Loop | Upscale Mexican Food

22 restaurants in Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in West Loop | Upscale Mexican Food

• Estereo FM — Mexican · rated 4/5: Vibrant and rhythm-forward, this spirited enclave pulses with the soul of Latin America, where the air is bright with the citrusy zing of pisco and the smoky allure of artisanal mezcal. Golden, flaky empanadas from Cafe Tola provide the perfect savory counterpoint to a sophisticated lineup of draft cocktails and botanical elixirs, creating a lively sanctuary that feels like a perpetual, sun-drenched afternoon.
• Nohea Cafe — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this inviting neighborhood haunt, where the morning begins with the buttery crunch of toasted croissants and the savory warmth of hand-rolled breakfast burritos. As the day unfolds, the kitchen turns out golden-pressed paninis and stacked deli classics like the Reuben, blending melted cheeses and artisanal breads into a comforting symphony of flavors.
• Diego — Mexican · rated 3/5: Diego captures the sun-drenched spirit of a modern coastal cantina, where the air is bright with the scent of fresh lime and the convivial hum of guests sharing vibrant salsa trios. The kitchen elevates the humble tostada into a canvas of texture and taste, piling crisp tortillas high with everything from smoky chicken tinga to elegant tuna tartare and citrus-kissed ceviche. It is a place where the warmth of bubbling queso fundido meets the cool, briny freshness of the sea, creating an effortlessly chic atmosphere perfect for lingering over bold, artisanal flavors.
• Federales — Mexican: Sunlight streams through the retractable roof of this industrial-chic haunt, where the air hums with high-energy music and the smoky aroma of wood-fired tacos. Guests gather around communal tables to sip craft margaritas and participate in the signature ritual of hurling ice shots at a brass bell, creating a vibrant, urban oasis perfect for spirited social gatherings.
• Cruz Blanca Brewery & Taquería — Mexican: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant West Loop haunt, where the rhythmic sound of hand-pressed tortillas mingles with the clinking of glasses filled with house-brewed Mexican lagers. The air is thick with the intoxicating scent of wood-smoke and charred meats as diners gather around communal tables to feast on smoky tlayudas and tacos piled high with vibrant, sun-drenched ingredients. It is a spirited celebration of Oaxacan soul and craft brewing, where every bite of spice-kissed pork is perfectly balanced by the crisp, refreshing finish of a small-batch ale.
• La Josie — Mexican: This vibrant destination pulses with the energy of a modern Mexican cantina, where the smoky allure of artisanal mezcal and the crisp brightness of premium tequilas take center stage. Guests embark on a spirited journey through curated agave flights and expertly shaken house margaritas, lingering over the sweet, cinnamon-scented warmth of golden churros to round out a soulful dining experience.
• Asadito — Mexican: Asadito pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern taqueria, where the smoky aroma of slow-roasted al pastor and charred spices invites guests into a world of bold, sun-drenched flavors. The kitchen transforms traditional street food into an art form, serving up everything from crispy Baja fish tacos and succulent quesa birria to hearty, overstuffed burritos that celebrate the soulful heat of the grill. It is a lively destination where every bite—from the first crunch of a golden tostada to the last savory spoonful of a loaded bowl—captures the festive spirit of a neighborhood fiesta.
• Taqueria Mexicana — Mexican: The air at Taqueria Mexicana is thick with the smoky perfume of charred chilies and the sizzle of marinated meats hitting the hot griddle, drawing diners into a space alive with vibrant colors and rustic charm. Hand-pressed corn tortillas arrive warm and fragrant, cradling succulent fillings topped with bright cilantro and zesty house-made salsas that dance on the palate. It is a soulful tribute to the bustling markets of Mexico, offering a spirited dining experience where the bold flavors of traditional street food take center stage.
• Velvet Taco — Mexican: This vibrant, high-energy haunt reimagines the taco as a canvas for global fusion, where neon lights and industrial-chic decor set the stage for a culinary world tour. Hand-pressed tortillas cradle unexpected combinations like spicy chicken tikka masala or slow-roasted brisket, creating a bold symphony of flavors that feels both rebellious and refined. Whether grabbing a late-night bite or lingering over a boozy margarita and a slice of their signature red velvet cake, guests discover a spirited atmosphere where tradition is tossed aside in favor of pure, flavorful invention.
• Taco Lulú — Mexican: This vibrant eatery captures the spirited energy of a Mexican street market, where the rhythmic press of fresh masa and the smoky sizzle of marinated meats create an intoxicating, savory perfume. Guests dive into hand-held treasures topped with zesty house-made salsas and crisp garnishes, enjoying a bright explosion of flavor that celebrates the soulful, sun-drenched traditions of authentic taquería culture.
• Iguana Café — Mexican: Bathed in natural light and adorned with lush greenery, this eclectic sanctuary offers a vibrant escape where the hum of the espresso machine mingles with the lively chatter of a local crowd. Guests linger over artisanal brews and colorful, market-fresh plates that celebrate bold flavors, all within a laid-back atmosphere that feels like a sun-drenched retreat tucked away from the city bustle.
• Bodega Taqueria y Tequila — Mexican: A vibrant urban escape where the aroma of charred meats and fresh cilantro leads guests through a secret door into a neon-lit sanctuary of high-energy nightlife. This spirited destination pairs the bold, messy joy of authentic street tacos with an expansive library of craft tequilas, creating a seamless transition from a casual afternoon bite to a sultry, late-night celebration.
• Texan Taco Bar — Mexican: This high-energy cantina pulses with the vibrant spirit of the Southwest, where weathered wood and neon accents create a rustic yet modern backdrop for lively gatherings fueled by ice-cold margaritas. The air carries the irresistible scent of slow-smoked brisket and charred tortillas, inviting guests to dive into bold, flavor-packed tacos that celebrate the rugged soul of Texas barbecue. It is a sun-soaked retreat where the clink of glasses and the zest of fresh lime turn every meal into a spirited celebration of big, soulful flavors.
• Lola's Restaurant — Mexican: Lola’s Restaurant welcomes guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched space where the hum of lively conversation mingles with the enticing aroma of seasonal ingredients hitting a hot pan. The kitchen transforms farm-fresh produce into soulful, artfully plated dishes that celebrate bold flavors and culinary heritage, creating an atmosphere that feels like an intimate, spirited dinner party among friends.
• TABÚ — Mexican: TABÚ unfolds as a lush, dimly lit sanctuary where the pulse of rhythmic beats meets the untamed beauty of a tropical escape. The air carries the smoky allure of wood-fired grills and zesty citrus, setting the stage for an evening of bold, globally-inspired flavors served amidst flickering candlelight and natural textures. This high-energy destination blurs the line between sophisticated dining and a spirited celebration, inviting a complete immersion of the senses.
• Leña Brava — Mexican: The primal roar of a massive wood-fired hearth anchors this vibrant space, casting a warm glow over diners as the intoxicating scent of charred seafood and smoky mezcal fills the air. Inspired by the rugged spirit of Baja, the kitchen transforms pristine ingredients into fire-kissed masterpieces, creating a sensory journey where the ancient art of live-fire cooking meets a sophisticated, modern energy.
• Recess — American: Recess invites guests into a high-energy social playground where the carefree spirit of childhood meets a sophisticated, modern lounge atmosphere. The kitchen turns out a parade of crave-worthy, shareable plates, from crispy buffalo chicken rolls and golden-fried waffle fries to zesty mini tacos that burst with bold, savory flavors. It is a vibrant destination where the hum of conversation pairs perfectly with indulgent comfort classics, creating the ultimate backdrop for a spirited night out with friends.
• Tacombi — Mexican: Step into a vibrant, sun-drenched escape where the spirit of a Mexican beach town meets the energy of the city, centered around a bustling open kitchen and the irresistible aroma of sizzling meats. Hand-pressed tortillas cradle tender al pastor and crispy fish, while the crunch of house-made totopos and the zesty kick of corn esquites pair perfectly with salt-rimmed margaritas and refreshing aguas frescas. It is a lively, communal celebration of authentic street-food culture, inviting guests to linger over cold beers and bold flavors in a space that feels like a perpetual summer afternoon.
• Stan's Donuts & Coffee — American: The air at Stan’s is thick with the irresistible scent of freshly glazed dough and roasting coffee, drawing early risers into a vibrant space where classic Americana meets modern morning cravings. Golden, crispy hashbrowns are reimagined as decadent "Stanwiches" and hearty breakfast burritos, offering a savory counterpoint to the whimsical, sugar-dusted treats that have made the shop a local icon. Whether you’re indulging in a "Glaze Craze" or fueling up with a protein-packed Denver sandwich, every bite captures the comforting, sun-drenched joy of a perfect neighborhood breakfast.
• Costera Cocina Tulum — Mexican: Lush tropical foliage and sun-drenched textures transform this space into a breezy coastal sanctuary that captures the soulful, bohemian spirit of the Yucatan. The kitchen brings the heat of the fire to the table with smoke-kissed seafood and vibrant, citrus-brightened plates, all served in an atmosphere of effortless elegance where time seems to slow down.
• Blue Agave — Mexican: Blue Agave pulses with a sun-drenched energy, where the bright tang of fresh-squeezed limes and the smoky allure of rare tequilas set the stage for a spirited escape. Hand-pressed tortillas cradle a vibrant array of authentic, slow-simmered flavors, creating a festive atmosphere where every salt-rimmed glass and savory bite celebrates the rich heritage of the agave heart.
• Taquería Chingón — Mexican: The sizzle of the plancha and the vibrant aroma of house-made chorizo verde fill this energetic space, where traditional street food is elevated into a culinary art form. Guests savor a kaleidoscope of flavors ranging from succulent duck carnitas and smoky al pastor to inventive roasted butternut squash, all nestled within warm, hand-pressed tortillas. This lively destination captures a bold, contemporary spirit, blending rustic Mexican soul with creative flair to ensure every bite is a celebration.