The ambiance of Chilam Balam is snug and cozy in an underground space. The food is outstanding - we enjoyed the wild mushrooms, the roasted Brussels sprouts, and my personal highlight was the Roasted Pork Belly with a perfectly crispy texture.
I did find the pricing slightly higher considering the
Chilam Balam is like home to me. Ever since I started coming here I couldn't stop! The staff are always welcoming and friendly, while serving up some of the BEST twist on Mexican food, in a exclusive type environment. I couldn't recommend them more. There is a reason they have been on the Michelin G
Went with a group of four on Friday night. Make sure to make a reservation as they fill up quick! Once we sat down, it was a full service experience. Instantly had waters on the table, and both our server and the owner of the establishment stopped at our table within the first five minutes. We order
Unique and amazing dishes. I asked about vegetarian and the waiter stated he could make some vegetarian. The menu changes often but it is on the website. Cash or Venmo only. BOYB but don’t open until you have ordered. And only beer wine and tequila - they will make margarita mix and you can add the
At the suggestion of our server, we had the chef’s selection—a wonderful array of appetizers and entrees, each better than the last. To be honest, everything was delicious, well seasoned and attractively plated, so you probably can’t go wrong with any of the choices. The space is small, the noise l
Absolutely incredible food, atmosphere, service, everything. This is a place to come with a friend or friends and share tastey plates. Typically order 2 or 3 plates per person to share. BYOB. Call for reservations. All of the food is delicious and incredible. Amazing tostados, bacon emanadas, roaste
It was an amazing experience!! They have traditional Mexican dishes, but with an elegant and creative twist. You can't go wrong with the food here. The attention and service is very good, Luis, the waiter who attended us, was very attentive to us.
I love the BYOB option!
Highly recommended.
The food is incredible, the staff are incredible, the setting and ambience are perfection—our first time in was Valentine's Day 2019 and it was such a cozy, warm, happy place to spend the evening. We continued to get carryout throughout covid and love returning now that it's back open for dine-in. B
The food which is excellent, more unique, and better than expected is what stands out. Beyond that it’s a cute garden level spot w very little elbow room, and competent, casual service. When it’s packed as it usually is, it’s not the place for the claustrophobic but beyond that, zero complaints. An
Wonderful experience at Chilam Balam. Small yet powerful menu with a wide variety of selections depending on your dietary restrictions. Service was super personal and friendly. Ended up settling for the chefs special and was the best move. Every dish was expertly prepared and individually crafted. E
Really enjoyed this place. The entrance is down a flight of stairs and you walk into a cozy little colorful restaurant with great music. There was one guy running the show the entire night and he was super on it; food came out timely and hot, dishes were unique and flavorful. Some I thought could’ve
The food was amazing. Shareable plates that are great for the whole table. Small restaurant with just a few tables, so make a reservation. Just so good! Drinks were good too.
Chilam Balam was recommended to me by a coworker and it might just be my new favorite restaurant in Chicago. My sister and I came here on a Tuesday night for dinner and it had a very cozy yet lively vibe. The dinner itself was incredible - we ordered the roasted brussels sprouts, flautas, and the pl
Absolutely incredible experience. I've been here with my fiance a handful of times, and it's always amazing. Luis is a fabulous server and host, and Soraya in the kitchen is incredible. Truly a unique but special experience every time we go, and we can't wait to see what their future holds with the
Absolutely unreal. What a true hidden gem! I was here on a busy Saturday evening, the place was packed and they handled my large party with such care and excellence. We did the tasting menu and there wasn’t a single detail I didn’t love. I was introduced to the owner, Sariah and she was such a sweet
This is hands down THE hidden gem of Chicago. It is so incredibly authentic and unique. We did the chefs selection and it was such a perfect dinner for 8 people. The owner and executive chef are women and care so much about delivering a high level dining experience with a family environment.
I was at Chilam Balam with a large group (about 14) for a 'Friendsgiving' last Friday night and they were incredible. They suggested the 'chef's menu' where they brought out appropriate portions of several appetizers and entrees, paced out beautifully throughout the evening. The staff was so kind an
Great food and service. We had the empanadas, flautas, the Plato placero and the current seasonal dessert. Highly recommend!
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