Aurora and Yorkville welcome new destinations for authentic, upscale Mexican cuisine
It’s no secret that Chicagoland is home to America’s best Mexican restaurants—from Chicago’s Little Village to the City of Aurora, loyal patrons keep taquerias bustling with business even in these tough times for the hospitality industry. So it’s no surprise that, even in a down market for dining, three new authentic family-owned Mexican restaurants in the Aurora Area are going strong, welcoming diners to lush outdoor patios to enjoy fine cocktails and cuisine.
Altiro Latin Fusion
Located in the heart of downtown Aurora on the ground floor of historic Leland Tower, Altiro Latin Fusion offers scenic views of the Fox River and a unique menu full of standout tacos y tapas. Order a trio of seasonal guacamole to start, then share delicious tacos like the Al Samonjillo, featuring grilled king salmon and pineapple, or tostadas topped with rich Slagel farm lamb and caramelized chipotle onions. Cocktails here range from smoky to sweet with compelling flavor profiles and simple ingredients, the perfect pairing for dining out in downtown Aurora and gearing up for a show at The Venue, an indoor/outdoor concert hall located just steps away from the patio at Altiro.
1 S. Stolp Avenue
Aurora, IL 60506
630.800.1973
altirolatinfusion.com
El Jefe - Leña y Mar
Grilled meats and seafood take center stage at this lively new restaurant on Aurora’s Lake Street gateway. A warm, inviting atmosphere with vibrant floral decor and live music on the weekends elevates the experience as you await mouthwatering dishes inspired by the cultural gastronomy of Mexican cuisine. Sip on classic cocktails with a signature twist, like El Jefe’s magnificent Mezcal Old Fashioned, then dig in to a menu mainstay like the Arrachera Jefe, a rustic, charcoal-grilled skirt steak with just enough sizzle and spice to please any palate. Rotating specials like addictively sweet and spicy tacos birria or pescado frito a la diablo—a whole fresh fish battered, fried, and smothered in spicy salsa—will delight you and your dining partners after a day of blazing trails along the Fox River or shopping Chicago Premium Outlets.
1271 N. Lake Street
Aurora, IL 60506
630.340.3328
eljeferestaurant.net
Hacienda Real
The new Holiday Inn Express & Suites that opened in early 2020 brought with it new opportunities for shopping and dining at the intersection of Routes 34 & 47 in Yorkville. Hacienda Real is the latest addition to the commercial corridor, joining Flight Bottle Shoppe & Tasting Room and Burnt Barrel Social in generating foodie buzz in the hotel outlot. Hacienda Real offers an amazing combination of family recipes that offer a modern interpretation of authentic Mexican fare. The restaurant boasts an outdoor bar and comfortable outdoor seating where you can sample house specialties like traditional Paella de Mariscos, a colorful mixture of rice and seafood bursting with flavor, and order from a full menu of Mexican favorites, from chimichangas to enchiladas and delicious traditional sides with a modern presentation. Close out your meal with a delectable plate of churros tossed in cinnamon and sugar and served with a rotating selection of seasonal ice cream. Hacienda Real is an ideal spot to feed the family after a day out at Raging Waves or prior to a night of live music at The Law Office Pub & Music Hall, a downtown Yorkville mainstay bringing in the best and brightest of American indie rock, roots, country, and more.
585 E. Kendall Dr.
Yorkville, IL 60560
630.882.9541
haciendaflavorsofmexico.com