Frontera Grill is an icon in its own right here in Chicago and this weekend will mark its 34th anniversary. Created by Chef Rick Bayless who has studied Mexican cuisine for years before opening Frontera Grill. And before that had a television shows on PBS about Mexican cuisine. Bayless got his start as an executive chef at Lopez y Gonzalez in Ohio (https://www.yelp.com/biz/lopez-cleveland-heights-11) for years before coming to Chicago to call home so he can start his first restaurant Frontera Grill back in March 21, 1987. I had the honers in speaking with Rick Bayless less countless of times. According to Bayless, Mexican food is not and should not be cheap like the Mexican American fast food spots in America. He always focused on upscale Mexican cuisine. Even his two outposts at O’hare Airport, Tortas Frontera (https://www.yelp.com/biz/tortas-frontera-chicago) shows that. Frontera Grill has a focus on Oaxaca region where tlayudas and quesellio cheese are the best along with Oaxaca mole.

There are several staples I have tried over the years. The excellent Frontera Grill Tortilla Soup w/ pastilla, grilled chicken, fresh avocado and topped with Jack cheese, house made crema, and crispy tortillas. The classic and cheesy Queso Fundido w/ Jack cheese, roasted peppers, house made chorizo, and heirloom corn tortillas. Puebla Style Enchiladas made with house made heirloom corn tortillas, grilled chicken, mole poblano, and a side of black beans make an amazing dish. I recommend any of the tacos ever changing on the menu where you will find how an elevated taco can be. The restaurant is filled with color that brings an ambiance of Mexico as you walk in and dine. The service every time has been spot on even dining outside. Make sure you take advantage of the many different mezcal drinks they offer which most mezcal is made in the Oaxaca region.

With countless awards including from the James Beard Foundation, this place should not be missed nor next door’s Michelin rated Topolobampo (https://www.yelp.com/biz/topolobampo-chicago) where you can enjoy Rick Bayless’ approach to Mexican fine dining.

Food / Drink – 5
Décor – 5
Service – 5

Overall – 5 / 5

445 N Clark Street, Chicago, IL
https://www.rickbayless.com/restaurants/frontera-grill/