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child friendly:

 
vegetarian:

 
BYO:

 
outdoor dining:

 
high noise level:

 
late seating:

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chilam balam

Chilam Balam

Categories:
  • Reviewed
  • UPDATE

Essential Information

Street Address 3023 N Broadway
Chicago, IL
Phone773-296-6901
Website URL www.chilambalamchicago...

There is nothing particularly convenient about this spirited little Mexican BYO. It’s tucked into a cramped basement, takes no weekend reservations, and, most frustrating of all, accepts only cash. But its constantly evolving small-plate menu has pluck to spare, using seasonal ingredients to obliterate stereotypes. Scallops are served with a sweet-corn sauce dappled with jots of charred eggplant and knob onions, pork ribs are slathered in a honey-pasilla sauce, and the tamales—no matter the flavor of the day—are first-rate. Excellent service and fine homemade hot chocolate to boot. Cash only.

Additional Information

Rating: 1½ stars

Price: $20-$29

Cuisine: Mexican

Neighborhood: Lake View

Noteworthy:
3 or more vegetarian items
BYO (up to $5 corkage)
child friendly
high noise level
outdoor dining
will seat past 10:30 p.m.

Dishes We Liked:


Pan-roasted Cornish hen ($14.25), grilled cobia ($14.95), young greens with roasted poblano dressing and candied pepitas ($8.95), seared scallops with sweet-corn sauce ($16.95), short-rib tamal with ancho sauce ($13.95), hibiscus flan with vanilla-lime swirl ice cream ($7.50)

Related Stories:


Best Mexican Restaurants in Chicago November 2010



Best New Restaurants 2010 May 2010

Hours: D Tue-Sat.

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