The three things that Barcocina (2901 N. Sheffield Ave., Lake View, 773-687-9949) is best for all happen to be emblazoned in lights on its walls. The crowd at this Sheffield Avenue newbie tends to eat, drink, and socialize with abandon. 

Compared to other neighboring spots, patrons skew a little older (a staffer says it's particularly popular with the area's "hip parent crowd"), sipping margaritas and chowing down on tacos while sports showed on the TV and a DJ spun tunes at a reasonable volume. For now, the massive patio has been converted into an ice-skating rink à la Parson's. Word is it's more of an afternoon activity–on Saturday night, the ice was occupied by just a single skater.

Here's what all we saw when we stopped in.