Mercadito Chicago: A Vibrant Culinary Escape

Welcome to Mercadito Chicago, a vibrant spot that brings the authentic flavors of Mexico to life! Nestled in the heart of Chicago, this restaurant offers an experience that goes beyond just a meal; it’s a celebration of Mexican culture and cuisine. You can find Mercadito at 1038 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610. They’re open from 11:30 AM to 11 PM on weekdays, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays and until 10:00 PM on Sundays. To get in touch, you can call them at (312) 337-0800. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner, a special celebration, or just a craving for delicious food, Mercadito Chicago is your go-to destination.

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Menu Highlights

Get ready to explore a mouthwatering menu brimming with authentic Mexican flavors. Mercadito Chicago offers a diverse selection, from classic appetizers to tantalizing entrees. Here are some of the dishes you can expect:

Appetizers

Guacamole Tradicional: Freshly made guacamole, with avocado, lime, cilantro, and a hint of onion.
Queso Fundido: Melted Oaxaca cheese, served with your choice of chorizo or mushrooms, with tortillas.
Elote: Grilled corn on the cob, coated with mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder.
Sopes de Tinga: Thick tortillas, topped with chicken tinga, lettuce, crema, and cotija cheese.
Tostadas de Cangrejo: Crispy tostadas topped with crab meat, avocado, chipotle mayo, and cilantro.
Empanadas de Camaron: Flaky pastries filled with succulent shrimp, spices, and a flavorful sauce.
Chicharrones de Cerdo: Crispy, flavorful fried pork rinds, served with salsa and lime.
Aguachile Verde: Shrimp cooked in a vibrant green chile and lime juice marinade.

Tacos

Tacos de Carne Asada: Grilled steak tacos with onions, cilantro, and salsa.
Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork tacos, with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.
Tacos de Camarón: Shrimp tacos with chipotle mayo, cabbage, and a squeeze of lime.
Tacos de Pescado: Fish tacos with a crispy coating, cabbage, and a creamy sauce.
Tacos de Birria: Slow-cooked, tender beef tacos, served with consome for dipping.
Tacos de Rajas con Crema: Roasted poblano peppers with cream, onions and cheese tacos.
Tacos de Chorizo: Flavorful Mexican sausage tacos with onions, cilantro, and a spicy kick.
Tacos de Lengua: Tender and flavorful beef tongue tacos, with onions and cilantro.

Enchiladas & Entrees

Enchiladas Suizas: Chicken enchiladas, smothered in green sauce, cheese, and crema.
Enchiladas de Mole: Chicken enchiladas, coated with rich mole sauce and topped with cheese.
Chile Rellenos: Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, then battered and fried, served with sauce.
Mole Poblano: Chicken or pork simmered in a complex, rich mole sauce, with rice.
Carnitas: Slow-cooked, tender pork, served with tortillas, onions, and cilantro.
Costillas de Cerdo: Grilled pork ribs, marinated in a flavorful sauce, served with sides.
Filete a la Veracruzana: Pan-seared fish with tomatoes, olives, capers, and a white wine sauce.
Pollo con Mole: Chicken served with a complex and deeply flavored mole sauce.
Bistec Encebollado: Thinly sliced steak sautéed with onions and peppers, served with sides.

Sides

Arroz: Classic Mexican rice, cooked to perfection.
Frijoles: Delicious refried beans, a staple of Mexican cuisine.
Elote: Grilled corn on the cob, smothered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder.
Papas Fritas: Crispy, golden-brown french fries.
Ensalada de la Casa: A refreshing house salad with a light vinaigrette.

Desserts

Churros: Crispy, sweet churros, served with chocolate dipping sauce.
Flan: Creamy, classic Mexican custard dessert, drizzled with caramel.
Tres Leches Cake: Sponge cake soaked in three types of milk, a sweet treat.
Arroz con Leche: Creamy rice pudding, flavored with cinnamon, a comforting dessert.

The interior of Mercadito Chicago is warm and inviting, with colorful decor and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects Mexican culture. The service is attentive and friendly, creating a welcoming dining experience. The pricing is mid-range, making it accessible for various budgets. The vibe is lively and fun, perfect for a night out with friends or a special celebration. The restaurant consistently creates a joyful dining environment.

Mercadito Chicago’s menu is full of delicious meals, from its famous tacos to its exquisite entrees. The vibrant ambiance, friendly service, and reasonable prices make it a great choice for anyone seeking authentic Mexican cuisine.

Conclusion

If you’re craving authentic Mexican food in Chicago, Mercadito is a must-visit. Their tacos al pastor are legendary, the enchiladas are a delight, and the atmosphere is infectiously joyful. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Mercadito Chicago offers a taste of Mexico that will leave you wanting more. It is the perfect place for anyone looking to enjoy a fantastic meal in a fun, festive setting. A true culinary gem in the heart of Chicago, I give it a solid thumbs-up!

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