Julio's Cocina Latina
What People Are Saying About Julio's Cocina Latina
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Scene
Nestled inside a northwest suburban strip mall, Julio's casual cafe setting of brightly colored walls and bird and lizard motifs transports diners to warmer climes. Locals dine at the bar; a few outdoor tables dot the sidewalk in front.
The Food
A blend of South American, Mexican and Caribbean cuisines ranges from fried plantains to paella. To start, creamy-crispy artichoke fritters are paired with spicy lemon-pepper dipping sauce; crab and shrimp quesadilla has Asiago and jack cheeses and honey-wheat tortillas with smoky chipotle sour cream. Seafood paella is satisfying, but pales in comparison to the riot of flavor in the classic Cuban ropa vieja, a savory stew of shredded beef brisket, chunks of garlic, black beans and bell peppers tossed in tangy tomato sauce. For dessert, the signature pina colada cake consists of white cake layers filled with rum-soaked pineapple and white-chocolate mousse sprinkled with toasted coconut.
User Reviews
Anonymous
August 21, 2008
If you have not eaten at Julio's, you really need to go. Julio's is a blend of South American, Caribbean, and Mexican food. Julio is originally from Equador. One of the nights we dined there they had a special that was Amberjack Fish with a South American flair -- it was awesome. The always have a wonderful fish on the menu, and you can always count on the Macadamia Crusted Pork Temderloin to be surpurb. It can be a bit pricey after you add in the alcohol, but you definitely won't be disappointed. They have one of the largest selections of Tequila in the Chicago area.
read full reviewThe Details on Julio's Cocina Latina
Save Money:
On Monday nights, there's no corkage fee for B.Y.O. (limit one bottle per table).
When to Go:
Try lunch, when a menu of specialties, enchiladas and tortas (sandwiches) is almost all less than $10.
What to Drink:
Choose from an extensive tequila and rum selection for a freshly shaken margarita or Cuba libre, or a list of nonalcoholic choices (raspberry lemonade, guava-mango-green-tea granita).
The Extras:
Live Brazilian jazz music is featured on Saturday nights (and occasional Fridays).
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Discover, Visa, Money Order, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Family-Friendly Dining, Lunch Spot, Date Spot, Live Music, Dine At The Bar
Cuisine:
Smoking Permitted:
At the bar
