New Latin-Themed Restaurants Debut in Chicago
Restaurants that incorporate Mexican and other Latin fare are heating up the restaurant scene. Two such establishments debuted in the Chicago area in October.
Barbakoa, a modern Latin eatery on the outskirts of Oakbrook, Ill, features Chef Dudley Nieto's farm-to-table cuisine, including the signature Barbakoa Short Rib Taco made with short ribs braised in a blend of Oaxacan chiles; Peruvian-style ceviche. North of downtown in the Ravenswood neighborhood, ARTango South American Bistro (http://artangocenterchicago.com/index.php/restaurant) offers an innovative twist on Latin cuisine, with influences from Argentina, Venezuela and Peru. Featured items include arepas, empanadas, grilled tilapia tacos, and ensalada de quinoa with quinoa risotto, grilled portabella mushrooms.
Watch for stories about Oaxacan and Peruvian cuisine in our Winter 2014 issue coming in February!