Asadito

Asadito Taco and Tequila Bar Opens Today in the West Loop | Eater Chicago

"Opened by father-and-son operators Art and Tyler Mendoza, this new West Loop taco and tequila bar occupies a bright 3,000 sq. ft. space at 30 N. Clinton Street with low- and high-top seating, a long wooden bar, and an 85-seat outdoor patio; Siren Betty Design outfitted the interior in light wood, white tile, and pops of teal and yellow with colorful Christian iconography (including a portrait of La Virgen de Guadalupe) to create a relaxed counterpoint to the darker aesthetic of the neighboring concept. Tortillas are made by hand using masa sourced from Pilsen and are filled with spit-roasted meats for tacos such as al pastor (charred pineapple, cilantro) and carnitas (salsa verde, avocado); the menu also includes pozole (pork shoulder, corn, roja broth, hominy, radish, lime, cilantro, onion), elote, guacamole, and churros with chocolate or caramel for dipping. The bar features eight margarita bases (frozen and on the rocks) including spicy strawberry and roasted pineapple with basil, plus a comprehensive mezcal and tequila collection that enables bartenders to craft more than 2,000 specialized margarita variations; there are also 10 house cocktails (notably the “Masa Disciple,” an elote‑inspired mix of Oaxacan rum, roasted corn syrup, mezcal, and lime made by roasting, shaving, and squeezing raw corn), two draft Mexican beers, bottled/canned brews, wine, and nonalcoholic options like Mexican Coke, horchata, and Jarritos. The operation offers counter service during the day and table service in the evening, with reported hours of 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday." - Naomi Waxman