CocoBar - Review - Loop - Chicago - The Infatuation

"There aren’t a ton of options to eat real, enjoyable food along the narrow and crowded Riverwalk. And while CocoBar is technically street-level, the fantastic frozen margaritas, hefty carnitas tacos, and warm churro fries make up for how you’re missing a chance to fall into the river. There are plenty of other things to try, like steak burritos and portable cups of esquites. But we like settling in at one of the cute millennial candy cane-colored tables on the tree-covered patio with a bucket of beers and some garlicky empanadas, thankful to be out of the fray of the main Riverwalk path. Food Rundown Esquites Piping hot, gently spiced corn arrives under a creamy blanket of cotija cheese and mayo. It’s conveniently served in a portable plastic cup, so you can take it along on your Devil In The White City tour. photo credit: Veda Kilaru Empanadas There are multiple fillings available, but the malbec beef is a great, garlicky option. No matter which flavor you choose, it will come wrapped in a lightly blistered shell with a good amount of crisp. Carnitas Tacos These are served simply, with onions, cilantro, and a bit of salsa on the side. Get it with carnitas—the meat is tender and there’s a lot of it. photo credit: Veda Kilaru Drinks Drinks are a highlight at CocoBar, whether it’s the not-too-sweet prickly pear frozen margarita or the refreshing strawberry coconut mojito made to order. You can build your own margarita as well, or just stick to buckets of Modelo in case you’re prone to decision-making paralysis." - Veda Kilaru