Where To Eat Along The Riverwalk - 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. Settle 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, and be thankful to be out of the fray of the main Riverwalk path." - veda kilaru
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
Nice authentic Mexican style tacos in a lovely setting. I had a very delicious Fresca, also. Grab a table under or by the river edge, if possible. I would come back if I was in the area.
CV G (.
Google
A beautiful, informal location to enjoy a little music, custom margaritas, and a little flavor in the form of tacos, salads, etc. The food was good and well prepared. It's not the best I've had, but I would gladly eat here again. The margaritas offered lots of customization.
Snehal (.
Google
Decided to grab some margs & tacos so headed to coco bar for the same! Did the built our own Marg and got the house tequila for the same. For apps we did a platter of chips and dips which was 10/10. Got the jalapeño Esquites which was soooo good! Location is right by the river so was good to go for a walk after!
aza K.
Google
Stopped here for a bite to eat after a day of sightseeing with some family. It is not actually on the river walk- instead it is on the street level. Food was a little lacking in spice but otherwise it was good, and came out quickly and was hot. Not the best tacos I’ve ever had but very satisfying. Service was great and the location is shaded which was nice to get out of the heat.
Khadijah Abdul K.
Google
I had a very pleasant experience at Coco Bar! The tacos were delicious and my server was so kind. He made sure our table was clear of anything we were finished with and checked on us to bring whatever we needed. I enjoyed the beautiful atmosphere and clean environment. 10/10 recommendation
Nov C
Google
The place is right in the center, close to the bridge and riverwalk entrance. I ordered the Chicken Chilaquiles and a classic margarita. The food was decent, but the margarita was good for a hot day! I’m a big fan of margaritas and definitely recommend giving it a try!
Alexander K.
Google
Posted outside in this beautiful Chicago summertime weather eating these delicious Carne Asada tacos. The guacamole is $4 extra but well worth it. What I loved most was that my tacos already came with hot sauce on the side and I didn’t need to wait to ask. I definitely recommend this quick spot.
Kristen & Colleston M.
Google
Great margarita choices and the kids loved the paletas. A great option for a quick break and snack!