Mar 9, 2025

Irazu Chicago

Chicago's Only Costa Rican

"Here diners sit in the naturally lit patio while enjoying traditional homemade Costa Rican food: sweet plantains, grilled veggies, rice and beans."

Irazu Costa Rican Restaurant in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood is the only Costa Rican eatery in the city.

Unlike the flavors of other Latin American cuisines that come to mind, Costa Rican food does not rely on fiery hot spices or heavily fried foods. Instead, its flavor profile reflects the simplistic lifestyle of Costa Ricans, which is summed up in the country's unofficial motto: Pura Vida.

Pura Vida translates to pure life, but its meaning extends much deeper than its direct translation. Costa Ricans use this phrase as a greeting, to express happiness, or even a misfortune, among other things. Its easygoingness encapsulates one of the reasons why this small Central American country is often called the happiest country in the world and perfectly describes the atmosphere of Irazu.

Diners sit in the restaurant's spacious, naturally lit patio while enjoying traditional platters of homemade Costa Rican food: sweet plantains, grilled veggies, rice and beans. Other popular menu items include their famous oatmeal shakes, fresh ceviche and guacamole with chips.

I'd recommend coming here with a friend on a sunny day and ordering any of the above. Irazu is one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago for service served with a smile!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

About this spot

1865 N Milwaukee Ave

Dinner:

USD

25

+1

7732525687

Find your way with 114 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Chicago guide.

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Chicago

Bungalow

Natural wine meets fresh bread

I am always stunned by their appetizers, including "the big salad," which includes seasonal vegetables topped with plenty of pepper and shredded cheese.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Pasta Bowl

Pasta to die for

"Pasta Bowl" in Chicago boasts about being a laid-back restaurant with fresh dishes, but if you're not in the mood for a bite, they also act as a cool bar.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Vegan Plate

Hearty Thai food

I'm not vegan but I do think that "Vegan Plate" in Lincoln Park is one of the best bang-for-your-buck restaurants in Chicago. Try the curry combo plate!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Monk's Pub

Craft beer bar in the Loop

Monk's Pub is a snug beer bar suitable for anyone looking for a pint or their next meal. It's smack in the middle of Chicago, but you really can't tell...

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Four Moon Tavern

Dive bar with panache

"Four Moon Tavern" in Chicago may seem simple on the outside, but this neighborhood bar has a lot to offer. Make sure to come here hungry!

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Long Room

A cozy long room bar

"Long Room" in Chicago is as the name suggests: a long gathering room. Or rather, a long tavern. I love the wooden bar, the lack of television & the menu!

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Chicago Athletic Association

Library bar

The "Chicago Athletic Association" (CAA) is an elite, hidden, and multifaceted space in the heart of the Loop. The gem of this hotel is the drawing room...

002-building
Art & culture
028-beach-bar-1
Bars
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Reggies Chicago

Bar with music and shuttles

Reggies Chicago is a grunge bar, concert venue, and shuttle hub with great eats, Sox game packages, a beach bar and unique events like a pancake art show.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 13, 2025

aliveOne

Cozy music bar

aliveOne in Lincoln Park offers rock vibes, local music, a cozy atmosphere, pool, comfy couches, and the perfect spot to unwind or dance the night away.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 13, 2025

Side Street Saloon

Dive bar with pizza

Side Street Saloon in Lakeview is the perfect no-frills dive bar with a cozy Italian vibe in back, great pizza, pool, and a quirky neighborhood charm.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 13, 2025

Little Madrid

A bit of Spain in Chicago

Little Madrid in Chicago feels so European, it's surprising — trust me, I've spent some time in Madrid myself. Great place for a date or coworker night.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 12, 2025

Luft Balloons

Decorating Chicago with balloons

"Luft Balloons" in Chicago isn't just a balloon shop - it's a female-operated & owned business that makes balloon sculptures specifically for marches...

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 12, 2025

Heading to Chicago?

114 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

114 Insider Tips

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

... for just €9.99

App Download Download our app

City guides by those who know the city in and out!

Our Locals' Favorite Chicago

Our team loves Chicago

Get to know our other Spotters from Chicago

As featured on:

New-York-Times
the-guardian
mashable
the-sunday-times
false
0
false
71
Filters