One cannot talk about Chicago’s food scene without acknowledging the influence of one Rick Bayless. Bayless started his career as a host of PBS show Cooking Mexican (and later, One Plate at a Time) and spent years researching and studying Mexican cooking before publishing his first book. A James Beard award-winning chef and restaurateur first opened Frontera Grill in Chicago with his wife in 1987. Since then, their footprint has expanded across the city and in other cities across the country.

Frontera Grill remains one of the most well-known restaurants in Chicago. Specializing in contemporary regional Mexican cuisine, Frontera transforms the ingredients of local Midwestern farmers to dishes that celebrate vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. Next door, Xoco focuses on street food in more of a fast-casual format. From tortas to empanadas to churros (and hot chocolate for dipping), the “little sister” to Frontera Grill is perfect for meals and snacks in between, especially for those without patience or who forgot to make a reservation at Frontera.