Xs and Os for XOchimilco

We stopped in at a new Mexican place in Lincoln Square/Ravenswood called XOchimilco. What a pleasure to see Giovanni, a very nice waiter we knew from the late great Los Nopales, with a place he and his wife opened. The menu is in a similar vein as Los Nopales and Mas Aya Del Sol -- creative, upscale Mexican dishes, plus many of the classics, with fair price points.

Lots of interesting choices on the menu, and a few specials. We had the lamb shank, which has a tasty, mild sauce and a size of fiery habanero salsa, plus meaty pinto beans. Really tender and flavorful. The camarones de ajo had several giant shrimp, and a very nice portion, and shrimp were cooked perfectly and very garlic-y. Appetizers were guacamole (fresh, standard) and a special mushroom (deep fried, so a bit different, but creative and good). I had a bite of my friend's skirt steak, and it was terrific -- thick, tender, delicious. I will get that one the next time.

The restaurant is attractive and comfortable. Service was uniformly friendly and helpful. Currently BYOB. They offer two margarita mixes (regular and passion fruit), plus limes and salt with glasses, for your tequila. Very nice touch. Excellent addition to the neighborhood rotation!

2030-32 W Montrose Ave
Chicago, IL 60618

This place sounds like it could be a worthy successor to a favorite of mine in the same neighborhood that closed a while ago......Mixteco Grill. Looking forward to trying it soon!

XOchimilco website
XOchimilco Facebook page

An annual dinner with friends used to be at Mixteco. Last night was our second time at XOchimilco. Exceptionally friendly service. Probably one of the best carne asadas I've had in a long time. I hope to be back before next year's dinner.

Got XOchimilco carry out the other day; it was awesome. Got the Panela XO as a starter, which was tasty. Got a couple of good sides of plantains and esquites and my wife enjoyed her Camerones a la Veracruzana. The star of the show for me though was the veggie al pastor tacos. They had cauliflower, pineapple and the panela cheese and was just a great flavor combination of sweet and savory with a little spice. I'm already thinking about when we can order them again.