Cariño

Memorable dishes and unique perspective to the Chicago food scene and underrepresented cuisines in the tasting menu segment, with only really Topo similarly positioned. I would be surprised if it doesn't not get a star and/or similar accolades among the other big name awards (Beard, Banchet). Service was mostly tight, but not impeccable. The kitchen seems at times a little strapped for staffing, depending on if full seatings. But these are relatively minor. I could see chef working as a makeshift expo/mixed coordinator at times. Norman also seems like a genuine guy trying his best to give the diners a great experience. I'm sure people give him trouble for being "another white guy doing Mexican", despite his Mexican family and roots. FWIW, no doubt I'd love to see more Mexican tasting menus by natives hit the Chicago scene too! But subjecting chef to gatekeeping seems unfair here.

We did the Taco Omakase on St. Paddy's. We loved most courses - 1st (oyster), 2nd (the flavors!!), Chicken Liver w/ Fresno Chilis (I call it Mexican Egg Roll), Beef Tostada (Beet replacement for the wifey), Octopus Taco, A5 Wagyu/Lamb Taco and Special Quesadilla (additional item/charge).The Beef/Mushroom Taco course was extremely salty, we should have mentioned it to the staff.Drinks are included, no clue if there's a limit. Oaxaca Old Fashioned was great.

We went to Cariño tonight for their late-night taco omakase and I couldn't recommend it more. The restaurant itself only seats 20, but the omakase is 6. The taco tasting was tons of fun and felt really unique and personal. They started us with a beautiful oyster before moving into the rest of the courses which included numerous tacos along with a few other goodies. The service was perfect and the vibes were immaculate. We can't wait to come back.

This is our second trip back in a month so hopefully that tells you something about how awesome Shia place is. (Oh and we are planning to go back again with the kids haha). We originally did the prix fixe main menu but we decided to go back for the taco omakase and it was just as amazing. Also love the informal atmosphere of the omakase and the ability to chit chat with the chef and other staff. Location in the city isn't awesome but honestly who cares when the food and experience is so great. Really hope this place gets the recognition it so richly deserves.

The food is delicious and creative at the chef's counter at Cariño. The huitlacoche ravioli with truffles and fried corn silk is not only my favorite dish of the night, but one of my favorite dishes ever. That's saying something.

Well, a tik tok video show casing Carino caught my attention, so I ended up booking a reservation for it. It wasn't the same menu as the video, as I went for the max and did the chef's counter menu. I admit I was a bit worried, if I over paid for this place at first, but after the last bite, I'm glad I went to this restaurant now, before it gets its Michelin 1 star. After hitting most of the Michelins in the restaurant in Chicagos, as well as when I travel, this place is definitely worth of that rating. I didn't even realize it has only been open for only 3 months. The food was great and I like how places now can show case different cultures through using the Japanese omakase fashion. Usually when thinking of Mexican food, you're thinking street food and mom and pop at a cheap cost. However they were able to use the names we are familiar with like tacos, quesadillas, etc and give it a spin on the fancy side. In addition to that, ingredients like caviar and black cod just to name a few got used as well. All in all, being a food snob this place did not disappoint. I would recommend booking this place now, before word gets out. Great job Carino, great job!

Phenomenal Latin American tasting menu available at regular dinner time and outstanding Taco Omakase available at 10 p.m. I've had both and loved them both so, so much. It's the early days, but Cariño is going to blow up soon. It's incredibly delicious and I can't recommend it enough. Absolutely outstanding new restaurant in every way. Oh, and the atmosphere is cozy but lively.

I went for the late night omakase taco tasting and had a blast. Very lively event with progressive latin music and cocktails accompanied by a very professional and elevating dinning experience. Would highly recommend to all walks of life. I admit it is a little pricey for "a taco night" but 2 drinks are included with the tab and is it backed up by great food and talent.

Amazing experience! Went for the tasting menu with a group of friends. We were all blown away with the taste, quality, and presentation of the food. Can't recommend this place enough!