Frontera Grill

Frontera Grill Reviews

Add your review for Frontera Grill.

• Awesome! Hands down the best margarita I have ever had. The house made tortillas are exceptional. Everything we ordered was terrific. If you are in the mood for Mexican this place is can't miss.

  by Cameron Wylie

  
  

• The taquitos may be the best Mexican thing I've ever eaten in my life. The chips are amongst the best too.

  by Lee H.

  
  

• Still the best Mexican in the city after a decade...

  by Ryan M

  
  

• The food was very good and original. Especially the ceviche. But service could be a bit more attentive.

  by jiresell

  
  

• Absolutely amazing! great service. Have to get the Trio Ceviche

  by Jon P.

  
  

• Come to Frontera Grill and ask for Pueblo Viejo Tequila.

  by Pueblo Viejo Tequila C

  
  

• Had Halibut. Was awesome.

  by Tim E.

  
  

• Unique and vibrant take on Mexican cuisine paired with delicious mezcal cocktails

  by Joseph Le

  
  

• Ceviche & mescal margarita 👍🏼.

  by Christine D

  
  

• Rick Bayless took Chicago’s enchiladas-and-tacos Mexican dining scene and showed us a better way, one that celebrated regional authenticity and sustainably and ethically raised ingredients.

  by Chicago Tribune

  
  

• Long wait is always worth it. The food is exceptionally delicious.

  by Kevin M.

  
  

• Delicious!!

  by Dave B

  
  

• Best Mexican in chi town

  by Nadine C

  
  

• Nice atmosphere, chicken grill tartilios

  by Dmytro I

  
  

• The brunch menu features huevos rancheros, chilaquiles and hot cakes so you can start the day off with a hearty, satisfying meal.

  by Eater

  
  

• The Ceviche and Tacos Arabe are amazing

  by Adriana D

  
  

• Ballers know the Splurge Margarita is the way to go with cognac barrel-aged tequila, Grand Marnier, cognac-infused Pineau des Charantes, fresh lime, and gold leaf.

  by Eater

  
  

• If it's your first time here, try ordering a bunch of the small plates to share and go for the Mezcal Paloma... Delicious!

  by Jacqueline Lombardi

  
  

• If you're not sure what to order, go with small plates. Two people can share 4 small plates and leave satisfied. Try the Mezcal Paloma, Yum!

  by Jacqueline Lombardi

  
  

• The tortilla soup is delicious, the atmosphere.decor is great, and the service is always friendly. Well worth a visit!

  by Katie K

  
  

• Rick Bayless' Mexican haven, including Xoco on the corner, is a Chicago institution spawning spinoffs around the globe of south of the border fare from street food to high end.

  by Eater

  
  

• Come with 4+ people and get all the apps

  by John S.

  
  

• In the heart of River North lies Frontera Grill, a Rick Bayless gem that boasts an incredible menu and even better patio.

  by Bitches Who B.

  
  

• Margaritas and Ceviche!

  by Caryn l

  
  

• The food and service was excellent. The frontera margarita was one of the best I've ever had.

  by Brian G.

  
  

• The Easter colors reflect in a Margarita mixed with Pueblo Viejo. Get yours here at Frontera Grill!

  by Pueblo Viejo Tequila C

  
  

• The ceviches are really good, and so is the quest fundido. Try the margaritas and the mezcal cocktails. Cochinita pibil is very tender and flavorful. And don't forget the desserts!

  by Jorge U.

  
  

• If you want to freshen up with a delicious cocktail at Frontera Grill, try a Paloma mixed with Pueblo Viejo Blanco.

  by Pueblo Viejo Tequila C

  
  

• Killer guacamole and margaritas. Love the atmosphere.

  by Chad P.

  
  

• Rick Bayless's excellent Mexican food

  by Brandon B.

  
  

• If you are in Frontera Grill, try a Margarita with Pueblo Viejo Blanco.

  by Pueblo Viejo Tequila C

  
  

• Duck tlatonile one of the best duck dishes ever

  by Stephen L

  
  

• Have been going here for years, great food. Can't beat the experience here

  by Famous D

  
  

• The Bitches say: A+ A Chicago favorite that features locally sourced ingredients on a menu full of innovative Mexican favorites.

  by Bitches Who B.

  
  

• You cannot order a bad thing here. Worth every penny.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Subtle and extremely tasty Mexican fare. Fresh ingredients, brilliant seasoning and cooking. Plenty of great vegetarian "street food" appetizers.

  by Jeffrey Z.

  
  

• Best upscale Mexican food in Chicago.

  by Joe J

  
  

• By all means order the Ceviche. If you are adventurous get the Ceviche trio. It's all that!!

  by Ken S.

  
  

• Can't wait for lunch! !

  by Denise J

  
  

• Try the ceviche and have a Margarita.

  by Latham B.

  
  

• There is takeaway as well as a sit down area, if you have a little extra time.

  by Robert T.

  
  

• Hard to get a table, but if you sit by the bar you can order from the menu

  by Holly H.

  
  

• Real tortillas - go for the tacos

  by Eduardo Molina

  
  

• Disappointing that a singleton gets a different answer than someone at table of 6 to same question 5 mins apart.

  by Lisa Hinchliffe

  
  

• Their ceviche is amazing... Go for their guac&chips

  by Leonardo Gastmann

  
  

• Delicious guacamole!!! We had a great meal. It was worth waiting in line for an hour.

  by Rebecca Maldonado

  
  

• Didn't know margaritas can be this good!

  by Mikko a

  
  

• Frontera Grill is the place to go for high quality Mexican food and drink in a casual setting. There is so much to try that I have to return repeatedly to sample more of the menu.

  by Gregory B

  
  

• Great place! Try ceviche trio for triple experience. And gin and tonic is to die for - absolutely divine!!!

  by Lena Janimova

  
  

• Check out Frontera Grill as seen on Best Thing I Ever Ate

  by TV Food Maps

  
  

• Be ware of the spicy Margs

  by Leslie T.

  
  

• Great Paloma and Classic Margarita!!

  by Paty Castro de Zavala

  
  

• Curtis Duffy, chef of Grace, eats here on his nights off. He loves the Scallop ceviche.

  by Chefs Feed

  
  

• Many menu whice delicouis.

  by Man_Used👽👾👽

  
  

• Michael Kornick, chef of MK, eats here on his nights off. He loves the Coctel de Atun Tropical.

  by Chefs Feed

  
  

• Four walls. Air conditioning and oh yeaaaaa the guacamole is like sex in your mouth.

  by Brian C.

  
  

• Can't go wrong, here. Try something different from your usual 'Mexican" choices, for a real treat!

  by Rich L.

  
  

• It's impossible to order a bad thing here. To maximize your choices, try 2 things from the street menu and an appetizer. If you do, you can probably share a dessert.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Frog legs tamal was delish! Also sopa azteca! And blue agave margarita!!

  by larok

  
  

• The Mexican hot chocolate is to die for.

  by Nicholas B

  
  

• Dessert was the best. Save some room.

  by Jen Marquez

  
  

• One of the best Mexican meals I've ever had. The BEST guacamole I have ever had.

  by Scott B.

  
  

• One Michelin star

  by La Dolce Vita

  
  

• Delicious. Favorite was the Frontera Ceviche.

  by Annie

  
  

• Trio mole! Yum.

  by David S

  
  

• Stick with bar area instead of dining room; far better sights and liveliness.

  by Johan C.

  
  

• Order the guacamole. If you do nothing else in your life. Seriously.

  by Judy-Anne G.

  
  

• Love the catfish tacos, yucatan ceviche & shishito peppers!

  by Margaret C.

  
  

• Tres Leches Helado :-)

  by Sarina R.

  
  

• Great Trio Ceviche

  by Sarina R.

  
  

• Chocolate Cappuccino !!! The best!!

  by Sarina R.

  
  

• Try the Topolo Margarita: the best I've ever had.

  by Rick L.

  
  

• Get the splurge margarita! Outstanding!

  by Cinnamin M.

  
  

• The ceviche is amazing!

  by Shannon e

  
  

• If you have a big group the Morales room is the way to go. Set menu, 5 courses, wine pairings, good times. Randall was our server and he rocked.

  by Michael S.

  
  

• Tom, our server, was awesome. He was so knowledgable and patient. We had a wonder lunch! Don't miss out on the Champagne Margarita! And, a Rick Bayless sighting.

  by Stephanie M.

  
  

• Good, but over rated

  by Amy F.

  
  

• Was featured on Food Network show "Best Thing I Ever Ate" for its Carne Asada A La Oaxaqueña.

  by Jon S.

  
  

• Get the old school frontera trio...worth it!

  by Samantha P

  
  

• Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time to avoid waiting in the long line! Tropical tuna ceviche is awesome and the summer margarita is AMAZING!

  by Chelsea

  
  

• make sure you get there early- they don't take reservations. otherwise, plan on hanging out and having a couple margaritas while you wait for the second round of seating

  by Eric D.

  
  

• As an opinionated Mexican... This place rocks! Super impressed!

  by Rc Martinez

  
  

• Over all amazing food and service!

  by Ashley C

  
  

• As far as a way to beat the crowds, there isn't one. Arrive early or go late. Otherwise, bring a book and wait in line with the rest of us.

  by Serious Eats

  
  

• The civche trio is an amazing way to start. The service is friendly but incredibly slow.

  by David S.

  
  

• Two words - tequila flights

  by Diana

  
  

• The duck enchiladas were amazing.

  by Jonathan S.

  
  

• The ceviche trio and suckling pig were amazing.

  by Kimberly P.

  
  

• My favorite restaurants in Chicago, and that's saying a lot because I have many. Everything tastes amazing and the service is top notch.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Over rated!

  by LeAnn L.

  
  

• Make a reservation

  by Jill K.

  
  

• carne asada a la oaxaquena (The Best Thing I Ever Ate, TV SHOW)

  by flavvio13 f.

  
  

• Meyer lemon, prickly pear sorbet, blood orange, marshmallow fluff(but not from a jar). Oh my!! Sit at 5 top overlooking kitchen-got right in!

  by Julie K.

  
  

• Not the best flan I've ever had, but you get two - one traditional and one chocolate. The chocolate one is delicious with bacon infused brittle. Definitely a great postre

  by AP O.

  
  

• Food was good~service.... not so good

  by Lossie F.

  
  

• Get the Ceviche Trio.

  by Michael C.

  
  

• Never been disappointed by the food or drinks. Top notch ceviche, guac and variety of moles. BEST bartenders who know a lot about tequila & shake a damn good 'rita (shout out to Jonathan).

  by Christina T

  
  

• Everything here is amazing! I especially loved their brunch, as others have mentioned.

  by Minh I.

  
  

• Expect stellar versions of Mexican classics like enchiladas, mole and flautas; spot-on ceviches; and, for Saturday brunch, white-corn pancakes with whipped goat cheese.

  by Time Out Chicago

  
  

• The lunch menu ($22) including mushroom empanadas with watercress salad, chicken or pork loin mole and a coconut tres leches cake with pineapple, all concocted with Rick Bayless' signature flair.

  by Time Out Chicago

  
  

• Get the sopa rancheros. You will not regret it.

  by Dayes W.

  
  

• Putting the Bayless empire against taquerias is a David and Goliath move, but you’ll side with the big guy once you taste the soft housemade tortillas, farm eggs and beautiful blistered tomato sauce.

  by Time Out Chicago

  
  

• Help support Chef Rick Bayless’s charity The Frontera Farmer Foundation through FOOD & WINE’s “Chefs Make Change” program! Click to donate www.foodandwine.com/donate

  by Food & Wine

  
  

• Since opening its doors in ’87, Frontera Grill has been the spot for an intensely flavorful, impeccably fresh slice of Mexico, courtesy of celebrity chef and winner of Top Chef Masters Rick Bayless.

  by Time Out Chicago Kids

  
  

• A true fan of Rick Bayless enjoys churros and hot chocolate to go while standing in line outside waiting for Frontera Grill to open.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Rick Bayless just started a agua del dia cocktail ... There's a different one every day. All are amazing.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• If there's an exceptionally long wait, you can eat at the bar with the full menu.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Margaritas are shaken to order table side. Great place to start is the Topolo Margarita.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• For an after-dinner treat that's without alcohol, the chocolate cappuccino is always perfect. Rick Bayless chocolate, Intelligentsia coffee.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• The menu differs between the two restaurants, but the chicken tortilla soup is usually on both. It's delicious no matter where you sit.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• There is always a vegetarian option available, and the staff with do anything to be accommodating.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Top Chef Master Rick Bayless wowed the judges with his mole. Complex and incredibly flavorful, get anything you on the menu that mentions mole. Yes, it's that amazing.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Authentic, inspired, delicious Mexican food. You won't find a typical cheese-slathered enchilada here, but you also can't go wrong with whatever you choose. - Kellie, Community Manager

  by SEGA

  
  

• Besides the bar there's a counter near the back with 5 seats. One was waiting for me during a shopping break!

  by Michelle

  
  

• Pancho is the best waiter!

  by Dan L.

  
  

• Overrated!

  by Brad H.

  
  

• The mole has an insane number of spices in it. You can't go wrong here. Guacamole 3 ways!!! We love you Chef Bayless.

  by Ryan V.

  
  

• This brunch from celeb chef Rick Bayless is not to be missed—too bad it’s served only on Saturdays. Be sure to check out the huevos “Fronterizos” with sausage and biscuits.

  by Time Out Chicago

  
  

• This brunch from celeb chef Rick Bayless is not to be missed—too bad it’s served only on Saturdays. Be sure to check out the huevos “Fronterizos” with sausage and biscuits.

  by Time Out Chicago

  
  

• Rick Bayless

  by Frank N.

  
  

• high end Mexican inspired food that is always first rate from Rick Bayless of Top Chef. Great location as well.

  by Charles B.

  
  

• Go for the traditional margarita - perfectly tart!

  by Kelly B.

  
  

• So underwhelmed with the food and horrible service. Skip this place!!!

  by Tracy L.

  
  

• Order one of the three different regional tasting menus offered nightly with your date. You will get to take an appetizing tour of Mexico through regional dishes. - Inspector

  by Michelin Travel & Lifestyle

  
  

• Try the queso fundido classico and mexcal margarita; both are A+. The blue agave margarita A-. The mole poblano a solid B; not exceptional but good. Try Guelaguetza in LA for amazing mole.

  by Lance O.

  
  

• Now this is real Mexican. Outstanding flavor served up in a cozy room.

  by Alison L.

  
  

• Blue agave margarita shaken tableside is not to be missed!

  by Theresa W.

  
  

• Loved this place!

  by Thomas R

  
  

• Best margarita and best guacamole I have ever had in my entire life! My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

  by Teresa A.

  
  

• The crab and scallop dish was a dismal attempt at fusion seafood. $40 of burnt tar tracks.

  by Drew D.

  
  

• Great food - Frontera deserves all the attention it gets. If you're a Chicagoan and want to meet Chef Rick Bayless, join our mass campaign!

  by Foresight Design Initiative G

  
  

• No matter which side you sit on, you need to be sure to have the guacamole. What? No, I don't care if you don't like avocados-eat it anyway. You'll thank me.

  by T H.

  
  

• The reason chef Rick Bayless is the ubiquitous face of Chicago: his restaurants are amazing. Most recognizable from his media presence, but most memorable for transforming the image of Mexican cuisine

  by The Feast

  
  

• Try the mescal margarita!!! Definitely has a great flavor!! You won't wanna drink tequila ever again

  by Matt S.

  
  

• Mmm Mezcal Margarita is amazing - Del Marguey single village artisanal mescal (Oaxaca), 10 yr old Torres brandy, Peychaud bitters, limonada.

  by Geoff K.

  
  

• Find out what is happening with Miami chefs...click link.

  by Michael i.

  
  

• Have the "Carne Asada A La Oaxaquena!" I pretty much licked the plate clean, it was all good. The plantains made it for me!

  by Jay Aniceto

  
  

• Rick Bayless, the local- and organic-championing chef has a true award winner on his hands here, serving real-deal South-of-the-border fare in a casual setting.

  by The Daily Meal

  
  

• Don't pass up the ceviche at either Frontera or Topolo! Get the trio!

  by Marissa

  
  

• The Goose Island Marisol is a must try beer - it's specially brewed for Frontera!

  by Alichia S.

  
  

• Try the raspberry limeade and steak tortas!

  by Diana J

  
  

• Chocolate pecan pie. Nuff said.

  by Soul Train

  
  

• The atmosphere (& sopitos) are amazing.

  by Cory B.

  
  

• They only give 10% of the restaurant a res. We called 5 weeks out and they still didn't have anything available. But send someone to the restaurant early to wait in line and get your reservation day o

  by Kristin

  
  

• Time to spare=Frontera, otherwise make reservations at Topolo. Their guac & cucumbers, plus micheladas is a perfect way to start a fabulous dinner!

  by Gabriela M.

  
  

• Ceviche trio was amazing, and the margs are awesome.

  by Kevin V.

  
  

• Rick Bayless I LOVE YOU!

  by arooz

  
  

• The Grill maintains a purist's approach to Mexican cuisine, much like its sister restaurant Topolobampo, but in a more casual setting. Try the grilled duck breast in a chile-corn-mushroom sauce.

  by Epicurious

  
  

• The duck mole is unbelievably amazing. Cooked medium rare and so flavorful.

  by shana

  
  

• Amazing Mexican food, thank you Rick Bayless! The ceviche sampler was absolutely to die for!

  by Anke W.

  
  

• Believe the hype

  by Stuart R.

  
  

• Looking for a meal by 1 of the best chefs in the world, then visit Topolobampo & Frontera Grill! Rick Bayless is a genius when it comes to using fresh ingredients to create authentic Mexican flavors!

  by Brian M.

  
  

• Go to Frontera Grill to have the best mojito and mexican food in Chicago. Be sure to get there early...no reservations accepted:)

  by Sarah K.

  
  

• Try the Micheladas. Not only are they a great deal, they're tasty as all get out.

  by Andrew A

  
  

• The best hand made margaritas!

  by Lisa H.

  
  

• Avatars love some Rick Bayless!!!

  by John D.

  
  

• Try the mole. Trust me, even if you don't usually like mole, you will like this mole. Rick Bayless is a god of cuisine!

  by Kendra C.

  
  

• Their guac and ceviche are worth the trip!

  by Paula L

  
  

• I recommend Wednesday's special, Cochinita Pibil. Beware of the Habanero salsa it's served with. So good but sooo hot.

  by Jim G.

  
  

• Atop his pioneering casual Mexican place, chef Rick Bayless uses portable, self-watering containers to grow several varieties of tomatoes and chiles used in the "rooftop salsa.”

  by Bon Appetit Magazine

  
  

• I love Frontera grill !

  by GERALDINE C.

  
  

• 2 restaurants in the same place - Frontera is more affordable, Topolobampo is upscale.

  by Vidhya A

  
  

• Rick Bayless’ place with two restaurants in one. Been going there for years. Great stuff and killer margaritas. -Dave Martin, Top Chef

  by Bravo

  
  

• The mushroom queso fundido at Frontera goes beyond just melted cheese. They also have great tasting (not too sweet), really strong margaritas.

  by Victor S.

  
  

• The mojitos are amazing. And don't miss the queso fundido appetizer - chorizo, jack, fresh tortillas. Wow.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Grab a seat at the bar rather than wait for a table. The Solpitos are awesome.

  by eileen b.

  
  

• We made reservations 2 months in advance, were slightly concerned by the lack of familiarity of the menu, but very pleased with the food. And Rick was there meeting the guests! Thumbs way up!

  by Craig V.

  
  

• Have a margarita at the bar.

  by Benjamin B.