Carnivale

Carnivale Reviews

Add your review for Carnivale.

• Gimmicky. Food is overpriced and not that great. They try to upsell you on apps, etc. good for accommodating large groups but generally not great.

  by Emily A

  
  

• Great atmosphere and food!

  by Kristen S

  
  

• Colorful décor, a festive atmosphere and live entertainment ensure there’s never a dull moment but chef Rodolfo Cuadros’ cooking is the real attraction.

  by Eater

  
  

• Happy Hour? It was ok the bartender could use tips on hospitality and the mojitos were definitely not their signature mojitos.

  by Wendy C.

  
  

• Drinks pretty good. We got an appetizer which tasted store bought. The music was loud we left early as we actually wanted to talk to each other. The manager came over but couldn't even hear us

  by Emily N

  
  

• The Bolivian Lamb Chops were to die for! Don't bother with the cotton candy it's a waste of money.

  by Kevin D.

  
  

• Try to save some space for their desserts. We made that mistake but next time we are going here just for dessert.

  by Manish R

  
  

• Voted Best International Brunch by Bitches Who Brunch in 2016!

  by Bitches Who B.

  
  

• Great vegetarian appetizers, dinners and desserts. Wonderful service and the space is a celebration of design worthy of any special occasion.

  by Raed M.

  
  

• The food is average at best, for the price. You're paying for the kitsch decor. It's a novelty restaurant.

  by Adam I.

  
  

• CThis is the perfect place for a group brunch, a party brunch, or to take family visiting out of town.

  by Bitches Who B.

  
  

• Food is amazing, margaritas are amazing-- cocktail pictured doesn't compare to their margaritas though

  by Amanda T

  
  

• Steak and the Ropa Vieja are to die for

  by Jahmela

  
  

• Great atmosphere and ambiance with amazing food to boot. Try any of the tapas - you won't go wrong. The ropa vieja is excellent

  by Ivan N.

  
  

• Ropa vieja appetizer FOR SURE. #Chicago #foodie

  by Amber Rose N

  
  

• Food, margarita, wine list, cheese plate.

  by Darina J

  
  

• Everything we had was amazing! Drinks were a little strong but food was delicious

  by Ana L.

  
  

• Steak, mojitos, pulled beef appetizer- everything!

  by Jennika M

  
  

• Octopus and scallops are excellent! Wide variety of drinks. Tables are very close together, would not recommend for a romantic evening.

  by Xandrea R.

  
  

• Every time I come here, I always love it. I got the Chicken Milanese and it was awesome. The arrachera is always a winner.

  by kevin B

  
  

• The guacamole is top shelf here. There are two sizes, but you want the small. The large one is way too big to enjoy the rest of the menu.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• The guacamole is terrific here. And the chips are too. That's just the beginning. I've been here at least 30 times and I've never been disappointed.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Service industry discount Sundays - 25% off entire check.

  by Mike W.

  
  

• Probably the best all around Latin dining experience you can find in the city. Everything on the menu is delicious and the ambiance is first class.

  by Colin R.

  
  

• Great food and drinks but we had absolutely terrible service. Our waiter was more than rude. However once we spoke with the manager she was extremely apologetic and very kind- she gave us coupons

  by Alex Flis

  
  

• Arrachera is pretty amazin one that you should definitely try out and can't find any compliment word for decoration.. Awesome!

  by Art'n P

  
  

• Love coming here. So romantic. .they play great music and food is amazing.

  by Nicole V.

  
  

• The food, which borrows from all over South America, is as lively as the setting. Throw in a few caipirinhas, and it feels like a Brazilian Carnaval.

  by Epicurious

  
  

• Is a awesome place to celebrate special occasions. We went on a regular Sunday to have brunch and they had live music! The menu is interesting but the food is nothing special! You pay for the place

  by Tatiana Buenaventura

  
  

• Carnivale has delicious food and a great ambiance. I recommend the ropa vieja or empanadas for apps, New York strip steak for the entrée, and banana cream pie for dessert.

  by Melissa A.

  
  

• Get the ropa vieja, tell them to make it the old way! 😉 Order the guacamole and the arrachera. Perfecto. 👌

  by Missy

  
  

• You have to eat ropa vieja. To die for appetizer. Love this place!! Such a fun atmosphere!

  by michelle jimenez

  
  

• Hidden gem. So beautiful and vibrant inside matching the menu. The scallops were cooked to perfection!

  by Leila S.

  
  

• I love the atmosphere and the cocktails are divine

  by Tamara K

  
  

• Pulled pork taco appetizer.

  by Matt S.

  
  

• everything.

  by Richie C.

  
  

• Ropa vieja is to die for! Highly recommended

  by Cristina D.

  
  

• Atmosphere was amazing and the food was legitt

  by Ju Hae L.

  
  

• Fun atmosphere and great for groups! Try the octopus appetizer and ARRACHERA! Shout out to our server, Oscar, you da man!

  by Kat S.

  
  

• Festive Latin fusion

  by Katrina R.

  
  

• Matt is the best server!!

  by Adolfo R.

  
  

• Calamari is awesome

  by Noemi E.

  
  

• Vieja Ropa appetizer and guacs are musts. As is the ice cream cake for dessert.

  by Michelle T.

  
  

• You must get the ropa vieja appetizer. You must!

  by Patrice Y.

  
  

• Every good review I've read about this place is true. This spot is outstanding! The lamb is probably the killer entreé to get, along with the Churrasco.

  by Terence S.

  
  

• Michigan Ave events to be avoided in favor of Park Ave events.

  by Paul D.

  
  

• Just left the restaurant because the wait staff is that bad.

  by Sara S.

  
  

• Really loved it !! Just had been there first time for my birthday it was awesome!!! Drinks and food are excellent ! Of course should make reservation before you go !!

  by Nedish B.

  
  

• You can't come here without enjoying the ropa vieja appetizer!! Arrachera & market fish were excellent choices. Great drink menu - highly recommend the mojitos and red sangria. Loved it!

  by Courtney Q.

  
  

• Another great Wine & Beer tasting event coming up on 11/6/13, to support local Chicago Special Olympics. Sign up here! on.fb.me/195bZR2

  by Peter D.

  
  

• No trip to Chicago is complete without dinner at Carnivale. Arrachera + sangria = ¡Que magnifico!

  by Andrew M.

  
  

• Lunch takes forever! Do not eat here unless you have 2+ hours to spare

  by Charles D.

  
  

• Carnivale’s loud, colorful lounge vibe plays off of its busy location perched above the Kennedy Expressway, and the ceviche mixto has bombastic, bright flavors to match.

  by Serious Eats

  
  

• BEST MEAL EVER. Got lucky with a Travelzoo Deal for 4 people. 4 appetizers + 4 entrees + 4 drinks for $145. We enjoyed the appetizers the most, esp the squid and ceviche.

  by Jennie C.

  
  

• Best mojitos in town!

  by Tricia L.

  
  

• No miles on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday

  by Shannon H.

  
  

• Ask for Andrea

  by Mark S.

  
  

• The menu changes often enough. The steaks are usually terrific and come with great sides and sauces.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• They have free salsa lessons and Margie lessons during the mont of may.

  by Zakia C.

  
  

• Thoroughly enjoyed the Arrachera (skirt steak). Ropa Vieja is a MUST!

  by Aimee O.

  
  

• veal empanadas for an appetizer and the chi-town peppermint for dessert. trust me.

  by eulalia

  
  

• Found a new menu item that's excellent! The short ribs are so tender they fall off the fork! It's worth the trip!

  by Truth D.

  
  

• There's naked chicks every where

  by Alex G.

  
  

• Expensive, but really really good!

  by Alex G.

  
  

• The Arepas is amazing!!!

  by Charmin

  
  

• Get a steak...any steak! Amazing!!!

  by Iveliss G.

  
  

• the Carnivale ice cream cake is colorful and delicious! We recommend sharing with the entire table!

  by dana hotel and spa

  
  

• The ice cream cake is great!! The guacamole was awesome as well

  by Darrell N.

  
  

• Try the Beef Tenderlion With Sweet Potatoe Gratin (via @Foodspotting)

  by Verne P.

  
  

• Everything is great but the guac is a MUST! The chips are amazing!

  by Israel S.

  
  

• The "Pork Adobo" is my favorite!!

  by Maria D.

  
  

• The Ropa vieja appetizer is fabulous! Also, try the Arrachera (skirt steak) as a main course! Finally... drink your dessert with the best Mojitos in Chicago!

  by Roosevelt Collection

  
  

• Celebrating 19 years with my beautiful wife

  by Jim W.

  
  

• Color and noise upstage the food, but cured meats and Spanish cheeses elevate the party. So do the many tequilas and Latin-inspired drinks.

  by Chicago magazine

  
  

• I really like their Churrasco! Yum

  by Robert W.

  
  

• Really like there Churrasco!

  by Robert W.

  
  

• Reservations are interpreted in an interesting way here. 7:00 is more like 7:20. Something to keep in mind as you make your evening plans.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• We'd love to go everywhere during Restaurant Week but can't. Show us what you think we should eat the next time we're at Carnivale with a picture of your dish. Tweet it to us @motorola. Happy eating!

  by Motorola M.

  
  

• Nothing like stilt walkers to remind you how batshit crazy Bourbon Street is. Live music, samba dancing and a Mardi Gras–inspired menu complete the celebration

  by Time Out Chicago

  
  

• The place is great. So colorful. The food is nice as well. Try the Skirt Steak.

  by Feb R.

  
  

• very fun place and great food!

  by Madison L.

  
  

• Come have a Hum Bug!

  by Annie M.

  
  

• Try the plantains and braised beef app. Amazing!

  by David W.

  
  

• Definitely try and reserve in advance to get seated fast....also..do defintely try the coconut mojito!

  by Pradeep N.

  
  

• If they have it on menu, try the ox tail.

  by Donny W.

  
  

• Excellent Sangria!

  by Sidnee L.

  
  

• Great service. Food, not worth the price. Don't get the short rib!

  by B W.

  
  

• Be sure to wash your hands after using the bathroom.

  by Sergio T.

  
  

• I LOVE this place! It never disappoints!

  by ~eb

  
  

• Order the Victoria secret...won't be disapointed!

  by Nicole V.

  
  

• Every drink we ordered was delish and was strong! Gotta try the Victoria secret!

  by Nicole V.

  
  

• Yum! Yum! And more Yum! A great, colorful dining room with EXCELLENT food and service. Sit in the balcony if you can for a great view.

  by Jonathan E.

  
  

• Bistek Palomillo is one of my faves. If you want a cheaper option while dining here, go for their lunch menu. Just as delish!

  by Tammy

  
  

• Robust Latin flavors from around the world served in a trendy vibrant atmosphere. If you're in a small group, ask to be seated in one of their private dining areas.

  by InterContinental Chicago

  
  

• lunch specials are the best. if you go often enough, they will also provide you with coupons or special promotions! my favorite is definitely bistek palomillo. to die for!

  by Tammy

  
  

• BONUS: 2 tips for the price of one. First, the coconut mojito is very creamy and tasty. Second, don't be fooled - a small order of guacamole is plenty if you plan to eat anything else.

  by @scottkleinberg

  
  

• Key Ingredient: Milkweed; see how Carnivale's David Dworshak tackled butterfly food. http://chicagoreader.com/x/4378257

  by Chicago Reader

  
  

• The sangria is really strong.

  by Rochelle L.

  
  

• Cream Corn is delicious, but if waiter asks if you want guacamole beware it's $15.

  by Tamara

  
  

• Pork with mashed plantain & bacon was awesome.

  by Heather V.

  
  

• Do not go here... Horrible valet service put dents in my car- tried to talk to the management of the restaurant and was very rude and NOT helpful- plus bland chicken and pork-NEVER AGAIN - try cafe28

  by Lauren B

  
  

• Get the skirt steak

  by Jill K.

  
  

• Great guacamole but greasy greasy chips.....

  by Deborah P.

  
  

• Atmosphere can't be beat: Lively, flirty & fun!

  by Shannon B.

  
  

• The halibut is phenomenal!!

  by Kelly F.

  
  

• New York Strip = Amazing

  by Brandon T.

  
  

• For dessert, the ice cream cake is a must!

  by Robert M.

  
  

• Carnivale isn't known for its "hamburguesa," but maybe it should be. The Dietzler beef stands out with assertive meaty flavor.

  by Crain's Chicago Business

  
  

• Don't plan on ever using coupon off cell phone they will only accept paper copies

  by Jamie G.

  
  

• Escolar ceviche is out of this world fresh! Must try!!

  by Angie E.

  
  

• Try the Mac and Cheese

  by Brett R.

  
  

• The Arrachera (skirt steak) is amazing! Very tender and flavorful!

  by Emily A

  
  

• sangria made me forget how much I loved this place...where am I?

  by Damon T.

  
  

• The ropa vieja is amazing. Definitely get it as an appetizer.

  by The Vyne

  
  

• The CHURRASCO hands down- best thing on the menu.

  by Angie E.

  
  

• Mojito smoothie is YUM!

  by Angie E.

  
  

• Best fish tacos! overall good ambiance

  by Gabriela M.

  
  

• Excellent food and service. Quite crowded hard to hear one another and two of the 4 entrees were Luke warm.

  by Patrice W.

  
  

• Tuna ceviche correct.

  by Brennan T.

  
  

• Not a single bad menu item.

  by Ling L.

  
  

• Check out Tara and David...Chicago's hottest couple! They're much cooler than you.

  by Bijal S.

  
  

• South American cuisine and brightly colored decor will transport you to, well, Carnivale! Try the rum-glazed roast pork or pupusas stuffed with oxtail, cheese, and refried beans.

  by Epicurious

  
  

• Atun entree is delicious

  by Rachel Metea

  
  

• Salsa singing in your ears, salsa tingling your taste buds. A crazy-quilt of colors dazzling your eyes. Go fo Latino dishes like your abuelita used to make and tequila flights to wash them down with.

  by Bloomingdale's

  
  

• Food is great mojitos too. Bathrooms are unique.

  by Mad H.

  
  

• Best Guacamole in the area.

  by Martin K.

  
  

• Go and have a mojito

  by Bethany M.

  
  

• Staff is fantastically helpful. Empanada Gallega is awesome.

  by Dan G.

  
  

• The chicken skewers for an appitizer are AMAZING!

  by Joe R.

  
  

• Was a bit overrated.. but the food was good. Too much like a circus for me.

  by Andy P.

  
  

• Scallop ceviche is a surprise for you...sweetness from pineapple and yuzu orange, before you get a strong zing from habanero. Don't let that scare you away from it though, very good.

  by Joe A.

  
  

• Having a great time w MSIers!

  by Matt P.

  
  

• Had another amazing meal at Carnivale this past weekend! Of course we started our feast with the Ropa Viejo appetizer! Chef Mendez and his team are incredible.

  by Carol Ann B

  
  

• Guacamole is great! I've had multiple dishes and all were good, however the skirt steak is absolutely delicious.

  by Rachel C.

  
  

• great atmosphere and great food

  by tom g.