Chicago, IL 60640
As you walk along the street you could blink and miss this unassuming storefront but that would be a pity indeed. It’s not much from the outside but once you enter Rique’s small but cheerful dining area, you are in for an evening of authentic Mexican cuisine that will leave you- and even your wallet- in a happy mood.
The walls are starkly painted with dark blue rising from the floor and golden yellow taking over halfway up. A few well placed pictures complete the wall decor and the back of the room features a tall straw-ish sculpture reminiscent of Rodin’s “The Thinker.” Tablecloths resembling traditional multi colored sarapes complete the cheerful vibe.
Rique’s offers a plethora of tasty dishes (some vegetarian) from various regions in Mexico. Their signature appetizer is a dip made of refried beans, salsa, guacamole, sour cream and panela cheese but my favorite is the shrimp cerviche. The delicate and zesty flavors of shrimp marinated in lime juice and fresh salsa is heavenly on the palate although somewhat trying as it is served on a crunchy corn tortilla that breaks apart easily. The cerviche is definitely satisfying but I also recommend the Ensalada Yucatan, a mixed greens salad with fresh orange and avocado slices and julienned jicama adding a lovely crunch. Featured entrees include Tinga, slow cooked shredded chicken simmered with onions and oregano in a chili chipotle tomato sauce. Another standout is the homemade almond mole sauce, wonderfully rich and a particular delight over grilled chicken served with rice and beans.
With a BYOB policy and the majority of entrees coming in under $10 (shrimp and other fish entrees still not going above $15), Rique’s is a delightful place to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine that leaves enough in your wallet for a return visit- and trust me, you probably will!
Rique’s is open for dinner every day of the week and for lunch Wednesday through Saturday. They also offer brunch on Sundays.
