Chicago Mexican BYOBs

Photo: Chris Lake

Tamalli
The open kitchen at this small, bright space under the rumbling Blue Line ensures the intoxicating scents of sizzling pork and onions not only will invade your nostrils but also linger on your clothes long after you leave. You won’t mind the food cologne: You’ll want to remember the huarache piled high with chunks of pastor-cooked pork; the tamal de elote’s sweet, soft masa; and the alambre cazuela, steak tacos you assemble yourself. Just make sure you remember cash, too—credit cards are not accepted. 2459 W Armitage Ave, 773-276-1441.
Corkage fee $2 per person
Best nearby liquor store Food Smart (2901 W Armitage Ave, 773-772-3200)

Mixteco Grill
Chef Raul Arreola is a mole god, and it didn’t take long for every fan of the complex Oaxacan sauces—the smoky mole rojo spooned over chicken sopes, the deep mole negro accompanying pork chops—to figure it out. Fortunately, Mixteco recently expanded into the space next door, which means the packed joint can squeeze in a few more mole freaks. 1601 W Montrose Ave, 773-868-1601.
Corkage fee None 
Best nearby liquor store Fine Wine Brokers (4621 N Lincoln Ave, 773-989-8166)

Mundial–Cocina Mestiza
The constantly evolving menu at this Pilsen spot focuses on simple, sophisticated and delicious Mexican-fusion dishes. We love the killer tortilla Española covered in prosciutto and a fried egg, and tender grilled lamb served with a creamy potato cake and a slaw of crunchy sugar snap peas and onions. 1640 W 18th St, 312-491-9908.
Corkage fee $4 per bottle of wine or six-pack of beer
Best nearby liquor store Gentile’s Wine Shop (1160 W Taylor St, 312-850-9463)—Julia Kramer

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