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RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere

Details

CUISINES
Latin, Central American, Costa Rican, International
Special Diets
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, After-hours
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meals, features, about
Reviews (164)
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87
49
10
6
3
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Traveller rating
87
49
10
6
3
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Reviewed 3 weeks ago via mobile

A gem of a place! Born & raised in Chicago- left a decade ago and returned for a visit and stopped here for lunch this week. Was not disappointed! The decor was minimalistic, functional and clean— and for what might have been lacking in decor...— was more than made up for in friendliness, hospitality and delicious high quality food! The black bean soup was by far the best to ever touch my palate, the cerviche was fresh and light. The empanadas (cheese and jalapeños, meat and potatoes) were light and flavorful. Homemade key-lime pie for dessert is a MUST- better than any I’ve tasted on a couple of Caribbean islands! The meal was made even better by the server— he was very attentive, gave great recommendations and made the overall experience and vibe a positive experience. We can’t wait to visit again!More

Date of visit: September 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 12 February 2023

For all you old-school or old people like me still reading Tripadvisor reviews to know where to go, go to Irazu. We moved my son into an apartment in Bucktown and walked the short (but cold) distance to a fun, friendly, warm restaurant -- and...got a table right away on a Friday night, which apparently was akin to winning the lottery. The portions were generous (took most of mine home in a box for later), there was a nice variety, and everyone in our group liked what they ordered. I even saved room for a coconut milkshake which I then had to share with my group because I made the mistake of commenting about how good it tasted. We'll be back the next time we're visiting the boy.More

Date of visit: February 2023
Helpful?1  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 4 August 2021

Everytime I go to Chicago, it's a must to pass by Irazu to taste my home country food after leaving abroad for many years! Food is really good and it's always hard to choose from all the options!! Was glad to share a chat with...Henry, the owner and the nice and friendly service from Robert! Looking forward to next time!More

Date of visit: July 2021
Helpful?1  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 1 July 2021 via mobile

Weather is gorgeous. Storefront fully open. Food is great, salsa is HOT! They will do vegan, have lots of veggie things. I have never been disappointed here and they now take cc's.

Date of visit: July 2021
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 3 April 2021 via mobile

First saw this on the food network so we knew we had to try it while in Chicago. Everything we tried was amazing and our waiter was extremely helpful and explained the dishes. This is a must every time we visit Chicago again.

Date of visit: April 2021
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 19 January 2021 via mobile

I cannot get enough of Irazu! I find myself craving the food especially yucca. I haven’t had anything I haven’t like and the shakes are a must!

Date of visit: January 2021
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 18 February 2020

Have been here twice and enjoyed it both times. Started with the avocado shrimp appetizer last time and it was amazingly delicious. Have also had the casado, tacos and one of their specials. All very good. Nice casual atmosphere, BYOB and cash only. The owner...stopped by our table each visit and is delightful to talk with. Looking forward to our next visit, just a short walk off theMore

Date of visit: February 2020
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A3933ERhenryc, Owner at Irazu, responded to this reviewResponded 6 March 2020

Pura Vida. Thank you for the feedback! Henry Cerdas, Owner

Reviewed 9 February 2020 via mobile

The combination of flavors and textures on the plate make for a great taste buds stimulation. I felt like I was eating at my Costa Rican friend grandma's house; which I was I expect when I go to a place that boast a cuisine of...a specific country. The service was ok, somewhere between the waiter and the kitchen staff there was a disconnect and one of the appetizers we order didn't come out and one entree got mixed up, but they provide with excellent service, in their defense the place was packed with tons of people waitIng for a table, so it was busyMore

Date of visit: February 2020
Helpful?1  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A3933ERhenryc, Owner at Irazu, responded to this reviewResponded 6 March 2020

Thank you for sharing your experience! Pura Vida. Henry Cerdas, Owner

Reviewed 4 October 2019

If you are looking for something different give it a try. The Empanadas are.good a little doughy. I had the fish tacos and they are very good. Remember to bring cash

Date of visit: October 2019
Helpful?1  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A3933ERhenryc, Owner at Irazu, responded to this reviewResponded 6 March 2020

Appreciate your visit and feedback. Henry Cerdas, Owner

Reviewed 17 June 2019

I was in the neighborhood and found the restaurant while looking for cheaper Latin food with vegetarian options. I was on a student budget and traveling alone, so I was looking for something affordable and also filling. Irazu was the perfect spot for me! I...ordered a chile rellano which came with a side of plantains, rice, and beans for $12. It tasted as delicious as it looked. Without a doubt, I will return with friends and family. The service was also friendly and my waiter had several recommendations when I asked him for his favorites. Also, the restaurant has a nice atmosphere and there are several things to make you forget for a moment that you are in Chicago. A great place to go if you are looking for authentic and delicious Puerto Rican / Latin cuisine.More

Date of visit: June 2019
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
henry c, Owner at Irazu, responded to this reviewResponded 17 June 2019

Thank you for your feedback and testimonial. Greetings from the only Costa Rican Restaurant in Chicago. Pura Vida! Henry Cerdas, Owner

Reviewed 24 March 2019

If you’re ready to try a great dining experience you must go to Irazu, 1865 N Milwaukee Ave in Chicago. We dine there whenever we are in the city. All the entree’s that we have tried are delicious. And the oatmeal shakes are fantastic. The...food is traditional made with fresh ingredients. The staff is professional and courteous. Try it, you’ll love the food.More

Date of visit: October 2018
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
henry c, Owner at Irazu, responded to this reviewResponded 24 March 2019

Thank you Manny for sharing your experience. We look forward to hosting you and your family when you are back in Chicago. Pura Vida! Henry Cerdas, Owner

Reviewed 9 March 2019 via mobile

Very tasty and vegetarian-friendly! The seating area is a bit limited, but the cuisine is great and the service is friendly.

Date of visit: March 2019
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
henry c, Owner at Irazu, responded to this reviewResponded 10 March 2019

Thank you for your endorsement and feedback. Appreciate your visit. Henry Cerdas, Owner

Reviewed 20 January 2019 via mobile

Who knew Costa Rican food was this good? The place isn’t fancy, but that doesn’t stop the crowds from coming here to enjoy some darn good food. All choices of Empanadas, Tico Pico ( like fajitas), great guacamole and some great green sauce that will...set fire to your taste buds. I love the heat! What’s not to like? Well okay, then top it off with a smooth shake to cool you down.More

Date of visit: January 2019
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
henry c, Owner at Irazu, responded to this reviewResponded 23 January 2019

Thank you very much for your endorsement and kind words. We look forward to re-hosting you in the near future! And you are RIGHT! We are proudly not fancy but serve up some good food. ' Till next time. Pura Vida! Henry Cerdas, Owner

Reviewed 7 December 2018

Good service with friendly waiter. Food enjoyable especially the chicken and plantain. Will be happy to visit again.

Date of visit: November 2018
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
henry c, Owner at Irazu, responded to this reviewResponded 8 December 2018

Thank you for the feedback and the endorsement. Pura Vida! Henry Cerdas, Owner

Reviewed 4 December 2018

I'm a Costa Rican living in Elmhurst and Irazu is my goto place when I'm craving home. The food is amazing and Herry and the entire staff are great, demaciado pura vidas todos.

Date of visit: January 2018
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
henry c, Owner at Irazu, responded to this reviewResponded 4 December 2018

Gracias Marco. Thank you for your encouragement and endorsement. Pura Vida! Henry Cerdas, Owner

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Mike W
29 October 2018|
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Response from JulieJohn44 | Reviewed this property |
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Irazu, Chicago - Bucktown - Restaurant Reviews, Phone Number & Photos - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Irazu

Yes, Irazu offers takeaway services.

Yes, Irazu offers delivery services.

Yes, Irazu is taking precautions against COVID-19. A full list is available within the "safety precautions" section of this page.

Irazu is rated accordingly in the following categories by Tripadvisor travellers:
  • Food: 4.5
  • Service: 4.5
  • Value: 4.5
  • Atmosphere: 4