Istmo Oaxacan Cuisine

We had a wonderful experience at Istmo! The dishes were delicious, fresh, and not typically found in the Mexican restaurants outside of Mexico that I’ve been to, like the pineapple “aguachile” - a sour and spicy soup with chunks of pineapple. We also chatted with chef Carlos, who told us about his upbringing in Oaxaca and his culinary journey to opening his own restaurant in Chicago. He mentioned that the corn cake dessert was a dish that his dad used to make - it was so light and tasty! Although the resto had been open for only several months at the time of our meal, we found the service smooth and fast. Well done to the Istmo staff!

What an awesome experience. The drinks are so innovative and unique. The Dzuladi is unlike anything you probably ever had and is so tasty. Highly recommend as an entry theChamorri en guajillo..... it is pork shank in a mole and it is so tender you will not need a knife. If you want something lighter the bacalao is perfect and reminded us of Mexico. Dessert was the Nicoatole, a delicious corn and custard treat. Service from Angela, and suggestions made for a great dinning experience.

Best Oaxacan food in Chicago!!! The food is authentic. I enjoyed it so much. It's so good it feels like you are in Oaxaca, Mexico!!!

Given the climate of the world today I’m just glad there is place that still speaks to giving individuals a space to congregate under the magnificent reason of community! The restaurant, ISTMO, makes no mistake at making you feel welcomed. At times it could have the environment that requires and all hands on deck mindset. These individuals operated on a level of efficiency and joy; the feeling was freaking amazing!! The head chef was kind enough to meet with me! He was very friendly, open, & easy to approach. He takes great pride in making sure that he engages with his community of people that walk through the door with culture, family, & certainly FOOD adventures!! I read a lot of comments, and want to make clear everyone is entitled to their opinion, mine is as follows. Those of us who have the privilege to have come from a Hispanic background love our preferences. I too have my own abuela who is very particular about her tortillashowever; tastebuds and preferences shouldn’t be the only reason a review is left. To see an authentic menu be successfully fused with traditional native culture and atmosphere is astounding! Chef Munoz and his crew exude what it means to be a welcoming! This alone can make you an honorary Hispanic person in such terms. Honor is a cool thing to have; compassion & empathy is the greatest present you can receive spiritually from food! So I bring it back to the COMIDA!!!!! If you’re looking for a downtown feel close to home and community then this is your brunch spot!!COME HERE!!! Shout to out to a special crew member, INAY O. To end my review compliments to Executive Chef & Owner: Carlos Lopez Munoz!!! To the Heart Of House; you guys handle the flow amazingly!! Ps. If you’re a guest that may prefer to be seated right away, I suggest an early reservation. The accommodation efforts are well established. Number update system! Bar seating is full service! Pictured: Memela Papas Bravas Chilaquiles Rojos w/steak Cafe con leche Cafe de la olla

We booked a reservation easily and we were seated right away. The service was a little slow at first but picked up quickly. The restaurant doesn't have a liquor license yet, but the server said they expect it in 2 weeks. The food was great, our favorite was the scallops, followed by the chicken.

Hands down one of the best restaurants in Lakeview, the food menu is perfect, and there is a wide range of good mezcal cocktails. We came on a Friday night and the place was packed but service was attentive. I'd recommend starting with a Mole Carajillo which was unreal (pic attached) and my wife got the Mexican Penicillin which was so good. For cocktails: -The Carajillo was the perfect espresso martini - Oaxacan old fashioned was so good and the perfect marriage of smokey and sweet - Mexican Penicillin was our favorite drink on the menu For Apps we did the: 1) Mole Rosa: there were 3 scallops which were good but 3 scallops won't fill anyone up 2) Queso Fresco: This was amazing, and you get an enormous amount of cheese but only two pieces of bread, maybe 3 pieces would be better For dinner: 3) The braised pork shank (Chamorro Enguanillado) was so good! They light it on fire and it was cooked perfectly. (Video) For sides: 4) The Papas Bravas were very spicy but so good

From the first step into Istmo, the Oaxacan vibe grabs you. The drinks, food and service will carry you away to a land of delightful flavor. We started with the Hibiscus Spritz and the Pina Tatemada. Our starters were Mole Rosa - absolutely amazing!! The Roasted Cabbage - delish! And the Oaxacan Spread - also fabulous. Our mains were Mushrooms, Pollo con Mole and Tlayuda - all of which were next level delicious!!

Delicious food. Very friendly service. Cool interior design. We ate brunch and were very happy. The flavors are very good, the portions are just right, the presentation is pleasing. The cocktails were well made. Really looking forward to returning for dinner.