PRICE:
Frommer's Recommended

Although lacking the authenticity and character of Frontera Grill and Topolobampo, Adobo Grill is definitely a cut above your average neighborhood Mexican restaurant. If you don't mind noisy crowds, join the action on the first floor. Although at first glance this may appear to be a singles' hangout, families are a growing part of the restaurant's clientele; there's even a kids' menu. Adobo Grill's claim to fame is the fresh guacamole prepared tableside (you choose the spice level, but be warned that even the "medium" will give your tongue quite a jolt). Less spicy starters include a refreshing jicama-and-mango salad or a tasting of ceviches including tilapia, shrimp, and tuna. For an entree, try the grilled, achiote-marinated pounded pork chop with black beans, pickled purple onions, chiltomate salsa, and avocado; or for a heartier dish, indulge in the casserole of chile guajillo-braised beef tenderloin tips with potatoes. For dessert, the chocolate tamale is a brownie-dough delight, redolent with bittersweet chocolate flavor. Before you opt for a margarita or one of the 60 sipping tequilas, consider a refreshing Michelada (your choice of beer with lime juice in a chile- and salt-dusted glass) or a bittersweet Adobopolitan (tequila, Citronage liqueur, and pomegranate juice). There's a second location in the up-and-coming West Division shopping district, at 2005 W. Division St. (at N. Damen Ave.; tel. 773/252-9990).

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Chicago 2009, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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