Xoco ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

 

This is what happens to the non-early birds.

They still get the worm, but only after waiting in line in the freezing Chicago weather.

For almost sixty minutes.

What people are willing to go through for a taste of Rick Bayless’ take on the street foods of Mexico.

But stay in line, guys.

I tell you, Xoco is WORTH IT.

 

Almendrado = chocolate shot + almond milk
Waiting birds can order something to drink as they slowly inch their way to the front.
I have a cup of “bean-to-cup” almendrado, super rich and bursting with strange/sour/ fragrant tones (almond, is that you?) Although many people rave about it, this really isn’t my cup of choc. When we finally get to the front half an hour later, the sweet lady at the counter announces that my cup is on the house. Wow. I guess there is no place for
angry birds at Xoco.

 

The sight and smell of tortas crisping in the wood-burning oven torment our souls
while we wait in hunger

 

Almost our turn! Hooray!!!

 

Iced Tea, Hibiscus & Lemongrass, Limonada, Apricot Mint Lime and wines by the glass

 

Self-service still and sparkling water

 

Today is Saturday, Goat Barbacoa Day!

 

Goat Barbacoa. Oaxacan pasilla-tomato salsa, avocado, onions and cilantro.
This is no ordinary sandwich, I tell you. This is Aaahhh. Maaaaeeee. Zinnnngggg!!!
Please, dear God, let every day be a Saturday.

 

Cochinita Pibil. Wood-roasted suckling pig with achiote, black beans, pickled onion, habanero salsa. Tell me, is there anything else in the universe more desirable than tender, juicy suckling pig hugged by warm, crispy, chewy bread?

 

Super crisp churros dipped in thick and rich Barcelona chocolate to end the perfect meal

 

Couldn’t stop lusting over my neighbor’s Ahogada: golden pork carnitas, black beans,
tomato broth, spicy arbol chile sauce, pickled onions. Next trip, baby, next trip.

 

Xoco: 449 North Clark Street (enter on Illinois Street), Chicago, IL, USA. Tel: 312.334.3688