Frontera Grill
While some may debate whether the many spin-offs and inspired-bys have usurped the crown, the fact that Chicago can even have such an argument is testament to the profound and positive change Rick and Deann Bayless have wrought on Chicago’s restaurant world. Before Frontera, Mexican-food lovers had to choose from a vast array of unambitious enchilada-and-salsa slingers, or venture into the barrio for the uncertain, albeit rewarding, terrain of storefront Mexican. But the Bayless’ brought our love affair with tacos and burritos into the sphere of their love affair with authentic Mexican cooking and premium ingredients, and thankfully, we’ve never been the same.
445 North Clark (312)661-1434
Best of Chicago 2002