New Mexican Restaurant Coming To West Town

CHICAGO, IL — Mexican-influenced street food is coming to Grand Avenue in May, AMK Restaurant Group and its partners announced. The Gringo is taking over the former Grandview Tavern & Beer Garden space, at 1202 W. Grand Ave. The new restaurant will include Latin folklore decor, creative tacos, churros and a large backyard patio and bar.

The location is being transformed from a dimly-lit bar into a bright, airy atmosphere, but owners said they decided to keep the Cherrywood, Chicago-style pub bar and whitewashed brick walls as an homage to the location's history in the neighborhood.

The courtyard patio and bar will seat 80 people, and the indoor space will comfortably seat 60 guests, owners said.

Chef Barney Smith — a 30-year global food veteran who has helmed Nosh, Booze and AMK Kitchen — has created a menu that will include traditional Mexican favorites, such as elotes and street tacos, but also fun options like fried chicken burritos and over-the-top churros with creative toppings such as Lucky Charms.

Partner Jon Ruiz, who leads bar programs for AMK Kitchen, Nosh, Booze, The Underground and Hubbard Inn, has created the cocktail menu that focuses on a variety of tequila options, the signature slushy Frozé and mescal drinks.

The Gringo will serve lunch and dinner seven days a week, owners said. Full menu and additional design details, as well as exact hours of operation will be announced in the coming weeks, AMK and its partners said.

Top Images: Photo 1 via Google Maps Streetview; Photo 2 courtesy of AMK Restaurant Group