Emilio's Tapas Restaurant

R8CEHORSE

So I was in Chicago and was craving something different. Different flavours, different atmosphere and I stumbled across Emilio's. I'm glad I did. This place F'in rocks!!! I went in with the expectation of getting some Paella for dinner but when I arrived the atmosphere and quality/friendliness of the waitstaff made me want more. I tried some tapa's PLATO DE JAMÓN SERRANO was excellent so that led me to the PULPO A LA PLANCHA which was excellent as well. Full of flavour and the contrasting textures with light dressing on top was a perfect follow up to the white sangria that I tried. They really knocked it out of the park with the first couple plates. At this point I was mid way through the test drive and it was time to see what this place can really do so I punched it and went for the PAELLA A LA VALENCIANA with a red sangria. I felt that both were more traditional so I thought it would be a good gauge vs my previous experiences with other Spanish restaurants. It did not disappoint! The paella was so flavourful and the shrimp, chicken, clams over the yellow rice were wonderful. The red sangria was a nice addition as it was fruity but not overpowering. It was all perfect for the hot few days that I was in Chicago. Let's take a pause here to show some love to the bar. They offer a fully stocked and really nice looking bar area. I was ok to sit there and take in all the pictures and surroundings but it started to cool down in the evening and sitting outside just sounded awesome. Shoutout to the lightning fast bartender too! They have this super interesting wine list too full of regional selections and traditional varietals. Having worked in the wine industry for 16 years I really wanted to take the wine list for a spin but at the same time I knew I was racking up the miles on my bill as-is so I let that one go. Next time... Lets recap... Awesome starters with a light sangria, Check! Main event with a red sangria, knocked it out of the park! Any normal person would be like, "Ok, let's call it a day" but I didn't travel 2000 miles just for OK. For the last leg of my spanish dining trip I ordered a marinated cherry over homemade vanilla ice cream topped with mascarpone and nuts thing. Sorry I forgot the name. That took it over the top. Again, I debated about ordering a spanish sherry or something but held out. I should've though lol. The dessert was so delicious. It was sweet but not overbearing which is perfect for me. The textures of the ice cream and the whipped topping was a really nice touch. In closing, you can tell that the owner/chef and staff really care about this restaurant. It was an absolute blast of an experience and something that I really enjoyed against the stereotypical Chicago dining experience. The next time I come back to the 'CHI I will absolutely stop by and you should too!

Tristan Diekman

I usually don't go to a tapas restaurant often, but when I do, I'm never disappointed. Emilio's is no exception. The variety of tapas on the menu were all good and expertly crafted. I especially enjoyed the blood sausage and the grilled calamari. But all the food was flavorful and filling, and I had a blast trying out all the different tapas my party ordered. The tapas were served quickly, even though the restaurant was packed when I went, and I credit this to the excellent, friendly service. Anna, our server, went above and beyond to make sure we were all taken care of. All of this came in a colorful, warm atmosphere that was unique to the restaurant. I'd definitely recommend this place to others when it comes to tapas. Well done.

Brandi Wilson

We had a lovely time. We celebrated our six year anniversary. We will definitely be back. The service was wonderful and the food was delicious!

Sarah Ixcaragua

Emilio's is hands down the best tapas restaurant! I've been going here for years and it's never a disappointment. The food is excellent - always flavorful, fresh, and absolutely delicious. Not to mention their wonderful sangria! The staff is always extremely friendly and very attentive. The ambiance is warm and inviting. I wish I could dine here every day!