Tzuco

What to order: The cucumber house margarita, then the cochinita pibil or carne asada, and the horchata tres leches for dessert

A lively, loud Mexican restaurant on State Street from Carlos Gaytán, the first Latin American chef to earn a Michelin star. The room is warm and earthy, with ceramics brought in from Mexico, and the seats at the chef's counter are the best in the house. The kitchen mixes Mexican cooking with French touches, and the slow-roasted cochinita pibil is a standout. Start at the bar, though: the house margarita is carefully balanced, with cucumber keeping it fresh rather than sweet. It's a good pick for a lively group dinner downtown.

Address: 720 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654

Neighborhood: River North

Recognized by: Infatuation, Michelin Guide, Time Out.