By Talie Leeb
Whether it’s a date for Taco Tuesday or an any-day-of the week craving for empanadas, Beverly/Morgan Park residents can visit Americanos, 11060 S. Western Ave., for the flavors of authentic traditional Mexican American cuisine.
Americanos offers a delicious connection to a rich history of Mexican American culture and cuisine, using “ingredients and flavors that are very authentic, traditional Mexican American, but with a new, modern twist” said owner, A.J. Castillo.
Castillo, a lifetime South Side resident and St. Rita alum, returned to the neighborhood to open the restaurant last year, bringing what he describes as “a new flair” to the culinary scene.
When diners come to Americanos they can begin their meal with an order of chips and guacamole – standard Mexican restaurant fare. From there the menu choices expand to include entrées that feature selections such as grilled shrimp served with rice and tequila-guajillo salsa to the popular a la carte taco bar that enables people to selection from tacos filled with steak, chicken and pork as well as fried sweet potato and chorizo, each topped with a unique salsa crafted to celebrate and elevate the tried and true classic dish.
Americanos also offers a full bar, stocked with over 30 varieties of tequila as well as other spirits, wine and beer. They also serve a variety of margaritas including their signature Jalapeno Strawberry Margarita, and wide selection of other mixed drinks.
Americanos recently became a BAPA Business Member and is offering a BAPA Card discount to other members.
In just a year Castillo has worked to create a destination dining experience for the neighborhood and he said he can’t wait to get more involved.
“It makes it fun when you get people who become regulars, and with joining BAPA we’re looking forward to being a part of the community.”
The crew at Americanos is looking forward to its first Southside Irish Parade on Mar. 17 and will be open for hungry and thirsty parade goers.
Head on over to Americanos Tues.-Thurs., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sun., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The full bar features specialty house cocktails and margaritas. For BAPA members, show your BAPA card and get a discount on tacos with purchase of a margarita pitcher (offer not valid on Tuesdays). 773-941-6787, www.americanosrestaurant.com.
