The following is courtesy of The Real Chicago. For more like it, visit www.TheRealChicago.com
By Bob Peters
Where it’s at: 1967 N. Halsted
in Lincoln Park
www.TheMxChicago.com
The scene: The cozy interior features brick and wood, but what really strikes diners when entering is the vibrant orange, teal, yellow and green colors that adorn the space. The walls, chairs and bar lights are all hand-painted in these bright colors, placing you in a festive mood before you even sit down. The owners of Lincoln Park’s Taco Joint have opened The Mexican right next door and aim to emulate the fondas that are so popular in Mexico City.
Food and drink: While Taco Joint is a popular establishment and a great place for tacos and margaritas, The Mexican goes beyond the standard Mexican fare of its next-door neighbor. While the menu does include tacos and 
enchiladas, it also features more upscale options.
For starters, the empanadas are an excellent introduction to any meal. Try them with zucchini, corn and oaxaca cheese. Guacamole lovers will appreciate the chunky-style avocado mix with tortilla chips and special house rinds. If you like green sour cream, this is not for you; this guacamole is hearty and flavorful. And don’t be afraid to share the corn fundido.
The entrees are highlighted by the pollo rostizado, the free-range rotisserie chickens that can be seen roasting in the main dining area. Love red meat? Try the succulent, marinated carne asada or flank steak along with special drunken beans. If you love Mexican food but are looking for something a little different, go for the seafood soup loaded with Acapulco-style white fish, shrimp, mussels, calamari, crab claw and vegetables!
There are plenty of places in the city to get a good margarita, and The Mexican is definitely one of
them. However, we fell in love with the house mezcalitas made with pineapple, mango or strawberry. The drinks are as festive as the place itself. And if you prefer your Mexican cerveza, just order the Tecate tall boy.
If you still have room for dessert, I would suggest the tres leches. This fruity sponge cake with almonds is the perfect complement for fondas dining.
What caught our eye: The front dining area has an open, vibrant feeling with a colorful bar and hearth-style brick fireplace where guests can view the rotisserie chickens roasting. Then in the back of the restaurant, there is a cozy room with a vintage fireplace for “date night” or those looking for a more subdued atmosphere.
We’ll be back because… the owners of Taco Joint have made the bold move to add an authentic Mexico City fondas-style restaurant. The Mexican goes beyond the standard taco/echilada menu and gives Chicagoans unique cuisine at a very reasonable price. Enjoy the steak, fish, shrimp and rotisserie chicken — and don’t forget about the mezcalitas. Buen provecho!