Istmo Oaxacan Cuisine in Chicago 🇲🇽✨

📍 3231 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657 A Oaxaca-inspired fine dining spot in Chicago. We tried their New Year's tasting menu for $105 per person — and honestly? Portions were small, and we left hungry. Overall rating: 2.5/5 ⭐⭐✨ It felt… just okay. Not worth the price, flavors were muted, and it barely passed the baseline. 🍽️ Experience: Every course lacked memorability — safe, slightly bland, and Americanized. Felt more like a “Oaxaca-themed” date night spot than a true taste of Oaxaca. Most guests were non-Latino couples, and the vibe leaned more toward romantic ambiance than authentic energy. Even Oaxacan friends said it was… meh. If you’re looking for true Oaxacan flavors, this might disappoint. If you just want a nice atmosphere for a date, it’s passable — but not outstanding. 💰 Better option around the same price: Manchamanteles — more flavorful, more authentic, and loved by the local Mexican community. #ChicagoEats #ChicagoFoodFinds #MexicanCuisine #Oaxaca #FineDining #DateNight