Fat Rosie's Taco & Tequila Bar — Restaurant in Leyden Township

This location was okay! I have been to the Schaumburg one before and did like that one and left a great review! That location could’ve been better because we went earlier on a weekday, I’m not sure. We to this rosemont location for my birthday on Saturday night. We had reservations for 18 people for 7:15. We did have a large group which is why I made a reservation but I really don’t know if that even helped since we weren’t seated until 8pm. Their “waiting area” was over flowing and literally no where to go lol and several of us were carrying our kids so it was a bit hectic. Finally after standing for over 45 minutes someone offered my friend with a new born a chair to sit in. Obviously the staff was moving as fast as they could and it was a busy night- just giving perspective- I wouldn’t want to go again at this time with kids and stand there for an hour. I didn’t know it would be that busy. Once we were seated we didn’t get seated together as a group like we were supposed to- we were seated at 2 separate tables. So it was kind of annoying since it was my birthday and wanted to be able to catch up with everyone. Anyway I was thankful to finally be sitting down with my friends and family. Once seated we were taken care of very quickly and everyone was super nice . I got a guava margarita it was good! I ordered steak fajitas, my steak was completely well done- lol idk who wants that? Or why I wasn’t even asked how I want my steak cooked? I just figured if they didn’t ask it would be medium….well that is what I get for assuming lol cuz that steak was COOKED! It was pretty loud but expected for a Saturday night. Everyone else said their food was “okay” we got everything from pozole, burritos, tacos, elote, empanadas etc. no one was like “wow this food was amazing” and no one mentioned wanting to return for the food. Again the staff was very friendly and our server was amazing we loved her! It was just very loud, very crowded, very overstimulating, OK food. Wouldn’t go back here for dinner but would go for drinks. They also had a cool way to split the bill for large parties which was very conventient and happy they were able to offer...

My first visit to Fat Rosie’s in Chicago was a mix of highs and lows. Upon entering, the atmosphere was lively and bustling, immediately setting the tone for a vibrant dining experience.

A standout moment was being greeted by Jessica Deleon, the manager, whose outstanding customer service truly made a difference. She was welcoming, kind, and full of positive energy. As a vegetarian, I was unsure about the menu, but Jessica went above and beyond to explain my options with a great sense of humor—something I really appreciated! Her warm and engaging approach set a great first impression.

Once seated, however, the service took a bit of a dip. Our waiter, an older gentleman, was cold and disengaged, providing minimal interaction and rushing through the ordering process. It was a stark contrast to the initial warmth we received. When our food arrived, we were given complimentary tacos and sauce, but no explanation of what they were until I asked.

Now, onto the food—absolutely delicious! I ordered the Salmon Portobello, and it was heavenly. The salmon was grilled perfectly, served on a bed of Mexican-style rice, avocado, and onions. The flavors were rich and well-balanced, making it a truly enjoyable dish.

Unfortunately, the service remained underwhelming. The waiter processed our payment just as rushed and indifferent as before, without much of a thank you. It also seemed like larger groups received more attention, which made the experience feel a bit uneven.

Final Verdict: While the food and Jessica’s hospitality were fantastic, the overall service left something to be desired. Would I visit again? Possibly, but I’d hope for a better service...

I personally don’t understand the hype with this place. I felt unseen, rushed, and mostly ignored during my time here. I don’t know if that’s because I was a solo diner or not. I could barely get my server’s attention when I was there. I had to ask others for help.

I ordered queso fundido with chorizo as an appetizer and carne asada as my main. I barely had a chance to eat a handful of chips before both the appetizer and main were aggressively dropped off at my table and left before I had a chance to say anything. Why are you serving the appetizer WITH the main? Nobody can eat that fast, so one or the other is going to get cold, which obviously happened. It also makes me wonder how fresh the food is. Was this already sitting under a heat lamp waiting for someone to order it?

As I valued the steak more than the appetizer, I ate that first. I did notice, however, that the queso fundido did not have chorizo. I kept trying to flag someone down. When I finally did, a woman who looked like she might be a manager there said in a snarky tone - what do you want me to do? Sprinkle some chorizo on it? YES THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT I WANT YOU TO DO BECAUSE THAT IS WHAT I ORDERED AND AM PAYING FOR!

Eventually it came back out, but now I’m eating an appetizer well after my main is finished. It was so ridiculous. Getting their attention for another margarita was also like herding cats.

I do not recommend Fat Rosie’s, nor will I be back. The food was mediocre, overpriced, with crappy, snarky, rushed service. You won’t be getting my...