Botanero — Restaurant in West Chicago Township

Botanero has become one of my absolute favorite restaurants in the city. I’ve been here five times in the last three months, and every visit has been incredible. Whether it was a date night with my fiancé, a birthday dinner for my brother, or a night out with friends, Botanero consistently delivers amazing food, cocktails, and atmosphere.

The owner Richard brings so much energy to the space and always finds ways to make guests feel welcome. The vibe here is perfect for any occasion—burlesque shows on Thursdays, DJs on weekends, and an overall lively yet classy atmosphere that works for both an intimate dinner and a fun party night.

The food is the highlight. I’ve tried everything on the menu and it’s all outstanding. Every dish is packed with flavor and beautifully presented. After living in Chicago for over 10 years and dining at countless restaurants, I can confidently say Botanero’s flavor profiles stand out among the best in the city.

The cocktails are also a must-try. Huge thanks to Marco, who creates some of the most well-balanced and creative drinks I’ve had in Chicago. They’re complex, flavorful, and clearly designed with care.

If you’re looking for a top Chicago restaurant for date night, birthdays, girls’ night out, or weekend nightlife, Botanero should be at the top of your list. Between the amazing food, world-class cocktails, and unforgettable atmosphere, it’s a place I recommend...

I was really excited to try Botanero and made a Valentine’s Day reservation a month in advance and me and my boyfriend had studied the menu and knew what we wanted to order. So we were disappointed to come in only to be offered a preset menu for Vday that was 3 courses and $65 a person. When I booked the reservation there was nothing about a preset menu otherwise I would not have come here because I was excited to try their regular menu, and if I was going to choose a preset menu this would not have been the place I would have chosen. We weren’t impressed by the preset menu options and the portions were small. After 2 dinners, 2 drinks, tax and tip my boyfriend paid over $200 and we left hungry. So much so we went next door to Mott Street to get more food.

At Botanero the food itself was adequate but I wish there had been more of it or another course, even then I don’t think it was a $200 meal (also the dessert was a shared piece of cheesecake which felt like a slap in the face for the price because really it’s a 2.5 course meal for $65!). Overall it was a disappointing first experience.

Some pros: cute and intimate atmosphere, attentive and friendly staff, food...

If you’re a Mexican foodie looking for a chef-driven, contemporary dining experience—Botanero is a must-visit! Chef Yanny is truly talented, and her passion comes through in every dish. The botanas are bold, flavorful, and surprisingly filling—perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.

The space has a lounge-style vibe that makes it ideal for a chill night out or a cozy date night. The drinks? Incredible. Jay Jay and Marco create some of the most creative, perfectly balanced signature cocktails in town.

On top of the amazing food and drinks, the entertainment takes things to another level. There’s a live DJ on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and on Thursdays, they feature burlesque entertainment—so unique and fun!

Whether you’re looking to unwind, enjoy a night out with friends, or impress on a date, Botanero hits every mark. Great food, great drinks,...