The Chicago Traveler

Holy Mole! For a mole (MOH-leh) that’s magnifico, head to Sol de Mexico on Cicero and Belmont. This northwest side restaurant specializes in moles, sauces that infuse food with flavor. Many believe that a mole is a piece of art when it’s cooked well. Chef (and culinary artist) Carlos Tello has been making a multitude of moles with an unlikely partner: his mother-in-law! Some moles have as many as 23 ingredients, including sesame seeds, chocolate, onions, spices, avocado leaves, and of course chile peppers. The whole procedure of smoking and preparing the mole can take up to six hours. On average, Sol de Mexico will offer nine to ten different moles at a time in dishes like sea scallops with creamy coconut mole, grilled New Zealand rack of lamb with spicy salsa and black mole, and the fresh stuffed tamales with a mole of your choice. If you’re a fan of chicken enchiladas, don’t expect the usual boring red sauce; these come with a cheesy, garlicky, creamy white sauce.

¡Que rico! Judging by its continued success, a Wrigleyville eatery is living up to its name, which means “How rich!” or “How delicious!” Que Rico! is owned and operated all by family. In the kitchen, you’ll find Patricia Prosen working on recipes she created with her mom while sister Adriana manages the staff. The skinny passageway that serves as a waiting area can get a tad congested. However, once you are seated, take in the sights of the spacious dining rooms with summer-yellow walls, red tablecloths, and lively Mexican music. This place is perfect for those with a sensitive palate as dishes are light on the spice. Skip the bland tacos, and try the tamale plate (that includes chicken, pork, and veggie tamales smothered in mole), carne asada (a skirt steak broiled to perfection), and arroz con pollo (chicken with Mexican rice). And be sure to pair your meal with one of their margaritas, which are some of the best in town. But be patient: the wait staff, while friendly, can occasionally be a touch on the slow side.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) MMChicago

Sol de Mexico ($$): 3018 N Cicero Ave; 773-282-4119
Mon – Sat: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Sun: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Street parking available
Public trans: Bus # 54, X54, 77

¡Qué Rico! ($$): 2814 N Southport Ave; 773-975-7436
Mon – Thurs: 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Fri – Sun: 12 noon – 10:00 p.m.
Street parking available, free parking lot after 5:00 p.m.
Public trans: Bus # 9, X9, 11, 76

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