If you're looking for a nice dinner in Chicago, Salpican is a great place to do it. Though I've never been to Frontera Grill or Topolobampo, I've heard that Salpican is every bit as good as these venerable institutions.
The place was crowded, and we felt like we were in the way, huddled over near the bathroom with our margaritas for 15 minutes while we waited for our table. That was the only remotely negative part of the whole experience (I wasn't paying, so there was no opportunity to be overwhelmed by the check. If I had been paying, we wouldn't have gone here, but some day when I'm making some money, I'll definitely come back.)
All the food was delicious, well-prepared, and well-presented. There were a range of more and less traditional offerings (chiles rellenos, to tequila and poblano ice cream-- both great.) The margaritas were fantastic, as was the mescal flight, as was the tequila flight.
The menu changes every week, although I believe that about 60% of the menu is constant. I hope I'll get a chance to back to try some more of their dishes.
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