Fab Review: CRĪO

The word ‘Gastropub’ is defined as “a pub that specializes in serving high-quality food.” Well, if there is one place that truly embodies every aspect of that definition, it would be CRĪO. CRĪO is one of my favorite brunch and dinner gastropubs, and even better? It’s located right in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. At CRĪO, you truly get the best of American and Latin cuisine. On top of the great fusion food, you can sit back and enjoy their relaxed environment. I’ve been there several times and it never disappoints…so what are you waiting for?

{Ambiance}
CRĪO has a very casual atmosphere. The restaurant itself is split into two sections, the bar and dining area. Each section is accompanied with fun chalk and wall decor, which gives the restaurant a cool street vibe.

With CRĪO, it’s all about the small details that come together to create the perfect ambiance. When weather permits, the floor length windows in the dining area are open, which lets in fresh air and natural sunlight. In the winter, the mini fireplace is lit up with couches along the front so you can stay warm while enjoying the food. With such a customizable experience, this place is great to go with friends or for a casual family gathering. For me, CRĪO is the perfect place to grab some drinks and catch up with friends for hours.

{Food}
American Burger at CRĪO // Photo: @chelsias

Here are some of my favorites from CRĪO…

Torta Ahogada
The first time I took a bite of this dish I fell in love. CRĪO truly takes torta to a whole other level by stuffing all the torta ingredients inside the bread like a bread-bowl dish. The braised beef-cheek meat is perfectly tender and the onions add a nice crunch so that you get a play on textures. My favorite part of this dish is the roasted tomato chile de Arbol sauce that the sandwich sits in. It’s perfect to dip the bread in and adds a nice low heat on the back of your tongue.

FAB TIP: If you get the Torta Ahogada, try to eat it in the restaurant. If you get it to go, the sauce makes the bread a bit soggy by the time you get back.

Tacos de Pescado
I am such a sucker for a good fish taco, and CRĪO has great fish tacos. The tortilla is perfectly soft but sturdy. The fish fillet has a very fresh taste and is crispy without being overly oily. The red cabbage, orange chipotle mayo, and avocado cream complete the taco with a nice freshness that enhances the taste of the fish without overpowering it. The perfect bite for me includes a squeeze of lime juice on top to give it that extra kick of tanginess.

Loaded Fries
This is my go to dish at CRĪO. How could you go wrong with french fries? You really can’t. You especially can’t go wrong when these fries are smothered with beer-battered cheddar cheese, pulled-pork, and scallions. Be warned. The portion is big and can be very filling because of the amount of ingredients on the fries. This is definitely a dish to share with friends. But, once you’ve taken a bite of this deliciousness, you won’t regret it.

{Experience}
For me, CRĪO is pretty much bae for me. I have yet to come in and try their brunch (hello, bottomless mimosas) but with their dinner menu, I have never had a bad experience. I have also always left full, satisfied, and with leftovers to cure my CRĪO cravings later in the day. Although, I have never been a huge fusion fan, I can’t help but love the combination of American/Latin food that CRĪO brings to the table. With such crisp and clear flavors and honest food I could probably eat at CRĪO more than once per week. If you ever need a place to grab good food and drinks, CRĪO is the place for you.

FAB TIP: CRĪO offers daily food or drink specials Monday-Friday. All the specials are dine-in only.

{Location}
CRĪO
Lincoln Park ||2506 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL || P: (773) 525-2100

{Price Range}
$-$$ ($10-$35)

{Fab Ratings: 4.5 Fabs}

Let us know what your favorite fusion food is in the comments below!

Eat On!
Chelsia

Note: This meal was not complimentary. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer.