Cruz Blanca Brewery: A Taste of Mexico in Chicago

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Workday who? Cruz Blanca Stole the Show! If you’re looking for the perfect way to cap off a Tuesday work night (or any night, really), Cruz Blanca Brewery is IT. We were seriously craving tacos, and this place delivered—and then some. We dove into the carnitas nachos to start (because why not start strong?), followed by their all-time faves—carnitas and al pastor tacos. And let me tell you… those tacos? Fresh. Juicy. Packed with flavor. Wrapped in warm, freshly made corn tortillas that made everything taste even more heavenly. Like, take-a-moment-to-close-your-eyes good. And of course, margaritas flowed because, well, balance. Tart, strong, and dangerously smooth. The vibe? Fun, laid-back, with just the right amount of sass. The food? So satisfying you’ll want to come back by Wednesday. Highly, highly recommend—this spot is a whole mood.

Came here for restaurant week and I will be coming back here! Everything we got to try had great flavor and the drinks weren’t as bad! (My friend said his drink tasted like it had a lot of syrup in it but other than that — everything else was delicious!) It was also nice the bathroom was cute and clean! I also like how they have an upstairs and downstairs and both give off a different vibe!

If you’re anywhere near West Loop, do yourself a favor and stop into Cruz Blanca Brewery & Taquería. This place absolutely delivers on both sides of the menu — the beer and the food. The standout for me was the Praga — a crisp, beautifully balanced Mexican-style lager that’s ridiculously drinkable. Clean, light, and refreshing without being bland. It’s the kind of beer you could crush all afternoon, especially with food. Smooth malt backbone, subtle hop presence, and zero fuss. Just dialed in. And speaking of food — the carnitas are next level. Perfectly tender with those crispy edges that give you that ideal texture contrast. Juicy, flavorful, and not overly greasy. Whether in tacos or on a plate, they pair insanely well with the Praga. The beer cuts through the richness, and the carnitas bring out the malt sweetness. It’s a combo that just works. The vibe is lively without being chaotic, the service is solid, and you can tell there’s serious attention to craft here. Bottom line: Come for the Praga, stay for the carnitas — and probably order another round.

Absolutely the must visit brewery in Chicago! From the beers to the tacos, you will not be disappointed. We planned on stopping by for an hour and moving on, but ended up staying for 3! All of their main beers tried and most of their tacos. We have fully decided this will be a Chicago must-go staple when we return! Shout out to Jake for being a great bartender and superb connoisseur of the brews and tacos available. If you don’t try the Al Pastor here, you’re missing out!

After a wait we got seated and the staff were very friendly. Tried a few of their beers and all were good. Chips and salsa were different. Chips were good but the salsas were really more for tacos than dipping or eating with chips. Both were tasty just not what we were expecting. The Tlayuda was great, had it with steak and one of the better ones I’ve had outside of Oaxaca.

Tacos and beer, or tacos y cerveza as the sign says above the kitchen. Rick Bayless and his, what, seven James Beard awards may not still be at the helm, but that doesn't mean that Cruz Blanca isn't plating quality and creative tacos. They are. And they make pretty decent beer, to boot. Tacos and beer! If you like either, then you're all set. And if you don't, then seriously? Smaller inside. Large outdoor space.

Solid brewery with great beer and good tacos. Service was quick and friendly, and food portions were very large.

Love this place! Can get super busy, but staff are great and food is amazing! Of course the beer is fantastic.