CHIReview
Emilio's Tapas
This spot is Permanently Closed.
So I’m standing there, waiting to use the pay phone, and this man turns around and tips his hat, like this. And who do you think that guy was? Emilio Estevez. The Mighty Ducks man himself. And I was like, EMILIOOOOOO.
There are a couple things I distinctly remember about my childhood, some of which are A Night at the Roxbury, The Mighty Ducks, and going to Emilio’s Tapas for dinner on visits to Chicago with my parents. Combine all of these things together, and here we are at today’s review. Whether you gained an appreciation for tapas because you had an A-Mazing semester abroad in Barcelona with your besties, or you just like Spanish food because you know it’s d*mn good, you need to check this place out. The best way to do it is order a little bit of everything, and if you come across something you don’t love, that’s ok. Don’t let it ruin the whole experience and simply try something else. One thing we will say is that the paella is only decent. If you’re in the mood, go for it. But don’t expect the greatest paella you’ve ever had.
Another major draw at Emilio’s is the patio, but not in the Big Star let’s post up all day while it’s nice out and see how many margaritas we can drink while saying hi to everyone we know kind of a way. It’s more of a, wow, this is a really relaxing patio in Streeterville where we are going to lounge, order tapas at a lenient pace, and enjoy some quality food. That being said, there’s nothing wrong with taking the Big Star approach and ordering an abundance of beer, wine, or sangria - just don’t expect a similarly raucous crowd.
Food Rundown
Grilled Skirt Steak (falda de debon a la parrilla)
A sizeable piece of grilled skirt steak with sautéed red peppers, mushrooms, green onions, and cilantro sauce. Lot of vegetables over the meat, which we like.
Patatas Bravas
A classic Spanish dish of potatoes and a spicy red sauce.
Patatas Con Alioli
Kind of like a garlic potato salad, and an alternative potato option if you don’t like spicy. Good stuff that should be a filler with any meal.
Grilled Spanish Sausage and Blood Sausage (Morcilla y Chorizo)
We realize this dish isn’t for everyone, but we love blood sausage. Our recommendation is that you try it too.
Lamb Meatballs (Albondigas de Cordero)
Five or so lamb meatballs served in a spicy tomato almond sauce. They are absolutely delicious, and the sauce has just enough kick. You’ll want to be soaking that stuff up with lots of bread.
Bacon Wrapped Dates (Datiles con Tocino)
Bacon wrapped dates with a little roasted red pepper butter sauce. Yes, please. Just eat these.
Grilled Calamari (Calamares con Ajo y Limon)
Perfectly grilled, with a little lemon, a little olive oil, and a lot of tasty goodness. One of our personal favorites.
Paella
Option of meat, seafood, or a combo of both. Like we said, it’s fine.
Tomato Bread with Ham and Cheese (Pan con Tomate, Jamon, y Queso)
Necessary to have at your disposal. Thinly sliced Spanish ham and manchego cheese on some tomato smeared pieces of bread.