Bolivar & Lincoln Chicago
Venezuelan Haven
Chicago may be dominated by Mexican eateries, but there is an entire arena of other Latin American cuisines to delve into as well.
Let me introduce you to one of the best Venezuelan restaurants in the city: Bolivar & Lincoln is a family-owned and run business established in 2019. The restaurant's name is inspired by Venezuelan military and political leader, Simon Bolivar, and 16th President of the United States and Illinois native, Abraham Lincoln.
The vibrant, compact interior reflects the vibrancy of the restaurant's traditional Venezuelan favorites served to Chicago's Lakeview community.
A must-order is, of course, the arepas. An arepa is one of Venezuela's most well-known foods; it is a crispy corn cake that can be filled with different fillings, such as beans, cheese, and sweet plantains. Bolivar & Lincoln has 10 pre-made arepa options, in addition to a "build-your-own-arepa" option. My favorite order is the vegetarian arepa, which is stuffed with black beans, a generous portion of avocado, and sweet plantains.
Additionally, Bolivar & Lincoln has tempting appetizer and dessert options, as well as fantastic empanadas that are HUGE.
I would highly recommend getting both an arepa and an empanada!
About this spot
Explore Chicago like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Chicago guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Chicago
Chicago Athletic Association
Library bar
The "Chicago Athletic Association" (CAA) is an elite, hidden, and multifaceted space in the heart of the Loop. The gem of this hotel is the drawing room...
By
Sophie
Amado
Monk's Pub
Craft beer bar in the Loop
Monk's Pub is a snug beer bar suitable for anyone looking for a pint or their next meal. It's smack in the middle of Chicago, but you really can't tell...
By
Sophie
Amado
Long Room
A cozy long room bar
"Long Room" in Chicago is as the name suggests: a long gathering room. Or rather, a long tavern. I love the wooden bar, the lack of television & the menu!
By
Sophie
Amado
Four Moon Tavern
Dive bar with panache
"Four Moon Tavern" in Chicago may seem simple on the outside, but this neighborhood bar has a lot to offer. Make sure to come here hungry!
By
Sophie
Amado
Vegan Plate
Hearty Thai food
I'm not vegan but I do think that "Vegan Plate" in Lincoln Park is one of the best bang-for-your-buck restaurants in Chicago. Try the curry combo plate!
By
Sophie
Amado
Pasta Bowl
Pasta to die for
"Pasta Bowl" in Chicago boasts about being a laid-back restaurant with fresh dishes, but if you're not in the mood for a bite, they also act as a cool bar.
By
Sophie
Amado
Bungalow
Natural wine meets fresh bread
I am always stunned by their appetizers, including "the big salad," which includes seasonal vegetables topped with plenty of pepper and shredded cheese.
By
Sophie
Amado
aliveOne
Cozy music bar
aliveOne in Lincoln Park offers rock vibes, local music, a cozy atmosphere, pool, comfy couches, and the perfect spot to unwind or dance the night away.
By
Sophie
Amado
Side Street Saloon
Dive bar with pizza
Side Street Saloon in Lakeview is the perfect no-frills dive bar with a cozy Italian vibe in back, great pizza, pool, and a quirky neighborhood charm.
By
Sophie
Amado
Reggies Chicago
Bar with music and shuttles
Reggies Chicago is a grunge bar, concert venue, and shuttle hub with great eats, Sox game packages, a beach bar and unique events like a pancake art show.
By
Sophie
Amado
KOVAL Distillery
Craft distillery
KOVAL Distillery doesn't only produce delicious craft spirits, they're also a city landmark — the first fully operational distillery in Chicago in years.
By
Sophie
Amado
The Catcade
Cat cafe+arcade
The arcade-themed Catcade in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood has been a crucial stop for all cat lovers since 2017...
By
Sophie
Amado
Heading to Chicago?
114 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Chicago?
✓ 114 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
