Born of chef/owner Rick Bayless’s genius for, and scholarly pursuit of, regional Mexican cuisine, this River North superstar’s brand has become a name to reckon with. The casual, more accessible of Bayless’s side-by-side duo (see also TOPOLOBAMPO), Frontera introduces a wealth of deceptively simple Mexican dishes—and a world of flavors—that you won’t find at your neighborhood taco stand. An exhaustive tequila list for sipping or for shaken-to-order margaritas and a fine wine list stand up to the food. A seat here is a coveted one, as reservations are for parties of five to ten only.

Frontera Grill Information:

• Mexican menu. Lunch, dinner, Sat brunch. Closed Sun-Mon; holidays. Bar. Children's menu. Casual attire. Business casual attire. Valet parking. Outdoor seating.