Vela

Name: Vela
Address: 352 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL, United States, 60654
Telephone: (312) 888-3465
Price range: $31 to $50
Rating: 4.6

4.6

179 Reviews

$31 to $50

Mexican

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2 people

24 Feb 2025

19:00

Booked 30 times today

Experiences are available.

Good for special occasions
Romantic
Great for creative cocktails

Vela Bar y Cocina, located in the heart of River North, Chicago, brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico City to life. Our menu showcases authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, from flavorful tacos to traditional dishes crafted by Chef Jorge Angulo. Sip on expertly curated cocktails featuring a vast selection of tequila and mezcal, including rare pours. Vela offers the perfect venue for private dining and events, with intimate spaces like our Private Dining Room and the stylish Zona Rosa. Whether you're enjoying a casual night out or hosting a private event, Vela delivers a warm and cosmopolitan experience infused with Mexican spirit. Join us for an unforgettable evening of food, drinks, and culture in one of Chicago's most energetic neighborhoods.

Private dining

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Dining areas

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Mexican, Contemporary Mexican, Latin / Spanish
Hours of Operation
Brunch Sat, Sun 10:00–15:00 Dinner Tue, Wed 16:00–22:00 Thu–Sat 16:00–00:00 Sun 16:00–21:00
Phone number
(312) 888-3465
Website
https://www.velabarcocina.com/
Dress code
Business Casual
Private party facilities
Welcome to Vela! Where the cultural richness and vibrancy of Mexico City meet a sophisticated, modern ambiance. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Vela offers a range of stunning spaces tailored to make your event truly unforgettable.
Private party contact
Kassandra: (312) 888-3465

Location
352 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654
Area
River North (Chicago)
Parking details
Street Parking
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Gender Neutral Restroom, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access

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Experiences

Vela Agave Sessions: 400 Conejos
US$65.00 per person
Prepaid
11 Mar 2025 only
18:00
Explore the rich world of agave through a guided tasting of distinct expressions, each shaped by terroir and the transformative effects of barrel aging. Learn how soil, climate, and time in the cask influence flavor and complexity while diving into the spirit’s history and production. Paired with curated bites from VELA’s Mexico City-inspired kitchen, this tasting is a journey through craft and tradition.
Vela Agave Sessions: Reserva de la Familia
US$85.00 per person
Prepaid
15 Apr 2025 only
18:00
Explore the rich world of agave through a guided tasting of distinct expressions, each shaped by terroir and the transformative effects of barrel aging. Learn how soil, climate, and time in the cask influence flavor and complexity while diving into the spirit’s history and production. Paired with curated bites from VELA’s Mexico City-inspired kitchen, this tasting is a journey through craft and tradition.
Vela Agave Sessions: Maestro Dobel
US$65.00 per person
Prepaid
13 May 2025 only
18:00
Explore the rich world of agave through a guided tasting of distinct expressions, each shaped by terroir and the transformative effects of barrel aging. Learn how soil, climate, and time in the cask influence flavor and complexity while diving into the spirit’s history and production. Paired with curated bites from VELA’s Mexico City-inspired kitchen, this tasting is a journey through craft and tradition.

Cucumber MargaritaUS$12.00
Código Blanco Tequila. Cucumber Water. Chamomile Honey. Chareau. Lime. Orange Flower Water.
PulparindoUS$10.00
Gran Centenario Blanco Tequila. Watermelon. Tamarind. Tajin.
JadeUS$18.00
400 Conejos Mezcal. Jasmine. Plum. Citrus.
Subele a tu AtoleUS$19.00
Abasolo Whiskey. Champurrado. Nixta. Piloncillo.
ManzanitaUS$19.00
400 Conejos Mezcal. Apple Cider. Cardamom. Cinnamon. Citrus. Egg White.
Nada PalmerUS$20.00
Gran Centenario Tequila. Prickly Pear. Tamarind. Citrus.
MimosaUS$13.00
Prickly Pear. Guava. Orange OR Grapefruit. Prosecco.
Mimosa KitUS$50.00
Bottle of Prosecco. Pick two juices: Prickly Pear, Orange, and Grapefruit.
MicheladaUS$16.00
Pacifico. Soy Sauce. Worcestershire. Valentina. Clamato Juice. Tajin. Shrimp.
Carajillo de OllaUS$17.00
Licor 43. Cafe De Olla. Espresso. Orange Brulee.
Bloody MariaUS$18.00
Código Blanco Tequila. Tomatillo. Serrano. Poblano. Olive Oil. Salt. Cilantro. Cucumber. Worcestershire. Garlic. Maggi Seasoning. Shrimp. Queso Fresco.

Cerveza

Casa Humilde MaizalUS$12.00
Lager, Chicago
PacificoUS$8.00
Pilsner, Mexico
Casa Humilde Media NaranjaUS$12.00
Pale Ale, Chicago
Corona NAUS$8.00
Lager, Mexico

Cocina

Oats con LecheUS$11.00
Burnt Apple. Tamarind. Candied Pecans.
GorditaUS$14.00
Chicharrón Prensado or Rajas Con Queso. Yellow Corn Gordita. Refried Beans. Avocado Salsa Verde. Cabbage Curtido.
ChilaquilesUS$15.00
Poblano Salsa Verde. Queso Fresco. Refried Beans. Fried Egg.
French ToastUS$16.00
Bruleed Toast. Charred Poblano. Crème Anglaise. Macerated Peaches.
Vela HamburguesaUS$20.00
Mushroom Medley. Salsa Negra. Dos Quesos. Avocado. Lime Mayo. Pickled Onions.
Platillo ArabeUS$22.00
Morita Glazed Pork Belly. Sumac Onions. Herb Salad. Avocado Spread. Fried Eggs. Tortillas.
PancakesUS$15.00
Heirloom Corn. Macerated Berries. Apricot Raisin Jam. Whipped Butter.
BurritoUS$17.00
Barbacoa Shortrib. Black Bean Pico. Eggs. Poblano Jocoque.

Acompañamientos

EggUS$3.50
Add an egg to any dish, cooked to order.
Chorizo Rojo LinkUS$5.00
House-Made Chorizo Rojo.
AvocadoUS$5.00
1/2 Hass Avocado.
BaconUS$8.00
Applewood Smoked Bacon.
Sweet Potato FriesUS$12.00
Poblano Jocoque. Dried Chili Rub.

Café

EspressoUS$3.00
TeaUS$4.00
AmericanoUS$5.00
CapuccinoUS$5.00
LatteUS$5.00

Jugo

OrangeUS$6.00
GrapefruitUS$6.00

What 179 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6

4.6 based on recent ratings

4.6Food
4.6Service
4.8Ambience
4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Vela offers a "phenomenal service experience" with a "perfect date night ambiance." Diners praise the "flavorful food & masterfully crafted cocktails," making it a great spot for celebrations. While some find the menu limited, the "tacos gobernador" and "pulpo a la parilla" stand out. Overall, "an amazing experience" awaits.

179 Reviews

S
Shaina
VIP
San Francisco
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined today
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Incredible experience! Amazing drinks (cucumber margarita), excellent food, and gorgeous restaurant. Will definitely be telling others to come here
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D
David
Philadelphia
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Beautiful space, FOH team was very polite and attentive. They had a DJ with the volume at the perfect level. The food was delicious.
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B
Bas
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Bartender was on point. Service was attentive. Decor is… 🫠🤤🔥 Amazing find.
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C
Carlos
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great service, we sat at a table and asked for a booth politely and got it!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
VIP
Chicago
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Amazing food and excellent service!!! Loved the dj.
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K
Krystal
VIP
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
I was really impressed with my overall experience. The service was great, our waiter was nice and attentive. The food was phenomenal. The tuna tostadas have some kind of matcha salsa base, I’ve never had anything like that before but it was very tasty. I love that this restaurant is Mexico City inspired and the has a very cool modern touch to it. I will definitely be back here again to try more items on their menu.
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J
J
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Went for a valentines celebration. Christian was our server and super kind with great suggestions. Food and drinks were all on point. Thanks for the hospitality. Special shout out for my man Chris. Looking forward to coming back. Cheers!
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D
Dylan
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 15 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
AMAZING food! Great service. Great bottomless (they make a glass for you each time).
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A
Andrea
VIP
Chihuahua
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on 15 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Amazing brunch options, great drinks and very good music! The cafe de olla carajillo is delicious! Service was fast and attentive.
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A
Alisa
San Francisco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 15 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Accidentally stumbled upon Vela and it turned out to be an amazing experience. The food, music, ambiance was all we needed
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FAQs

Vela is rated 4.6 stars by 179 OpenTable diners.

Vela does offer gift cards which you can purchase here.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.