Leña Brava
Mexican · West Loop · $$$
Mexican · West Loop, Chicago, IL · $$
Cooking and feeding one another is an act of community. Hoy por tí. Mañana por mí: This Spanish idiom embodies a sense of unity and helping each other today because we don’t know what tomorrow holds. We welcome you to La Josie. Our Bib Gourmand, Upscale-casual Mexican restaurant with three agave bars, including one on the rooftop, brings traditional flavors in a modern, yet comfortable atmosphere in Chicago’s West Loop. Since May 2017, Chef/Owner Pepe Barajas has offered creative and thoughtful dishes influenced by allregions of Mexico alongside some of his family's recipes from their home state (and tequila's birthplace), Jalisco, Mexico.
“Visited last night after the Bulls game, it was about 12 minutes from the stadium. We valet parked, and Sat in the back of the restaurant which I believe is their bar. Our server Was nice and attentive. The food was absolutely delicious. The flavors were bold but not over powering. We ordered the Shrimp Tacos and Guacamole. So FRESH! I also ordered a non-alcoholic drink with hibiscus and pineapple juice. It was so good! I would definitely recommend and will return.”
“Great mezcal bar. Bartender was extemely knowledgable of mezcals AND their creation/history. My sister and I had a wonderful time. We learned alot about the establishment and their goal to make tequilas' bastard cousin mezcal, an attraction for all. Not a place to overlook in the west loop. Oh, and the food is fantastic. But yea, mezcal.”
“Came here for restaurant week! I love a good upscale Mexican spot! The mood lighting was cute and everything we tried was 10/10! (This was also my first time trying flan … great first try!) Definitely will be back! Food + desserts we tried: -Tamal (rajas con queso + picadillo) -Carne Asada -Flan Casero Drinks we tried: -sangre dulce -no seas fresca”
“La Josie is my favorite spot to come to for birthday celebrations. She’s a bit pricey but the food and service is always impeccable so it’s definitely worth it. You can never go wrong with the drinks and enchiladas here. I’m still dreaming about the Al pastor trio 🤤. The ribeye Auguachile was delicious and the camarones a la diabla were good as well, but the sauce reminded us a bit of Valentina hot sauce which was interesting. We’ll be back soon for good food and a good time 🫶🏽”
“The mezcal margarita? Balanced. Smoky. Dangerous in the best way. The guacamole? Phenomenal. Fresh, bold, no notes. That part was done right. I ordered the steak salad & the steak itself was delicious, cooked well, no complaints there. But the salad? A little too spicy for comfort. And listen… I’m from Texas. I don’t scare easy. 🌶️ BUT That heat deserves a heads-up on the menu. Transparency is luxury. One more thing … bring limes to the table. Our waitress was amazing… fun, warm, attentive, the kind of energy that makes the whole experience better. And the valet parking? A blessing. Snowing, freezing, in Chicago and I didn’t have to worry about a thing. Overall? Great food, strong drinks, excellent service, solid vibe. I’ll be back!”
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