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CocoBar
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
CocoBar
8.1
CocoBar is a bright pink Riverwalk-side spot pairing frozen margaritas and carnitas tacos with skyline views. It’s more about patio energy and drinks than precision cooking, but the tacos, churro fries, and aguas frescas make it one of downtown’s more compelling Mexican-leaning riverfront options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Tacos, Steak Burrito, Churro Fries
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 6.7
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Riverwalk margaritas, tacos, and churro fries under a photogenic pink facade.
Who should go: Groups wanting casual tacos with strong margaritas and river views.
When to visit: Late afternoons into golden hour on warm-season days.
What to order: Frozen margarita, carnitas tacos, churro fries for the table.
Insider tip: Claim a river-facing table before ordering; the best seats go quickly in good weather.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated parking — expect paid garages and limited metered street parking along Wacker and nearby Loop streets.
Dress code: Casual and patio-friendly; summer wear and comfortable footwear are common.
Noise level: Lively — conversation is possible but can be challenging during peak patio hours.
Weekend wait: Often 30–60 minutes for river-facing tables in warm weather; faster for non-view seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait outside of peak tourist days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — chips, salsas, sides, and select tacos or bowls can be made meat-free depending on daily offerings.
Vegan options: Limited — expect a few buildable options; confirm ingredients at the counter.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-leaning items (corn tortillas, proteins), but preparation is not strictly gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Best for a casual, playful first date where views and drinks are the focus — the vibe is social and energetic rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is largely first-come, first-served; arriving before peak evening hours improves chances at river-facing tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes during daytime and early evening; space is outdoors with crowds and alcohol-centric energy later at night.
Best For
Better for: River views, frozen margaritas, and a highly photogenic patio atmosphere compared with more food-centric Mexican spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking chef-driven Mexican cooking, quiet conversation, or climate-controlled indoor seating.
CocoBar
7.6
On the Chicago Riverwalk just off Wabash, CocoBar serves tacos, churros, and cocktails from a compact Latin-leaning bar with patio seating overlooking the water. It’s best for carne asada tacos, walking tacos, and a round of margaritas when you want river views as much as the food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Walking Tacos, Churro Fries
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 7.2
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Latin-influenced tacos, churros, and cocktails served right on the Chicago Riverwalk.
Who should go: Visitors wanting tacos with a drink and river views.
When to visit: Warm late afternoons for sun, shorter lines, and patio seats.
What to order: Carne Asada Tacos, a Walking Taco, and Churro Fries to share.
Insider tip: Claim a riverfront table before ordering at the bar for the best views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site parking; closest option is nearby Loop and Riverwalk garages, with street parking extremely limited and expensive during peak hours.
Dress code: Casual and patio-friendly — shorts, sandals, and summer layers are common; no formal dress expectations.
Noise level: Moderate to loud outdoors depending on time of day — conversation is possible, but crowds and river traffic can add background noise.
Weekend wait: Expect 20–40 minutes during warm-weather evenings, especially when the Riverwalk is busy.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, though lines can form on sunny mid-day rushes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — a small number of vegetarian tacos and sides, but selection is limited.
Vegan options: Very limited — some items may be modifiable, but there is no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are available, but shared prep areas mean it is not fully celiac-safe.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-key meetup than a formal first date — the appeal is the patio setting and river views rather than long, seated conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, first-served on the Riverwalk. Arrive early to claim a table before ordering at the bar during busy times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids and families walking the Riverwalk; there’s outdoor seating and quick food, but limited stroller space and no kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Casual tacos with drinks directly on the water, quick bites between Riverwalk activities, and relaxed patio hangs with strong views.
Skip if: You want destination-level Mexican food, indoor seating, full table service, or extensive dietary accommodations.