ISTMO Oaxacan Cuisine

4.7 (177)

$30 and under

Mexican

3231 N Clark St ste 4, Chicago, IL 60657-2172

About this restaurant

Neighbourhood gem
Great for creative cocktails
Good for special occasions

We celebrate the culinary connections between the Oaxacan region in Mexico and a neighboring international cuisine. It highlights the vibrant flavors, traditional techniques, and unique ingredients of Oaxaca, while also incorporating elements and influences from a neighboring culinary tradition.

Meet Carlos Lopez Muñoz, a culinary virtuoso hailing from the vibrant tapestry of Oaxaca, Mexico. His gastronomic odyssey began in the heart of his family's kitchen, weaving a narrative steeped in the rich culinary tradition of "El Istmo."

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Dining areas

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Mexican, Regional Mexican
Hours of Operation
Breakfast Sat, Sun 09:00–14:00 Dinner Thu–Sun 17:00–22:00
Phone number
(872) 315-2034
Website
https://www.istmochicago.com/
Dress code
Business Casual
Executive Chef
Carlos Lopez Muñoz
Catering
contact@istmochicago.com
Private party facilities
Join us for an unforgettable experience celebrating the vibrant spirit of Oaxaca! Immerse yourself in an exquisite culinary experience featuring authentic Oaxacan cuisine, known for its rich and diverse flavors. Our skilled chef will delight your palate with traditional dishes, crafted with the freshest local ingredients and time-honored recipes.

Location
3231 N Clark St ste 4, Chicago, IL 60657-2172
Area
Lakeview / East Lakeview
Parking Details
None
Additional
Gluten-free Options, Private Room, Vegan, Weekend Brunch

Reviews

OpenTable reviews from verified diners

Reviews from people who have dined at ISTMO Oaxacan Cuisine.

4.7

(177)

4.7Food
4.7Service
4.6Ambience
4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

177 Reviews

C
Chris Gold
Houston5 reviews
5.0
Dined on 6 November 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Istmo is a hidden gem in Lakeview. The food is elevated, beautifully plated, and absolutely delicious! One of the best restaurants in Chicago!
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B
Brian
New York City2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 2 November 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great service. Great Chilaquiles! Love the Cafe de la Olla.
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J
Jennifer
Chicago / Illinois4 reviews
5.0
Dined on 1 November 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Can't say enough wonderful things about Istmo! The drinks are incredible (get the pina colada!), the food is rich in flavor (many vegetarian options too!), and the service is impeccable. I look forward to returning.
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V
Victoria
Chicago / Illinois4 reviews
5.0
Dined on 31 October 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This place is amazing. The ambiance and decor are gorgeous, the staff and service are excellent, and the food is so delicious. Well worth a visit to Lakeview if you aren't already nearby.
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A
Andrew Gold
Washington, D.C. Area1 review
5.0
Dined on 25 October 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The ambience is excellent and the food was amazing; the cocktails are equally impressive. Our waiter gave us good recommendations on order size and preferences too!
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M
Mark Gold
Chicago / Illinois7 reviews
4.0
Dined on 24 October 2025
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Nice food, cute space. The chicken was tasty and cocktails too. Could have more selection of agave spirits
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B
Brad Gold
Chicago / Illinois140 reviews
5.0
Dined on 19 October 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Excellent food, cocktails and service. Highlights were the chicken with mole and pineapple aguachile, but everything was excellent.
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K
Keith Gold
Chicago / Illinois40 reviews
5.0
Dined on 18 October 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Amazing experience from start to finish, the decor, vibe, staff, service, and food were some of the best I've had in Chicago and I will definitely be coming back!
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J
Julie
Chicago / Illinois6 reviews
5.0
Dined on 10 October 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The food was so flavorful and delicious! The plates are best for sharing, so it's good to go with a group of 4 or 5.
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K
Kathy
Chicago / Illinois3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 9 October 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We were a party of six celebrating 3 family birthdays and everything was Outstanding! Food, service and ambience could not have been better. This is an absolute GEM!
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