Best New Dish of 2024
“Chicagoans know tacos, and every new taco-touting concept must now live up to the outstanding version that Vela chef and Chicago native Chef Jorge Angulo has created. Set in a space boasting striking and organic interior design inspired by Mexico City, Vela’s tender barbacoa ossobuco is a shining star among the newest dishes this year. Wrapped in housemade tortillas, the rich and savory short rib, sparked by pickled carrots, is a culinary experience on another level.”
- TimeOut Magazine
10 must-visit Mexican restaurants in Chicago
“One of the best cozy restaurants in Chicago, Vela is where you go for traditional dishes from Mexico City with a twist, thanks to veteran Mexican American Chef Jorge Angulo. ”
- Opentable
The 38 best Mexican restaurants in Chicago
“Headed by Chicago-native Chef Jorge Angulo, Vela showcases the wide range of Mexican flavors with a menu for every palate—plant-based ceviche, a wagyu empanada and Nayarit-style lobster are just a few of the intriguing offerings”
- TimeOut Magazine
Seven non-traditional uses of corn
“Chef Jorge Angulo nixtamalizes corn in-house, grinds it and makes it into large tortillas which he fills with black beans and Chihuahua and Oaxaca cheeses and folds into a football shape. He sears it on the plancha until crispy and then tops it with an avocado salsa verde and a combination of mushrooms from Four Star Mushrooms. it's garnished with toasted cotija cheese and microgreens from Closed Loop Farms.”
- Restaurant Hospitality
Taste Mexico's finest at Vela, River North's new dining spot
“Vela Bar y Cocina is serving up high-end Mexican cuisine with a dash of edgy charm right in River North.”
- NBC News
