El Xangarrito Brings Standout Mole to Lincoln Square

What public feedback suggests

El Xangarrito Mex Restaurant stands out in Lincoln Square for combining a compact, cozy setting with food that diners repeatedly describe as carefully prepared and attractively presented. Its 4.9 Google rating from 499 reviews signals unusually strong satisfaction, while the available review details point to more than a neighborhood taco stop. Mole, ceviche and enchiladas receive the clearest praise, and several diners also emphasize quick service and welcoming hospitality.

The dining room appears to be a major part of the experience. Reviewers describe it as charming, quaint and especially inviting after dark, with warm lighting and only a handful of tables. That limited footprint gives the restaurant an intimate feel, but it also makes advance planning sensible. One reviewer specifically recommends calling ahead for a reservation.

The food to prioritize

Mole is the recurring centerpiece. Multiple diners call it rich, deeply flavored or among the best they have tried, particularly when paired with enchiladas or flautas. The praise is not completely uniform. One reviewer wanted heavier spicing and found the accompanying meat somewhat dry. Even with that criticism, the same diner still placed El Xangarrito among Chicago’s better Mexican restaurants.

Enchiladas are another consistent thread. Public feedback mentions steak enchiladas with mole, fish enchiladas and chicken enchiladas packed with substantial pieces of meat. The sauces appear to have individual character rather than following a single template. One diner described the sauce accompanying the fish enchiladas as having an almost curry-like quality, suggesting a kitchen comfortable with layered, aromatic flavors.

Ceviche is the most frequently praised starter in the sample. It is described as refreshing, well presented and a strong opening before richer mole-based dishes. Queso fundido with chicken and creamy poblano sauce also receives enthusiastic attention, though it appears less often in the available feedback.

Service, atmosphere and value

Speed and hospitality form another reliable pattern. Diners report dishes arriving quickly, even when presentation remains polished. Service is characterized as welcoming and efficient, an important advantage in such a small room. The atmosphere seems better suited to an intimate dinner or small gathering than a large, spontaneous group.

Value is more subjective. One reviewer considered the restaurant expensive compared with many Mexican restaurants, but also felt the generous fillings and overall quality justified the cost. With no confirmed price level available, the clearest conclusion is that diners may be paying for composed plates and a cozy sit-down experience rather than bargain-focused portions.

Bottom line

Based on public ratings and diner reports, El Xangarrito looks strongest for a relaxed dinner centered on mole, enchiladas and ceviche. The restrained room, fast service and thoughtful presentation help distinguish it. Limited seating, occasional inconsistency in spice intensity and criticism of the tortilla chips are the principal cautions, but the overall pattern remains highly favorable.