Dona Tola: A Vibrant Taste of Mexican Cuisine in Chicago

Went around 1p on a weekend. I got the feeling the team had just settled down from a rush. Food was good and there was enough variation on the cocktail menu to satisfy different preferences. The bread basket was an assortment with 2 of each type of bread item and some of the pairs were different flavors, more of a savory and sweet variety. Overall the brunch was good but still its brunch food and wasn’t differentiated much. The bread basket was the star of our meal. We want to go back for dinner, pretty positive it’ll be amazing.

5 stars, gold medal, 1st place trophy; whatever awards you can think of, this place deserves it. I do not often use the word amazing, but the arrachera is worthy of such a title. The flavor, the tenderness, and the sides(!!), all at half the price point of a nice steakhouse makes this one of the best steaks I’ve ever had. I usually only focus on the food, but even I feel compelled to mention the infectious positive energy that this restaurant emits with its music and decor. Doña Tola executes all the spectacular qualities of Mexican cuisine at the highest level. Seriously, try this place.

Happened upon this spot for a Saturday brunch and was pleasantly surprised! The food was really great and the service was nice too. It’s a really cute atmosphere and while we didn’t get drinks, they looked great! We opted for the Mexican Bread Basket (which was filled with flavorful options) and came with coffee or tea. We also tried the Machacado con Huevo which was Shredded beef, pico de gallo, and scrambled eggs and came with a side of tortillas as well as beans and potatoes. The vibrant murals and the open windows were a nice touch too. They have a cute sidewalk patio area as well.

Pretty restaurant with solid food. Margaritas were amazing! Guac was above average. Tacos were good. Churros were great and came with yummy chocolate dipping sauce- but small portions - so if there are more than two of you, order multiple servings. It’s a small space but they take reservations. They also have a limited kid’s menu.

Just swung by Doña Tola on Southport and dropped about $50 for two. Split the steak tacos, enchiladas, plus churros with spicy chocolate sauce and a margarita. Food’s legit—flavors pop and portions are generous—though the pico tasted like it was prepped a bit early. Cozy vibes, friendly staff, chill patio. Solid date-night spot—just a hair pricy.

I thought this place was pretty good, I was suggested it by a coworker. I was a little disappointed at the presentation of the guacamole. It came out on a small flat plate with chips on the same plate. That was a bad first impression. But after that had a pitcher of margaritas which were strong but tasted good they had the right balance. Also had the steak enchiladas and steak fajitas. The food was really good including the guac. We were sat at a small table and barely had room for all our items but ultimately the food was good which is the most important thing. I'd come back, but plan to get a bigger table next time.

Absolutely outstanding -- wish we lived closer, but we will make the drive from West Loop because this chef and staff earned it. We absolutely loved everything we ate. Chile Relleno, Camarones, Chuletas (Lamb Chops), Puerco Con Nopales, and dessert. As much as I want to try everything on the menu, for two people, I wouldn't change a single thing we ordered. Unfortunately it was so much food that we barely touched the Puerco, but we took it to go and heated it up in a skillet two days later and threw it on top of a tostada and it honestly still tasted amazing. As someone who doesn't typically love mole, I enjoyed everything about the Chuletas -- getting a bite with lamb, fideo and mole was perfection. The service was amazing as well. Thank you for a great meal - we'll be back soon!

Food, cocktails & service are all great! Highly recommend the jumbo margarita and tacos al pastor! The tamarind Negroni was also very good.