When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Las Tablas
Why Las Tablas is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Las Tablas is a renowned Colombian restaurant in Chicago, known for its authentic cuisine and warm, family-owned atmosphere. Founded in 1991, it has become a beloved spot for friends and families to gather and enjoy traditional Colombian dishes like empanadas, arepas, churrasco, and the national favorite, Bandeja Paisa. The restaurant offers a comfortable dining experience with a full bar and options for both lunch and dinner. It prides itself on being woman-owned, minority-owned, and Hispanic-owned, reflecting its deep cultural roots and dedication to community. The Lakeview location is family-friendly and accessible, providing a vibrant setting to meet up, celebrate, or enjoy live cultural events. Its commitment to showcasing Colombian culture extends beyond food, often featuring live music, dance classes, and traditional events, enriching the social atmosphere and making it a unique cultural hub in Chicago.
Here's what people think of Las Tablas
As of recent, Las Tablas holds a 3.9-star rating based on 1568 reviews.
User reviews paint a comprehensive picture of Las Tablas. Many diners praise the restaurant for its delicious, authentic Colombian food, highlighting favorites like the shrimp ceviche, skirt steak, and coconut flan as memorable dishes. The friendly and helpful staff are also frequently mentioned, contributing to a welcoming dining experience that guests appreciate. Positive reviews often note the lively ambiance and cultural vibe, making it a great spot for both casual meals and special occasions. However, some negative reviews point out issues such as occasional service problems and concerns about theft by some servers, which have disappointed certain customers. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many patrons intending to return for the authentic taste and cultural experience Las Tablas offers. The combined feedback underscores the restaurant’s role as a cherished Colombian steakhouse within Chicago’s dining scene while highlighting areas for improvement in customer service. This balance reflects the restaurant's continued effort to maintain quality and community connection.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mile Gonçalves
The best Colombian restaurant in all Chicago, options are always available, like soups because the soups home made are my favorite dishes, appetizers, and everything you want. I love it the place and tha good quality service. Big portions are
Jacqueline S.
Las Tablas is an absolute gem! From the moment you step inside, you're enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere. But let's talk about the star of the show: the churrasco. Oh. My. Goodness. The steak was cooked to utter perfection – incredibly tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Each bite was a delightful experience, and it's honestly the best churrasco I've had in a long time. The accompanying chimichurri sauce was the perfect complement, adding a vibrant and zesty kick. Beyond the exceptional food, the service was also top-notch. Our server was attentive, friendly, and made excellent recommendations. If you're looking for an authentic and delicious taste of Colombia, with a churrasco that will leave you craving more, look no further than Las Tablas. Highly, highly recommended!
Monica Delgado
Amazing food!! Hands down so great! A must for a group outing or just a cozy fun date.
Megasaur Media LLC
Our team had an important meeting at Las Tablas and we were all very pleased with the ambience, service and quality of food. Highly recommend sharing a platter for small groups!
Ray FIZZLE
Food was very good. Parking was not too bad, we found a spot quickly. Outdoor eating available. Atmosphere was a bit weird. TVs everywhere. A large screen tv literally next to a table on another table as you enter. More of a sports bar vibe with really good food. Bathrooms were clean. Service was not bad. Lunch specials are priced nicely, and dinner can be pricey. We were there for dinner about 6pm.
How to reach Las Tablas
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Website: None
Why Las Tablas may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Las Tablas with your friends? Las Tablas provides a unique and vibrant atmosphere ideal for gathering with friends or family to create lasting memories. This Colombian steakhouse offers a taste of authentic Colombian flavors right in Chicago’s Portage Park, making it a delightful destination for those craving bold, traditional South American cuisine. One of the most compelling reasons to choose Las Tablas for a meetup is its blend of flavorful dishes like empanadas, grilled meats, and seafood that appeal to a wide range of palates, ensuring that everyone in your group finds something to savor. The restaurant also offers a casual and inviting environment where conversation flows effortlessly, amplified by attentive service and the option to bring your own wine for a nominal corkage fee, enhancing the experience without adding stress. Conveniently located with easier parking access, Las Tablas encourages guests to linger, enjoy, and immerse themselves in a setting that feels both festive and comfortable. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up, this spot invites groups to bond over good food and warm hospitality.
What activities can you enjoy at Las Tablas? Primarily, Las Tablas focuses on providing an authentic dining experience featuring Columbian cuisine, so the core activity is enjoying a hearty meal together. Groups can delight in sharing traditional dishes such as empanadas, grilled steaks, pork, chicken, and fresh seafood options like ceviche or calamari, which are perfect for communal tasting. Beyond the main courses, patrons often praise the unique flavor profiles of the starters — including avocado corn bacon salad and picada mar y tierra — which lend themselves to sharing plates, encouraging interaction and the spirit of togetherness. Alongside eating, the restaurant’s atmosphere invites relaxed conversation in a space designed for comfort with both indoor seating and a patio area, ideal for larger groups wanting to enjoy fresh air. With the BYO wine option available for just $5 per bottle, groups can bring their favorite wines, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back wine and dine meetup. The combination of savory food and social setting positions Las Tablas as a prime locale for celebrations and casual gatherings.
Why is Las Tablas perfect for group meetups? Las Tablas is tailored to accommodate groups thanks to its spacious seating and friendly ambiance that make sharing meals enjoyable. The menu’s wide variety of options means it can satisfy diverse tastes, from meat lovers to those preferring lighter fare or seafood, making it a flexible choice for mixed company. The restaurant’s dedication to authentic Colombian dishes provides an adventurous touch to group dining, offering a conversation starter and a sense of exploration among friends. Moreover, Las Tablas’ location in Portage Park comes with the convenience of accessible parking, ensuring that groups don’t face logistical hassles when meeting up. Customer feedback highlights the attentive yet unobtrusive service, which helps groups feel welcomed without feeling rushed. The ability to bring your own wine at affordable corkage encourages a festive mood perfect for birthdays, informal celebrations, or just quality time together. These factors combine to make Las Tablas a dependable and enjoyable destination for groups seeking good food and convivial company.
How do the food and atmosphere complement group events at Las Tablas? The food at Las Tablas plays a central role in uniting groups, combining rich, familiar Colombian flavors with a comforting presentation that fosters sharing and conversation. The variety of dishes—ranging from empanadas praised as some of the best in town to savory grilled meats and fresh seafood specialties—caters to multiple preferences within one party, helping avoid the common pitfall of conflicting tastes when dining with many. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual yet vibrant, lending itself well not only to meals but to lingering social time, with space that can accommodate lively conversations or quiet gatherings alike. Additionally, the outdoor patio adds an inviting option for those who want a relaxed environment with fresh air, which is especially appealing in warmer weather. Hosting a group at Las Tablas means your event benefits from authentic cuisine served in a way that encourages engagement and connection, making the dining experience more than just about food—it’s about making moments together.
What do reviews say about the experience at Las Tablas? Reviews of Las Tablas present a mixed but generally positive picture, emphasizing some standout elements that groups can appreciate. Many customers highlight the empanadas as a particular favorite, describing them as delicious and authentic, which makes them a go-to choice when visiting with friends or family. Patrons also appreciate the reasonable prices relative to the portion sizes and the quality of the dishes, which can be especially important for groups trying multiple items from the menu. However, some reviews note that service can occasionally vary, ranging from very friendly and welcoming to somewhat slow during busy periods, which is a factor groups should consider when planning a special occasion or a time-sensitive meetup. The atmosphere is consistently described as casual and comfortable, ideal for socializing without formalities or pressure. The BYO wine policy is frequently praised as a wonderful addition that allows groups to tailor their experience and elevate their gathering affordably. Overall, the feedback suggests that despite a few hiccups, Las Tablas remains a reliable choice for groups seeking authentic Colombian flavors in a warm and accessible setting.
What makes the location and logistics ideal for meetups at Las Tablas? Located at 4920 W Irving Park Rd in Chicago’s Portage Park neighborhood, Las Tablas benefits from a convenient setting that supports group gatherings. The area is known for reasonable parking availability, which is crucial when hosting friends or family who may arrive separately by car. Unlike busy city-center venues where parking is a challenge, this location makes arrivals and departures less stressful, encouraging guests to savor the time together rather than worry about logistics. The restaurant’s move to consolidate its operations to this single location further streamlines the visitor experience, allowing for consistent service and easy reservation management. Las Tablas’s open hours from noon to 11 PM provide plenty of flexibility in scheduling meetups, whether for early lunches, afternoon celebrations, or late dinners. The combination of ease of access, manageable parking, and a friendly neighborhood vibe strengthens Las Tablas’ appeal as a go-to venue for casual to festive group occasions.
How can the BYO wine policy enhance your group experience at Las Tablas? One standout feature of Las Tablas is its BYO (Bring Your Own) wine policy, which offers groups a significant advantage when planning a get-together. For just $5 per bottle corkage fee, guests can bring their own selection of wine, allowing for personalized beverage choices without the premium charges typically found at many restaurants. This policy not only accommodates diverse tastes—such as those who prefer reds, whites, or sparkling wines—but it also allows for cost savings, making larger group meals more affordable. Sharing a bottle of wine you’ve carefully selected adds an intimate, celebratory touch to the meal, enhancing the social atmosphere and making the experience more memorable. This flexibility is especially appreciated in a casual setting like Las Tablas, where the focus is on good food and good company. In summary, the BYO policy empowers groups to customize their dining experience, adding a layer of enjoyment and conviviality that complements the Colombian fare.
Why should food quality and authenticity matter when choosing Las Tablas for your meetup? The cornerstone of Las Tablas’ appeal lies in the authenticity and flavor of its Colombian cuisine, which offers an escape from the ordinary and an opportunity to experience a rich culinary tradition. When hosting a group, food quality is paramount because it shapes the entire experience—dishes that are well-prepared and flavorful encourage guests to relax, enjoy, and engage with one another. Las Tablas specializes in homemade-style dishes featuring classic South American ingredients and cooking methods, ensuring that the food not only tastes good but feels genuine. Many customers specifically mention the standout dishes such as grilled meats and seafood tapas that transport diners to Colombia’s vibrant food scene. For groups unfamiliar with Colombian cuisine, this adds an element of discovery and excitement, which can deepen the bonds between friends or family through shared new experiences. Thus, choosing Las Tablas is a choice for quality, authenticity, and food that brings people together.
What kinds of group occasions are best suited for Las Tablas? Las Tablas is well-suited to a variety of group occasions ranging from casual get-togethers and weekend outings to birthdays, family celebrations, and even informal business meetings. The restaurant’s combination of an inviting atmosphere, diverse menu, and accommodating service supports events where food and conversation are central. Its BYO wine option further encourages celebrations with personalized touches, ideal for special occasions without the formalities of high-end dining. The menu’s shareable dishes make it easy to accommodate dietary preferences and allow guests to sample a range of flavors together, enhancing the festive feel. Whether you want a lively gathering full of laughter and shared plates or a more intimate reunion with close friends and family, Las Tablas provides a flexible space that can adapt to your needs. This versatility makes it a reliable choice for hosting groups looking for a welcoming environment centered on authentic food and shared enjoyment.
How can you plan your visit to maximize your experience at Las Tablas? To make the most out of a group visit to Las Tablas, it’s a good idea to call ahead and reserve a table, especially for larger parties, to ensure comfortable seating and attentive service. Planning your arrival during off-peak hours can help minimize wait times and provide a more relaxed dining experience. Taking advantage of the BYO wine policy can enhance your celebration—consider coordinating with your guests on a wine selection that complements the menu. Sharing a variety of dishes, including the popular empanadas, grilled specialties, and plantain-based sides, will offer a rich tasting experience that stimulates conversation. Lastly, consider arriving early enough to enjoy the patio seating if weather permits, as it provides a charming environment that elevates any group gathering. With these preparations, your meetup at Las Tablas can be smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.
Why does Las Tablas remain a recommended place in Chicago despite average ratings? Even with a 3.9 rating from over 1,500 reviews, Las Tablas maintains a solid appeal due to its unique offering of Colombian cuisine in a comfortable and accessible setting. Ratings are sometimes mixed because of service inconsistencies or expectations around timing, yet many patrons highlight the freshness of the food, the welcoming atmosphere, and the affordability as major positives. This suggests that while it may not be a flawless fine dining destination, its strengths lie in delivering good value and an authentic culinary experience suited to casual group dining. The enthusiastic repeated patronage, especially from families and groups familiar with Colombian food, underscores its cultural authenticity and approachable vibe. For groups seeking a relaxed place to enjoy rich South American flavors and a cheerful social environment, Las Tablas continues to be a compelling choice in the Chicago dining scene.
What is the overall experience you can expect when hosting a group at Las Tablas? When hosting a group at Las Tablas, you can expect an experience centered on warm hospitality, rich flavors, and casual comfort. The restaurant’s Colombian steakhouse menu offers shareable and flavorful dishes that invite communal enjoyment. The friendly and conscientious staff aim to balance attentive service with a laid-back vibe, helping guests feel at home. The BYO wine option adds a custom touch that can make celebrations special without inflating costs. The location’s accessibility and parking convenience reduce logistical worries, letting guests focus on the moment. While the average rating suggests room for improvement, many groups leave satisfied, having enjoyed authentic food in a hospitable environment. In essence, Las Tablas offers a welcoming and flavorful backdrop for group meetups that want to mix culinary adventure with an easygoing mood.