When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Uncle Julio's North Ave
Why Uncle Julio's North Ave is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Uncle Julio's was a well-known Mexican restaurant located at 855 W North Avenue in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. For over 30 years, it served as a vibrant spot for friends and families to gather, enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine made from scratch. The restaurant was celebrated for its signature mesquite-grilled fajitas, build-your-own tacos, and a variety of fresh, flavorful dishes complemented by handcrafted margaritas and a lively atmosphere. With seating designed for comfort and an inviting ambiance, Uncle Julio's was a favored location to relax, celebrate, and connect over delicious food. Highlights included their unique one-of-a-kind smashable dessert—a chocolate piñata filled with churros and fresh fruit—and daily happy hour specials featuring margaritas, beer, and wine. Despite the closure of this North Avenue location, Uncle Julio's has maintained a strong presence in the greater Chicago area with several other thriving restaurants, continuing to offer the signature Uncle Julio's dining experience through their commitment to fresh ingredients and friendly service.
Here's what people think of Uncle Julio's North Ave
As of recent, Uncle Julio's North Ave holds a 4.2-star rating based on 3353 reviews.
User reviews for Uncle Julio's North Ave often expressed fondness for the quality of food, mentioning the fresh ingredients, flavorful fajitas, and handcrafted margaritas as standout features. Many appreciated the convenience of parking and the welcoming atmosphere which made it a great place to meet friends or family. Positive reviews frequently highlighted the generous portions and the unique dessert options that added a special touch to their dining experience. However, some negative reviews surfaced particularly around the abrupt nature of the restaurant's closure, which took employees by surprise and left patrons disappointed. Complaints included dissatisfaction with the communication and handling of the closure process, with some former employees considering legal action due to the sudden loss of their jobs. Additionally, some speculation existed regarding the stated reason for closure, citing rising rental rates, as a management company principal contested the rent increase claim. Despite these setbacks, the overall sentiment remained positive concerning the restaurant's food and service over its long tenure. In conclusion, the reviews reflect a beloved establishment for its culinary offerings and community atmosphere, somewhat overshadowed by the unexpected closure and its impact on staff and loyal customers.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Diana Choudhary
Such a nice atmosphere food was good and the dessert was awesome!!! I liked the tortilla machine making fresh tortillas. The waiter was nice he could have checked on the table more often but overall I'll be coming back. Only negative is the valet parking we literally parked our own car in the lot 20ft from the restaurant and were charged $12 to park.
Ulises Ortiz
Visited Uncle Julio’s with minimal expectations, overall was content with the experience. With your traditional “Tex-Mex” menu, the Chicken Fajitas are well seasoned and juicy ! Their Margaritas are salty & sweet, but not overwhelming. Surprisingly, their chips & salsa are great ! During a Friday lunch dine-in, the staff was nice and attentive. Atmosphere was enjoyable as well, with top 10 Reggaeton Music playing in the background. You’d expect some Mexican Music ? Also just to note, if you get fajitas they come with flour tortillas. If would be great if they offer the option to choose from Flour & Corn.
Chosani Mbewe
First time coming here, was expecting a fully authentic Mexican experience but they kept playing ‘western’ music on their speakers! Strange. Enjoyed the complimentary nachos which you get as you wait for your meal (think bread basket at other restaurants) though did not enjoy the price of the guacamole $8.90 and the queso $9 which I thought came as free accompaniments to the nachos. Been to many Mexican restaurants where these items come free with the nachos. That dampened the mood cause at most that’s a $5 item. Margaritas were good too, I had frozen strawberry partner had frozen mango, very cooling on a hot day! Ordered tilapia fish tacos and my partner had the shrimp tacos. Now those were so delicious and definitely worth the price. I could have eaten those over and over again. Amazing. All in all good main foods except for their pricey accompaniments, don’t know if that’s worth coming back as plenty other authentic Mexican restaurants around for cheaper!
Jerry The Pigeon And Mike L
This is one of my favorite restaurants in the city. The food quality is amazing …the meat is perfectly seasoned and cooked… and the customer service is beyond expectation. I’ve been here probably 15 to 20 times and I’ve never had a bad experience so I’m hoping that streak stays up!! lol I would recommend this place to anybody who wants to try some good quality taco meat and a reasonable price. They also have a great lunch special I give this place 5⭐️ Jerry (the pigeon) gives it 5.5⭐️ For more recommendations check out #JerryThePigeon on Instagram
Viraj Mhatre
I always used to pass this place but never went here and finally decided to go here. Reservation recommended through Resy as it’s hard to find a table during lunch and dinner. They charge 7$ for Vallet Parking and that too in cash which I didn’t like as I can just park on street for less. Margaritas are great. Food quantity is really huge and delicious. Do thy the Bacon Wrapped Jumbo Shrimp for limited time. We ordered Chicken Fajita Quesadilla And Enchiladas.
How to reach Uncle Julio's North Ave
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Why Uncle Julio's North Ave may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Uncle Julio's North Ave with your friends?
Uncle Julio’s North Ave stands out as the perfect spot to gather and celebrate with friends because it uniquely blends the warmth of authentic Mexican hospitality with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere tailored for groups. Whether you’re planning a casual catch-up or a festive celebration, the restaurant’s rustic-modern design creates a cozy yet lively environment that feels both special and comfortable. The star of Uncle Julio’s is its made-from-scratch Mexican cuisine, especially their signature mesquite-grilled fajitas, which bring people together over delicious, savory flavors. Beyond food, the vibrant drink menu featuring fresh margaritas and half-off beer and wine during happy hours offers the perfect refreshment to complement the experience. The space and service at North Ave are clearly designed with groups in mind, making it easy for everyone to sit together, share appetizers, and enjoy a meal that sparks conversation and connection. With a solid 4.2 rating from over 3,300 reviews, the consistent praise for its lively atmosphere, flavorful dishes, and attentive service makes Uncle Julio’s North Ave a genuinely dependable choice for a memorable meetup with friends.
What activities are available at Uncle Julio’s North Ave for groups?
At Uncle Julio’s North Ave, the array of activities available extends well beyond just enjoying a meal. The restaurant offers a group dining experience that is perfect for parties of 15 or more, making it ideal for birthdays, business meetings, or casual get-togethers. You and your friends can engage in a “Build Your Own Taco” experience, where everyone customizes tacos with fresh fillings right at the table, turning dining into an interactive and fun event. Happy Hour is another activity highlight, with special prices on signature margaritas, frozen drinks, beer, and wine, encouraging a social, festive vibe to relax and recharge among friends. For dessert, groups can delight in the one-of-a-kind smashable chocolate piñata, a treat designed to be shared, smashed, and dipped, making for a playful and memorable conclusion to your gathering. This range of dining and drinking options assures that every member of your group finds something to enjoy, fostering a spirited and communal atmosphere. The lively environment is perfect for socializing, catching up, and creating lasting memories.
Why is Uncle Julio’s North Ave perfect for a group meetup?
Uncle Julio’s North Ave excels at facilitating group meetups because it’s meticulously set up to accommodate large groups with ease. The layout of the restaurant combines spacious seating arrangements that keep groups comfortably together without feeling crowded, enhancing social interaction. They dedicate special group dining menus that include crowd-pleasing appetizers like house guacamole, chile con queso, quesadillas, and fajita skewers—all designed to be shared and enjoyed communally, highlighting the idea of togetherness through food. Moreover, the restaurant includes beverages like regular lemonade and sodas in their group packages, which take the logistical guesswork out of organizing everyone’s orders. They also apply an automatic gratuity for parties of eight or more, simplifying the billing process so groups can focus fully on enjoying their time. Beyond the food, Uncle Julio’s offers event planning support, helping organize special occasions such as corporate dinners, birthday parties, or rehearsal dinners to ensure the celebration goes smoothly. This combination of thoughtful service, accommodating space, and delightful cuisine makes it a prime destination for groups seeking a hassle-free, festive environment.
How does Uncle Julio’s North Ave handle special group dining events?
For special group events, Uncle Julio’s North Ave provides tailored dining experiences designed to impress and satisfy groups large and small. They offer dedicated group dining menus priced per person that include a selection of appetizers, entrees, beverages, and optional desserts, making it easy to plan and budget. These menus feature crowd-pleasers like Mexican Caesar salad, steak and chicken fajitas, shrimp dishes, and build-your-own nachos, all served with Uncle Julio’s signature homemade chips and roasted salsa, offering a flavorful journey into Mexican cuisine. Additionally, there are dessert add-ons such as churros or the interactive chocolate piñata to close the meal on a fun note. Uncle Julio’s also provides catering services for groups preferring to host at home or other venues within certain areas, adding flexibility for celebrations outside the restaurant space. Their team is experienced in handling the unique needs of large parties ensuring personalized attention and smooth service flow. By offering these comprehensive group dining options, Uncle Julio’s North Ave stands out as a versatile venue that balances festive ambiance with practical event management.
What makes the food and drink selection at Uncle Julio’s North Ave ideal for gatherings?
The food and drink selection at Uncle Julio’s North Ave is meticulously curated to cater to the tastes and preferences of diverse groups, making it perfect for gatherings. Their menu prominently features signature mesquite-grilled fajitas with various protein choices like chicken, skirt steak, and shrimp that are perfect for sharing and savoring together. The appetizers include house guacamole, chile con queso, quesadillas with multiple filling options, and skewers, all served with complementary rice and beans, which provide a hearty start to any group meal. The fresh and flavorful ingredients used in these dishes highlight authentic Mexican flavors that appeal widely. Drink offerings at Uncle Julio’s focus on their famed margaritas—classic, frozen, or swirled—all made with fresh ingredients like 100% agave tequila and muddled lime juice, which are great for grouping and toasting. Alongside, they have half-off beer and wine specials during happy hour, which help keep the atmosphere light and budget-friendly. By combining well-loved Mexican classics with crowd-pleasing drinks, Uncle Julio’s North Ave ensures every group leaves satisfied and energized.
How does the ambiance and service contribute to the group experience at Uncle Julio’s North Ave?
The ambiance at Uncle Julio’s North Ave is designed to enhance the group experience by marrying rustic warmth with a modern flair that invites both celebration and relaxation. Its interior features elements like wood accents and soft lighting that create a welcoming and intimate setting suitable for any occasion ranging from casual meetups to special celebrations. The lively yet cozy atmosphere encourages conversation and laughter, essential for meaningful time spent with family and friends. The staff is well-trained in managing large groups smoothly, delivering attentive service that feels personal despite the hustle of a busy restaurant. This ensures that group members receive their meals in a timely manner and that any special requests or accommodations are handled with care. The combination of an inviting environment and excellent service amplifies the enjoyment of the flavorful food and refreshing drinks, solidifying Uncle Julio’s North Ave as a preferred destination for groups looking for a memorable dining experience.
What additional services does Uncle Julio’s North Ave offer to make group meetups easier?
Uncle Julio’s North Ave streamlines group meetups beyond dining by offering practical services that reduce the stress of event planning. They provide reservation options specifically for large parties, guaranteeing seating arrangements that keep your group comfortably together. There is also an 18% auto gratuity on parties of eight or more, simplifying bill splitting and ensuring service staff are fairly compensated for attentive care. For larger or more formal events, Uncle Julio’s offers private event assistance, helping arrange details such as menu choices and timing to fit your group’s unique needs. The restaurant additionally offers catering services within designated areas, allowing you to enjoy their signature fresh Mexican cuisine at your own venue if preferred. These services are designed to make hosting seamless and enjoyable, freeing up hosts to focus on spending quality time with their guests. By combining these thoughtful touches with their renowned food and atmosphere, Uncle Julio’s North Ave stands out as an exceptional venue for group meetups.
Why do reviews recommend Uncle Julio’s North Ave for groups?
With over 3,300 reviews and a strong 4.2 rating, Uncle Julio’s North Ave is highly recommended by patrons for its consistent ability to deliver delightful group dining experiences. Reviews frequently highlight the restaurant’s flavorful and generous portions of made-from-scratch Mexican dishes, praising how well the food suits sharing among friends. Customers also appreciate the accommodating and friendly staff who provide excellent service, even during busy group events, contributing to an easy and enjoyable outing. The inviting atmosphere and rustic-modern charm are often mentioned as key reasons people return for celebrations with family and friends. Additionally, the variety of margarita and happy hour drink options come in for positive remarks, adding to the festive mood of get-togethers. These repeated endorsements underscore the restaurant’s commitment to making group dining not only convenient but genuinely fun and memorable. For anyone searching for a vibrant yet relaxed place to host their next group meetup, Uncle Julio’s North Ave remains a trusted choice.