Mercadito to Open Second Location this Spring in Lincoln Park

Mercadito will officially open its newest location in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood on June 4. Expanding on its flagship River North location, Mercadito Lincoln Park brings the brand to a new neighborhood while introducing additions designed specifically for the space and community. 

Leading the culinary program is Executive Chef Alexander Quintero, whose background spans several Chicago restaurants, including Toro Chicago and Aikana Chicago. Born in Miami and raised in Costa Rica and Colombia, Quintero brings a perspective shaped by Latin American culinary traditions and a passion for creating approachable dishes rooted in flavor and hospitality.

“Lincoln Park was the natural next chapter for Mercadito,” said William McDavid, Managing Partner of Mercadito. “We’ve built an incredible community in River North over the years, and we’re excited to bring that same energy and experience to a neighborhood that feels equally dynamic and welcoming. This location allows us to evolve the Mercadito experience while staying true to what guests have always loved about the brand.” 

The space features a bar upon entry, an expansive main dining room, a private back dining space framed by glass windows and trellis details, custom tile accents and outdoor seating for the summer season. It is designed to accommodate everything from weekend brunch and casual weeknight dinners to happy hour gatherings and celebratory group dining experiences.  

The Lincoln Park menu builds on Mercadito’s longtime favorites while introducing exclusive new offerings and an expanded dessert program at both locations. Exclusive to Lincoln Park, guests can enjoy the new Quesabirria Pizza layered with beef birria, Oaxaca, Chihuahua and Gouda cheeses, pickled red onion, avocado and crema, along with the debut of the Sangrita cocktail. Signature dishes include short rib quesabirrias, queso fundido, handmade guacamoles and fresh ceviches, alongside an extensive taco selection featuring butter-poached langosta, mushroom-medley hongos, ancho-rubbed pastor and beer-battered baja. The menu also features larger-format entrées including chile relleno, enchiladas, pollo a las brasas and Mercadito’s popular Argentinian steak frites, complemented by an extensive tequila and mezcal selection.

Mercadito Lincoln Park will initially open with dinner service, followed by the launch of brunch in mid-to-late June, including the restaurant’s bottomless brunch experience. Available for $35 per person, bottomless brunch will include unlimited margaritas, mimosas, amiga sandias, hard Topo Chicos, Bloody Marys and Tecates. Guests can also look forward to happy hour specials with select cocktails and food offerings priced at $10.

In addition to its culinary programming, Mercadito will continue its ongoing “Tacos 4 Strength” initiative at the Lincoln Park location. The monthly charitable program supports local community organizations through specialty taco collaborations added to the menu on the first Wednesday of every month. 

Reservations are now open.