La Josie: Chicago Mexican Hotspot

Located in the bustling heart of Chicago’s West Loop, La Josie stands as a beacon of Mexican culinary tradition, infused with a contemporary twist. Recognized as a 2023 Michelin Bib Gourmand winner, this restaurant not only promises an exquisite dining experience but also a vibrant atmosphere enriched by its community-centric philosophy, encapsulated by the Spanish idiom “Hoy por tí. Mañana por mí,” which emphasizes mutual support and unity.

The Visionary Behind the Cuisine: Chef José Luis “Pepe” Barajas

At the helm of La Josie is Chef José Luis Barajas, known affectionately as Pepe. His culinary journey is deeply personal, rooted in his Mexican heritage from Guadalajara and Mazatlán. A self-taught chef, Pepe’s approach is marked by a heartfelt connection to the flavors and traditions passed down from his family. This genuine love for Mexican cuisine is palpable in every dish served at La Josie, making each a reflection of his passion and respect for his roots.

Culinary Philosophy and Menu Highlights

La Josie’s menu is a tribute to traditional Mexican flavors, each dish crafted with meticulous care to ensure authenticity and innovation. The restaurant is famous for its ceviches and camarones a la diabla, which are celebrated for their fresh, bold flavors. Additionally, the zarandeado striped bass stands out as a favorite, showcasing the perfect balance of smoky and savory notes, enhanced by homemade tortillas made in-house daily.

At La Josie, the menu is a vibrant showcase of authentic Mexican flavors crafted with contemporary flair. The restaurant prides itself on a balanced offering that features an array of seafood, with ceviches and camarones a la diabla among the most popular choices, praised for their fresh and vibrant flavors. Another highlight is the zarandeado striped bass, a dish celebrated for its perfect balance of smoky and savory notes, which is enhanced further by the homemade tortillas made in-house daily. Each menu item at La Josie is carefully prepared to offer a symphony of flavors, combining traditional ingredients in innovative ways to delight the palate of every diner.

Tacos and Tragos: Features an assortment of tacos such as Asada, Pollo a la Parrilla, and Al Pastor, each prepared with unique marinades and toppings. The drink section offers a signature rotating house slushie and a diverse selection of cocktails including sangria and tequila-based mixes.
Botanas (Appetizers): Offers a selection from Chips and Salsa to Queso Fundido, with a focus on bold flavors like the molcajete sauce and habanero salsa.
Entrées: Highlighted by dishes like the Rib eye that comes with a habanero chimichurri, and an inventive selection of salads and seafood dishes, each designed to showcase the richness of Mexican cuisine.
Sides and Extras: Includes a variety of traditional sides like Arroz Mexicano and innovative new dishes such as Hongos con Huitlacoche, enhancing meals with both staple and unique flavors.
Desserts and Beverages: Concludes with a sweet note offering items like Churros, served with chocolate sauce, and a curated list of specialty drinks for a comprehensive dining experience.

A Trio of Agave Bars

Unique to La Josie are its three agave bars, including a sought-after rooftop setting that offers panoramic views of the cityscape. These bars serve a range of handcrafted cocktails that complement the meal with their vibrant and innovative concoctions. The rooftop bar, in particular, provides a splendid backdrop for enjoying signature drinks while soaking in the urban ambiance.

Engaging Community and Cultural Connections

True to its communal ethos, La Josie is not just a restaurant; it’s a community hub. Regular events like Taco Tuesday and Tardeadas cater to both industry insiders and locals looking for quality dining on quieter nights. These gatherings are not just about food but also about fostering relationships within the community, embodying the restaurant’s commitment to “feeding one another” in both literal and figurative senses.

The Design: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

The interior of La Josie mirrors its culinary ethos—modern yet rooted in tradition. Tall windows flood the space with natural light, enhancing the warm, welcoming ambiance. The decor features a blend of traditional Mexican elements and modern aesthetics, creating an inviting environment that encourages guests to linger and enjoy.

Chef Pepe’s Impact and Vision for the Future

Chef Pepe continues to be a significant figure in Chicago’s culinary scene, not just for his flavorful dishes but also for his dedication to culinary excellence and community involvement. As La Josie looks to the future, it remains committed to innovation while staying true to the rich cultural heritage that defines it. Chef Pepe’s ongoing exploration of Mexican cuisine promises to bring new and exciting flavors to the table, ensuring that La Josie remains a beloved staple in Chicago’s dining landscape.

Conclusion: A Must-Visit Culinary Destination

La Josie represents the best of Chicago’s culinary diversity, offering a rich tapestry of tastes that are both familiar and innovative. For anyone seeking an authentic yet modern Mexican dining experience, La Josie promises not just a meal, but a journey through the flavors of Mexico, crafted with care and served with a spirit of community. Whether you are a local or a visitor, La Josie invites you to partake in a dining experience where every dish tells a story of tradition, passion, and culinary artistry.

David Christopher Lee

Editor-in-Chief

David Christopher Lee launched his first online magazine in 2001. As a young publisher, he had access to the most incredible events and innovators of the world. In 2009, he started Destinationluxury.com, one of the largest portals for all things luxury including 5 star properties, Michelin Star Restaurants and bespoke experiences. As a portrait photographer and producer, David has worked with many celebrities & major brands such as Richard Branson, the Kardashians, Lady Gaga, Cadillac, Lexus, Qatar Airways, Aman Hotels, just to name a few. David’s work has been published in major magazines such as GQ, Vogue, Instyle, People, Teen, Men’s Health, Departures & many more. He creates content with powerful seo marketing strategies.