Not All Tequilas Are Created Equal
Discover the tequilas we proudly pour at Vela, River North — a curated selection of sipping spirits chosen for story, craft, and flavor.
Your Lollapalooza Late-Night Destination
If you’re headed to Lollapalooza, there’s always that moment when the last headliner wraps and someone asks, “Where should we go now?” That’s where Vela comes in.
How Mexico City Inspired Vela’s Design and Vibe
Discover how Mexico City’s design culture and nightlife inspired the interior and hospitality experience at Vela — a modern Latin restaurant in River North.
Father’s Day Ideas in Chicago with Clase Azul – Modern Luxury
Indulge in the Agave Experiencias: a Clase Azul Reposado served tableside alongside Guayaquil’s 64% cacao chocolate and fresh orange slices, presented in a mini bottle for a touch of tableside flair. Pair this with standout dishes like tacos al pastor, ahi tuna tostadas or the show-stopping Aged Wagyu Tabla Carne for a Father’s Day he won’t forget.
Eater – Best Margaritas in Chicago
Classic margaritas come via the glass or pitcher at Vela, a Mexican restaurant and bar from the owners of Celeste. This River North establishment features one of the city’s largest agave libraries.
Host Your Next Corporate Event at Vela
Finding the perfect venue for a corporate event is about more than just booking a space—it’s about creating an experience that fosters connections, impresses clients, and celebrates your team. Whether you’re hosting a networking event, a client appreciation dinner, or an executive gathering, Vela offers a seamless combination of elevated hospitality, vibrant energy, and effortless style.
Our Vegetarian Restaurant Week Menu
At Vela, we celebrate the vibrant, plant-forward flavors of Mexican cuisine. This Chicago Restaurant Week, we’re excited to present a carefully curated vegetarian dinner menu for just $45. Our three-course meal highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience for vegetarian guests. First Course – Vegetarian Starters for Chicago Restaurant Week…
Our Gluten-Free Restaurant Week Menu
At Vela, we believe that everyone should enjoy the rich, vibrant flavors of Mexico City-inspired cuisine, regardless of dietary needs. This Restaurant Week, we are proud to offer a specially curated gluten-free dinner menu that brings bold, authentic flavors to the table. Our entire menu is crafted to ensure gluten-free guests can dine with confidence,…
Best New Dish of 2024 – Timeout
Chicagoans know tacos, and every new taco-touting concept must now live up to the outstanding version that Vela chef and Chicago native chef Jorge Angulo has created.
OpenTable – 10 must-visit Mexican restaurants in Chicago
One of the best cozy restaurants in Chicago, Vela is where you go for traditional dishes from Mexico City with a twist…
