It's always a good day when I get to meet a friend for lunch; but it's even a better day when I get to eat fresh, wholesome, and delicious food, on the go. One of my favorite "quick service" joints in Westfield's Old Orchard Mall in Skokie, Illinois is, Frontera Fresco. This concept eatery is part of the Frontera restaurants family, created by celebrity chef, Rick Bayless. Eating at his restaurants give you the feeling like you're eating authentic, hearty and vibrant Mexican gourmet food. He uses traditional recipes that taste like Mexico. I'm a huge fan of Rick; not because he was one of my favorite guests on my television show, For Her Information, but because his television show, Mexico, One Plate at a Time, was so much fun. Born in Oklahoma, Bayless is an American chef who specializes in modern interpretations of traditional Mexican cuisine. During each episode, he motivates home cooks (like me) to include the dynamic tastes and flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine, while traveling through Mexico, spotlighting the countrysides, gardens and landscapes, in addition to the culinary treasures abound. Part of the vast appeal that Frontera Fresco has, is its partnership with top-quality local suppliers and farmers, ensuring that the food is always fresh and is close to home. It makes me feel good that my food purchases are supporting my community. Ingredients are all natural, sustainably-produced meats and dairy, organic produce, artisan breads, stone-ground tortillas, and Fair Trade coffees and teas. I also appreciate the value pricing, with prices ranging from, $4-10. My midday visit, welcomed me to a bustling counter and line of three customers ahead. The energy and positive vibe was evident, as the cashier took my order, explained what an Agua Fresca was, take my payment, and hand me my order number, with a smile. She obviously enjoyed her job, as did the hard-working guys preparing the food, behind the counter. The food area was spotless and organized. Our meal arrived minutes after we began to sip on my mango lime Agua Fresca. I always feel like first impressions make all the difference. When the presentation is consistent and fresh looking, I am always ready to dig in, no questions. As expected, reputation aside, I was not disappointed. Agua Fresca is a fresh delicious lemonade-type drink, not too sweet, but hit the spot. A perfect marriage to the Chipotle Chicken and Short Rib Fresco tacos, also known as street tacos. Ordinarily, I don't think of eating radishes, but their presence really melds beautifully with the cilantra crema and wild arugula. The roasted red onions ramp up the flavor of the chipotle chicken and short rib, while the queso fresco cheese fuses the flavors together. Wrapped in a corn tortilla, this large-enough-for-lunch small dish, is perfect for lunch. I ordered two because I couldn't decide between the protein choices, but left supremely satisfied. My lunch mate ordered a makeshift side salad on overdrive with with fresh Romaine, wild arugula, radishes, poblano rajas, Cotija cheese, and a tangy avocado-lime vinaigrette. With added short rib, this salad is perfect for dinner or a hearty lunch. The picture leaps off the page with flavor; I can assure you the high-quality ingredients and flavor matches the vibrant colors portrayed here.
The seating area was clean and organized, thanks to the hard working staff that was always wiping, lining up chairs and sweeping on to spot. The overall impression of this conveniently located-in-the-mall spot was vibrant, fresh and delicious. Proof is in the pictures. When you harvest from your own garden (Rick has his own garden in the city), food tastes better. Take it from me, when you see the chef/owner chowing down on his own creations, you know it's bound to be delicious. To find out more about Rick's Farmer's Foundation Click here. Buen Provecho! This review was done independently from any influence from Frontera Fresco or Frontera Restaurant Group and did not receive any money, reimbursements, or representation. |
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