About
Tortazo is the casual Mexican restaurant concept from Rick Bayless, rooted in his lifelong dedication to celebrating the depth, diversity, and everyday joy of Mexican cuisine. Inspired by the food culture of Mexico City, Tortazo serves some of the most flavorful Mexican food in Chicago—anchored by our signature tortas, Mexico’s favorite sandwich, alongside tacos, quesadillas, salads, soups, and more.
Every dish at Tortazo is cooked with intention, expertise, and an emphasis on real Mexican flavors. What began in 2020 inside Willis Tower has grown into a Chicago favorite, with locations across Chicagoland and beyond. For guests who know Rick Bayless’s iconic tortas from Tortas Frontera, Tortazo offers that same dedication to flavor and craft—reimagined for a casual, everyday dining experience. Whether you’re joining us for tacos in Chicago or discovering tortas for the first time, Tortazo is Mexican food worth seeking out.
MEET CHEF RICK
Rick Bayless is a 7-time James Beard award winning chef and the foremost expert on authentic Mexican cuisine in America.
His portfolio of award-winning, critically acclaimed restaurants include Frontera Grill, Topolobampo, XOCO, and Bar Sótano.
He is winner of Bravo’s Top Chef Masters, has received multiple Emmy nominations for his highly rated Public Television series, Mexico – One Plate at a Time, and has authored 9 best-selling cookbooks.
The Government of Mexico has bestowed on Rick the Mexican Order of the Aztec Eagle–the highest decoration bestowed on foreigners whose work has benefitted Mexico and its people.
He has also earned the Julia Child Foundation Award, a prestigious honor given to “an individual who has made a profound and significant impact on the way America cooks, eats, and drinks"
Our Beliefs
We believe in an unwavering commitment to authenticity as our North Star.
We believe in celebrating the vibrancy of life in full flavor and experience.
We believe the life worth living is one of continual discovery and broadened horizons.
We believe in a contagious joy of life that manifests in shared smiles and laughter wherever we go.
We believe in the tenets of “Mexican Care” – hospitality that is unexpectedly caring, genuine, and enthusiastic.
Sourcing
We use the freshest, highest quality ingredients, largely sourced directly from Mexico or local farms.
We are proud to highlight some of our Midwest partners below: