Tzuco is chef Carlos Gaytán's French-Mexican restaurant in River North, described on its own terms as an austere experience where richness comes through ingredient purity, flavor combinations, and the story behind each one rather than spectacle or heavy technique.
The menu draws frequent mentions of chile relleno, pork shank, octopus, barbacoa, beet salad, red snapper, and fish tacos, along with house tortillas, and the restaurant's brunch service has built its own following.
Tzuco has been a recurring Michelin Guide selection in 2023, 2024, and 2025, following a Bib Gourmand in 2021, and was named a James Beard Foundation Best New Restaurant semifinalist in 2020.
Reception is split on consistency: diners praise the atmosphere and describe strong, memorable visits when the kitchen and service align, while others report food quality and service that vary from visit to visit, especially on special occasions.
The menu draws frequent mentions of chile relleno, pork shank, octopus, barbacoa, beet salad, red snapper, and fish tacos, along with house tortillas, and the restaurant's brunch service has built its own following.
Tzuco has been a recurring Michelin Guide selection in 2023, 2024, and 2025, following a Bib Gourmand in 2021, and was named a James Beard Foundation Best New Restaurant semifinalist in 2020.
Reception is split on consistency: diners praise the atmosphere and describe strong, memorable visits when the kitchen and service align, while others report food quality and service that vary from visit to visit, especially on special occasions.