Seemor
Ayayay - Mexican EateryBWorth Trying
60 E Lake St, Chicago, IL 60601
· Mexican restaurant, Brunch restaurant, Japanese restaurant
· 4.9/5 Google (1439 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Creative Mexican fusion with standout tacos, plantains, and strong margaritas; lively service and happy hour value offset by occasional service lapses, a surcharge, and upsell complaints.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Ayayay delivers solid neighborhood dining through exceptional food quality—standout steak tacos and creative fusion dishes—paired with attentive, personable service. However, inconsistent execution (occasional cold plates and bland sides) and moderate review authenticity concerns prevent a higher grade. The Loop location and happy hour value appeal to regulars, but the restaurant doesn't yet reach the consistency and distinction of grade A-grade establishments.
Restaurant Summary
Step in from East Lake Street and the room flips from understated storefront to cozy and lively. Servers like Paul and Jose earn shout-outs, and happy hour brings a friendly buzz. One guest summed it up: "Tacos were tender and flavorful, and service felt relaxed and attentive." The cooking leans creative Mexican fusion, not strict traditional. Expect truffle-kissed plantains, costra de queso on steak, and Nikkei touches like nori and wasabi slaw. The culinary approach leans contemporary and produce-driven: inventive sauces and textures rather than theatrics. Families will find kid-friendly standbys like chicken tacos, quesadillas, and churros, though portions can feel modest and spice leans gentle. No formal kids menu is listed, but the menu has accessible options; busy times can feel loud for little ones.
At a Glance
- Standout steak tacos, truffle plantains, and giant-value nachos
- Friendly, attentive servers; great happy hour deals
- 3.5% surcharge and perceived upselling bother some diners
- Occasional execution misses (cold plates, bland rice, soggy burrito)
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- happy_hour_value
- creative_fusion_sauces
- unassuming_exterior_surprise_interior
What People Love
- Tender steak with cheesy costra
- Truffle plantains that feel craveable
- Nachos that feed a crew
- Margaritas and palomas that taste fresh
Points of Concern
- Pricing includes a 3.5% surcharge; some view this as nickel-and-diming
- A few reports of upselling and surprise add-on charges
- Service can lag when large groups arrive; occasional missed special requests
- For innovation 7+, expect fusion flavors that may not suit traditionalists
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (very high five-star share, repeated staff-name praise, marketing language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$36-52 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Share truffle plantains and nachos, then split steak tacos; finish with churros. Vegetarians should target the Portobello Chimichurri Bowl and quesadilla.
Perfect For
- Pre-show dinner near Chicago Theatre
- Casual date with cocktails and shared starters
- Happy hour with friends on a budget
- Travelers seeking inventive takes on Mexican flavors
Location Insights
Area: Busy downtown Loop corridor serving office workers, theatergoers, and hotel guests; fast turnover and pre-show dining.
Safety: Heavily trafficked business district with good lighting and foot traffic; typical downtown urban safety norms.
Nearby: Near Chicago Theatre and hotels; surrounded by casual spots and bars; convenient to transit.
Printer's RowPrinter's Row is a historic district within the South Loop known for its converted loft buildings and a growing residential population. The dining scene here features a mix of casual eateries, trendy cafes, and upscale restaurants catering to both residents and office workers, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–21:00
Tuesday11:30–21:00
Wednesday11:30–21:00
Thursday11:30–21:00
Friday11:30–23:00
Saturday11:30–23:00
Sunday11:30–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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