River West Food Co
Customers' Favorites
Seasoned Fries
Cheese Stix
Rose Tea
Falafel
Island Appetizers
Pastelillo - Savory Beef-Filled Turnover
Flaky pastry filled with rich, seasoned beef, creating a comforting and delicious experience
Relleno de Papa - Beef-Stuffed Potato Ball
Creamy potato filled with savory beef, a comforting and satisfying treat
Maduros - Sweet Fried Plantains
Caramelized plantains that melt in your mouth, a sweet complement to any meal
Tostones - Crispy Twice-Fried Plantains
Twice-fried to perfection, these golden plantain medallions are served with a garnish of aromatic garlic and a drizzle of rich olive oil. A delightful crunch with each bite
Pastel - Pork-Filled Tamales
Tender tamales filled with juicy pork, a Puerto Rican classic that comforts the soul
Mofongo
Mofongo mixed with lechón caldo, a comforting blend of mashed green plantains, garlic, and seasonings. For an extra treat, add pieces of Carne Frita at an additional cost. A true taste of Puerto Rican tradition
Chuleta Can-Can
Delight in our expertly prepared pork chop, traditionally marinated for an explosion of flavors. This standalone dish features meat so tender it practically melts in your mouth. The exterior is deep-fried to a crisp, delivering a satisfying crunch with each bite. Served wrapped in aluminum foil to preserve its warmth and freshness. Indulge in this irresistible and flavorful treat that's an instant favorite among our patrons.
Pollo Frito - 3pc Fried Chicken
Three pieces of golden fried chicken, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside
1 lb. Lechón Asado - Roast Pork
A pound of succulent roast pork, marinated and slow-roasted to perfection
Chicago Ensalada Tropica
Kick it up a notch with our Chicago Ensalada Tropica! It's all about fresh mixed greens, ripe cherry tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and zesty red onions tossed with our house-made vinaigrette. We top it off with buttery avocado slices and some tangy feta cheese. Wanna go all out? Add some fire-grilled chicken or zesty seasoned shrimp to the mix. This ain't your average salad. It's a taste of Puerto Rico right here in Chicago!
Bacalaito - Crispy Cod Fritter
Delicious cod folded into a crisp fritter, offering a taste of the sea with every bite
1 lb. Carne Frita - Fried Pork Chunks
A pound of hearty pork chunks, fried until irresistibly crispy and flavorful.
Signature Jibaritos
El Jibarito - Steak Plantain Sandwich
Chicago's very own Jibarito - succulent steak with onions nestled between crispy plantains, adorned with fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and tangy mayo. A local culinary marvel
Jibarito de Pollo - Chicken Plantain Sandwich
A crisp plantain sandwich filled with tender chicken, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and creamy mayo. A unique and delectable blend of Puerto Rican and Chicago flavors
Jibarito de Lechón - Pork Plantain Sandwich
Roasted pork, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy mayo nestled between crispy plantains. A creative fusion of Chicago's ingenuity and Puerto Rican tradition.
Jibarito de Camaron - Shrimp Plantain Sandwich
Succulent shrimp cooked with vibrant red and green peppers, garnished with a drizzle of flavorful mayo, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and a finishing touch of grilled onions, adding layers of texture and taste, all nestled in a crisp plantain sandwich. A symphony of flavors and textures that will captivate your taste buds.
Signature Sandwiches
Sandwich de Bistec - Steak Sandwich
Savory grilled chicken enveloped in mayo, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and aromatic grilled onions. A true taste of Puerto Rico in Chicago.
Sandwich de Lechón - Roasted Pork Sandwich
Tender, slow-roasted pork in a classic sandwich ensemble: mayo, lettuce and tomato. Simplicity meets flavor in this Puerto Rican favorite
Sandwich de Pollo - Savory Chicken Sandwich
Savory grilled chicken enveloped in mayo, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and aromatic grilled onions. A true taste of Puerto Rico in Chicago
Traditional Dinners
Lechón Asado - Succulent Roast Pork
Experience the succulence of our slow-roasted pork, marinated with a blend of traditional spices. Complemented by our aromatic rice, this dish is a celebration of Puerto Rican flavors
Bistec Encebollado - Onion-Topped Steak
Savor the robust flavor of our marinated steak, crowned with a blanket of sweet caramelized onions. This traditional Puerto Rican dish is served with a side of our fragrant rice, creating a perfectly balanced meal
Chuletas Fritas - Seasoned Fried Chops
Juicy pork chops, seasoned and fried to a delectable golden brown. Served with our flavorful rice, this dish delivers a satisfying crunch with each bite
Pollo Guisado - Homestyle Chicken Stew
Savor the rich and comforting flavors of our pollo guisado, featuring tender and juicy chicken that is slow-cooked in a flavorful broth with sofrito, adobo, sazon, and other traditional spices, resulting in a dish that is both savory and satisfying
Pastel - Traditional Pork Tamale Dinner
Our authentic pastel is made with a savory blend of seasoned pork, olives, and other traditional spices, wrapped in a delicious plantain masa and boiled to perfection, creating a satisfying and comforting meal that is perfect for pairing with classic sides like arroz con gandules or arroz blanco y habichuela, and is sure to leave you feeling full and satisfied.
Pollo Frito - Crispy Fried Chicken
Savor the crunch of our golden fried chicken. Accompanied by our savory rice, it's a timeless dish that delivers on comfort and flavor
Specialty Entrees w/ Ensalada Tropica
Chuleta Can-Can Special
Indulge in our Chuleta Can Can - a hefty portion of succulent pork chop with crispy edges, marinated in our unique blend of Puerto Rican spices. This is an authentic island delight. Included with your meal is our Chicago Ensalada Tropica, a vibrant mix of fresh mixed greens, crisp cucumbers, ripe cherry tomatoes, sharp red onions, and tangy feta cheese, tossed in our house vinaigrette. Add Avocado for additional cost. This combination is sure to bring a satisfying touch of tropical flair to your table, promising a meal that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
El Chillo - Red Snapper Feast
Experience the rich, unique flavors of our El Chillo dish. This whole red snapper is seasoned to perfection, evoking an authentic island experience with every bite. Alongside this seafood delight, is our Chicago Ensalada Tropica, a vibrant mix of fresh mixed greens, crisp cucumbers, ripe cherry tomatoes, sharp red onions, and tangy feta cheese, tossed in our house vinaigrette. Add Avocado for additional cost. This pairing captures the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine, promising a memorable dining experience that brings the island flavors to the heart of Chicago.
Chicago Ensalada Tropica
Kick it up a notch with our Chicago Ensalada Tropica! It's all about fresh mixed greens, ripe cherry tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and zesty red onions tossed with our house-made vinaigrette. We top it off with buttery avocado slices and some tangy feta cheese. Wanna go all out? Add some fire-grilled chicken or zesty seasoned shrimp to the mix. This ain't your average salad. It's a taste of Puerto Rico right here in Chicago!
Chuletas Fritas - Seasoned Fried Chops
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavor of our Chuletas Fritas. This dish features tender pork chops seasoned with our unique blend of spices, fried to crispy perfection. Included with your meal is our Chicago Ensalada Tropica, a vibrant mix of fresh mixed greens, crisp cucumbers, ripe cherry tomatoes, sharp red onions, and tangy feta cheese, tossed in our house vinaigrette. Add Avocado for additional cost. For your side, choose between the sweet and savory notes of our maduros or the crispiness of our tostones. And if you like it spicy, don't forget to try our homemade hot sauce for an added kick of flavor. This dish encapsulates the essence of authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, delivering a delightful culinary experience.
Bistec Encebollado - Onion-Garnished Steak
Experience the sublime flavors of our bistec encebollado, masterfully matched with your preference of traditional sides. Choose between the crispy tostones dressed in aromatic garlic-infused oil or the sweet, caramelized maduros, each providing a unique counterpoint to the savory entree. Included with your meal is our Chicago Ensalada Tropica, a vibrant mix of fresh mixed greens, crisp cucumbers, ripe cherry tomatoes, sharp red onions, and tangy feta cheese, tossed in our house vinaigrette. Add Avocado for additional cost. This combination is sure to bring a satisfying touch of tropical flair to your table, promising a meal that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
Pollo Frito - Crispy Fried Chicken
Experience the irresistible taste of our Pollo Frito - a delicious dish featuring chicken with a delectably crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. Included with your meal is our Chicago Ensalada Tropica, a vibrant mix of fresh mixed greens, crisp cucumbers, ripe cherry tomatoes, sharp red onions, and tangy feta cheese, tossed in our house vinaigrette. Add Avocado for additional cost. This combination is sure to bring a satisfying touch of tropical flair to your table, promising a meal that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
Carne Frita con Mofongo y Chicago Ensalada
Indulge in a flavorful plate featuring Carne Frita, Mofongo enriched with lechón caldo, and our signature Chicago Ensalada Tropica with optional avocado slices. A trifecta of Puerto Rican culinary delights, all in one meal.
Boricua Sea Treasures
Arroz con Camarones - Shrimp & Rice
Succulent shrimp sautéed with flavorful spices, paired perfectly with our savory rice. A Puerto Rican staple with a hearty touch of the sea.
Mofongo con Camarones en Salsa
Relish our signature Mofongo, a delicious mash of green plantains, topped generously with shrimp simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce. This dish offers a delightful blend of textures and a symphony of authentic Puerto Rican flavors in every bite
Ensalada de Camarones con Tostones
Ensalada de Camarones con Tostones: Experience a burst of Puerto Rican flavors with our shrimp salad, cooked with traditional seasonings and combined with a refreshing mix of diced green and red peppers and fresh cilantro. Paired with our crispy, golden tostones, this dish offers a satisfying contrast of textures that's sure to delight
El Chillo - Red Snapper Feast
Experience the rich, unique flavors of our El Chillo dish. This whole red snapper is seasoned to perfection, evoking an authentic island experience with every bite. Alongside this seafood delight, is our Chicago Ensalada Tropica, a vibrant mix of fresh mixed greens, crisp cucumbers, ripe cherry tomatoes, sharp red onions, and tangy feta cheese, tossed in our house vinaigrette. Add Avocado for additional cost. This pairing captures the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine, promising a memorable dining experience that brings the island flavors to the heart of Chicago.
Jibarito de Camaron - Shrimp Plantain Sandwich
Succulent shrimp cooked with vibrant red and green peppers, garnished with a drizzle of flavorful mayo, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and a finishing touch of grilled onions, adding layers of texture and taste, all nestled in a crisp plantain sandwich. A symphony of flavors and textures that will captivate your taste buds.
Mofongo con Camarones al Ajillo
Mofongo con Camarones al Ajillo: Indulge in our traditional Puerto Rican Mofongo, made from green plantains that are mashed to perfection. Topped with succulent shrimp sautéed in a vibrant garlic sauce, this dish delivers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that's both comforting and exciting
Bacalaito - Crispy Cod Fritter
Delicious cod folded into a crisp fritter, offering a taste of the sea with every bite
Sopa de Camarón - Shrimp Soup
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of our Sopa de Camarones, a classic Puerto Rican soup made with succulent shrimp, aromatic sazon, adobo, sofrito, and other savory spices. This hearty and satisfying soup is perfect for any time of day and is sure to provide a delicious taste of the island in every spoonful.
Sabor Boricua Soups
Sopa de Pollo - Homestyle Chicken Soup
A warm, comforting bowl of our Chicken Soup, infused with adobo, sazón, and our secret sofrito. Choose between rice or noodles to create the perfect, heartwarming meal.
Sopa de Salchichon - Puerto Rican Sausage Soup
Experience the rich, hearty flavor of our Sausage Soup. Cooked with adobo, sazón, and a blend of our secret sofrito, and your choice of rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying experience
Sopa de Mofongo
Sopa con Mofongo is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the richness of traditional Puerto Rican mofongo with a savory broth. Our special version features mashed plantains that are infused with garlic and crisped to perfection, then paired with a soul-warming soup. The soup is brimming with bell peppers, cilantro, and potatoes, each adding a unique texture and taste to the dish. To make it your own, choose between rice or noodles to complement the hearty flavors. Served hot and garnished with fresh cilantro, this dish is a delightful fusion of tastes that will satisfy your craving for home-cooked goodness
Sopa de Camarón - Shrimp Soup
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of our Sopa de Camarones, a classic Puerto Rican soup made with succulent shrimp, aromatic sazon, adobo, sofrito, and other savory spices. This hearty and satisfying soup is perfect for any time of day and is sure to provide a delicious taste of the island in every spoonful.
Complementing Sides
Arroz con Gandules - Rice with Pigeon Peas
Savor the authentic taste of Puerto Rico with our scrumptious arroz con gandules! This exquisite dish is crafted with tender pigeon peas and fragrant rice, masterfully seasoned with a harmonious blend of delectable spices, and slow-cooked to achieve unparalleled comfort food bliss. As a side or a fulfilling main course, our arroz con gandules is prepared with utmost care, passion, and love, showcasing the proud culinary heritage we're delighted to share with you
Arroz Blanco - Classic White Rice
Enjoy our perfectly steamed white rice, fluffy and fragrant. A simple yet versatile side dish that pairs excellently with any of our entrees, absorbing flavors and providing a satisfying foundation to your meal
Tangy Mayo-Ketchup
Mayo-ketchup is a delightful combination of tangy ketchup and creamy mayonnaise, now available in convenient half-ounce containers. This classic condiment adds a burst of flavor to any dish, making it a must-have for any foodie. Whether you're looking to enhance the taste of your Jibaritos, Sandwiches, or Mixta Plate, MayoKetchup is the perfect choice. Its smooth texture and well-balanced flavor profile make it a versatile addition to any meal. So why not give it a try and elevate your dining experience with the irresistible taste of MayoKetchup!
Habichuelas - Puerto Rican Style Beans
Our Habichuelas (beans) are lovingly prepared using a traditional Puerto Rican recipe, passed down through generations, and now include the comforting addition of potatoes for a more homestyle taste. This delightful, hearty dish makes an excellent side, perfectly complementing any of our main courses.
Mofongo
Mofongo is a delightful side option that embodies the rich culinary tradition of Puerto Rico. Made from green plantains that are mashed together with garlic, our Mofongo provides a taste that's both satisfying and authentic. Whether paired with one of our entrées or enjoyed by itself, this classic dish brings a unique and flavorful touch to any meal. Savor the heritage and enjoy a true island experience right at your table with our Mofongo
Fuego Boricua (1/2oz)
Elevate your meal with a zesty touch by adding our homemade hot sauce - a delectable way to infuse your dish with fiery flavor. Expertly crafted with aji rojo, aromatic garlic, and a medley of spices, our vinegar-based hot sauce delivers a potent burst of tantalizing heat and taste in a convenient half-ounce side. Experience the invigorating essence of Puerto Rican cuisine by enhancing your dish with this robust and irresistible hot sauce, just as tempting as its 6oz bottle counterpart. But be warned: it's delightfully spicy, so prepare for an intense flavor adventure!
Spicy Parcha Pique (1 oz)
Experience the unique fusion of flavors with our Spicy Parcha Pique! Enjoy the delightful tropical sweetness of parcha (passionfruit) expertly blended with fiery pique spices. Perfect for adding a Caribbean twist to any dish
Fresh Half Avocado (1/2 Aguacate)
Avocado: The Perfect Sidekick - Savor the creamy texture and subtle nuttiness of avocado, which brilliantly balances bold Puerto Rican flavors. Paired with our homemade sofrito and expertly seasoned dishes, this versatile side elevates each meal, unlocking a harmonious, multi-dimensional taste experience. A must-try addition!
Spicy Parcha Pique Bottle (6 oz)
Experience the unique fusion of flavors with our Spicy Parcha Pique! Enjoy the delightful tropical sweetness of parcha (passionfruit) expertly blended with fiery pique spices. Perfect for adding a Caribbean twist to any dish
Fuego Boricua Hot Sauce (6oz)
Introducing Fuego Boricua - Ponce Kitchen's all-new 6 oz bottle of blazing Puerto Rican flavor, waiting to be unleashed on your taste buds! This culinary masterpiece is crafted with a scorching blend of aji rojo peppers, fragrant garlic, and a harmony of spices, all simmered in a tangy vinegar base.
Fuego Boricua is not just a hot sauce; it's an experience. A journey of fiery delight that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico with every drop. Perfect for drizzling over your favorite dishes or using as a daring dip, this scintillating sauce will awaken your senses and leave you craving more.
Don't miss your chance to own a piece of Puerto Rican heat, right here in Chicago! Embolden your culinary adventures with Fuego Boricua, and let your taste buds revel in the sizzling symphony of flavors. Order now and let the fire begin!
Ketchup
Tangy and classic ketchup, perfect for dipping or adding a flavorful touch to your meal
Arroz Blanco y Habichuelas
Our traditional Habichuelas are simmered with tender potatoes, imparting a comforting and savory flavor with a velvety texture. Served alongside fluffy white rice, this delightful pairing is the ideal complement to any of our mouthwatering entrees, elevating your meal with a taste of Puerto Rican culinary heritage.
Salsa de Ajo/ Creamy Garlic
Toasted French Bread
Toasted Garlic Bread
Sweet Island Delights
Flan - Vanilla or Coconut Custard
Our homemade flan is the perfect end to any meal! Enjoy the creamy vanilla or rich coconut flavor, topped with a delicious sugar syrup. Each cup is made fresh and served to perfection
Mini Churros con Guayaba
Limited Time Only: Mini Churros con Guayaba - Our freshly fried mini churros are lightly dusted with a delicate blend of sugar and cinnamon, then paired with a tangy guava dipping sauce. The subtle touch of cinnamon allows the tropical sweetness of the guava to shine, creating a delightful and unique taste experience. Don't miss out on this special treat, available for a limited time only!
Budin - Puerto Rican Bread Pudding
Looking for a delicious and comforting dessert? Try our homemade Budin, made fresh with love every day. This classic Puerto Rican dessert is a sweet and satisfying treat, perfect for any time of day. Order now and enjoy a taste of our authentic family recipe.
Tembleque - Coconut Cream Pudding
Savor the sweet, silky smoothness of our traditional Puerto Rican coconut pudding. Set with a perfect wobble and dusted with a fragrant sprinkle of cinnamon on top, this dessert is a delightful way to end your meal, offering a taste of the tropics in every spoonful
Island Refreshments
Parcha - Passion Fruit Juice
Ready to enjoy the sunshine and warmer weather of spring? Quench your thirst with our refreshing parcha drink! Made with passionfruit juice and a hint of sweetness, this tropical beverage is perfect for any occasion. Let the fruity flavors transport you to a sunny island paradise, no matter where you are.
Kola Champagne - Puerto Rican Cream Soda
Prepare to delight your sweet tooth with our captivating Kola Champagne! This effervescent beverage has charmed Puerto Rican culture for generations, offering an unparalleled taste sensation that can only be described as liquid candy. Its enchanting flavor is both refreshingly sweet and irresistibly addictive, making it the perfect indulgence for those with a penchant for sugary delights. Savor each sparkling sip of our Kola Champagne, and relish in the cherished tradition and exuberance of Puerto Rican sweetness.
Classic Coca Cola
Why not complement your scrumptious Jibarito with a familiar taste of effervescence? Our crispy, juicy Jibarito is an undeniable crowd-pleaser, and nothing pairs better with it than the classic, refreshing fizz of Coca Cola. It's the ultimate culinary bromance, a match made in flavor heaven. So go ahead, treat yourself to this dynamic duo – order now and revel in the delightful fusion of Puerto Rico and a timeless American classic
Refreshing Sprite
Ready for a bubbly adventure? Feast your eyes on the legendary can of Sprite! Sure, we've got amazing Puerto Rican dishes, but let's not forget about the unsung hero of the beverage world. Embrace the sheer, unadulterated joy of sipping this timeless lemon-lime soda. Are we overselling it? Maybe. But who can resist the sparkling charm of Sprite? So go ahead, add a can to your order, and let's celebrate the simple pleasures in life, one fizzy sip at a time. Bottoms up!
Malta - Traditional Malted Beverage
Introducing Malta India, a delicious Puerto Rican non-alcoholic drink that's perfect for enjoying with your meal. Malta India is a rich, malty beverage with a distinct flavor and a touch of sweetness, reminiscent of the island's tropical vibes. A popular choice among Puerto Ricans, this drink is sure to bring a taste of the Caribbean right to your doorstep. Add a refreshing Malta India to complement your meal and experience the authentic flavors of Puerto Rico in every sip. Elevate your at-home dining experience with this unique and satisfying drink. Cheers to good food and Malta India!
Coco Rico - Coconut Soda
Experience the tropical essence of the Caribbean with Coco Rico, the authentic Puerto Rican soda that will captivate your taste buds. This effervescent coconut-infused beverage presents a delicately sweet profile, balanced by a subtle tanginess that keeps you wanting more. Its velvety texture and light carbonation make it the perfect pairing for our exquisite island cuisine.
As you indulge in Coco Rico, you'll uncover undertones of tropical fruit and citrus that enhance its overall appeal, while the well-rounded finish ensures a satisfying and memorable drinking experience. Bring the warmth and vibrancy of Puerto Rico to your doorstep in Chicago by ordering Coco Rico now, and let your culinary adventure begin with this delightful island treasure.
Diet Coca Cola
Searching for a bubbly pick-me-up without the calorie overload? Our Diet Coke has you covered! This low-calorie alternative offers the invigorating, sparkling taste of Coca Cola, minus the extra calories. Savor the crisp, refreshing flavor that won't weigh you down. So go ahead, order now and treat yourself to a guilt-free burst of refreshment!
Pure Ice Mountain Water
It's water, folks-the ultimate hydration sensation, rescuing your taste buds after a flavorful Puerto Rican feast!
Fuego Boricua
Fuego Boricua (1/2oz)
Elevate your meal with a zesty touch by adding our homemade hot sauce - a delectable way to infuse your dish with fiery flavor. Expertly crafted with aji rojo, aromatic garlic, and a medley of spices, our vinegar-based hot sauce delivers a potent burst of tantalizing heat and taste in a convenient half-ounce side. Experience the invigorating essence of Puerto Rican cuisine by enhancing your dish with this robust and irresistible hot sauce, just as tempting as its 6oz bottle counterpart. But be warned: it's delightfully spicy, so prepare for an intense flavor adventure!
Fuego Boricua Hot Sauce (6oz)
Introducing Fuego Boricua - Ponce Kitchen's all-new 6 oz bottle of blazing Puerto Rican flavor, waiting to be unleashed on your taste buds! This culinary masterpiece is crafted with a scorching blend of aji rojo peppers, fragrant garlic, and a harmony of spices, all simmered in a tangy vinegar base.
Fuego Boricua is not just a hot sauce; it's an experience. A journey of fiery delight that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico with every drop. Perfect for drizzling over your favorite dishes or using as a daring dip, this scintillating sauce will awaken your senses and leave you craving more.
Don't miss your chance to own a piece of Puerto Rican heat, right here in Chicago! Embolden your culinary adventures with Fuego Boricua, and let your taste buds revel in the sizzling symphony of flavors. Order now and let the fire begin!
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Recent Reviews
So I placed an order via the Capriotti’s website to pick up at River West food co at 1025am. I get there and they say they never got the order. The guy up front was super helpful in figuring it out. Even after showing them the screenshot and everything, I just charged it to computer error. It’s like they accepted the order but the Capriotti’s portion of this place wasn’t open yet so that left me empty handed. Upon leaving the store, an hour later, I got a text saying my...
July 2025
It’s just a little pickup spot, and they always seem understaffed (I usually have to wait a few minutes for someone to appear at the window), but the food is good and prepared quickly. It’s incredibly convenient to have so many options in one pickup spot.
June 2024
The Website was a little clunky but the food was excellent and the place was clean, well lit inside and outside and easy to find. The staff was was very helpful, efficient, and pleasant.
May 2024
