Real Tenochtitlan Restaurant & Bar

I've been coming here for years but didn't write a review until I realize that another lesser Mexican place has been (IMHO, undeservedly so) Michelin rated.  Real has superb food. Their chiles en nogada when they have them, are out of this world. Their tilapia with poblano sauce is the type of dish that I sometimes, out of the blue, crave. Their moles are divine. Make sure you get the tasting (and ask for tortillas to scoop up little bowlfuls of the stuff. Each one is so different and flavorful. They're like tasting wine, with layers of flavors and scents. So yummy. Their drinks are great and it's usually pretty easy to get a table, which worries me. I'm sure the decor (very bright and ummm, featuring kind of risque art) and cavernous location has made this place less than desirable as a favorite for dates, but I think people should be more appreciative of this place. I hope it's around for a long time.

I'm hard to please with Mexican. And I loved this. Great experience on a quiet Monday. I'm in the neighborhood but had not tried it. I had a groupon and still had great service and food. Quac was a bit spicy for me, but I'm a wuss. This is taking over for El CID on kedzie which we used to love, but have repeatedly had bad carry out. Can't wait to go back. This is the perfect place to take a big group because they are a large restaurant, and when I have seen it is generally quiet.

Five stars for the moles, minus one star for atmosphere and weak margaritas.

So this place is under new ownership and the old chef/owner flew the coup but his mole recipes were apparently left behind because they are still outstanding. I had the rack of lamb with black mole and mash potato and it was amazing. The meat was only mid quality but i knew that based on price ($22) and it didnt really matter because the mole was so good.  Portion size was excellent. My buddy had the enchiladas and he said they were excellent. We also had the sopes appetizer and it was very solid.  Chips and salsa are provided free of charge and are nothing special.

Margaritas were pretty bogus and weak.  They need to step their game up in this department.  Service was fine, not outstanding nor poor.  

Im a fan of this place and hope it can stick around. They serve high quality food at reasonable prices.