Mercadito Expanding To Lincoln Park With Tacos, Tequila And $35 Bottomless Brunch

After years of searching for the right second location, River North staple Mercadito is expanding to Lincoln Park, where owners say the neighborhood’s mix of students and longtime residents makes it a natural fit for the restaurant’s next chapter. The Mexican restaurant, known for its tacos, tequila cocktails, and bottomless brunch, is expected to open in late April or early May at 2423 N. Lincoln Ave., marking its first new location in nearly two decades.

Mercadito has operated for 17 years in River North, where it has built a reputation as a go-to spot for group dinners and weekend brunch. Coming out of the pandemic, the restaurant saw a surge in business, which helped solidify plans to expand, said William McDavid, managing partner. “We were very careful in picking a second location,” McDavid told Block Club. “That second location is make-or-break when you’re growing your brand.”

The team spent years exploring potential sites, including in the suburbs and other North Side neighborhoods, before landing on Lincoln Park. The area stood out for its sit-down dining culture and its “eclectic” mix of customers, McDavid said. “You have a college crowd, but you also have people who really enjoy going out to eat and making a night of it,” McDavid said. That range is especially important for a restaurant like Mercadito, which sees its business split between daytime and evening crowds, McDavid said. The Lincoln Park location is expected to lean into that dynamic.

A major driver of Mercadito’s daytime traffic is its bottomless brunch, which has become a centerpiece at the River North location. For $35, diners have access to unlimited cocktails like margaritas, mimosas, and Bloody Marys—a format McDavid said helped significantly boost sales over the past year. The brunch offerings at Mercadito include a carnitas hashbrown dish, which has become a popular choice among patrons.

The Lincoln Park menu will largely reflect the same menu items that have made Mercadito a River North favorite, with a focus on authentic Mexican flavors and a diverse selection of tequila cocktails. The restaurant’s signature tacos, made with house-made tortillas and fresh ingredients, will also be a highlight of the new location.

The decision to expand into Lincoln Park was also influenced by the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere and the existing dining scene. Lincoln Park offers a blend of casual eateries and upscale restaurants, providing Mercadito with a competitive yet welcoming environment. The new location will be situated in an area that is easily accessible by public transportation and foot traffic, making it a convenient spot for both locals and tourists.

The Mercadito team is excited about the opportunity to bring their unique dining experience to a new part of the city. With a strong foundation in River North, the restaurant is poised to continue its growth and establish a new chapter in Lincoln Park. As the restaurant prepares for its grand opening, patrons can expect a familiar yet refreshed Mercadito experience, complete with the same exceptional service and delicious cuisine that has made the River North location a beloved destination for so many years.

In the coming weeks, Mercadito will be finalizing the details of the Lincoln Park location, including the interior design and staffing plans. The restaurant aims to create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the essence of Mercadito while also embracing the unique character of Lincoln Park. As the opening date approaches, the team is eager to welcome new customers and continue to build the legacy of a restaurant that has become an integral part of Chicago’s culinary scene.

The expansion into Lincoln Park is a testament to Mercadito’s resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges, including the pandemic-induced downturn in the restaurant industry. By focusing on its core strengths and carefully selecting a new location, Mercadito is positioning itself for continued success and growth in the years to come. As the restaurant prepares for its new chapter, patrons can look forward to enjoying the same delicious food and vibrant atmosphere that has made Mercadito a cherished spot in River North for nearly two decades.