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Name: The Blue Agave Tequila Bar & Restaurant
Address: 1050 N State St, Chicago, IL, 60610
Telephone: (312) 335-8900
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.09

The Blue Agave Tequila Bar & Restaurant

1050 N State St, Chicago, IL, 60610

(312) 335-8900
Store is closed

The Blue Agave Tequila Bar & Restaurant Menu

Soups Salads & Chili

Sopa Mexicana

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Black Bean Soup

Chili

Avocado Tomato & Queso Fresco

Chopped Chicken Fajita Salad

Blackened Chicken Salad
Crossing The Border

Chili Con Queso

Guacamole

Taquitos

Nachos

Quesadillas

Ceviche

Shrimp Ceviche

Hot Wings

Smoked Chipotle Bbq Wings

Queso Fundido

Panchos Bullets

Southwestern Roll

Chicken Tenders
Broiler Sandwiches

Blue Agave Burger

Avocado Burger

Southwestern Burger

Buffalo Chicken

Blackened Chicken

Smoked Chipotle B.b.q Chicken
Mexican Favorites

Tacos

Soft Shell Tacos

Tostadas

Enchiladas

Chicken Chimichanga

Burritos

Chicken Flautas

Chile Relleno

Combo Platter
Burritos

Panchos Burrito

Veggie Burrito

Burrito Cancun

Burrito Roberto

Healthy Meal suggestions for The Blue Agave Tequila Bar & Restaurant

Soups Salads & Chili

Sopa Mexicana [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Tortilla Soup [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Black Bean Soup [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chili [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Avocado Tomato & Queso Fresco [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chopped Chicken Fajita Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Blackened Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Crossing The Border

Chili Con Queso [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Guacamole [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Taquitos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Nachos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Quesadillas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ceviche [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Ceviche [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hot Wings [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smoked Chipotle Bbq Wings [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Queso Fundido [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Panchos Bullets [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Southwestern Roll [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Tenders [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Broiler Sandwiches

Blue Agave Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Avocado Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Southwestern Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Buffalo Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Blackened Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smoked Chipotle B.b.q Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Mexican Favorites

Tacos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Soft Shell Tacos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tostadas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Enchiladas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Chimichanga [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Burritos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Flautas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chile Relleno [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Combo Platter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Burritos

Panchos Burrito [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Veggie Burrito [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Burrito Cancun [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Burrito Roberto [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Amy S.

Delicious food and super friendly and patient staff. My husband and I were sitting near some very difficult customers and the wait staff was so patient and kind. I had the taquitos and they were delicious and fairly priced. Big portions for the price. Margaritas are a little expensive but very good. Definitely will come back.
(4)
Stephanie A.

The best thing about this place was the free chips and salsa. Otherwise it's a poor and lazy excuse for Mexican food that's only purpose is to lure in overflow diners from other crowded restaurants in the area. My tamale was wet and had absolutely no flavor, and the "al pastor" torta was topped with dry, unidentifiable meat again lacking flavor. I'm disappointed to have wasted a meal here.
(2)
Daniel D.

I ordered the sizzling soup type of fajitas, it was served inside a bowling pot. The chips and salsa dip were amazing, the environment was filled with people just having a good time relaxing. Seems like a great place to come in groups of friends or family. There is an interesting design to this location, there is a balcony step up for private parties, but the vanish point is not too private just away from the general public. Last but definitely not least the drinks were made too perfection I could not drink too many of them because I was the designate drink but I definitely had a good time.
(5)
Darian J.

I am absolutely shocked to see all of these 1-2 star reviews! I came here for the first time by accident. I just moved to the gold coast neighborhood, and this restaurant is literally right around the corner. I was greeted by a host and was ASKED where I would like to sit. I'm so used to me having to tell people where I would prefer to be seated after they attempt to seat me. I chose the window seat obviously nearest the bar. My waiter promptly came to take my drink order (I stuck with water) and delivered my tortillas and salsa. The salsa was super fresh and you could tell it was homemade. The tortillas were standard for Mexican tortillas. I ordered the Fajita Bowl, with black beans and Mexican street corn. By the time it came (rather quickly) I had pretty much consumed my entire basket of tortillas which was a big mistake because I didn't have a full appetite like I initially had. the fajita bowl was HUGE! the chicken was perfectly seasoned and grilled, the rice was the perfect texture, the lettuce and tomatoes were fresh, the sour cream was fresh, the peppers were perfectly tender and gave a subtle kick. The Mexican street corn, which I have never had anywhere, was DELICIOUS! Whatever kind of cheese coating on the outside....I liked it so much. The corn itself was warm and buttery. The black beans were great too. Piping hot, and spicy. The entire meal was a hit. And all for a good price.
(5)
Delilah M.

Went there today for margaritas. When we walked in the gentlemen at door were very welcoming coming in and leaving out. My boyfriend and I sat at the bar for margaritas. The bartender had a little bit of a snappy attitude to start when we asked her if they had mezcal tequila, no biggy but it did start us off on bad note. She seem to talk down to us as if we don't know our tequilas but oh boy we do. oh well we then started to order margaritas and most of the silver or Blanco tequilas were not available. She said most order reposado but I wanted silver tequila. That was little confusing since it was a tequila bar. We then just let her talk us into something cause I felt bad just walking out. That is all we ordered. We then left and went to eat else where down street. Only reason why I give 2 stars is cause the guys were VERY welcoming coming in and out and the chips and salsa were great
(2)
Anastasiya S.

Ignore the 3 stars!!! Outdoor patio is very nice and calm. We ate tacos ( 3 choice ) & quesadilla. This is my top of the line Mexican food now !!! Just 5 stars!!!
(5)
David A.

Came here on the 4th of July. It wasn't very crowded and the food/service was excellent. We had a cute waitress with an Eastern European accent who took great care of my girlfriend and me. House margaritas were the best AND strongest margaritas I have ever had at any restaurant. The food tacos and enchiladas were very good and the amount of food you get per meal is a great deal. The table salsa for the chips is top notch-can't forget that!! The pricing for our meal of two entrees and two drinks was also very reasonable for the amount of food we got and the quality of service.
(5)
Kyle T.

I ate at this "restaurant" two weeks ago, and I thought that after such a wait period, my feelings toward his restaurant would change. They did not. Do you remember when you did something wrong as a child, and your parents said "I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed." Well, I'm not your parents. I would legitimately rather go on a hunger strike than eat at this Ponzi Scheme ever again. In the time that my group got served, I could have gone to college for Hospitality Management training and served myself. Furthermore, after we complained to the manager, my credit card was still charged 50% more than my receipt indicated. Unfortunately, because I burned my receipt in effigy, I am unable to dispute this charge. However, my new life goal is to start a Private Equity fund, raise enough money to buy out Blue Agave, take back the hard earned $12 that they stole from me, and give the restaurant to my friend Brandon so he can turn it into a respectable establishment that both gives back to its community and serves quality food with a smile.
(1)
Katherine G.

I'm always underwhelmed by the restaurant- but because I live less than a block away, I'm always fooled into going back. I've never had anything here that I've liked, and the fajitas have come closest as I'll describe them as "okay." The margaritas are okay, but nothing to right home about- pretty standard for what I'd expect at a Mexican restaurant. The tortilla chips and salsa are the usually the best part of the meal- but don't bother ordering the guacamole. I've tried so many things hoping to find the "right" dish, but again and again I'm disappointed and underwhelmed. The restaurant always seems crowded from the outside, but its just because they heavily seat towards the windows in the front. The interior section of the restaurant is usually empty. If anything, stop here for a drink while waiting for your reservation time somewhere else.
(2)
Charlie P.

Food was very good. I was pleasantly surprised. Our server was super nice, but she was busy; took a while to get refills on drinks and our food didn't come out in the right order because the kitchen was backed up. The chunky guacamole was fantastic and it's huge! Also tried the chicken taquitos and barbacoa nachos. Both were great especially the barbacoa. I will come back next time I'm craving Mexican food. Additionally, great outdoor seating and lots of tables inside. We were sat immediately on a busy weekend night.
(4)
Steve A.

Sorry, wasn't blown away by the service. A waiter sat us down then didn't appear 20 minutes later. We had to flag someone down to serve us. Apparently he went missing. There were 3 of us, only 2 meals came out after quite a wait. After waiting a good 5-10 minutes, realised the third meal wasn't arriving. Took us a while to flag someone down who said he'd follow it up. He didn't, saw him chatting away with someone a couple minutes later. Flagged down someone else, they said they'd follow it up, no word. Around 15 minutes had go now with only two people with meals, the third waiting. Finally flagged down the manager, after I told him they were all ready and in a rush to get it, came about 5 minutse later. A good 20+ minutes after the meals for the other two arrived. The manager offered to us free drinks to make up for it. Which was nice until they didn't arrive. Ran out of my drink, and after a waitress came up to our table asking if we'd like any more drinks, we politely reminded them some were already meant to be on the way. One of the two drinks which were meant to arrive then came ten minutes later. The manager did appear apologetic about the shambles of a service that night. The food was ok, but not 100% sure I would go back just due to the uncomfortable service. Quite hard to see the tv screens unless your sat around the bar too.
(2)
John M.

Easily the best Margarita's in the city. I can't understand why anyone would give this place anything but 5 stars.
(5)
Anna T.

Get the guacamole!! So delish! The chicken enchiladas are the best thing I've ever had!! I love this restaurant!
(5)
Meredith K.

If you are looking for local Mexican food with decent prices in the Gold Coast neighborhood then this is your place!! My friend got me hooked on Blue Agave over a year ago and I keep going back for more. I have never had to wait for a table even on a weekend. Blue Agave is also a great place to watch sports games on a weekend and to soak up some summer rays with their outdoor seating during the summer. Food and drink: The chips and salsa are always a hit. I also LOVE the chicken fajitas and beef tacos. The margs as others have stated below will knock you on your butt after a few so be careful, you've been warned! Overall definitely a local favorite of mine and a go to when I have a craving for some Mexican.
(5)
Andrea J.

I like to try any place once, so despite the mixed reviews and armed with a Groupon I decided to try it. Not worth it. These are not chef prepared meals but pre-made items mixed with maybe a few fresh ingredients. I ordered the veggie fajita bowl, expecting actual fajita vegetables, but it contained that standard frozen vegetable mix of cauliflower, carrot, broccoli, zucchini. Worse, the bowl came with 2 sides, so I selected the mixed veggies...only to get more of that thawed vegetable mix without even any seasoning. I would go to Chipotle ANY day over here...especially since it's almost half the cost! We also ordered flan to meet the minimum requirement for the groupon, and it was clearly a pre-packaged item full of artificial flavorings dumped onto a platter.
(1)
Elizabeth L.

Rowdy Mexican hotspot near Rush/Division, good for parties and large groups. Decent margaritas, but wouldn't rave about the food here. Head to Uncle Julio's or Adobo Grill if you want Mexican.
(3)
Dayla R.

I'm going to write this review strictly based on my last visit to Blue Agave. I've been here before with good experience but was pleasantly satisfied with my meal choice this visit. I usually am a full on meat eater but wanted something light. I ordered the avocado, tomato and queso fresco. This salad was super fresh and completely fulfilling. Served with balsamic and olive oil just a little salt and pepper and ahhhh muy bueno! Did I mention the hostess and waitress were great, especially the hostess... such a nice girl! And as always the margaritas are perfecto!
(5)
Samantha K.

I wouldn't normally go to a place like this because I'm a broke student, so I do my best to avoid the Gold Coast area and seemingly fancy restaurants/bars in general. Alas, our school had an event here, so I ended up begrudgingly going. HOLY GUACAMOLE... dare I say it? Ok, I'll say it: They have the best guac I've ever had. (Don't tell my dad I said that; he makes really good guac) Maybe the perfectly strong margarita was influencing my taste buds, but I thought the chips, salsa, and cheese quesadillas were pretty great, as well. (Alright, I know it's hard to mess up a cheese quesadilla. But I'm a naive-palated, plain-food-loving, poor law student, so trust me, I know my cheese quesadillas).
(4)
Sam N.

The avocado burger is awesome...sometimes the wait times can be out of this world as well:) I feel the TV's are too far from the bar area...Why not just have them in Indiana? Just a suggestion
(4)
Dionna P.

The high point of this place are the drinks! The rest of the experience was horrible! I had chicken poblano with raw rice! Sent it back and it wasn't much better when they recooked it! Disappointed the food is nasty just don't come here!
(1)
Jamie B.

Lots of TVs and strong margaritas. Their complementary salsa and chips are really good... the entrees are just ok.
(3)
Ben T.

There's no reason to go here. We got chips/guacamole, 3 margaritas, 3 beers... which was $80 before tax/tip. The margaritas were just okay and the guacamole was like biting into a raw onion smeared with avocado - giant chunks of avocado with lots of onion and not enough seasoning. First time I ever didn't finish the guac. In summary, if you're looking to pay $16 for a margarita, go to mercadito and spend $13 instead and have one that's 800 times as good or go to any of the thousand taco places in chicago that cost like $8 and are significantly better.
(2)
Kaitlin M.

I really do love their margaritas with their homemade tequila. Watch out though... these are the strongest margaritas in the city and will put you on your tush if your not careful! The food is pretty good as well. I just wish they had a couple more authentic vegetarian options. I really love their black bean soup however. They are in a great location, see that they are walking distance from tons of other nightlife hot spots or daytime shopping.
(4)
Soyeon K.

I can't even describe how bad this place was. The only thing good about this place is the location-- in the upscale Gold Coast neighborhood, which would lead you to think that this restaurant is good?? Nope. Such a tourist trap. I should've known to check Yelp beforehand. Usually I'll never write a Yelp review for any restaurant that I've only been to once, but this was just THAT bad. I ordered a pina colada and some sort of a beef enchilada with a side of rice and elote. The pina colada just tasted like... nothing. You can taste more of the ice than anything else. The beef enchilada was forgettable, just a step above microwaved food if you ask me. Rice was also unimpressive, the elote corn was too sweet for an authentic elote. My partner had a beef torta which he described as "disappointing without a lot of flavor". So overall thought? Just don't. There are many places in Chicago to get good Mexican food-- this is not one of them.
(1)
Jennifer R.

This place was ok, but wasn't that authentic. It seemed more like a sports bar than a Mexican restaurant.
(3)
Sahil S.

Delcious tacos. We had veggie and chicken tacos. Their sides were also really good. Especially the corn and (green rice) pioboloano rice. Margaritas were good but could be stronger. Will recommend for sure.
(4)
Amy R.

The service is excellent and the food and margaritas are even better. This used to be my favorite place to go for after work margaritas with coworkers. I've since moved to California, and I miss this place immensely! Service has always been quick with the bartenders and wait staff. That place will definitely be on my list when I go back home every time. I always ordered the blue agave "blue" margarita with raspberry. Amazing!
(5)
Emily B.

Fajita bowl was steamed broccoli and cauliflower mush. I'm being generous with these two stars because the people who worked there were nice.
(2)
Niti B.

I don't know how I missed writing a review for this mexican joint!? I have been here a million times and it seems to be that I only have one thing to say...the margaritas are excellent! Pack a punch and come in a million flavors! For food I've had a sampling of many things on the menu but always stear towards the cheese enchiladas. I have to admit they are cheesey goodness and the protion is huge! Overall if you are in this area it's a great place to start the night if you need a drink that gets you started on the right foot quickly!
(3)
Abbe V.

Two words: food poisoning. We even called the next day and they denied that it was their food. Horrible service and stay far away unless you want to get sick.
(1)
Charles R.

Some of the most underwhelming Mexican food I've ever had. My friend ordered a side of their Agave Wedge Potatoes, and they were cold, tough, and flavorless. I ordered the rotisserie pork fajitas, which the server assured me were fantastic, but the meat was very dry and uninspiring. Another friend also ordered fajitas, and we were given five tortillas to share between the two of us. When I asked for more, they said it would be an additional $1.50. Really!? The one high point was that the staff was generally very nice and accommodating. But I'll gladly go elsewhere for good food.
(2)
Jon O.

The blue agave is a solidly "ok" restaurant. It has great location and the beers aren't too overpriced but the food itself is really just "ehhh". Our server was on top of it and I had to wonder out loud, since we were sitting on the second level, how the hell many times they have to run up and down the stairs there. Anyways, I ordered the chicken tacos and they were pretty good but we also ordered some chicken wings and they were pretty dried out and tasted bland. I know I shouldn't expect much from a mexican place for chicken wings so I didn't really count that against them. However, the salsa tasted pretty bland as well so unfortunately there wasn't anything really memorable about the meal. If you are looking for some good mexican food probably skip over this one but if you are in the area and aren't too picky its probably the spot for you.
(3)
A L.

Terrible service every time I go. The food use to be good here and is awful along with their margaritas. The last three times I have been here it's just got worse and worse and use to be good about two years ago.
(1)
Alexander M.

I went here during lunch hour and was very impressed. The chips and salsa are amazing and I had the shrimp quesadilla with a side of lime rice and pinto beans. The food is excellent and I have been there many times now. Have brought many different friends there for lunch and they all rave about it. The menu has a nice variety and never had a bad meal. My server is Ricky and he is the best! Will continue to go here on a regular basis...
(4)
Eddy V.

After a few drinks at a nearby bar, we decided to stop in as it is one of my friend's favorite places to eat. We arrived around 8pm which is a peak hour and had a good time. Although the restaurant was very busy, we were seated immediately at a table near the windows. The waitress and serving staff were very kind constantly refilling our complimentary chips and salsa. I ordered the tortilla soup and it was delicious - the thick soup was made from a tomato base, had nice pieces of chicken, veggies, and tortilla pieces. It was exactly what I needed to warm me up after being out in the cold earlier that day. The atmosphere is lively and loud during the evening. My biggest issue with Blue Agave is how close in proximity the tables and chairs are to one another - it became a bit difficult slipping in and out of my chair to run to the men's room (especially after a couple of drinks). After our meal, we sat at our table for a while and had a couple of more drinks. Before we were finished with our drinks, our check came to the table. We weren't ready to leave yet, so we would walk over to the bar and bought drinks as needed. In short, it's an OK spot. I'll definitely return as a customer.
(3)
Sara W.

This place is just ok. Their salsa is very watery and lacks flavor. Margaritas are ok, but too expensive for what you get. I got beef tostadas, which were (can you guess it??) just ok. Cheese dip was pretty good, but how can you mess up melted cheese? My boyfriend got a buffalo chicken sandwich that he said was really good, but who goes to a Mexican restaurant for that??
(2)
Mironda R.

Hmmm.. $120 bucks.. 3 people, cheese dip, a soup, an entree, and 5 margaritas. Goodness. I almost passed out, especially considering the experience. We had the most spacey waiter who we practically had to beg to wait on our table. Then she would half serve. Example, if we have been waiting for 15 minutes to be served, what makes you think you should not ask us if we are ready to order or share with us your daily specials. We order the dip and it was cold, the chips tasted if they'd been sitting out since last week and the drinks were hit and miss. After waiting an additional 30 minutes - my friends said the entree was okay and the soup was decent, so that's promising. Bottom line - good for people watching outside, happy hour on Sundays (remember to remind them), and chips and salsa. Otherwise get ready to donate a small limb and have a lackluster experience.
(2)
Tommy H.

youtube.com/watch?v=q-Rqâ€¦ This place is unbelievably great!! A perfect FOUR STARS! Two thumbs up! Very rarely do I give out a perfect score (I generally four star ratings for the true greats. Godfather, four stars. Casablanca, four stars. Chinatown, three and a half. Don't ask). , Things I tried at the Blue Agave: Chips (4 stars) Salsa (4 stars) Fajita (4 stars) Margarita (4 stars) I assign no higher praise to a restaurant than what I give The Blue Agave!
(4)
Roy L.

Went here on a cold night and it was fairly empty. The Ritas were pretty good however, everything else including the service was subpar. The Queso was terrible, The enchiladas plate was mediocre. It's not hard to screw up enchiladas. My wife ordered a chicken fajita salad. Mediocre as well. This place should only be for Ritas. They might as well eliminate all the food except for the appetizers, well eliminate the queso as well.
(2)
Elia H.

I tried this place out for the first time several years ago. I have consistently gone back for several reasons. The complimentary chips and salsa are the best. hands down. and the staff keeps them coming. you will never be without chips/salsa/water. the set up is pretty great. you have the bar area on the main level and the upstairs section as well as outdoor seating. the food here is really good too and the portions are huge so you never leave hungry. they even have good burgers and wings. the margaritas are lethal. the prices are so great here that they are even competitive with chipotle. i was thrilled when they opened another location in the fulton market district.
(5)
Shelly A.

The menu at Blue Agave needs a serious update. This place does all the classics (tacos, enchiladas, fajitas) but they don't even do them well. You're probably better off grabbing a taco from Chipotle. The service is awful and you pretty much just watch the waiters flirt with one another rather than noticing if you need something. I'll give them another chance when I hear of a change in their menu or ambiance...actually, any sort of change at all would be welcomed.
(2)
Jim V.

Definitely have had some growing pains as a new restaurant in terms of service. The restaurant itself is well set up with outdoor seating, tvs, fancy bar, and nice tables/chairs. The food itself is between 3-4 stars. Good for going with a group of 6-10
(3)
Adam M.

ehhhh it was just ok. The Blue Agave is located in the Gold Coast and the prices here show it (especially the drink prices). The food just isn't that good. I got a burrito and nothing about my meal really was that good. The burrito was decent, but I really didn't care for the green peppers and onions in the burrito. If I wanted those things I would have ordered a fajita not a burrito. If you plan on dinning at The Blue Agave don't expect anything more than overpriced average food.
(3)
Alex B.

Standard Mexican fare - lot's of cheese on lot's of things rolled in various forms of tortilla. You've seen this movie before at every other Mexican place serving exactly the same fare. It's not bad, but it is absolutely nothing special. I was here for lunch, so I didn't get to observe the evening scene much. Based on the dÃ©cor, and the dozens of Tequila bottles on the bar surround by shot glasses, I can only assume this is a place targeted at the post-collegiate, tequila drinking, frat house scene. Not my scene at all, so I won't be back. My guess is there are several comely "shot girls" patrolling the place in the evening ready to help you get your buzz on! Giddy up pard'ner!
(2)
Manda V.

Awesome experience every time I come here! Sundays and Mondays are $4 don Julio shots! Can't beat that :) had an amazing bartender, and the appetizer we split was big enough for 8 people! Live downstairs from here and will definitely be back!
(5)
Katie B.

This place is awesome. They definitely pride themselves on amazing service because they REALLY took care of us! The margaritas were strong and delicious, the food came out so fast it was insane and our waiter was super nice and did a fantastic job. I've never thought, man I should really write a Yelp review....until now. I want everyone else to know how great this place is. I love mexican food and this place really delivers. And for the location it's in, the food is very affordable. I will definitely be back!
(5)
SJ S.

Strawberry margarita frozen was just the right sweetness. My friends got the margaritas on the rocks. The complimentary salsa was fresh and spicy. Chips were crisp. That's all we ordered in the patio. Great afternoon break.
(4)
Optima P.

NOT A RESTAURANT!! Food is NOT GOOD! My 3rd time here. I thought I would give them another chance but that was a bad idea! SMH.. If margaritas is ALL you're looking for then Blue Agave could be on the list. The manager that greeted us and sat us was very professional. Sad to say..that was the best part of our dinner here. The restroom was dirty it had me question what was going on in the kitchen. The salsa is real spicy and customers should be given an option for something less spicy. I ordered the vegetarian burrito. I have never been more disappointed in my life! It was frozen vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower and carrots) not only were they frozen but they were boiled and NOT seasoned!! I am no chef but I know that those 3 vegetables do NOT belong in a burrito! Our waitress didn't come back to check on us until AFTER 15mins of us receiving our meals, during that time she was texting and flirting with customers..very unprofessional. On the other hand she agreed that the veggie burrito was not good ( NOTE TO OWNER: WHEN YOUR STAFF AGREES THAT THE FOOD IS NOT GOOD AND SAY THEY CREATE THEIR OWN DISHES....YOU HAVE A PROBLEM!!!!) She helped me choose something veggie with a mexican flavor. Thanks Chick! They only do good because of the location. Here is a word of advice...Alcohol will only get you so far you need to step up and change your menu!
(1)
Rebecca P.

When we arrived for a casual lunch, we were offered a basket of chips that we wouldn't normally eat anyway but we could see the stack of chip baskets in the back getting stale. We declined and the waiter laughed like we were crazy for turning down free chips. We tried to order keto-friendly food, and our only option was salad. Ordered fajita and blackened chicken salads. I asked for no onions, corn, beans, or chips. My salad came with beans on it, and my boyfriend's salad came with chips on it (he didn't ask them to leave them off). When the waitress came by to check on us she saw his pile of chips on the side and blurted out "You didn't tell me no chips!" It was strange, and abrasive. The place was empty and pricey for the quality.
(2)
Tara H.

This place is horrible. It is cheaper than most places in the area...and you get what you pay for! My husband got the chicken chimichanga and he couldn't even finish his meal (which is saying a lot for him! He loves any mexican food) I had the steak tacos, and I dont know how you mess up a taco...but they did! Gross! The rice tasted like dirty socks. The salsa for the chips tasted like they froze under ripe tomatoes. So watery and freezer burned. The waitress was okay...but the food is just inexcusable! So bad. Maybe just get drinks only? The margarita was semi decent-- straight from a mix and NOT worth $10!
(1)
Amy D.

This place was a great stop for a margarita and a bite to eat after biking around downtown. We ordered appetizers and the waitress suggested a smooth tequilia for our margaritas. All and all there is nothing special about this place, but it is definitely a possibility if you are in the area. We went off hours, about 4 pm on a Saturday, it was a ghost town, 3 tables were seated and 2 people were at the bar. There is little to no bike parking if you plan on biking, you'll need to lock to a tree or sign post.
(3)
Mike S.

If you're dropping in for a margarita, you are on a good track. The Blue Agave has great beverages and actually decent prices for being in the Gold Coast. Now...let's talk food. I can promise, there's nothing much to say. I've been here twice and the food is worse than a Mexican Fiesta in Bumtown, USA. The chips and salsa aren't even good. The rice is flavorless, the beans are mush, the enchiladas taste like a microwavable product, the tacos have stale shells and are miles away from authentic. Shall I continue? I shall not. Good day.
(2)
Jessi H.

I am not a huge fan of Tequila but if you are this is the place for you! I was here a few weeks ago on a Saturday night for dinner and drinks with a girlfriend. They have a huge selection of Tequila to choose from for margaritas and the food was pretty good. The whole staff was really nice, which is a bit surprising for a Saturday night with all the craziness and they have really nice outdoor seating. It is a bit pricy but I think I will give it another try. One big downside is no parking, we took the train there because street parking is hell! but if you live close I would give it a try.
(4)
Vanessa R.

A friend & I were in the area on a Friday afternoon and decided to drop in. We got there just in time, as it seems this is a popular happy hour stop. Atmosphere: Large space with different levels and plenty of seating. There is also a very large bar in the middle with several TVs. We lucked out and got seated at the windows. We liked that even though our waitress left, we were able to sit for hours & weren't rushed to leave given how busy they were. Food: Complimentary chips & salsa was good. Your typical chunky tomato salsa with a good amount of spice. I ordered the carne asida with a spicy sauce and it was just... okay. It didn't come with tortillas, so I asked for some and they eventually arrived but they were flour, not corn, so I didn't eat them. The Mexican rice was surprisingly good & the side of veggies were very bland; basically cauliflower & broccoli with no seasoning at all. I can't say they exactly complimented my meal well, however, props to them for offering several options for sides. Drinks: This place is renowned for its margaritas so we thought we had to try them. Warning: these margaritas are REALLY strong. Yes, I'm a lightweight, but nonetheless, they are dangerously good and strong. I tried the signature blue agave margarita and it was very tasty. However, be sure to note if you want it blended, because I didn't and just ended up getting it on the rocks. Since the margarita was so strong, and we were planning on hanging around for a while, I scaled "down" to a pina colada and it was very tasty. Even though I only had one margarita and a couple of pina coladas, I had a pounding headache the very next morning so drink at your own risk. Margaritas are a little under $9 - not cheap but certainly not a rip off given the amount of booze. Service: I was a bit intimidated at first by the staff in the tight black t-shirts - they all looked like the old Jerry Springer security. However, service was okay. Our waitress was friendly enough, however she did not check up on us that often, even when it was slow. The busboy was awesome - he kept refilling our waters (which is essential with strong margaritas). Overall, nothing to write home about. I'd say that people come here to drink, and food is an afterthought. I'd put this place in the same category as Cesar's Margaritas. If I happen to be in the area and am craving a strong margarita, I'll stop here. But I'd probably catch dinner somewhere else beforehand.
(3)
Hoang L.

We celebrated my friend's birthday here. We had a big group of people so maybe the waitress couldn't handle it? But she skipped me when we ordered drinks so I missed the 1st round of margaritas. Margaritas were not good. I had 2 of them and didn't even get a buzz going. The recommend Poblano Stuffed Chicken got old really fast. It's too much of the same thing.
(2)
Christina M.

HOLY CRAPPY MEXICAN FOOD BATMAN!! eh I walked in to blue agave with my friend alejandro we are so tired of the same gold coast food, We walked in and the place is a train wreck, it needs a make over asap. I don't know the design concept but it was like out door beach bar meets mexico meets disaster. The smell was thrifty. the chips and salsa were actually really good. Alejandro got the nachos....with cheddar cheese (bleh) and he felt his chips were burnt, I got the flautas....I was sad to see they just rolled up my tacos...there was nothing crispy about it....to top it off please let me know that you will be skimping on the guac and sour cream so I can order extra. I don't know if ill be back.
(2)
Amber K.

A good spot for a large group of people but the service is terrible. They messed up my food order twice. The item on the menu came differently than described (not sure how you mess up your own menu items)! Drink orders at the table were continually wrong as well. They also miscalculated our bill! The staff seems inexperienced in service. I would not go back.
(2)
Liz M.

Recently enjoyed some snacks and drinks outside with some girlfriends. Margaritas were excellent! I think between all of us at the table we had all different flavors and they were all good (and strong!!!) I was pleasantly surprised with the food. chili con queso was tasty. We devoured it. steak quesadilla was delicious! Price- as to be expected in the area- overpriced. Can't beat the people watching!
(3)
Jack P.

Went here once several years ago. It was a good meal and a good experience. A bustling place with good drinks. Went here a few months ago because my wife and I had a Groupon deal (or something similar, I don't remember), and it was not good. The food was just OK, and the waiter was even pretty OK, too, even if he looked 16 and new on the job. Two glaring deficiencies this time around. We were seated on the second floor (which is really more like a narrow, short-ceilinged balcony) away from any and everyone. I'm not sure exactly why we were seated here, because we passed several empty tables on both floors. Not a good start. The worst part was the margarita I ordered. It seriously smelled and tasted of cleaning solution. I had a few sips and couldn't take it anymore. And I'm not one to waste alcohol. Much like 12-inch softball in Chicago, it's two strikes and you're out.
(2)
Jason H.

I'm a throw back Blue Agave-er. I've went here numerous times. So I'll give my opinion unfiltered and unbiased. Who goes to Blue Agave for the food? Maybe I'm the anomaly - because I've went here hundreds of times and have eaten here less than once! I mean they have a full menu but this only legitimizes their claim of being a Mexican restaurant. This is a drinkers joint - always have been and always will be. I go for the casual dynamic it presents in a pretentious neighborhood. If you have a few seconds imagine this: Zach Galifianakis, Kobe Bryant, Diane Keaton, Roselyn Sanchez, Ozzie Guillen and Stephen Colbert all in the same place. This is kinda how - well I overexaggerated a bit - but basically I'm hinting at the eclectic group of people I have met in this joint! I say - screw the reviews (including mines) - try it out you might just become a regular. Just remember - this is a drinkers joint!
(4)
Damian C.

This place is an absolute madhouse most nights of the week and, while their food is pretty on par with most Mexican places around the city, they're salsa is off the hook! Hot, spicy, fantastic. I could have spooned it right into my mouth! I also recommend trying the Horni Margarita. Yes... it's called the "Horni Margarita". The only reason I ordered it is cause I wanted to try and say "horni" with a straight face to the waitress. I still giggled like a child. It was delicious!
(4)
Sergio R.

I used to come to this place a few years ago and their food was good, but now it's disgusting. I ordered the soft shell tacos and rice on the side. The tortillas were cold, the steak tasted like horse meat, an the rice tasted like ass. The margaritas are still good tho...
(1)
N.A. S.

The drinks are decent, all the rest is below what you'd expect from a Mexican restaurant in Chicago, the food and service are far from impressive! The atmosphere is so-so and you can't even stop-by to watch a game as TVs are awkwardly positioned... In a nutshell, just conveniently located for a quick stop downtown.
(2)
Susan F.

Still an oldie but goodie. If you sign up to be on their mailing list, you get a $10 off certificate every month and updates when they are doing tequila tastings!
(5)
Jenna H.

Really good, strong, margaritas! I love their happy hour. Its super packed though on some days so be warned. Nice atmosphere too.
(4)
Tim T.

The salsa and chips are homemade...little bit of heat with the salsa. Everything is made by hand, including the sauces. Obviously, the tequila selection is outstanding.
(3)
Nate A.

Went to this restaurant visiting from (little mexico) Arizona and was extremely pleased with the mexican food and drink selection. From the mini tacos and parillada to the avocado margarita it was outstanding. Thanks for the great service
(5)
Jeremy D.

Came here with a group, certainly a grouping that wasn't ideal and got sucker-punched into paying VASTLY more than my fare share. I HATE dining in groups. But... the food here is terrible. Bland, greasy and not good. Salsas are made from rather mealy and watery tomatoes and just sorta hot with not much else going for it. Margaritas are fine but nothing mind blowing. I honestly have ZERO IDEA as to how this place stays open. Food; meh. Service; spotty. Drinks; aren't great. Whenever I hear "Ohhh... Blue Agave" I make an excuse to NOT go.
(1)
ak a.

I've given this place 4 chances. The food is mediocre and not worth the money. 2 tacos, one enchilada (no ranchero sauce as promised), beans, cold rice, chips and salsa for $16. I would really like to see them improve the menu. It's too bad because it is a great location. New bar stools. Food is still mediocre. Still disapppointed. The wait staff doesn't even stay.
(1)
Monica P.

This place was below expectations. We went here on a Sunday afternoon on Memorial Day weekend, right after the lunch rush and before the dinner rush. The place was empty. Even though the place was empty, our waitress was so inattentive and the busboy was mainly our server for the afternoon. We actually joked at our table that we should just tip the busboy because he was the only one around to refill our waters and chips and dip. When the food finally did arrive, it was sub-par. Everything was rather tasteless and a big letdown considering how hungry I was! The guacamole even left something to be desired- how does a Mexican restaurant not make good guacamole?? The only thing that was good about this place was the drinks. All different kinds of margaritas to choose from, if you are willing to wait the 25+ minutes for the server to get your drink order and then actually bring them to your table.
(1)
Rhonda G.

Hmmm, I have mixed feelings about this place. The nachos are an awful cheddar cheese covered baked mess and the quesadillas are mediocre much like the quality you would find at Chili's. Why they're still in Business: The margaritas were good. They have tons of tequila to choose from and fresh fruit if you like (they say fresh, I will need proof of this). I had the peach and it was actually quite refreshing. If it wasn't for the tequila and sugar I might have assumed I was having a healthy smoothie. The chips and salsa are also pretty good. I sat in here for a while enjoying chips and salsa while waiting for my party to arrive. Thanks to the staff for checking in on me but leaving me alone for the most part. Will I return? Only for margaritas, they can just stop serving food.
(3)
Kellie M.

Cannot get enough of this place! The wait staff and hostess are very friendly, the food is delicious, and they have the best strawberry margaritas I have ever tasted! A Gold Coast gem!
(5)
Kamilah S.

My boyfriend and I came here on a Sunday and it was much more lively than the one on Kinzie. Still had a great time. great food, great service. Salsa was a little salty for my taste, but the tortilla chips were good. Good and strong margaritas. Overall, I will be back!!!
(5)
Tanisha S.

The margaritas are amazing! and the guac and chips ....keep them coming. This is one of my favorite after work places to unwind....ive never had the food because i am very picky when it comes to mexican!
(3)
Micki C.

Margaritas = deliciosa! If you can stop at one, well, there's something wrong with you. The avocado caprese salad was awesome--thick slabs of mozzerella and perfectly ripe tomatoes. I also shared a chicken quesadilla, but given how much I liked the drinks and rest of the food, I wish I had ordered something a little more interesting. The restaurant is located just off Rush Street, which has some other fun bars within walking distance if you want to go out after: we hit up Luxbar and Tavern on Rush. As an aside, I heard this area was for an older crowd (think Redstone in Minnetonka), which was true but I was also with older co-workers so it worked for us. A great time though!
(4)
Katie Z.

I created a yelp account just to give this place a bad review. It is unfortunate....HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE by the manager Steve. Food was meh (guac was WAY overpriced), margaritas are bueno, but when trying to use a coupon that lured me and my friends to the restaurant in the first place they wouldn't accept it because it wasn't printed out. The coupon said nothing about print requirements (it was uploaded to my phone) and when pointed out, the manager did nothing but talk down to me and engage in a personal tirade about how he doesn't care to help me because he won't be there much longer. I'm sorry, I did not need to hear his personal frustrations about his choice of work, completely unprofessional and inconsiderate. I contacted the store owner later but he did nothing to my knowledge to appease the situation. Overall: customer service is completely lacking and I would advise avoidance of this restaurant, Chili's is way better!
(1)
Chelsie P.

Came here for lunch on a Friday with a co-worker. We weren't able to try the margaritas which I hear are great so I'll be back for those one day post-work. The place was empty and all the employees were sitting around eating and chatting with each other, which made our service sub-par. The food we had was good (I had the flautas and she had enchiladas) nothing mind blowing but I would get it again. Overall it was good food and the place is kinda quirky and cool inside. Definitely coming back to try the margs, just hope the service is better next time.
(3)
Danielle F.

Fun for a cheap night out. Margarita's are STRONG, so keep yourself limited to two, maybe 3. Quick service, usually a packed house...good to pre-game there for a night out.
(4)
Dom G.

*Smells like piss when you walk in...should have turned around! *Old Drunk guy got over served and fell over at the bar...should have been a sign! Food is lacking in taste, but not price. Waitress was barely there to meet our few requests. Beer was warm not cold Margaritas were...I am from Texas..THEY WERE HORRIBLE! And the best part...I used a groupon and they wrote in the tip for me..what is this world coming to? If you take a job based on GRATUITY...expect ups and downs... Don't go here, to many places in Chicago to explore that put this place to shame...try the taco vender on the West side his food is WAY better! Sum it up: The worst experience in quite some time. Manager was informed and was more concerned over the groupon tip-out than the fact that they over-all were bad. Do I HAVE to tip 18% for bad service? When did it become mandatory to tip? I am confused...To Insure Proper Service...T.I.P.S.
(1)
Jayne B.

If I were to compare Blue Agave to other casual Mexican restaurants in Chicago, I'd say it ranked really well. My criteria for a satisfactory Mexican experience are simply the following: continuous flow of chips and salsa (free refills, of course), speedy service, classic Mexican dishes, and stiff margaritas. This place had all of that. Sure, it's a little tacky, but isn't that what you'd expect? We thought the layout was great, with the large bar in the middle and tons of tables for a dine-in meal. We got a seat along the upper level so we could look down over the crowd, which we really enjoyed. The other cool thing about this place is that it attracts people of all ages, at least at 7:30 on Friday night. I'd recommend checking this place out if you're looking for an inexpensive Mexican meal in a fun neighborhood. It's certainly no Rick Bayless restaurant, but it's perfect if you want something more low-key. We were glad we stumbled on it!
(4)
Karen T.

I have stumbled in here many a night to hit up the ATM in the vestibule or for a few drinks (FINE, shots), but it was only this past weekend that I actually had dinner at the Blue Agave with some girlfriends. The margaritas and the decor are what conjure up the image of Spring Break, Daytona Beach style in your mind. The place is replete with palm trees, gaudy yet endearing lit-up Modelo and Corona signs, and it is always packed on a weekend night. As for their drinks, The "3G" margarita was sweet and sultry, with three types of tequilas to roll over your tongue... usually I like my tequila Patron and in a shotglass, but I loved my regular margarita, on the rocks and with a salt rim. I'll admit it, I had two. Although I regretted it later when we got the bill - they're a bit pricey for the locale and the size. I don't know that I was totally missing out on the food - as a native LA girl, good Mexican is a dime a dozen to me. But their salads are huge and tasty - I took home half an avocado/tomato/queso fresco salad ($10) with cilantro, and usually avocado and cilantro are enough to make me devour a dish. Two of my girlfriends split a fajitas dish and it looked delicious. I took a cab home, which is easy to do in the Viagra Triangle. But making it down the street in a jean skirt, leggings and boots though? Expect a proposition or two, and at the very least, a few catcalls.
(3)
Whitney K.

Having recently moved from Texas, my husband and I were on the hunt for a margarita in the city. A couple of work friends mentioned Blue Agave, saying that they always had a good evening if they started with a drink here. One Saturday night after leaving a comedy show, us and few out of town guests walked over to try and grab a drink. Unfortunately, the bartender rudely told us they were no longer serving and they had already shut down their margaritas. Wait, WHAT?! It's was approximately 10 minutes after 1am, and the sign on the door said they were open until 2? Shutting down machines early on a Saturday? Another bartender offered to pour a shot of tequila if we wanted to order that (extra star for trying), but offering a margarita on the rocks would have been better. We havent been back. If you go, go early.
(2)
Steven H.

They have a good tequila selection and the margaritas are strong. The food is average Tex-Mex but it's more a bar than anything else. Complimentary chips and salsa are pretty darn good though. Definitely a good hang-out spot. Just don't expect Rick Bayless quality Mexican food.
(3)
Mickey A.

Eh. That's about all I can think to write about this place. My friend and I came on a typical busy Friday night. According the super nice hostess, everyone waiting (including those with reserverations) was about an 40 minutes to an hour behind than promised. Note to those waiting, bring a snack - turns out to be very helpful. We started with the Southwestern Rolls, which were probably the tastiest items we ordered that night. I wish I had this as my main dish. We both opted to do the "create your own" dish because it was more/less the same price if you were to just get a plate full of enchiladas or tacos. With this particular order, you pick three items (hard/soft tacos, enchiladas, tostadas, etc.) and two side items. I chose one hard shell taco with ground beef (yum), a ground beef enchilada (not good...at all), and a chicken tostada (yum). The strawberry margaritas were um, good.. IF we ordered plain strawberry smoothies. Where was the alcohol? Not in our glasses. Oh well. We were too tired to complain and just wanted to pay and go. Be prepared to shout at your dining companion(s) and the server. It's loud in here.
(2)
Howard C.

Pretty fair joynt. Margaritas are deadly. Chips kinda suck. Salsa is good, but really can't stress how crappy I thought the chips were. Food is very good. But you get 3 stars because you're a Mexican place with crappy chips.
(3)
Shradha A.

So here's when you should go to this place: 1) you're missing a loud dirty college bar where you can't talk 2) you like paying premium prices for ambience/service yet you have to resort to self-service (find your own table, go back and pick up menus for yourself, go back and get water) 3) you like paying for what you don't get - small quantities and no service, yet the costliest non-fresh guac around After this, we decided we didn't want to stick around and left -
(1)
Taylor M.

This review is based solely on the margaritas. I came here with my date after dinner to enjoy some margaritas he promised would be amazing. I was not let down! I had a regular margarita and a blue agave margarita. I definitely liked the blue agave margarita better. Although, both were amazing. They were fairly strong. The service was nonexistent. We had a table, but ended up going to the bar because it took too long for a server to show up. I will have to come back when we have more time to drink!
(4)
Kristy N.

I have been here several times for the margaritas and last week I stopped in for dinner on the patio. Our server has non-existent during our entire meal. We finally had to go inside to pay our bill. It was a Monday night and she wasn't busy. In fact, when we found her inside she was sitting down and texting. We had some sort of egg-roll type appetizer which was very good. We split the shrimp fajitas for dinner which were very yummy but could have come with a bit more veggies. The sides were delish and there was plenty to go around. If you're in River North and looking for Mexican, go to Su Casa..
(2)
Angela S.

Average Americanized Mexican food in the touristy Viag Triag.
(3)
Amy A.

Love this place!!! BEST MARGARITAS!!! GREAT FOOD!
(4)
Sara M.

This is my review on Blue Agave... 1. Service = Eh....kinda slow 2. Food = Delish (specifically the Con Queso) 3. Atmosphere = Super busy; All the time 4. Price = Over 5.. Magaritas = Yes, please and thank you. Make it a double. That's all.
(3)
Lauren B.

Great homemade salsa (can be a bit too spicy on somedays). I don't think I've had any food here that I didn't enjoy. The margaritas are really strong, so I don't recommend ordering one unless you LOVE the taste of tequila and are looking to get very drunk. Other than that, this is one of my favorite gold coast restaurants.
(5)
Stephanie B.

I think taco bell may have better food. The food was just "meh." I didn't have any libations, so I cannot comment on the margs or tequila options. On the plus side: the free salsa and chips were pretty good.
(2)
Melissa D.

Holy strong margaritas. I love you. Not only strong, but super tasty. A little pricey, but after 2 of those delicious treats, you really don't need more. Especially mid-week when you have to work the next day. Service was pretty good, for how busy the place was. Food was good, again, on the pricey side, but you have to expect this with the gold coast area. Portions were huge. Definitely share an entree and get an appetizer. Chips and salsa were free, refillable and nummy :)
(4)
Rene P.

I went there this Saturday. Had dinner, a couple margaritas. Then ordered dessert. Two people ordered fried ice cream, one cheesecake, 2 churros. The cheesecake was supposed to have caramel, but they were out of caramel so they put strawberries on it without asking. Good thing that the person who ordered it is not allergic to strawberries. The fried ice cream was not fried. It was just covered in the gram cracker crumbs. The server told us that they had just made them and they were not frozen enough to fry so she brought them out anyway and seemed confused that we were not delighted that she was not charging us for it. If anyone wonders, unfried fried ice cream does not taste good and we each ate a bite and left it sitting on the table. The part of this experience that I am most upset with is the fact that any of us would have just chosen something else if we were told that they were out of fried ice cream and caramel. Instead, we were brought desserts that we did not eat. The server did not charge us for the desserts, but honestly, I don't think that they should have ever come to the table. I have gone to Blue Agave every December for over 10 years. Occasionally I will go there other times, but always in December. They have been very accommodating of our group which can be as few as 5 and as many as 25, and we rarely know till we get there who is going to show up. The food is decent. Nothing that you can't get in any Mexican place. The rice is typically overcooked and the beans are watery, but I don't mind because it tastes good and is super reasonable for downtown. The $12 valet is great. The margaritas are tasty. I will likely keep going back, but I will not be ordering dessert.
(2)
Mary T.

I started coming to this place a lot because my friend lived in the building attached to it. This was a good place for us because he's a picky eater and this was one of the few Mexican restaurants that he liked. I've never been disappointed with a meal I've gotten here, I'm a fan of their burritos, enchiladas and tostadas. Plus, the majority of the time the service here has been spot on and very accomodating - even the time I was with a large group and so many people were sick that we all asked for invidivual cups of salsa. My only complaints about this place are minor. First, why no pitchers of margaritas? I've been here a few times with groups and it would save our server several trips to the table if we could order some marg's by the pitcher. Second, the bathrooms, they could stand to be improved, they're kind of scuzzy. Bottom line: good food, good service, good margaritas, but always crowded P.S. They're on restaurant.com
(4)
H C.

I wanted to originally give two stars but the margaritas were fairly strong in my opinion so that earns them an extra star. I also enjoyed the guacamole, queso fundido and the salsa. (Watch out, that salsa has a kick!) My entree? Not so much. I ordered the appetizer of shrimp ceviche and I took about 4 bites before giving up. It tasted like cocktail sauce was just poured all over it. I had this feeling that I was in a college bar/restaurant or a cheesy Cancun bar the entire time there. I would go back for after work margaritas and guac but not for dinner.
(3)
Abby S.

Get the frozen Blue Agave "blue". It will take you back to your childhood days when you got those snow cones at the carnivals. :) This place always makes me wanna drink, the music is good, the lighting is perfect, and the noise is just right. The food is A-mazing.. but a little too expensive for what you are really eating. The queso is like 8 dollars and its not "thhhhhaaat great?" Not sure why its so expensive, but as I said.. the margs make it worth it :)
(4)
Dan C.

Go here for the margaritas. They are the best margaritas I have had. The free chips and salsa is very good as well. The food is okay, but there is better available for sure. The margaritas, though, lest you forget, are amazing.
(4)
L. S.

I ordered this through CEO Deliveries- not realizing that this is more of a bar and not really an authentic mexican restaurant. Ordered food. First of all, no chips and salsa when you get it delivered! Plus there was no take out silverware or napkins. How much more can you cut back on? We got steak fajitas, chicken chimichangas, and a pork burrito. Basically crap. Its worse than cafeteria food! Never again.
(1)
Ciara H.

We come here a lot for the location (live nearby) and for the great margaritas. Aside from that there really isn't anything else. The service is bad, they are slow and inattentive. The food is mediocre. The tipping point was when they lost my reservation for a party 10 for a 30th birthday celebration (margaritas!) which I made 3 weeks in advance. Seriously?! This is not a small reservation. Trying to make another reservation for that size on a Saturday night would not be easy. Good bye Blue Agave. I will go a little further for better service.
(2)
Michael S.

We came to this place after The Drawing Room overbooked their restaurant and could not accommodate our Valentine's Day reservation. The Blue Agave had a table for us and completely saved the night. The food and drinks were excellent and the wait staff was completely on the ball. We have been back several times since and have always had great meals and excellent service.
(4)
Juliana R.

Margaritas are good, a little overpriced though.
(3)
alicia b.

Tequilla! I love thetequilla,the location,the tequilla, the chips and salsa and the tequilla! The food is pretty good but I have to admit everytime I go here we just end up drinking and eating chips. I do like the set up of the restaurant if you sit upstairs you can look down on the bar and totally creep on everyone.Its fun my fiance and I just sit up there,drink and make fun of people.Yes, we make fun of people to feel better about ourselves,so what.
(4)
Markale E.

Food is just average, at best. Margarita was horrible. And everything was overpriced. Probably will never go back. With all the great byob/cheaper places in the city, why waste the money here?
(1)
Aurora S.

Good fast service, but that didn't make up for the shrimp tacos, which were not delicious.
(2)
Janeen W.

I have been coming here since the bulls won their last championship. All the waiters and the managers knew me and my family. We were regulars!! The food use to be delicious! Let's just say the food has changed. I give it 3 stars because the chips and salsa is off the chain. The drinks are good too. I always order the enchiladas with mole sauce .It was decent but the service sucked!!. My food wasn't even hot when it arrived at my table. Get it together Blue Agave!
(3)
Kammie G.

Such an awesome place! I had my first margarita there! I wish they had some specials on certain days on margaritas, that would be lovely but I guess everyones willing to pay the $9. The drinks are so good, especially the mango and strawberry. You can't even taste the liquor and then once you're done with two you're already feeling a slight buzz. Love it. The food portions are large and satisfying for two if you're not that hungry or if you're two girls (like how it was with me and my friend) We had the steak fajitas which were delish. The waitress was nice but she lagged a little bit, but then again it was a Friday evening and the place was truly packed ( we had to wait 30 minutes to get a table). She also forgot to bring back my friend's credit card at the end. But it's okay, everyone makes mistakes. Too bad my friend had to freak out a little bit first and thought she lost it magically within the 2 minutes of getting the receipt signed.
(4)
Natalie K.

Okay, while this is not the end-all-be-all of Mexican joints that I've eaten at in the city -- it's pretty good. It's really close to my apartment and the food is decent. I will say, though, that the food is WAY over-priced for the quality that it actually is. The last time I was in there with a friend, our waitress was great and pretty much acted like we were BFFs by the end of the night (mostly in part to a small incident that took place involving two extremely overserved customers) - she gave us a few free shots of tequila, which is always appreciated. Basically, I will be back.
(4)
Larry V.

Such a fun place. Great cheap food and amazing service. Plan to go back again and again.
(5)
Allie H.

While I'm totally down with weird decor (nothing like a little quirk, right?), this place seems a little...dingy. My number one factor in determining good quality at a Mexican spot is the salsa... and the salsa was off: a little spicy but mostly tasted like very unripe tomatoes and raw onions. Paired with chips that weren't too fresh, there wasn't much redeeming unless you enjoy copious quantities of food over good tasting food. Maybe some of the worst "Mexican" that I've had for over $10. Everyone I was with left 1/2 to 2/3 of their food on the plate, and while that's partially due to the huge servings, the eats just weren't worth eating. But, two stars for 1. the super attentive water filling/service, and 2. taking us without any wait on a relatively busy Friday.
(2)
Bridget G.

NOT impressed. Started off on the wrong foot and never recovered. I made revs for two for 7pm. We walk in and the hostess is sitting in front of a laptop two tables back. There's some weird dude standing quasi near the entrance but kind of in the bar area, just looking off into space. The hostess makes eye contact w/ me, walks over and I say hi. She interrupts me to tell me that weird guy was first. SO you mean you were just sitting on your @ss and letting weird guy wait? She escorts him off somewhere (he was looking for someone) and then a waiter comes up to me and I tell him we have revs. Hostess sees her way back to the front, but then just starts up a conversation with the waiter while we are standing there. We continue to wait as she chats with him and then finally decides she wants to show us to our table. She leads us there, THROWS THE MENUS ON THE TABLE and walks away without saying a word. Oh. Hell. No. Waiter was nice but very slow, and the place really wasn't that busy. It took 2 hours to get appetizers, dinner and dessert. More than one occasion sitting there with empty drink glasses (and I was just drinking pop), multiple occasions having to flag him down or try to get his attention. For all of this, the food was only OK at best. We sampled a lot: we had both nachos and quesadillas for appetizers. Neither were terrible, neither were great. It's like what you'd make at your house, basically. Nothing special at all. My husband got the carne asada which was "OK", I got the tacos which were also...fine. The fried ice cream was the best thing, really. Margaritas were good and strong. I think that is the goal of this place: get you wasted so you don't notice or care that the food and service is sub par. The place itself is just kind of sad. As soon as you go in there, you feel that it's past its prime. It's Mexico themed, but then kind of sports themed with TV's everywhere, and then a big American flag. And then some random stuff on the walls a la TGI Fridays. Just sort of disjointed...and kind of dingy feeling. I feel like it needs a good thorough washing and/or coat of paint. I'm very forgiving with this stuff and would have given the benefit of the doubt and probably given an extra star. But there's no excuse to be in the service industry and be rude. That hostess really angried up my blood. Grrr.
(1)
Andrew K.

Good margaritas, salads are big, but the rest of the food is just alright. I would never go in to eat, but I do have to admit that every once in awhile, I crave a strawberry margarita, and blue agave hits it on the head. There drinks are so good and sitting outside is always fun as well. Skip the food and just drink a little more.
(3)
Kris L.

I've lived in the building and Blue Agave is a spot for locals during the week and for the overflow crowd from the other viagra-triangle spots the out of towners get turned away from on weekends. You go for the scenery which can be excellent and the margaritas (rocks-of course) which are not authentic or made from real juice, no they are made from a mix but you get them because they are potent. It does fill up for dinner on Friday and Saturday but grab a beeper from the hostess belly up to the bar (which has under-bar hooks for purses ladies) and try one of the margaritas. I suggest the Rosarita which has chambord in it which softens the punch. Their chips are served warm and their salsa is fresh and very good. For appetizers the best one is the plate of mini taquitos with chorizo, the guacamole is also a good option. For main dishes try the tequila marinated skirt steak or chicken or fish dish in the sauce with the olives. For something predictable get the steak, chicken or pork fajitas which are served with beans, rice and tortillas. Go watch the scenery and a game on their many screens, order the taquitos with chorizo, get some chips and salsa and wash it down with a couple Rosaritas. Thats Blue Agave.
(3)
Dennis S.

Great place for standard Mexican fare and good Margaritas. Blue Agave has great service. Beyond that, things are pretty ordinary. Atmosphere is typical cookie-cutter Mexican restaurant. Menu isn't bad, but the food is nothing special. The margaritas are the best part of the menu, especially if you order premium tequila.
(3)
Insun M.

Pros: - cheap - huge portions - awesome free salsa Cons: - the food is just bleh- not horrible, just expected better considering the area.
(2)
fred w.

$13 bloodly mary? you kidding? Only average food.
(3)
Jennifer C.

I couldn't help but notice how empty Blue Agave has been in the recent months. I'm not sure why as their margaritas are still better than ambrosia since I first visited in 2003. Go for the raspberrry and you will not be steered in the wrong direction. As far as the food goes, it's OK, but I'm insanely picky about ethnic cuisine, so I'll head down to Pilsen to get some delicious, authentic Mexican food. If you're looking for crowds and the ability to people watch, I'd head up the street to the Cedar Hotel.
(3)
Christina B.

This place gets 3 stars ONLY because it has a great and super convenient location AND outdoor seating. FOrget this place during the winter. The food is very average, and slightly greasy and over priced. The margaritas are fine but nothing special. It is a fun casual place if you are craving Mexican in the Gold Coast. The service struggles at times as well.
(3)
Lyle B.

I went to Blue Agave last night with my partner and a friend. The place is ugly as sin, but if you can get past the "decor," it's good. The margaritas were surprisingly strong, and the food was definitely tasty. I had the enchiladas which were tasty and not too greasy, and my friends both had soft tacos which looked great. Service was friendly.
(4)
O B.

overall meh.... have been here a few times before, margaritas that i wouldnt rave about, tacos that i wouldnt go back for. not impressed by this place, there are many more mexican restaurants in chicago that far surpass Blue Agave. i think id almost prefer taco bell...
(3)
Tripti S.

I have been there twice and loved the place. There house margarita is really delicious! The food is very good as well. Lots of options for vegetarians. The ambiance and service are great.
(5)
Tim F.

Chips and salsa good. Drinks are great. Entree (tacos) was just ok. Shell was stale. Ground beef was tasty and rice and beans were good.
(3)
Laura F.

Yay! I think I found my regular Mexican restaurant! I have been looking for a place like this- good strong margaritas, yummy food, nice service... it's nice, but not too nice. For some reason I don't like "fancy" Mexican food. I like it to have some sketchiness to it! And this has that.. in the best way. If you go, you will love it (especially after a margarita!) Update 3/8/08- Came back here and I'm sad to tell you they raised all of their prices!! Unfair! A marg here will now cost you at least $8.25 and enchiladas that were once $8.50 are now $12. Quality is the same though so... you have to decide if it's worth the extra $$.
(4)
Tommy M.

We had the mango margarita and Blue Agave "blue" margarita. They are quite liberal with the tequila! The buffalo chicken sandwich is tasty, and the wife had the fajitas. Portions are good. This place has a mostly younger crowd. Nice, oval shaped bar and good view of the street.
(3)
Cameron T.

So I was hyped about this place for months before my most recent trip to Chicago. I have to say I was let down. I'm not a really big drinker and from what I've seen people love their margaritas, I'd say stick with them. The food was, in my opinion, terrible. I typically go to Uncle Julio's Hacienda when in Chicago for Mexican cuisine and I will be running back there after eating here. If you are looking to get your Margarita on come to The Blue Agave, if you are looking for good food, look elsewhere.
(1)
Marisa M.

If you enjoy a good (and strong) margarita, stop by Blue Agave. My personal favorite is the banana, but you really can't go wrong with the original or any of the other fruit flavors. I also suggest going "top shelf" if you plan on having more than one- you will thank me the next morning. As far as food goes, I would probably be content with a large bowl of their salsa and a spoon. But since that would be weird, I would highly recommend the jalapeno caesar with steak and the sopa mexicana. If you are looking for something on the cheesier side, the chille rellenos and quesadillas are pretty tasty as is the chili con queso dip.
(4)
Kara K.

Some friends invited me to "Rush Street" on a Friday night for a little carousing, but I had to decline because I couldn't find a sitter. "Bring her along!" they said. I was hesitant because I really didn't feel like getting ice grilled by all the adults peeved that a child was in their drunken midst--been there done that. But my friends insisted so we headed over to the VT. By the time we got there, they decided upon the Blue Agave. As usual, my daughter stole the show. She got plenty of attention as we bobbed and weaved our way through the drunken madness on Rush Street and from the patio-diners on Maple and even more from patrons of the Blue Agave. I thought the wait would be abysmal for our party of 4, but the friendly hostess grabbed a few menus and led us upstairs to what appeared to be the last available table in the joint. Our waitress was cool, just not very efficient. She took my daughter and my drink order and then raced off. She came back back and took the other two drink orders and then left. After a long absence, she returned with no drinks and took our food orders. Then she came back with the first two drink orders, left and came back with the other two drink orders and left again. Midway through our meal the chips and nachos appeared...it was really annoying. I was also irked that I had to keep getting up to take baby girl to the potty. I really don't think she had to go, she just wanted to check out the scene and play with the hand dryer. And then the food wasn't all that. Last time I ate there, I remember the food being great. I had the fish tacos and I honestly didn't expect a Gorton's fish stick slapped into a corn tortilla, but that's what I got. They weren't bad but they certainly didn't compare to other fish tacos I've had. My buddy had the poblano stuffed chicken which was dry but kinda tasty and my daughter and other friend had the chicken tenders, which was probably the best dish. However, the margarita was a'ight with me--perfectly blended---not overpowered by triple sec. The margarita alone is the reason I'll be back.
(3)
Tina B.

This is a good downtown place to meet a group of friends. The drinks are pretty stiff. The food comes out quickly. But I've never gotten a "wow" factor from the Blue Agave. They seem to be speedy with getting your table set up, but then back off once your meals starts. The busboys are slower to bring water and clear the glasses/empties off the table. Also, the bathrooms are kind of gross. The toilets are so low to the ground....it's a flashback to elementary school.
(3)
Coby H.

What happened to this place? This used to be one of my favorite spots downtown. The place was lively, the food was good, and the drinks were fantastic. Went here last night to celebrate a friend's birthday and we walked into a dimly lit cavern replete with out-of-date TV's. Our server seemed disinterested in talking about the margaritas - mine tasted like someone mixed battery acid in it. When my wife's food order came out wrong the two servers seemed more interested in determining whose fault it was rather than fixing the error. I will grant that they fixed the error quickly, but we could have done without the little CYA scene. Everyone's food was pretty bland. Seems like the chips and salsa were the lone bright spot at what has sadly become a poor mexican restaurant.
(2)
Tara M.

Thursday night I went to Blue Agave for margaritas and appetizers, a common event for my coworkers and I. However, while we were sitting INSIDE, I noticed that I was being bitten by bugs on my legs. My coworkers, all in pants, were not having the same problem. We all agreed it was disgusting and decided to leave. The next day, I looked at my legs and these were not just mosquito bites--they were something else far more red, painful and puffy. On Saturday, I called the restaurant to let them know about the bug problem. I spoke to Cindy, who said she was the Manager. I told Cindy what had happened and that I wanted to make them aware of the situation so they could call an exterminator or whatever they deemed appropriate. Cindy told me that when the doors and windows are open in the restaurant, they have a hard time with bugs "this time of year." I assured her that I sit outside at least a few times a week and have not been bitten by a single bug this summer. I also mentioned that the windows were not open, and she cut me off and said, "Well, they are open right now." Well that's nice, but has nothing to do with Thursday night. Either way, the way that the situation was handled and her tone were not particularly conducive to customer service. Hungry bugs aside, I won't be returning to BA thanks to her attitude.
(1)
Erin D.

Thanks to my friend's last experience and a handy restaurant.com coupon, we ended up here Sunday watching football and enjoying Mexican food. The queso we ordered was a little runny, the salsa was excellent, and the tostadas I ordered were fantastic. I didn't hear any complaints around the table about the food, except for the queso. It wasn't too busy, everyone who was there was focused on football. Our server was great. My sister-in-law concentrated on her margaritas, we indulged in the the $8 domestic beer bucket specials. Nice place, good for what we needed it for Mexican food and football. One tip ladies...if you use the restroom here, the toilets are like on the floor. I'm serious, its not the beers or sips of a margarita talking..these puppies are low to the ground.
(3)
Adam E.

Great place to meetup for drinks on a first date, not excessively noisy. One of the better spots in Viagra Triangle for non Viagra seeking folks. The margaritas are great but dont let this place fool you just on its drinks. The poblano stuffed chicken is outstanding! I'll be back for more many times over.
(4)
Neal M.

While in Chicago after a night of drinking we were walking around and noticed this place still open. I don't know if we were hungry or wanting margaritas. Either way, we all ate. I live in Texas so I found it really ironic that i was in CHICAGO eating "mexican" food. I figure "taquitos are taquitos" kind of like if you order a taco you know what the f*ck you're going to get. DUDE! Their taquitos were mini tacos! It was like they had a mexican midget back there making their tiny tortillas. It was the cutest thing i'd ever seen! That said, we also had the tilapia ceviche. HOLY CRAP! It was sooo good. I think i may or may not have licked the plate. Only my table and server really knows.
(4)
Heidi R.

This isn't my first time at Blue Agave but I thought I remember the food being better. Three of us came and sat in the bar area on a Thursday night. The place is nothing fancy, just your typical Mexican restaurant. We all ordered beers, which by the way are way over priced but everything in that area is. The chips and salsa is decent and we definitely polished off about 3 baskets while waiting for our food... never a good idea. I had the steak fajita quesadillas, my boyfriend had the steak burrito and my brother ordered the chicken chimichanga. I can't say any of us were overly impressed. My boyfriend and I didn't like how they put peppers and onions in the food. I prefer just a plain quesadilla - beef and cheese but whatever... the lime rice and the black beans were both really good. We used a grouponnow deal which got us $10 off the bill, not too bad. I'd probably come back just because it's convenient to where I live but I would order something different.
(3)
Noah L.

Food: The food was very good. We had the nachos (yum!), tostada's and a combo of chile relleno (excellent), enchilada (sub-par) and chimichanga (very good). Great chips/salsa! For a place named after tequila and with $11 price tags (for Anejo) their drinks aren't that great ....they have white plastic jugs labelled with "Teq" or "No Teq" of margarita mix sitting on the bar and just pour it into the glass and add tequila. Service: Sub-par service at the best. The bar staff is pretty quick, but our table server was rude, visited rarely and didn't know anything about the menu. Decor: The whole restaurant is centered around the bar.....it's an alright setup for a Mexican joint...but not that great. Net-net, the only Mexican place in my neighborhood, so I go, but would welcome a better place to open up.
(2)
d c.

Strong Margaritas.....be careful they can creep up on you. Good "American-Mexican" cuisine. I'm a big fan of the southwest rolls.... Good spot to start an evening's adventures off right
(3)
Luke S.

My friend really hyped this place up, but it was just OK. I went here with a buddy on a Wednesday night. The food was a bit on the expensive side for mediocre Mexican. I got the steak quesidilla and it was tasty, but it lacked something. The service was good, but the bathroom was disgusting. I will have to try the margaritas next time.
(3)
Ben B.

This place is amazing. It's amazing that a place with paint chipping off the walls, close seating and unidentified black stuff hanging off the ceiling can be crowded on a Friday night while being in a neighborhood full of good restaurants that are close to the same price. Truly authentic, in that will-this-place-fall-down-before-I-can-get-the-Âcheck kind of way. The food is average, but the atmosphere is loud and basementy-enough to warrant one star. Try Adobo Grill for a better experience for about the same price. Parking is a bit of a challenge also, although there is a garage under the building that charges $9 for the time it takes to eat.
(1)
David G.

I really like this place.... very good margaritas and the food was really good as well... The music was a flashback to my college days ( which is perfect while drinking margarita's)... Reasonably priced... I am a Fan!!!
(4)
Candice R.

Having been a server for over 8 years, I know what it's like to get a large group of young people and be stiffed on a tip. But, I've never seen a server HAND WRITE a gratuity at the end of the bill. Seriously, someone just scribbled it on. And then, when it's mentioned, to have the server be rude about it? I don't think so. I get wanting to put gratuity on a table of 8 or more, but if there's not a button in the computer for it tough luck. The best part about the night was when I went to the bathroom. They were disgusting. Equal to the bathrooms in a frat house. No toilet paper for you to use, but all over the ground near the toilets. The towel dispenser didn't work, so there was nothing for you to wipe anything with there. No respectable restaurant has bathrooms like this - even in the Viagra Triangle. The worst part about it was that when I asked to see a manager, she was very nice but she said "oh, I know. Believe me, if I could change it I would, but the owner just doesn't care".Really?!! Isn't there an Illinois law that says you need to check the bathrooms every hour or so for sanitation? Wouldn't the owner care if the Board of Health dropped in? I'd say come here for some typical overpriced mediocre Mexican food, but bring your own toilet paper and some hand sanitizer if you know what's good for you.
(1)
Amanda D.

we came here after an episode with a little shit by the name of Israel from Ceasar's, this place was refreshing! We got a table right way on top by the windows for a party of 6!. The margaritas are pretty strong :), which is a plus. Much enjoyed :)
(4)
Steve M.

While I can't speak for the food, I can speak for the margaritas. I'm not usually an "orange liqeur in my marg" sort of guy. (In fact, I fancy myself a bit of a marg freak.) However, this marg was actually enhanced by the orange liqeur. Most places just screw up the mix when playing w/ the orange variable, but this place nailed it! Must be some sort of pre-made mix. Also, one star off for not having the thicker granuals of salt for the rim of my glass. It was like dipping my glass in salt from a salt shaker. Kind of beat, agave. Beat.
(4)
Annie T.

It's the neighborhood Mexican place... I can't NOT like it. The service is always decent, food is good, margaritas are endless and I've never had to wait for a table. I fully endorse the Blue Agave Platter. It's what I always order-- quesdaillas, jalapeno poppers, mini beef tacos, mini chicken tacos, southwest eggrolls with sides of sour cream and guac. They also serve food pretty late. That makes me happy since there is no late night Taco Bell within walking distance of my place. (Although the prices are 5x's as much as TB would cost me.) I'd give a 4th star but I'm unimpressed by chips and salsa. The salsa is mediocre and not spicy enough. The chips are blah yellow corn. I can't help it. I love thin, crispy white corn chips. ok, I'll end this review now. I'm going on a tangent about chips.
(3)
Dale S.

This is my favorite margarita HANDS DOWN in the city of chicago and quite possibly in the world. I can knock back some drinks, let me tell ya, and the RosaRita here will absolutely floor you. In addition to the margs, this place has my favorite salsa in the entire city. I like the salsa so much that at least twice a month I venture down to the viagra triangle just to get a large container of their salsa to bring home with me. I literally put it on everything. My best friend likes this salsa so much that i've sealed it and shipped it accross the country. Its that serious. The food isn't bad and it's not the best either. I'd put the food at a 7 out of 10. It sure blows uncle julio's out of the water though. The place does need an update, and its unfortunate that its located in such a bro-ville area. Hey, on the bright side, at least its not in wrigleyville.
(4)
Kristina B.

I've been here before. It was fine then. Came here again last Friday. It's still just ok ish. When we first got there around 6:30 on a Friday, it was decent. Not horribly crowded. It slowly started to fill up as time went on and it became difficult to hold a conversation with my dinner date. Boo. Food was ok. At the time, it was glorious b/c I was starving but after taking some time to ponder over the meal, I decided that I've had better. But again, it was ok. Better than ok, really. Just not WHAMBAMINYOURFACEAMAZING. Well, the queso dip was. Liquid crack, I tell ya. Oh...and the margaritas were pretty decent. All in all, sure. I'd go back. Not my first choice. I had a restaurant.com gift certificate so that worked out well. I think I'd go back under those conditions. Or if someone else was paying.
(2)
Chrissy N.

This review is only for the food. Boyfriends and I had CEO Deliveries deliver some food from here on a Frday night. I had a huge burrito. Was so so at best. Rice was ho hum. I'm not jazzed up to go to the actual restaurant, at least not for the food. (Although I'm seeing good reviews for the margaritas.) But I don't think I'd suggest we get food from here again.
(2)
Carlos G S.

Well, I didn't like this place. We wanted to get a drink and some finger-food. Everything was packed, so we decided to give it a shot here. Big disappointment. A Mexican bar/grill with no Micheladas (beer + lime juice + salt + ice)?! No Paloma (tequila + Squirt + salt + ice)?! And to top it off, we asked if they could mix it for us as a "special request" and said no. Whiskey Tango Foxtrot? They said they mix their margaritas (which are not even Mexican!) in the morning and just pour them in the evenings. Pancho's Bullets?! Those were not even hot either. The rest of the food did not look that appealing either. 2 stars only because Anca, our waitress, was hot. Soooo... I don't think I will go here ever again. Unless there is absolutely no other place open in a 5-mile radius or Anca calls me to hang out with her ;-)
(2)
M G.

Great drinks!! Food is ok. Not like real authentic Mexican food. Service here sucks! I'd only go back for drinks.
(2)
Walter S.

Without its location, location, location, and lack of any Mexican restaurant competition in the Gold Coast, this place would not survive. Admittedly, I am one of those reluctant repeat customers when I have cravings for a Margarita. My advice is to lower your expectations when going here. The consistent bad reviews don't do justice for how horrible this place is. 1) Margarita's are only good if have the right consistency of ice to juice, otherwise you just paid a hell of a lot for sucking ice through a straw. 2) Service, or lack there of always comes with attitude. Not only are customers not happy, the employees seemed to just not care, really a reflection of bad management. I would think again when you see open seats outside on a nice day and are tempted to sit down. 3) Menu seems reasonably priced till you get your food and discover its mediocre quality at best. You force yourself to eat because you don't want to drink on an empty stomach. 4) I'm a guy guy, but the bathrooms are severely neglected here. Some of the women bathroom reviews are quite disturbing. It takes me about a year or so before I can convince myself that it won't be so bad, but it is amazingly consistent. Enough said!
(1)
Robby S.

Free chips & salsa. Margaritas are strong. Everything seems a little overpriced. This is NOT a cheap Mexican joint by any stretch. I've been here 5 or so times and every time I feel like I walk out spending at least $40. All in all a good place.
(4)
Ryan C.

Love the food, atmosphere, and their infamous margarita's.
(5)
D F.

Free chips and salsa, although depending on who makes it, always varies in heat index. Food is very tasty after all those libations. I like chorizo tacos and beans borracho. Drinks will knock you on your butt really quickly. After one you feel tipsy, two you are drunk and three, its time to stop drinking for a little while. Its cheap, reasonble offerings and heavy handed drinks are a reason to come back. "Dive" in the Gold Coast for whatever its worth...Frequent visitor when the time calls for it...
(4)
Whitney R.

Love the sampler and salsa! Margaritas always taste a tad watery.
(3)
Steve T.

Separated out into the 5 tenets of Mexican dining: Loudness, Margaritas, Salsa, Chips, Food, and Price. Hmm guess that's 6 ... Anywho.... Loudness: People literally were screaming in there. I'm all up for a good time, but for whatever reason sound is amplified in here and you can barely hear someone at the other end of the table. Solution: drink more, scream louder. Margaritas: There is no option to get pitchers of margaritas, though individually they seemed decently strong, so can't complain too much there. Salsa: Hot and tasty Chips: Crispy, salty, fresh, homemade (as far as we could discern) Food: Middle ground all the way, not amazing, not horrible Price: Slightly higher priced than other mid-range Mexican restaurants Overall: Decent place to go with friends as long as you're up for a somewhat wild and loud time. The service can be slow at times, and it took over 20 min to get our 2nd round of Margaritas after the order was placed. Great for large groups, which seemed to be the overall theme.
(3)
Keith W.

My wife and I have been frequent diners at Blue Agave for over 10 years. The staff is great, the chips and salsa are among the best we've had in the city, and the atmosphere is always fun. We can't speak for all of the menu, since we basically order the same thing all the time. But the Sopa Mexicana (my wife's order--chicken soup with rice, avocado, and tortilla strips) and steak tacos are divine.
(5)
Lia N.

What a horrible experience. Granted, I have been here before and the experience HAS been a little better. But last night was ridiculous. Groupon had a deal last night, 1 dollar for 30 dollars worth of food. Great deal, right? So we headed over to Blue Agave to get our mexican food fix. Everything was fine.. but our waitress seemed to be somewhere else in her mind because she kept asking us to repeat our order, and even got one of our orders wrong (we asked for chicken tacos and steak fajitas -- somehow ended up with steak tacos and steak fajitas..? whatever.) The food wasn't even that great, aside from the salsa. The fajitas and steak tacos were pretty greasy, and it felt like I had this greasy film in my mouth after eating it. At the end of the night as we were about to pay our bill, we were having some technical difficulties trying to redeem the groupon. For some reason it kept saying pending. We were trying to ask our waitress what to do -- and in the middle of explaining this to her, she just walked away. Really? We kept trying to get her attention but she inherently ignored us. At one point she came and picked up the check (which we hadn't yet paid because we had no idea what was going on), so my boyfriend and I proceeded to sit there for 20 minutes waiting to figure out what was even going on. Meanwhile, we kept trying to get her attention, yet she wouldn't come over to our table. I'm usually pretty understanding about waiters and waitresses being busy, especially on a friday night, but this was ridiculous. Finally, she came over -- and asked if our groupon was working. If she hadn't have walked away while I was trying to explain the situation earlier, maybe she would have known this 20 minutes ago. She then decided to talk to her manager to see what could be done. Really?? You do this now ?? In the end because our groupon wasn't working, we had to pay full price for the meal. Which made it worse. By the time we left the restaurant, we had been sitting there for 45 minutes after our food had been cleared away (and not by choice). All in all we probably won't be returning. Yes, they have great margaritas. But i think we are more willing to head to Uncle Julios for our next mexican meal. I suggest you do the same.
(1)
Ali B.

Worst Mexian I have had yet and the Margaritas-don't even get me started..YUCK
(1)
Nik B.

This has to be one of the worst Mexican-food inspired places I've had in a long time. I went here the other night, and ordered Chicken Flautas with cilantro-lime rice and black beans, and seriously, what I got was the Qdoba of Mexican Restaurants. The rice was kinda dry, and the beans were in some kind of soup that tasted like bacon. The flautas were not fried, as normal flautas I've had are, and the chicken inside was overcooked/dry and pretty bland. The food at Blue Agave is sustenance, but is not worth the money or time.
(2)
CoolMc M.

Amazing! I love the atmosphere, makes me think of CA. Not to mention, best MARGS!! I would highly recommend to anyone who wants to have a low key good night in Chicago Gold Coast!
(5)
Jessica M.

I came here on a Friday after work with a friend since we were in the neighborhood. We actually got there well before the happy hour crowd and got a good seat by the window. I felt like I had to try the margaritas since this is their specialty, and they didn't disappoint. I had a couple of the blue agave "regular" margaritas, they were delicious and I was feelin' real good. I wish I would have read the reviews on how incredibly STRONG they were beforehand. Not being a hard alcohoI person, I definitely paid for it the next day. I would say the food is average, good but not great. The rice was done well, but overall this is more of a happy hour place, but I am kind of a snob when it comes to Mexican food :).
(3)
Peter G.

Less than mediocre Mexican food served up in an average American sports bar.
(2)
Molly L.

I came to Blue Agave with a big group (about 20 girls) for dinner on a Thursday night. The food was fine. Nothing to write home about, but not bad. The service, on the other hand, was horrendous. We made a reservation days in advance for this big group, but that apparently didn't help. It took 45 minutes from the time we were seated until we actually ordered food. Then it took about 20 minutes from the time the waitress delivered the first person's food until the last person got their food. My enchiladas were lukewarm by the time I waited for my friends to be served. Then the check came out with everything on one bill, despite the fact that we were seated separately at two different tables. Fortunately everyone had cash, so we avoided the nightmare situation that could have been splitting the check onto different credit cards. Unfortunately, there aren't really any good Mexican places in the Gold Coast, but it's worth a cab ride to another part of town to get better food and much better service.
(2)
Desiree P.

They closed for a while about a year ago and cleaned the place from top to bottom, repainted etc so that helped A-lot! I think the food is better too. The last couple times I ate there I was quite pleased. I have a thing for the fish tacos and black beans. They always remember me now, too! Its much much better now. Try it out.
(4)
Bradley J.

The only thing I ate here that was worth ever having again was the chips & salsa. If you like hot salsa. Which I do. I had the pork soft tacos, and found the meat dry and black beans bland. Did not partake in the margaritas, but my friends who did found them to be magically delicious/intoxicating...
(2)
Nicole A.

Definitely make sure you are in good company when you come here, something is going to need to distract you from the food. I only purchased two items, the Veggie Quesadillas and the Shrimp Ceviche. The veggie quesadillas were fine, nothing worth 9 dollars. I could easily de-thaw some carrots and cauliflower and mix in some cheese. The Shrimp Ceviche was actually shrimp cocktail. When has ceviche had cocktail sauce in it? For $12.95 I received 7 shrimp which I think is pretty standard with food cost increases, but I am 90% sure these guys were once frozen rock solid. I wouldn't return unless someone was paying for me, there are plenty of Mexican restaurants that get these simple dishes right. The 2 stars are for the food and ambiance - our server was very nice and efficient.
(2)
Patty T.

Great margaritas, free chips and salsa, and an active atmosphere. It's not the most authentic mexican restaurant (more of a sports bar), but the food is pretty good and the service is great.
(4)
Tiffany K.

two years ago, my bf took me here for food and drinks before i had to work. hmmmm..bad idea on my part only because their margaritas are made super strong! i remember the food being good and the drinks even better! one margarita did the job and i stumbled into work a little tipsy. heehee. oh, i forgot what liqour brand it was that was promoting at blue agave that night but they were handing out shots and goodies to all the customers. pretty neat. THEN two years later, blue agave hosted an event in our building for all the residents. they offered free food, drinks, shot glasses and shirts/tanks! veggie tacos weren't as good as the chicken and steak tacos. yummie! :) guacamole and salsa with their chips were really good too. i can't wait til i get to go back for my margarita and salsa fix!
(4)
Steph M.

My favorite place EVER!!! I work here doing promos all the time! I have introduced any people to this place and always a great experience. :) Can't wait for the new one to open in March.
(5)
Michelle M.

Blue Agave! This is a place I did NOT want to like. But, dinner there has changed me! I have been there a couple times for drinks, and the margaritas are solid. Flavors include peach, strawberry, raspberry, banana, and more that I can't remember right now (memory loss may or may not have anything to do with aforementioned margaritas). I am, however, very picky about Mexican food. If I can cook something, it needs to be as good or better in the restaurant. Especially these restaurants that serve plates for $10 and up. We tried the quesadillas, enchiladas and flautas. Just a note, the flautas are not fried as most places- it was soft, similar to the enchilada. We really enjoyed everything. No sauce was too spicy (that we tried), and all the food had great flavor. Even though our server did disappear at one point, he was attentive for most of the evening, and remembered our order and special requests without writing anything down. He was very pleasant throughout our dinner, and was cool about splitting the bill (most places are nowadays, I know... but not always!). This is a great place to meet up with friends and have a group dinner. Good food, and even better drinks!
(4)
Christine L.

Ah, the Blue Agave. A great spot to grab some grub and probably my favorite margaritas in the city. Just thinking about the food is causing me to salivate as I write this and it's only 10am. The menu includes a little bit of everything, fajitas, tacos, quesadillas but I almost always get the burritos, which are pretty much enchiladas with flour tortillas, in the traditional red sauce. Paired with Mexican rice and beans, mmm-mmm good! They also have an extensive tequila list and margarita selection that pleases everyone. Go with a classic margarita on the rocks and you'll be buzzed before your meal arrives. Strong puppies but they are so easy to put back; a wicked combination. Simply put, the Blue Agave serves up great drinks, delish food and a fun place to hang out.
(5)
Alisa D.

I walked out. Bad service at the bar, sat there for ten minutes and no acknowledgment. When I finally got her attention she didn't want to help so I walked to Luxbar got a drink right away and it was much busier there.
(1)
Ke M.

The margaritas and tequila options are great. I've also had the shrimp ceviche and it was delicious!!! I would definitely recommend stopping in with a few friends for some appetizers and drinks. I went once last summer and they have a nice little patio area outside as well. The dinner menu is typical but I wasn't overly impressed with what I tried when we went last night (steak tacos). It could be one of the menus where your entree is hit or miss but I might look somewhere else for Mexican food dinner options for the price.
(3)
Nile L.

HORRIBLE HORRIBLE HORRIBLE I actually had a Groupon only after I looked up the restaurant and THOUGHT i was looking at the menu for the Chicago eatery, not the one on the East Coast. The Margaritas which they say have pure ingredients were overly acidic and while I felt awful AFTER the meal, I feel even worse this morning. The Guac wasnt bad but the chips were very oily. The service was HORRENDOUS. I wanted to tell the waitress she should find another part time job as I am sure she wasnt a bad person, only totally uninterested in her job.. The prices are high and the food uber ordinary. Avoid this one!!
(1)
Joey B.

While they may make a STRONG margarita and some top notch fajitas, the service we had was just not good. We waited forever. Tables next to us were filled and had appetizers before we even had drinks. It was a poor example of the restaurant as I've been there before and had a pleasant experience. All in all, good food, strong drinks...so so service. Probably go back because of the drinks :)
(3)
Shruti M.

I was very disappointed with this place. Bought a groupon for blue agave and went there for dinner. From what i got from the other reviews, food tastes better with their margaritas! I was hungover so im reviewing soley on the food. Guacamole was tasteless with not enough salt or lime. The salsa was way too spicy for me and I'm Indian! The appetizer platter had mini tacos which were bland. The quesadilla I could have made better myself. The southwest rolls tasted like they were frozen. Got chicken enchiladas which had shredded gross chicken and the cheese was hard and crusty. Only good thing were the flaky tortilla chips and our waiter. Will not go back.
(2)
Brent W.

Inconceivably I didn't even order a Margarita at a restaurant named after its star ingredient. I arrived a bit late to meet a group for dinner and was immediately given one of our party members' frozen Margs...she was already 3 to 4 deep. I never order frozen Margaritas and now I know why. They're really not that good, but hey that's just me and I don't normally go for frozen cocktails. So I backed this with a Negra Modelo and quickly eyed the menu. I was looking for something w flavor to punch me in the face and chose the Queso Fundido Con Chorizo. Fucking hell this was something to behold and did not disappoint (nor expect, tbh). As is sometimes customary when dining w a group of friends, sharing is almost a given...for the first time since like Chi Chi's back in the mid 80's (come on, you know you've done the Chich), I was able to enjoy a bit of Chicken Chimichanga .... In fact I was gonna order it but remembered Chimichangas being fried and a bit too greasy for my liking....this one was terrific and well prepared with the flour tortilla being light and perfectly fried. Another notable was the Mariscos Fajitas, pretty damn good but it's hard to mess up grilled Seafood and veggies, imo. All else was an afterthought, those were the highlights. End of, I'd say a 3.5 star experience...though, given the - at times - laughable pretense of a hood so far up its own arse, gotta round down on principal.
(3)
Tom S.

111 Reviews and 3 1/2 stars can't be wrong. Count me in on those 3 1/2 stars. Classic Mexican diner food The Blue Agave is a destination restaurant for me. The whole of my world is lived in the 6 or 8 block radius around The Sears Tower, so getting my butt up to The Blue Agave is only ever when I want to, and yes, I want to. I've never been here when it wasn't packed. If you don't mind crowds you will do more than survive your visit [and I do mean crowds: the bar is huge and people are packed in tight for great drink specials and a bevy of margaritas from which to choose]. There are plenty of TV screens around the area to keep your eyes off your neighbor and out of your drink. If you're staying for a meal, avoid being seated on the upper level where service can be sloppy and slow. Opt instead for the dining area towards the back, just a few steps up from the bar. Tables are clean and large and booths are more comfortable than what is offered on the upper level. If you're expecting Topolobampo, pack your gear and call them for a reservation, this isn't it. If you want classic Mexican diner food, you've come to the right spot. Anything and everything is perfectly executed. No fluff, no flaw. My standard, typically, is Shrimp Fajita Quesadillas, but not before I've made my way through at least 2 baskets of their crack-tastic tortilla chips and spicy salsa. The more expensive the margarita, the more quickly it will get you smashed. Buy the best you can afford, you'll avoid a hangover some of the less expensive drinks might give you and always opt for on-the-rocks over frozen. Service is usually quite good, even at the Ãœber-busy bar; but, again, sometimes you might feel like you've been left alone if you're seated in the stuffy and small upper level.
(3)
Nate J.

I really like it here. My favorite downtown restaurant for Margaritas and burrito. It's not fancy Mexican, just your typical Americanized mexican with the all the standards and the cheesy decor to go with it. Excellent!
(4)
Greg D.

I've been here several times and it's just ok - but I know when I'm getting and would go back. It's a pretty basic Mexican place - nothing incredibly special. I've been here on a date and with a group of friends - not a great date place but ok if you bring someone you've been dating for a while just for a casual dinner. It worked out well for a big group of friends. As far as the food goes, the Margaritas are strong, the portions are huge, and the food itself is decent - you get what you pay for.
(3)
Amy B.

Based on others reviews, thought I'd stop on by and try their margaritas. It was about 8:00 on Saturday and we got seated on the upper level, overlooking the bar. Loved being near the bar action, but this way we could still have a conversation. The chips and salsa were awesome, and brought to us right away - as well as water. We must of had 2 water refills before our server came over. We order the fundito dip and margaritas on the rocks. They make up for service by dumping in almost too much alcohol. No one is kidding when they say they're strong! The fundito wasn't that great - the really thick cheese and the chorizo were very salty. We split the flautas - they were yummy. Loved the guac - would have totally gotten it as an app if I'd have known. All around, I wouldn't go there if I were in a hurry, or if I were driving, but it's good.
(3)
Seth D.

I would like to start by saying the service was very good. However, the food was really bad. I mean like Taco Bell quality. I had the pablano stuffed chicken, that had some sort of sauce drizzled on top and sour cream on the side. Hear all the creamy sauciness? It was still dry. The caso was like milk it was so runny. My girlfriend had the enchilada. She didn't like her's either (I didn't try it). The bill was $88 for two entrees, a 'tizer, and 5 cocktails. For that money there are literally 10 places within walking distance that have very good food. Poorly done, The Blue Agave. Poorly done.
(2)
Zack C.

The tacos were good.
(3)
Lori Taylor R.

This is a liquid review only. This place serves up some deliciously toxic margaritas. I am a huge fan of a classic margarita, on the rocks, with extra salt. Blue Agave does not disappoint in this domain. If you like your margaritas stroooong be sure and let your waiter know. The bartenders will whip up a special little margarita concoction that will put you over the top! Oh yeah, the salsa is extremely addictive too.
(4)
James M.

Mediocre food, mediocre drinks, overpriced. Service was pretty bad, and we had to wait forever for everything. In fact, it was so bad, that we asked to speak to the manager. That guy needs to be in a job where he never talks to anyone -- he has no social or customer service skills. Long story short, this place is absolutely not worth it. Plenty of great Mexican food in this city, or other restaurants in this area.
(1)
Amy J.

I can't say it enough... go here, get the poblano stuffed chicken with the cilantro lime rice. I crave it. It's so good. I realize it's not tacos or enchiladas, but trust me.
(5)
Jennifer H.

Really strong margaritas. I was buzzed halfway through the first one. We went in on a restaurant.com coupon, and it was our first time there. Unfortuantely for the restaurant, our server was awful. Once she figured out that she was to receive a guaranteed tip because of the coupon, she disappeared. Basically, she took our order and didn't come back until it was time to bring the check. She never checked to see if our orders came out right, and our drinks were all empty from halfway through the meal until we were finished. That BLOWS, because the whole point of the coupon is to get people in the door and hopefully create repeat customers. Bad service negates the point. On to the food...it was pretty good. The refried beans were yummy and the cilantro rice was great. Everyone in our party liked their dishes. We'll definitely return because the food's pretty good, it's super close to our house, the location is nice, and the margaritas are strong. I just can't wait to check out the outdoor seating once it's finally open!
(4)
Kati B.

Yum! I love The Blue Agave! The salsa is REALLY good. I always have to work really hard at not eating too much of it before the real meal comes. The entrees are all good and pretty authentic. The combo entree platter is really big- my boyfriend and I even share it sometimes! Overall, it isn't your typical fancy pants Viagra Triangle place, but the food and service is pretty good. We have never been disappointed.
(5)
AJ F.

This was the first place I ever ate at in Chicago and the first public place I got drunk at! Their food is OK but the margaritas are killer and the chips and salsa were great! Went here with my best bud who is pregnant and the waitress offered her a virgin margarita made with sparkling water to make it taste more real! She was very thoughtful and the quesadilla and tacos were both fabulous!
(5)
Tamiko B.

If I could give this place negative stars I would. I was in the area with my boyfriend and he mentioned Tequila so there was Blue Agave. We walked in and there was nobody there to seat us. I don't like to be left standing waiting to spend my money but my boyfriend said, no we can stay. Right then someone comes to seat us. The decor was old and the lighting wasn't the best. The weirdo waiter comes and asked were we ready to order. My boyfriend asked for a Don Julio margarita. The server goes all into some rant about they only have premix and blah blah blah but let him check with the bar..WTF! He comes back with some story ( I blocked him out) and my boyfriend asked for a Patron margarita...oh they can do that one. I order quesadillas and they were Albino pale like they had been put in the microwave. My boyfriend orders a tomato, avocado, queso plate and it 's a deconstructed salad. While we're there, a prostitute comes in with her trick and goes straight to the closed upstairs part to service her guy and they immediately run her out and laugh about it. I guess she was a regular. Anyway, the bill comes and we had a total of 6 Margaritas, Albino, congealed quesadillas and some tomato cheese plate and the total was over 100.00 bucks!!!! They charged separate for the margarita mix and the Patron. I had never seen any bullish like that ever! I was beyond pissed but I will give them one star because their bathrooms were clean but their food sucked the biggest one EVER!!!!
(1)
Candace T.

The margaritas were big and strong, but the food was just ok. It actually reheated much better than it tasted the first time. The appetizers really aren't offered at prices to make them any more appetizing than the actual full meals. That's annoying because I think this place is really probably best for a "margaritas and small plate" kind of atmosphere. It isn't super pricey or anything, but I think it's mediocre food with a few dollars tacked on for location. Wheelchair Accessibility Review: We ate outside, so I can't offer much, except to say that the front door definitely isn't accessible. Yelp says the place is accessible, but I'd call ahead to make sure.
(3)
Dusty K.

Simple food, good service. Nothing more and definitely nothing less. And if you're lucky you may catch the creepy magic trick guy that happened to be there the night we went. There isn't anything else I would want at 11 PM on a Thursday. There was plenty of seating available, the place was fairly crowded, and they served mexican food and alcohol. That's pure bliss in my book. Besides that, they give free chips & salsa. My second dinner (remember it was after 11PM) consisted of the pork tacos. Everything was fine, no complaints. It was a pretty big portion and I didn't even finish all my food. Overall, I wouldn't go out of my way to come here but I can see why if you're in the area this place is fun to stop at. If it's late night and you want to grab a bite, laugh with friends, and continue drinking, head to The Blue Agave. It's a fun place to keep the night going...
(3)
Lesley S.

Big menu, pretty good food. I went there after work on a Thursday once and there was a magician. He pulled a baseball out of thin air. It was amazing. But seriously, it is cool that they have little icebreakers such as that there, just in case you are meeting someone that you don't know that well or if you're there on a date. Or if you're drunk then it is highly entertaining as well. The only thing that bothered me about this place was that they couldn't split the bill between around 15 people and people were arriving and eating at different times so my boyfriend and I had to stick around until the last person was through eating- kind of annoying. Not the friendliest waitress. And one time I was there the ATM would not work and kept saying I had put in the wrong pin. I know it wasn't me because I tried multiple times and after crossing the street and using another ATM, it worked just fine. Oh- one more thing- I don't know if I was just wearing tall shoes or what, but their toilets seemed to be for people of about midget height.
(3)
Rachel H.

I'm not normally in this area, and when I am Big Bowl is usually my stop. However, I was feeling pretty blue myself, so when a friend of mine invited me along after a gallery opening, I, and the several drinks already in my bloodstream, decided that it would better than going home and pouting. Service was quick even though it was a Friday night, and the chips and salsa were plentiful. I may have added some extra salt to my margaritas with my boo hooing, but they were pretty good even with the extra saline. My salad was good, made decent leftovers, and despite the fact that the most memorable part of the evening was getting drunk and crying, I'd consider another visit.
(3)
Carol J.

There is nothing not to love about the Blue Agave but you have to keep in mind that you will be inevitably hung over, no matter how well you think you are behaving. Excellent chips and salsas and really good guac and a nice prep of my personal favorite, carne asada. Not insanely crazy about their mole but in a pinch the Agave usually comes through. Their drinks are strong and the service at the bar is fast (if not engaged in long winded personal conversations with more important regulars) and the table service is effiecient and they don't hover. Excellent margaritas and pretty fair pricing for the Gold Coast. Actually one of the few affordable places in the hood. Desserts, not a fan, but thats okay because its nothing another mango/raspberry frozen margarita won't cure.
(3)
Tommy M.

Woo, boy. This was some of the worst not only texmex, but food in general I've ever had. I ordered steak tacos and the queso fundido to go. Steak tacos were chewy, bland, we're topped with gross lettuce and an attempt at salsa. The queso fundido (which was supposed to be cheese dip with chorizo) was completely solidified and didn't have any chorizo in it. Literally looked like someone dumped shredded jack cheese in a bowl and nuked it in the microwave. I've attached the picture to showcase. Honestly I'd rather go to Taco Bell than Blue Agave again. How they afford a place in the Gold Coast I'll never know. Avoid.
(1)
Chelle L.

I'm honestly surprised that I didn't get food poisoning from the place. The worst mexican food I've ever tasted. Frozen microwave meals are more authetic and tasty than this place. My husband's chorizo tacos tasted the same way the bird section of a petsmart smells and the mexican corn was a joke. Boiled instead of grilled and then rolled in some mayo and a strange unidentifiable seasoning. The margaritas are horrible unless you are just trying to get completely hammered off of one beverage. I am an avid tequila drinker who drinks tequila on the rocks and these drinks were just terrible. The only reason I'm not giving this place 1 star is that the service was very good. Our server was very attentive and the hosts were great as well.
(2)
Tavi J.

My first visit to Blue Agave was 4 years ago when I moved into the neighborhood. It's located right in the heart of the Viagra Triangle :) What first drew me in was alfresco seating. On a nice summer day can't beat sitting outdoor. I normally order the chicken quesaidas. Very greasy, but I love the jalepenos it comes with and the price is reasonable. Not the best Mexican food I've ever had, but decent enough for the price.There guac is also pretty good. If the weather isn't cooperating there is plenty of indoor seating with Tvs to watch the game. I've had some pretty good cinco de mayo's here as well. Very lively crowd and decent service. Sidenote: For those that like Tequila this is your place :)
(3)
J. R.

Great food and drinks. Love the bar and TVs to watch games. I've always had great food and good service whenever I've been here. Live the street corn.
(5)
Ashley I.

Our server was very helpful. I really enjoyed the quesadillas. I had a lot of leftovers, which was a good late night snack. The margaritas were also very tasty! I would definitely go back for some good Mexican.
(4)
Dennis P.

The "Rita's" are just o.k. However, the Nacho's are solid...would strongly recommend the Nacho's with "shredded beef"-that makes the dish EXCELLENT! Dennis
(4)
Jamie M.

With every Gold Coast restaurant packed on a recent sunny, Sunday afternoon, we were surprised to find no one dining, inside or out, at the Blue Agave Tequila Bar and Restaurant just off State Street. Despite the ominous warning, we found their offerings to be spot-on and quite affordable, highlighted by their huge selection high-end tequilas and some of the tastiest tamales we've ever sampled. We opted for a seat outside and were immediately presented the standard basket of chips with a watery, tomato and green chilies salsa, loaded with raw onion and cilantro. More heat than flavor, the salsa was immediately cooled by their house-made margaritas, on the rocks. ($9.95 for a 12oz glass, with very solid pours on the booze...) The menu is pretty standard, with a short selection of proteins offered up in various flavors and spices; char-grilled skirt steak, mesquite chipotle chicken, slow cooked beef barbacoa, al pastor (pulled pork) and spicy chorizo. Most entrees are $12-$14, served with rice, beans-both black and refried, Mexican street corn, pozole and something called agave potatoes. Other offerings included quesadillas, chimichangas, soups and various mountains of cheese-covered nachos, from beef barbacoa to chipotle chicken. If you're in the mood for an app, there are four versions of guacamole ranging from a standard "chunky" ($8.95) to the Guac 555, featuring avocados mixed with cilantro, jalapenos, fresh pineapple, mango salsa, all topped with smoked bacon ($9.95). We opted for a sampling of small plates that included two mini tacos - six-inch corn tortillas filled with chipotle chicken and al pastor, their smoky pulled pork. Both were very tasty and made for easy sharing across the table. While we thought we had ordered the Mini Tostado ($3.95) we received the Mini Torta Sandwich ($4.95). No harm, no foul, because the tasty stack featured chipotle chicken on a mini Mexican roll with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, queso fresco and chipotle aioli - missing were the avocado slices and refried beans listed on the menu, but that was quickly remedied by the waitress. The star of the show was their queso chihuahua cheese and poblano chiles tamales ($7.95) - two massive, super-tender tamales delivered on a blanket of banana leaves, doused in a mild roja (red) sauce and topped with a swirl of crema mexicana. Hands'down some of the best tamales I've ever had! All total, three boozy margaritas, a pair of tacos, a not-so-mini torta and the huge portion of tamales set us back $62.00, including tip. And we're still searching for that Sunday Funday Hangover Huevos Rancheros!
(4)
Angela G.

Ugh this place used to be so good! Everytime I order something with grilled vegetables, they give me steamed broccoli, cauliflower and carrots! Who wants to eat a torta with steamed broccoli, cauliflower and carrots?! Not me! The guacamole was super bland too! On the plus side the chips and salsa are good.
(2)
Melissa F.

I just came back from drinks and a light dinner here. Not good at all! The margaritas are awful. I hadn't had this type of drink in ages and wanted a nice little margarita to quench my thirst. The frozen strawberry margarita I got tasted like...nothing. Like blended ice. Very little strawberry flavoring at all. I could barely taste anything except ice. I was massively disappointed, too, by the tortilla soup. I've ordered this at many places before and have found it to be either thin but tomato-based, chunky and tomato-based (my favorite), or slightly creamy. What I received looked pallid in color and was awful. It was a thin, flavorless chicken soup with rice (?). I've never seen rice in a tortilla soup...ever. There were a few stray dehydrated peas, so I would not be shocked at all if they took some Mexican rice blend and dumped it into the soup. The broth had little flavor, and the pico de gallo garnish was OK, but it was so almost-hilariously bad. I want to add, though, that our waitress (Kimba?) was super nice. I think the restaurant was understaffed when we went. She was helpful and really sweet; it's a shame she has to sell food like this.
(1)
Sarah G.

By far one of my favorite places to eat in the Gold Coast neighborhood. My friends and I eat here at least 3-4 times a month. The chicken nachos are to DIE for! They have really good drinks and a great selection. The bar is large with plenty of TVs for everyone to enjoy the game they want. In the 10+ times I've been here I've never had a bad experience. Great Mexican food, great staff, great time!
(4)
Amy S.

My BF ordered a Fajita steak burrito and it arrived no steak. Waited 20 mins to get a new one but finally ended up leaving. Nothing was discounted for the HUGE hassle. Never. Again.
(1)
Haikanarumi L.

I went there for Valentine's Day with my boyfriend. I loved the place, the only disappointment was the margarita, it was too strong and the ice wasn't blended, and they didn't use a margarita glass :( We got the special and it was parrillada, the steak was amazing! And the shrimp wrapped in bacon was to die for.
(4)
Jeana C.

If I go back, I would go back for the wide variety of tequila. Not so much for the food. Was also looking forward to sitting at the patio on such a nice day but they don't have one! Or maybe it just wasn't set up, I'm not sure.
(3)
Caryn J.

Don't go looking to be pleased when you leave, just full. And expect to be slightly mislead. I started with the chile con queso (the reason I came to Blue Agave in the first place since tex mex queso is so hard to find in Chicago). It was nothing better then the velveeta cheese people put in a crock pot. It's hard to mess up gooey cheese goodness, so it was still acceptable. I added a whole bowl of salsa to it to try and liven it up. I had the shrimp with chimichurri. Well, I should say I ordered the shrimp with chimichurri ($14.95). I'm not entirely sure that's what I got. What came to me had beautiful plump shrimp, but they were swimming in an inch deep pool of garlicky butter with large green onions throughout. Even served with a roll to sop up the buttery mess. If you have to serve a French roll with your Mexican food, you're doing something wrong. The black beans were void of flavor. And although the street corn was pictured showing it grilled, the corn I got was boiled and essentially Old Country Buffet corn covered in queso fresco- but that's not even fair to Old Country Buffet. The corn was mooshy, a strange color and chewy. I am not one to leave food behind, but I could only get through two bites. For the price, definitely head to Cantina Laredo or an equivalent and pass on Blue Agave.
(2)
Levi B.

Blue Agave has been very hit or miss...mostly miss. I've been several times and there are a few consistencies that have made this the last time I'll ever go back. There is only one shining star at Blue Agave and that's Emale. You can typically find him behind the bar serving up some of the best drinks. He is the most attentive and on-top-of-it person on staff. For all of the other experiences with other servers, including today, the experience hasn't gone so well. The restaurant never really seems to even approach half capacity yet the service lags. Every time I have been there I have explained to the server that I am vegan and that means no animal products. On this particular visit the server acted like she completely understood and guided me through a selection of side items that I wanted. She steered me clear of the refried beans and recommended the black beans. Glasses sat empty for a while before refills came and with hot salsa on the table it couldn't have come soon enough. When the food arrived everything was correct except the black beans had cheese crumbled all over the top. The same server that I ordered them from acted surprised that I could not eat the cheese. She even asked me if I couldn't have the cheese. She was gracious and took the beans back to the kitchen for a remake. It wasn't a horribly long time for the dish to come back out correct and all was well after that. The ambiance in the restaurant is much like what you would see at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico. For us, the louder than expected music diminishes conversation. Overall, Blue Agave rates pretty low because of the consistent lack of service and the guaranteed fact that in each experience something from our table (non-vegan and vegan alike) has had to return to the kitchen for correction. Additionally, the lack of awareness on the staff's part of dietary restrictions and working with special orders lands B.A. two stars. At two stars, I do not recommend this restaurant to family or friends and we won't return.
(2)
Wes Cole C.

If you are 2.5 years old like me, you'll love this place. The margaritas make my mommy talk funny. The waiters are friendly. They bring me cold milk quickly.
(5)
Andi K.

Worst manager I've ever dealt with. We had a groupon. Our waiter was fantastic, explained the groupon and was attentive the whole time. When the bill came, my groupon was still saying "processing", even though my card had been charged and it showed as available. The manager came over and asked me to call groupon. Working in customer service, I know my bosses would've told me to let it slide, since the groupon was clearly purchased, but whatever. I called and got the number, and it was redeemed. We tipped generously because our waiter was truly amazing. But then the manager comes over and says we owe $15 still....... How? We explained that we owed a maximum of $3. He ended up called our waiter over and yelling at him in front of us while we repeatedly said he did nothing wrong. The debacle went on for more than 20 minutes, all to end up paying $25 additional for a mediocre meal. So incredibly ridiculous. That manager should be ashamed of himself. We were fully planning on coming back until we had to deal with this absolutely awful person. Take your business elsewhere.
(1)
Janelle N.

The food was terrible. The waitress was very nice and professional. I used a Groupon Now! and the manager tried to tell me to it was already redeemed..really? And when was that? I bought it 10 minutes ago. Bad experience all together.
(1)
Nicholas T.

Not a fan. It was so loud that even yelling across the table wasn't enough to hear conversations. The burnt chips and generic pico de gallo salsa was a bad start to the meal. Chicken mole was decent, but not worth trip back. One and done with this place.
(2)
Lauren P.

one tequila two tequila three tequila FLOOR yep, that's pretty much what you can expect from the margaritas at blue agave. last time i visited, i think i was about two margaritas deep before i had to take my tipsy self home. food can be a bit pricey, but to be expected for the gold coast. huge portions help make up the damage to your wallet (the fajita quesadilla is big enough to feed two!) the chips and salsa are also especially delicious. service can be hit or miss depending on who's working. the raised, back area of the restaurant can be reserved for private parties free of charge. ole!
(3)
Mary S.

I've been coming here for years despite overpriced and mediocre food because it is half a block from my house. Lately I've seen them running deals on GrouponNow, and as I am laying in bed with a cold on a Saturday afternoon, I decided that since I can barely taste food anyway, this would be a reasonable option. I made sure there were no "dine-in only" restrictions, and called in an order for pick up. When I got there, the manager refused to accept the Groupon, and was extremely rude about it. I had to wait for nearly 15 minutes while he kept re-reading terms&conditions looking for "dine-in only". Man, is this guy a slow reader. He finally gave me back my iphone, and said he would go read it on his computer. Again, he found nothing. So with the stellar argument of "I wrote this, I know it's not for carry out" he said Groupon will refund my money. I can see why a business would not want the Groupons used for carry out. Which is why I made sure I read the deal, the fine print, and terms&conditions thoroughly to make sure it didn't have "dine-in only/no carry-out restrictions." In this case, since he clearly made a mistake, the correct way would have been to apologize, accept the coupon, and correct the mistake with the Groupon going forward. Instead he chose to be rude to the customer, and to throw away the food that was already made! (At least I hope they threw it away, and didn't give it to someone else -- it must have gotten pretty cold anyway in all the time he ran around trying to find a reason to not accept the coupon). Needless to say, I am never going back to this place, not that there was much allure or taste to begin with. The only thing they have going is the location. Well, after this experience I'd rather get into my car and drive for 10 minutes, but eat something yummy for half the price. No way would I ever patronize such a poorly-run establishment.
(1)
Timothy G.

if this Mexican food, take me to Poland. What a dump. yes the bar scene is decent for some drinks with Goldcoast drunks and people with nothing better to do in the hood, but the food is as bland as it gets, its an insult to Mexico, Rick Bayless would commit suicide here or burn down the kitchen. This place would of fine 20 years ago, but in todays great cuisine scene in Chicago, go to Chipolte for real Mexican food, seriously, its right around the corner, they have beer too. If you have been to Topolobambo, XOCO, Mercandito, or Taco Joint, you would know this place is like a truck stop for Mexican food, nothing is really fresh, its all processed, and hardly tasty. You would think with an ideal location and its upscale competition nearby, they would update the menu and kitchen, but all they have done is add new ugly bar stools and raised prices. Even the Mexican at Wholefoods Kingsbury blows this place away....
(1)
Candace M.

Very casual atmosphere, nice place to go with friends. I enjoyed the margarita...one of the strongest margarita's I've ever experienced. To eat, I had chicken fajitas which were okay. Some of the chicken was dry, but overall it was cool place to go.
(3)
Kista W.

Feels like the Hange Uppe pre-party. People drinking strong drinks, pretending to "eat a good dinner" before getting completely obliterated. Not that it's a bad thing. Had a couple of strong drinks, had some cheesy dip and guac and left satisfied. I remember feeling like I paid too much for my non-dinner.
(2)
Kristin C.

Some people like cake and a tall glass of milk for a birthday treat. Not my friend Lee C. Her big day called for only one thing. . .a birth-rita! As my buddy Arnold states in the classic Pumping Iron, "Milk is for babies." Lee is no baby. This girl drinks tequila. I'm with Lee, and I like birth-ritas the best (this is why we are friends) so I did some investigative work. I wanted a drink that would really knock her on her birthday bum (it had to be tasty too). Fade to Blue Agave. Holy hell! They call a lot of their margaritas "perfect" but I think they should change that to "perfectly potent". I can't remember the last time I had one drink and felt that fuzzy. Of course we had to order another round just to keep the celebration alive. Just because the margaritas take center stage, doesn't mean the food is anything to sneeze at. We devoured the tasty chili queso dip and the salsa was excellent - REALLY spicy. Love. It. By the time I got to my soft steak tacos, I was pretty full but they were delicious so I couldn't just leave them SITTING there. Poor little guys. I like this place. It is everything a good Mexican joint should be. I can see myself stopping by after work and definitely again if someone is in need of a birth-rita. Feliz cupleanos!
(4)
Isabella W.

I've been here twice - both times for drinks. The first time I came was 4 years ago, after a night at the Hard Rock downtown.. we had the horni margaritas and signature margaritas that night, and the unlimited chips and salsa. I love the salsa here b/c it's actually spicy and flavorful - vs. the weak salsas that are prevalent around the city. My second time was this past weekend - we went after brunch, and semi-watched the game, as we downed margaritas. They make their margaritas really strong here, but I think the margaritas at Cesar's is still the best. Anyway, we then proceeded to eat hot wings (who knew this place would have wings??). Surprisingly, their wings were good and spicy. They also had drink specials that night - bucket of 4 imports for $12, or 4 domestics for $8. We had two buckets total: Negra Modela - darker beer , but crispy, and with a hint of lime Tecate - good, refreshing, lighter beer.. came in a can Red Stripe - jamaican lager, very flavorful .. came in a cute stubby bottle This place is trouble, with its tequila and beers... I will definitely be back to try the other beers, and maybe even some food!
(4)
Justin M.

Oh my...Blue Agave. This brings back a few bad memories: 1. bad Mexican food 2. a crazy gal named Bangs that I used to date Ive been to Blue Agave many times, usually wound up here for late night drinks after bar hopping in the area. I don't know why Bangs always chose this place, but she loved the bartenders and some of the regulars there. For me, this was a place of disgust. The bartenders were shady, as they seemed to be working "under the gun." I don't know how to best describe it, it's just that eery feeling...ya know...like they are serving drinks, washing glasses, but all the while were waiting for the DNS to bust down the door and slap cuffs on them. They constantly had their heads on a swivel, like someone was going to jump the bar and beat them. It's not like there were many people at the bar, usually maxes out around 8 people at a time until 10:00PM. Does that make sense? Probably not. It just seemed as if they were being watched, which made me feel uncomfortable. I wanted to leave 80% of the time I was there. The regulars: Tools! I met a few people here while hanging with Bangs. One fool in particular was a part time model, and a fitness instructor at a local gym. He lived with 4 other people in a small apartment, and spent most of his money on massages, manicures and booze at the Blue Agave. He seemed like the loneliest son of a bitch on the planet, one of those fellas that needs constant attention all the time, or else... Then you have the drunken cougars that hang at the bar, waiting for their meal ticket to walk in the door. Bangs liked some of these girls a lot, probably a forecast of what her life would wind up evolving into. These girls cared about nothing except their fake boobs, their clown make-up and their next free drink. Now Im at 90%, I wanna go home!! Finally, the food. Holy shit it is NOT good. People are dumb, but Mexican restaurants are not. They know we would eat shit if presented on a plate with beans and rice. It's 100%, I'm outta here!!!
(1)
Kathy G.

The margarita's are strong and the salsa was tasty with a kick, the food was just 'eh. I had the Tequila Adobo Chicken, seriously overcooked and tough to cut. My mother had the carne asada and said it was just okay. Service was good and like I said, the strength of the margaritas certainly made the night.
(3)
Scott B.

Hmmm, I'm perplexed?? Why so many bad reviews on the food? Please enlighten,,,??? Nevertheless, I do concur that the prices are somewhat high;but, My God, it's in the freakin' Viagra Triangle....what the hell do you expect? Yes, the food is VERY good, and the margheritas are SO, SO freakin' strong!!!!!! Yes, a little on the pricey side, but service has always been A+, and the atmosphere matches!
(4)
Mel L.

I came here on a weeknight with some friends for dinner and drinks. I was impressed with how busy the place was for a weeknight! I like busy places, and so I was immediately pretty pleased with what I saw. We got the queso with chorizo in it which was tasty but a little bit hard to eat...it reminded of Greek cheese (saganaki). A friend and I split the steak fajitas which was wayyy more than enough for the two of us to share. It came with a lot of tender steak and pepper pieces along with rice, beans, and cut veggies to top. Our waitress was nice and the margaritas were delicious. I'd recommend it if you're looking for a fun, happening place any night of the week!
(4)
monica d.

The only reason I even went to this place was because I was visiting a friend in the Gold Coast...That being said, Blue Agave has the worst "Mexican" food I've ever eaten. They don't cater to vegetarians at all and even seemed to scoff at the idea. I was forced to eat bean tacos with a side of beans and had to pay extra for a side of guacamole. Which, by the way, I was only given a TABLESPOON of and CHARGED $3.50 for. The waitress also seemed pissed that I didn't want to order drinks. To be honest, Chipotle was my first choice, only because it's cheap and fast but unfortunately it was closed. Instead I had to pay 20 dollars for the worst platter of beans and a few sprinkles of lettuce that I've ever eaten. Oh and the manager is rude too. DO NOT COME HERE. STAY AWAY!!!!!
(1)
Shweta N.

I wouldn't recommend Blue Agave for their food (although I always end up ordering something). But what I WOULD recommend is their delicious, delicious margaritas. Definitely a place to check out if you're in the triangle and looking for a good drink and an environment that can get a bit rowdy...
(3)
Brad F.

Blue agave was decent, I have had better mexican food in the city. I had their fajitas a combo of steak and chicken, and the steak was extra burnt wayyyy more than my liking, but the chicken was good. I had a frozen mango margarita which was fantastic. Their salsa they put on the table was very spicy just the way i like it!
(3)
R S.

Slooooow service and food was not very good. Doubt I'll be back. Too many other good choices in the area. Bathroom was disgusting.
(1)
Swati B.

The food is mediocre, service is pretty terrible.. The ambiance is more of a bar scene..it can get loud and almost has a sports bar feel to it with the amount of TVs... The margaritas used to be pretty good, however the last time i went they tasted like they had cheap tequila..(and i felt that the next day!) They no longer do pitchers for their margaritas either...however their blue margarita is pretty darn good... The place is pretty cheap however, so if you are looking for a place that has decent margaritas and have plenty of time before having to head out elsewhere, and if u don't mind the loudness of it, this may be the place for you...
(2)
Liz B.

Eeeeh. That's about the biggest compliment I can give this place. Mediocre food, at best. The margaritas are pretty awesome here, though. And I have to thank my server for reminding me that "Just to let you know there's like three shots in there" after polishing off my first round in about 5 minutes. Um...thanks for the reminder, but I think I know the kind of power a margarita packs.
(3)
Sandra J.

This was the third stop of the Halloween pub crawl and thankfully they had a large round bar. The drinks were not cheap but there was room and with this pub crawl. I can only really comment on the bar since that is where I was for 15 minutes. I have to complain that the bathroom toilets are very very low. I almost thought I was hitting the ground. I don't not think I will come here unless it is part of the pub crawl.
(3)
Annie S.

My friends and I came here to get some margaritas and ended up staying for 4 hours. Haha. The margaritas are very strong and I realized that I don't like the taste of tequila. I ordered the blue one and my friends got the horni one. We also ate the chips n salsa (salsa was VERY spicy). We ended up also ordering hot wings (which were good) and 2 buckets of imported beer. We got tecate, red stripe and some others I don't remember. It was a good deal- 4 for $12. They also had domestics for 4 for $8. The place is pretty big and the service was kinda slow but the waitress was nice. I never knew this place existed and I do plan to go back!
(3)
Alex H.

I'm at the bar right now, it is not too busy with 3 bartenders behind the bar. No service. 15 minutes later the busboy took order. Never again.
(1)
Lauren H.

My boyfriend and I after work during the week would go to have there amazing margarita's. We never have a problem finding an open hightop table in the bar area. The service is great and the free chips are really good too.
(4)
Nicollette W.

I love this place. This is always my go-to eating establishment when in the Viagra Triangle area. As I've said before, the margarita's give you a great buzz. Oh, and I found another EXCELLENCE food dish - the mole enchiladas. I'm not really a fan of the sides of this dish - but the mole is wonderful.
(5)
Emily L.

Excellent margaritas! we love the outdoor seating and the fajitas are great! this place has one of the best locations as it is i9n the heart of the city!
(4)
dave h.

A great place to go for dinner without breaking the bank in the viagra triangle. I had the fish tacos which were tasty and filling, I could only finish two of three. Tasty, strong margaritas too. Minus one star for not having Patron. Nice atmosphere, lots of beautiful people to look at and the service was good on a busy Friday night.
(4)
Quantas G.

This place, and others like it, consistently remind me to focus on the Mexican mom and pop places around town. Blue Agave had decent food, 'ok' atmosphere, and decent service but the food value is not there. The tacos I had were no more enjoyable, if not less enjoyable, than the local taco joint that serves the same thing for a 1/3 of the price. I will say the queso fundido was awesome and well worth it.
(3)
Patricia K.

I had many meals at the Blue Agave due to its close proximity of my home on Dearborn. It was never bad but it was never particularly memorable. The food will satisfy most people's desire to fill a craving for Mexican food and I'm sure it has served as a great base before a long night of drinking in the area for many people, including myself. I will commend their take-out. They are very quick to get you your order, piping hot and ready to go.
(3)
Stacey A.

The two most important things to know about this place: The margaritas are strong (and awesome). The chocolate mole sauce is to be avoided at all costs (unless you like that shit, and then as far as I'm concerned - more for you). It's a cute place, and the service is quick, attentive, and super polite. I just wish I had ordered a different entree, as that damn chocolate mole sauce on chicken SOUNDED awesome, but tasted....not co much.
(3)
Susie Q.

I wouldn't consider this place 'authentic Mexican,' but I enjoy it all the same. The service could be better, but my food is always good. Be careful downing too many margaritas, as they are some of the best! Their entrees are better than some of their standard items, but their queso fundido is always a great bet. Since I am in the neighborhood, I have become a regular.
(3)
Jessica S.

I concur with everything said below. Some highlights: *The Shrimp Ceviche was a complete disgrace. The concept of ceviche is that it is raw fish cooked by the lime juice. This was cooked shrimp doused in cocktail sauce with a very unhelpful lemon perched on the side of the plate. *The veggie quesadilla had cheese, cauliflower, brocilli, and carrots. Of all the vegetables in the world, WHY put those in a quesadilla? Salsa was good, margaritas were standard but strong, and service was good. But I wouldn't go if you are looking to have any sort of authentic Mexican food experience.
(2)
Kathy L.

Working around the corner from agave has been a major convince... as far i as concerned as of late.... I usually go there on my breaks and last night was a mistake. I met my girlfriend who works with in the vicinity. I was so embarrassed on how we were treated. When we sat down the bartender asked us if we would like tom run a tab. I declined and payed cash for my drinks and then decided to Oder an appetizer. i offered my credit card and the bartender said it would not be a problem. Before the food was presented she demanded the money for the food. Who does that. I can see paying for drinks upfront ..... but please. So humiliated... and to top IT all off. She never apologized and felt entitled ..... Times have really changed
(2)
Becky K.

I have been here on a few occasions. The size of the location is on the larger end and I have only had to wait to be seated once. The food is okay but nothing special. If you want to go some where and have STRONG margaritas, then this is the place to go! They are a little pricey but worth it if you are in the mood for a buzz. If you have more then three, you might be in trouble :)
(3)
David G.

I ventured outside of my normal lakeview stomping grounds to try this place. It was nothing special...just your average taco joint. The drinks were weak and the food was bland. Better off choosing another mexican restaurant.
(2)
Rachelle G.

A last minute choice for dinner. While I tend to stay clear of this area, I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised. We were greeted immediately upon entering and led to a table. Our server came by shortly and introduced herself. We ordered and shortly after got a basket of chips and salsa. Being beyond hungry, we quickly gobbled that up. I was surprised they didn't offer to refill it (although we didn't really ask them to either). Our food came out quickly and their portions are huge! Not out of this world good but solid. For the area, definitely a great bang for your buck. Their margaritas were pretty tasty as well =) The one complaint I do have, eww, clean up and fix your restrooms.
(3)
Helena D.

Blue Agave is a staple in the uber-chic, uber expensive, chichi Gold Coast. Known for their strong margaritas and sizzling fajitas, Agave is favorite with the locals and a bustling place to watch sports, catch up with friends, or have a fast, tasty dinner. My gal pals and I love Agave for the high-top tables by the windows that allow you to people watch while enjoying the free basket of chips and freshly made salsa, which alone could be a nice meal. I love the cilantro rice, chimichangas, quesadillas, steak fajitas, burritos, tacos.....it's reasonably priced, service is friendly and attentive, the water glasses are always full, and people can come in dressed casual or in their hangover glory. Go here, pull up a chair, and fill up on tasty Mexican food.
(4)
Christel D.

It has been over a year since I've been to Blue Agave. I stopped by with a friend last night for some drinks. We sat at the bar and I was pleasantly reminded how much I adore this place. We sipped on some yummy Margaritas and munched on some nachos. The bartenders were fabulous & super friendly. I'll definitely be going more often.
(4)
O O.

I didn't want to go here for food, drinks...maybe, but not food. I had never been here before, but it didn't seem like a food place. I ended up here for dinner solely because of the location and the people I was with. The drinks were good, but not good enough to get me past the fact that the shrimp served with my fajitas still had the turd in it. A bit too Tommy Boy for my liking... Disgusting.
(1)
Kevin E.

If you want cheap mexican food...look elsewhere. The "Mexican Food" is very Americanized, almost Taco Bell like quality, but worse. It was very bland and tasted like a TV dinner. The food came in a reasonable time, but there was virtually zero customer service. My sister tried the margarita which she said was pretty good (not homemade, they use a mix, and put a lot of booze in it). If the restaurant was not in such a great location, it would be closed in a matter of months (or even weeks?). Skip this place. It's terrible
(1)
Aimee C.

Blue Agave for Cinco de Mayo.. what more can you ask for.. men singing and playing guitars... shot girls and chips & salsa... fantastic. The food is authentic and the time always good... I love how the bar is at seating level.. little people like me don't like to climb up on bar stools... wheeee!
(5)
Maggie H.

Despite mediocre food, I love this place! I am crazy about the table-less umbrellas that hang from the ceiling. I love the knock you on your rear margaritas. And I look forward to magical Thursdays with the traveling magician. It's definitely not the best Mexican food. My friend found a suspicious bone in his carne asada??? The manager promptly adjusted our bill. Bottomline, this is a place to drink and be merry. The service is totally fine, and yes, it's true- one of the bathroom stalls is always broken, yet we keep going back for more.
(3)
Miss M.

I came to the restaurant late after our big group had already finished eating. But the server was very accomodating in getting an order placed for us and was very attentive. I ordered my drink from the bar directly. You should probably stick to the easy stuff here. I ordered a Sidecar and the poor girl had no idea what I was talking about. But she went off to find out what it was and gave it her best shot anyways. I only ordered off of the appetizer menu. Can I just say those taquitos were the cutest mini tacos i have ever seen. The chicken ones were really yummy and the beef ones were alright too. I really liked whatever the southwestern eggroll thing was. The guacamole was on point! I wouldn't call the place authentic but definitely a good spot for casual dining and drinks.
(4)
Wayne C.

I avoid this area like the plague. But I met friends there so whatev. I don't know. It reminds me of Chili's or something. We didn't eat, only drank and I was already drunk with a glowstick in my back pocket (don't ask) by the time we got there. And I somehow only spent $6 that evening?? Pretty douchey crowd, hence why I avoid the area. But I had a great night talking politics with a boy. Will I go back? I don't know. I didn't really want to go there in the first place.
(2)
Nastassia J.

A few years back, the Blue Agave was much more reasonably priced even though it is in the Viagra triangle. About 2 years ago, the prices went way up. What was once mediocre food at a low price, is now mediocre food at a very high, unjustfied price. I won't go back for this reason, although in the summer, their patio is a very nice setting.
(2)
Jean Z.

Does anyone else think this place belongs in Tijuana? I can imagine the guys outside with fliers yelling "clean bathrooms! clean bathrooms!" And when you did get inside to go use the lav, you were so sadly disappointed at their idea of "clean". The food and drinks here are authentic no doubt. I had a steak dish that was perfectly seasoned and the leftovers lasted thru me and my son! I feel as if they picked this place up on a huge crane and moved it from Tijuana. Not that you look to Tijuana for restaurant recommendations. But when in ..... Oh and, the bathrooms were NOT clean.
(2)
Sevun H.

The margaritas are good but in a place that is so filthy I would have to even qustion the sanitation of the ice used in the drinks. Only eat here if you want to risk food borne illness!
(1)
Kelly K.

I stand by my last review- yummy and strong margaritas, but over priced so so food.
(3)
Theresa C.

Margaritas were good and came somewhat quickly. Didn't have any food though.
(3)
Margaret H.

I don't know about you, but it really irritates me when I order a margarita and all I can taste is sugar and cannot even get a buzz until I've downed 3 of them. Blue Agave offers some of the tastiest and strongest margaritas in the city. Be careful, don't drink them to fast or you'll fall off your bar stool. I've eaten there a couple of times over the past few months and their food has greatly improved from a year ago.
(4)
Corinne M.

The margaritas here are pretty good, if not a little too strong. I have been to Blue Agave several times b/c it's in my neighborhood. The chips are a good snack and it's a decent place to sit outside for a drink. The food however, is pretty much sub par. I've given many things on the menu a try: nachos, quesedillas, cajun chicken, tacos, tostadas, etc. The food is often tasteless or bland and often too greasy or too dry. I think Blue Agave, like many places in the neighborhood, gets away with serving overpriced average food b.c of the high traffic location it's in. Not to mention it's the only sit down Mexican restaurant in the area. Not a place to go for the food, but if you want a strong margarita, this is your place.
(2)
Jen H.

This is my absolutely favorite mexican restaurant in the area. First of all their margaritas are amazing. Way worth the price because drinking one is like drinking two at other restaurants. The staff is great and friendly, the ambiance is fun, and the food is tasty. I bring anyone who is visiting me to Blue Agave and we always have a great time.
(5)
Alison M.

Kind of expensive for pretty run of the mill Mexican food. Besides, I can't really get behind a Mexican restaurant that doesn't serve margaritas by the pitcher.
(2)
Cory A.

I've eaten here several times and I think this place is pretty cool. The food is what you'd expect from a Mexican restaurant in the city, but with a unique twist. The service is usually prety good too. A downfall is that the margaritas they boast about are premixed well before service, and although they taste pretty good, it just doesn't seem right. The chips and salsa they give before the meal is better than most places. And this place gets really busy most nights, and somehow this place still puts out some pretty good fare. All in all, this place is definately worth trying if your in the neighborhood and looking for something spicy.
(3)
Christine S.

Tried Blue Agave for the first time yesterday and was pleasantly surprised! The margaritas are strong and reasonably priced and the food was really good. We had the Mexican Soup, Steak Quesadillas, and the Burritos. The service was great and I will defintely return! Good Mexican at reasonable prices!
(4)
Jenn R.

Hmmm... after reading Su Casa's reviews in comparison to The Blue Agave, I am disappointed to admit I am wholeheartedly questioning my judgement of Mexican food. Does the fact that I adore Frontera Grille help? Oh I hope so. I digress... totally disappointed in the Blue Agave. Service was HORRIBLE! Food was not much better and the margaritas... was there ANY ALCOHOL in them? I'm an eater, and I didn't eat half of what was brought to me... that's saying something... and not something good.
(2)
Dan P.

As a bar, this place is just "okay". It's not as obnoxious and upscale as the surrounding places, which I like. You can definitely just hang out and enjoy some margaritas with friends. No cover, no dress code -- very laid back. The mango margaritas are THE drink to get...trust me on this (a friend made me try it and I'll never get anything else). I haven't tried the food but it sounds fairly generic.
(4)
abs t.

meh! not good. I went on a groupon in the middle of a weekday afternoon. So it wasn't pakced at all.. in fact, I think there were maybe 10 people in the whole restaurant. the food was very, very disappointing! The starter tortilla chips were ok, the salsa kind of toned down...not much kick. we had the crunchy chicken tacos (bland, bland, bland...), and ione soft shell taco (not so hot, either), the fajita salad (it was ok, but you can't really mess up a salad.. the chicken chunks were at least better flavored than in the taco) dressing on the side wasn't so great), and then churros for dessert (not bad but nothing to write home about). Don't think I'll give this place another try.
(2)
M. C.

I love Blue Agave. You have to take it for what it is, which is apparent from stepping inside the door. A chill place to drink, heavily. I love the fajitas, too. My bf and I alsways split them b/c they're HUGE. Makes for a fun, and cheap night out. Maryanna C, that is the most asinine review I have ever read. Just b/c you had one bad waitress doesn't mean a restaurant sucks. AND it's bare minimum to tip 15%, why do you think your waitress can't speak English, maybe b/c she can't afford lessons! Anyone who has any respect for the restaurant industry knows rollups are part of a waitress' job, and as you clearly don't have respect for the industry, please stop frequenting it!
(4)
Alex R.

Had Margaritas and some appetizers. Nice to sit out on the patio and people watch. Not impressed with the Margaritas, but the appetizers were decent. The bathrooms leave a lot to be desired - hope the kitchen is cleaner.
(2)
Justin S.

Stopped in here for a few drinks prior to dinner. Heard about the margaritas and sampled a few. they were good though i felt that compared to the others at my table my were watered down. I started to get a complex thinking maybe the bartender felt I couldn't handle my liquor or that I had become belligerent and they were secretly cutting me off slowly. The drinks were ok but next time for margaritas I think I'll convince the group to travel further north to el mariachi. I like my pitchers of margaritas
(3)
Tim L.

We usually go here for our Mexican food needs. Good atmosphere and great margaritas!
(4)
Bella D.

This place is kicka**. I've been in this area for dinner and drinks for a long time. But I missed this place completely. My sweet date brought me here for a nice dinner and drinks. We had a lovely time. Great service and chill atmosphere to chat and enjoy the food. Close to everything and just good fajitas and mmm my fav..not mexican at all...buffalo chicken..i heart that sandwich!! xo Mmm...Can't wait to go back for some more grub!
(4)
Rachel R.

I love Blue - it is definitely one of my favorite places to go in the area. It's usually pretty relaxed, unless you catch it on a busy Friday or Saturday night. The chicken taquitos and chicken fajitas are delicious, and I am addicted to the salsa.
(4)
Kiki M.

The drink menu is very confusing- so I asked the waiter what kind of margarita's they have. He said he was new & only remembered strawberry & mango. Fine... but the answer should have been "let me check for you." My friend ordered the Mango (yum) and I got the strawberry (pretty good). The salsa was terrible, it was 90% onion. I got the chicken tequilla and the chicken was rubbery. Plus something was "broken in the kitchen" which lead to excessive heat on the upstairs floor- January and all the windows were open. I will not return unless I'm going for drinks only.
(2)
Jennifer R.

This was my second time coming to Blue Agave and it wasn't too bad. The evening started out a little rough when my friend and I were seated on the patio in the back corner with my hair practically swishing around with the dirty dishes in the bus tubs. I found it very strange that they would seat us there when there were open tables available in the front of the patio. So, we asked to move to another table. Service was slow at first, but I think it was due to a family celebrating a birthday where the mother was completely wasted and making a scene. Once they left, things picked up. Our server was pleasant and the food was good. We ordered the Avocado, Tomato and Queso Fresco Salad and Fish Tacos. Note to self for next time - try not to fill up on the chips and salsa before - I HATE when I do that! All in all it was pretty good.
(3)
Stephanie K.

I went to Blue Agave one night after work for a going-away party. It was my first time there--but certainly not my last. I had a couple margaritas and some appetizers--but I couldn't tell you what the appetizers were. I guess that speaks volumes about how good the ritas are! The service is mediocre, but when the drinks are THAT good and the prices are so reasonable, it doesn't really seem to matter. One word of advice: the drinks add up fast--just watch out before it's too late!
(4)
molly c.

MAN! i ALWAYS get totally hammered whenever i go to this place! and it's not that often!! MAYBE once a year but never the less, i get WAAAAAABASTED!! totally gone. the chips are good, but i don't think i have ordered anything other than apps (which were good, i think) and sweet live giving margaritas. yeah, i know. i probably have what some people would call a "problem" but come on, it's fun every once in a while.
(4)
Principal J.

Good experience overall. When I arrived we were told that there would be a 20 minute wait for the table. I jokingly informed the hostess that every minute over 20 would impact my Yelp review. She was a good sport about it and we were seated quickly. This place has pretty strong drinks which is why its has a lot of traffic. The food is decent with pretty good portions. Good place to have a group dinner but not a place you want to go it you are looking for a quiet romantic mexican meal.
(4)
Double L.

I thought I reviewed this hell hole already but it must have slipped through the cracks because although it was comical I try to forget we actually ever walked through the doors of this place. We came here on a Sunday afternoon, many moons ago, because we lived in the area and were craving Mexican, strike that, the lady was craving Mexican. I have more sense to know that there was no f*cking way we were going to get anything close to Mexican at this spot. However, as hopefully most of you know when a lady is in the mood for something whether it makes sense or not most of the time it wise/easiest to just indulge that mood rather then trying to reason with them. Let me begin by saying the place was empty and the only Mexicans I saw were the busboy and one of the bartenders, more on that later. Our waitress was less then terrible which got everything off to a bad start and extremely unfriendly and unhelpful. We had to ask for chips and salsa even though every other of the 4 tables in the place had them. Again it was a Sunday afternoon, we were hung over and wanted Micheladas(sp?), I may not know how to spell it exactly but I know what it is and if you work in a Mexican place that has a huge bar you should too. Our waitress had no idea and wasn't even willing to ask anyone else if they knew, here is when the Mexican bartender comes into play. I went to speak with him directly after our waitress Houdini'ed us. He not only knew what they were but was syked we wanted some and he could make them for us. Haven't seen that much enthusiasm to make a drink since. He also let me borrow his Tapatio later when the food came because being a quality Mexican place they only use Tabasco at the tables with no alternative. I liked that guy and that is why the have 2 stars not one. I got a Carne Asada type plate, forget the exact name. The steak wasn't bad and the rice and beans were totally average. The lady got flautas. This is when it stared to get funny. I don't want to get into a description of what flautas are but they are definitely fried. The flautas at Agave are not, they come in regular flour tortillas. It doesn't say that on the menu, so you would assume they came the normal way. Not frying them is like bring out a hot dog when someone ordered a hamburger and saying this is the way we make hamburgers here. That is pretty much what the waitress said. Not only that but she proceeded to tell us she has never seen a place that fries flautas. At this point the afore mentioned busboy stepped in and told my ladyfriend he would be right back. 5 mins. later he comes out with flautas, what the waitress brought is how Agave make them, what the busboy brought was not only how they should make them but what he asked the cooks to make while he was gone for 5 mins.. They were still just o.k. and after the whole ordeal we were just looking to get out of there as quickly as possible. Tip went the bartender and the busboy. Waitress missed out, that is probably only the one or two times we have ever done that she was so terrible. Usually when service is that terrible I leave exactly 10% to make a point but usually hook up the busboy or whoever on the sly because they shouldn't get shorted because their co-worker is an a$$hole. Not even worth a witty ending. RrL
(2)
Kathleen C.

This is one of the best Mexican restaurants in the city. And it is the only place that I consistently order something other than chicken fajitas! Their menu looks so appetizing that I always try something new (which i NEVER do as I hate bad food and love to complain). They also were able to accomodate a group of 15 loud girls on a Friday night with a reservation and prompt seating. Then, our waitress (plus help) were great about getting our drinks and food. I would highly recommend dinner here and then the surrounding clubs if you are watching the wallet but want a full night out.
(4)
Susan L.

Sookie Sookie. Some of my favorite after-work memories became the stuff of brown-outs and black-outs due to their intoxicating (pun intended) Blue margaritas and eating no more than their so-spicy-your-mouth-will-burn-but-so -good-you-just-can't-stop chips and salsa. Go there with a big group to unwind and be prepared to not remember your cab ride home.
(4)
Lucia Z.

Some of my friends love Blue Agave, but I am still on the fence. The Mexican food is good, but certainly nothing special. And for the price of $10-20 a plate, it is well beyond most Mexican restaurants in the city. It is definitely more of a place to socialize and drink margaritas than actually enjoy quality Mexican food.
(3)
Peter L.

Good times have been had here. Nice laid-back atmosphere. But the food is more like 2 stars -- it's not horrible, but compared to other Mexican places, below average and way overpriced. Free chips and salsa is cool, but burritos for over $10? And over the past couple years it seems like the once decent-sized wings have gradually been shrinking. The Habanero wings would be mild anywhere else. But I guess if you drink enough, none of that matters.
(3)
Heather H.

I am a fan mainly of the margaritas, but pace yourself or you will be on the floor. Seriously. Humilated to say so, but downed a few one evening and was completely hammered by 8:30, the rest is fuzzy. I learned my lesson, and next time ordered food and got to actually eat it. Food is ok, nothing exciting, but the margs are way worth it. On the loud side, so probably not the best for early dating phases.
(4)
Carrie B.

All I can say is that the margaritas are stronger than you think! (I hear there are at least 2 or more shots of tequila in those babies) Oh, and be careful with the salsa- it's HOT! I've come to Agave many times for drinks and dinner with friends. It gets pretty noisy on the weekend nights and the bar area can get a little cramped, but it's a good time-- even better If you can grab a table outside on the patio during the summer time. The mexican menu is pretty good and makes for a nice casual dinner with friends. The chicken fajitas are good. On a side note: For some reason, a lot of my friends have experienced crappy service here. It seems the staff has really screwed up large groups and reservations... but I haven't had a problem here. Also, they have had some major problems with a lack of air conditioning on the humid 90 degree summer nights, which was horribly uncomfortable! It was hotter in there than the salsa. (I hear it has been fixed since then.)
(4)
Happiness L.

It's just ok. The food is ok. The drinks are ok. The service is pretty good. There are so many more Mexican restaurants in Chicago that are much much better. Skip it if possible.
(2)
Nikita R.

Met up here for a first casual date. Decor is really basic and kinda rundown. Place gives off vibe of being run by very frugal owners. They margaritas are poured from a premixed plastic bottle. Not even a nice one, but the kind they use for selling 5 gallon vats of cooking oil at Cosco. Yes, high class folks, kinda like a Kia. For $8.00 + I would expect a little bit more eloquence. Maybe acquire a mixing glass and jigger? The drinks were strong and atmosphere was fun. My date and I sat next to a guy that spilled his drink yet kept on talking like nothing happend. Good place to go after work if your looking for a strong Margarita w/o the flair. Nearby Rush street is nice to go for a walk after kicking back a few Tequila concoctions.
(3)
Mateo S.

After a physically and emotionally destructive day waiting tables, my coworkers and I looked each other in the eye and asked "margaritas?" We had all just met (new job) and were sussing out who the real drinkers were. Enter Blue Agave, just around the corner. For a place that specializes in margaritas, these weren't particularly good, in fact they were probably made with a mix... a mix that needed another shot of tequila. The crowd blew: a bunch of drunk Gold Coasters hooting and hollering at the Cubs opener on TV like they were in the Lincoln Park Zoo baboon habitat during mating season. For 6 margaritas, the bill with tip came to $90, a price that frankly deserves a little more atmosphere. On the bright side, free chips and salsa were replenished almost minutely.
(2)
Norbert W.

round up to get the odd number (2.5) food is fair-to-poor. so realize when you're going it's not an eating establishment. "spicy" = "no kick whatsoever"; "medium" = "wendy's wings are hot"; you get the idea. It's dumbed down for out of towners. the chips and salsa are okay. a perfect example of the "dumbed down spice" for suburbanites It's expensive and it's just "okay". We had a good serving team there; while others I know have had lousy service. YMMV There's a fairly decent drink selection - which is what this place's sweet spot is (certainly isn't the food). if you have friends in from out of town (preferably college friends), this is a good stop on your evening. you'll enjoy! if you're looking for a hang out with a couple of drinks, take the final line from "Under Ben Bulben", "Horseman, pass by"
(3)
Monica J.

You can't really mess up Mexican food. The best Guac EVER...so fresh and just the right balance of ingredients. The best salsa EVER...salsa is serious business...it was seriously scrumptious. I NEED RECIPE! Margaritas...strong! Great for big groups. Esp for CINCO DE MAY CELEBRATIONS. Portions...large Service...decent Prices...average Atmosphere...casual, fun, upbeat. Overall....good go-to mexican place..will def be back.
(3)
Nathan W.

This place has the most amazing Chimichangas I've had in a long time. If you don't read spanish, but also prefer not to consider taco bell "mexican", that is how I would describe Blue Agave. Been here many times before, and it's pretty much the only reason I enter the Viagra Triangle. (BLECH!) If you're in the area too, this is a good location for catching just about any sports event. The central bar area is circled by flat screen tvs on all sides. Also not far from Division Street. Wings at Finn McCool's anybody?
(3)
Becky R.

The food here is crappy but . . . .an extra star because I once saw Kevin Federline here. Well, technically I didn't see him, but my date saw him over my shoulder. Since I don't deal well with even very minor celebrity, I didn't turn around to look, lest K Fed notice.
(2)
Nick K.

Went here for a late night snack and some margaritas a couple weeks ago. It was very good and I'm looking forward to going back. The margaritas were good. The chips/salsa were decent. The mini chicken taquitos were delicous though. A lot of other items on the menu looked very tasty as well.
(4)
Jeff H.

2 stars...3 stars...probably somewhere in between. anyway, it's average at the most. I can't say anything about the drinks, which is why a lot of people go there I went there specifically for the food. I didn't expect an authenic mexican place in the heart of Gold Coast. i knew it was going to be a gringo tex-mex place. but the salad had no flavor, the fajita meat was dry and tasteless. Tortillas were dry, guacamole bland. the best part was the free salsa that comes with the chips. i think it would be fun place to hang out with friends and have a Corona or two. but skip the food menu.
(2)
Nicole L.

I've consistently encountered bad service here. There's always an interesting mix of people and everyone seems to be having a good time. Maybe the key is to show up tipsy so you don't notice the service...
(2)
CJ M.

This place made me, my buddy, my girlfriend, and one of her friends sick. We were vomiting all night long. It was a puke party. thanks blue agave!
(1)
Erin C.

I don't understand why people like this place. I'm pretty sure it's because you get so loaded from the margaritas before the food arrives that you really can't remember anything about it. The few times I've been here, it's packed full of big groups of girls, gold coast hipsters, and the like. I want to yell out "stop eating, this just isn't very good", but i don't. It is one of the only mexican sit-down places in the neighborhood, which is lucky for them. If there was any real competition, people would stop coming here in a heartbeat. Or maybe not because of the booze initiated amnesia.
(3)
Maura S.

Hands down favorite Mexican restaurant in Chicago. I love their basic margarita and sometimes treat myself to the banana strawberry margarita. I love everything on their menu- I've been there enough times to have tried almost everything. I love the atmosphere, it doesn't have that nose in the air vibe like the other restaurants in that area. Staff is always nice and the second your chip basket is low they've replaced it.
(5)
Jen K.

Good food and good drinks. Stopped here for a late night dinner and were not disappointed. Our group really enjoyed the margaritas and daiquiris.
(4)
Laura G.

This is my go-to Mexican spot. I'm absolutely in love with this place. Everything is sooo good. Even though it's in the Viagra Triangle, I've never had difficulty getting a seat.
(5)
Rocky B.

This place has gone to hell in a hand basket. Heh...I've always wanted to say that but no, seriously...the last time I was there it was just all bad. Beyond bad. Well the service and margarita's were pretty good but the food...I dunno...maybe the kitchen was having an off night but it was downright gross.
(2)
Jackie R.

Food is very authentic, and the side walk seating in the summer cant be beat. neither can the location. or the drinks. go here!
(4)
Karen L.

I have been here a handful of times and really, the food is okay and the margaritas are decent but not great. It is a larger restaurant so you can go there with larger groups, which is nice. But if you are looking for good Mexican, I wouldn't start here. Also, I was quite disappointed that they didn't offer Margarita pitchers. Isn't that a standard at Mexican restaurants? If I am in the neighborhood, I don't mind going there. But if I were craving good margaritas and tasty Mex food, I would look elsewhere.
(2)
marisa s.

i like the B.G. for the sopa mexicana, the chips and salsa, and the margs...and that's about it. the food is alright but i always go with the sopa mexicana, which is a safe bet (mexican chicken soup with avacado, tortilla strips and other good stuff). it's an old mexican joint, not really that clean, but that's typical with mexican restaurants. it's in my hood, so i hit it up for the sopa. +the jalepeno caesar is pretty good too - just ask for it with steak and for lemons or limes to squeeze on top.
(3)
Jared L.

Great margaritas, Great chips and salsa and appetizers. Great place to start out an evening.
(4)
jaimie b.

Great Margaritas. The chicken with guacomole was filled was flavor, which I really enjoyed.
(3)
Kristen D.

This place has great margaritas and the food is pretty good too. It can get really crowded at times, but I think it's worth it. Some of the service is not so great, but given the good food, great drinks and reasonable price, you can't beat it!
(4)
Courtney B.

I love this place. The margaritas are very strong so beware, the server said they had three shots of tequila a piece in them, they are also offered in a variety of flavor and variations. The food is very inexpensive for the gold coast, and always has a fun young crowd on the weekend.
(5)
Ren H.

Best mexican food I've had in chicago... the drinks are awesome... gotta sit outdoors!
(5)
Dean D.

Horrible service, high prices, crappy food. Don't go to this place!! You'll regret it!! The service was horrible, our waitress was slow, and we didn't even get what we ordered! I'm no snob, this place just sucks! I'm never going back!
(1)
Megan H.

Your money would definitely be better spent elsewhere. Nothing was notably good, or worth the price (tried chicken tacos, chicken quesdillas, chips, gauc, and salsa) Even their chips were subpar.
(2)
Ashley T.

Loving Mexican food, I was excited that we were going to be eating at The Blue Agave for my friend's bachelorette. There were 12 of us in our party and we were immediately seated (we had a reservation) and served water and delicious chips and salsa. The salsa was yummy although a little on the spicy side. I ordered the blackened chicken sandwich and the blue agave "blue" margarita frozen. The margarita was tasty but not as strong as some of the other reviews suggest. Our food came out quickly and was delicious. The wait staff was beyond attentive. Overall the experience was great until it was time to pay and we were told they would not split the check individually. We ended up spending a good 40 minutes of our evening trying to get everyone's bill figured up. If it was not for this inconvenience, I would have given 4 stars.
(3)
H K.

Carry-out: Dinner Food was okay Dinner: Service was great, but the food is okay, but if your not a fan of drinking don't go here. There food is not worth it
(2)
Anna P.

If you are looking for a casual Mexican place for powerfully strong 'ritas and decent salsa-this is your place...I always come for app's and margaritas..The 'ritas are soo strong...Seriously, 2 of these are you are ready for a night out...Unfortunately, the food is below average and overpriced.....Nice, friendly scene...
(3)
Johanna L.

These margaritas are no joke. The salsa is good, food is mediocre. I recommend splitting an entree. I've never seen toilets as low to the ground as the ones at Blue Agave. Strange. But the margaritas make it worth the trip.
(3)
Manuel V.

If you live around here this is the place for a glass of Tequila with Grand Marnier!!! and the guacamole delicious..
(3)
Chris K.

Most creative, yet authentic mexican food in Chicago. The margaritas are potent..... in a fantastic way. Order off of the specialties.... don't get a chimichanga or a taco. Trust me. Chicken Chichenitza and Poblano Stuffed Chicken will change the way you look at Mexican restaurants forever.
(5)
Courtney R.

The most disgusting tacos I have ever had. And how do you mess up tacos??? It was literally 2 shells with a TON of meat piled on, and a few shreds of lettuce. How is that a taco? No sour cream, no cheese, no tomatoes, really no lettuce. I picked at it and ate a few pieces of the tough meat. The salsa is really good and the beans on the side were good. But a total rip off for a pound of meat and a few tortilla shells. I would not go back for the food. The margaritas were good though.
(2)
S to the izzo F.

Pretty good food, better drinks. Blue Agave, For this individual, is more of a place to grab an appetizer and a couple tequila shots, while waiting for some friends that live in the area to show. I've watched a couple of football games at the bar. All the food is good I've just had better Mexican food that's all. If your looking for Mexican in this neighborhood you can't go wrong with Blue Agave!
(3)
lee J.

Food isgood/(not greata but good)Drinks Very Good, l but on several visits I have had poor service. They also have a"habit" of rounding up/hence keeping your change without asking ..not nice Blue Agave!!
(2)
Becky P.

I come here for the Sopa Mexicana. The food is far from authentic....but what are you gonna do? I love when the drunks sing. I always sing with them.
(5)
Jack B.

Food is pretty good and I always run into peole I know at Blue Agave. It attracts quite a scene. Most people just come here to hang out with friends and drink the margaritas, but I really like the food.
(4)
George K.

Chips and Salsa was very hot, I mean spicy hot! Cool it down with strong margaritas. They surely make it very strong, I couldn't really finish my drink. Overall, food and service quality was okay and it is affordable.
(3)
Zach A.

I'm not a margarita man myself, but my girl loves her margarita so we come here pretty often. Food is decent as well.
(3)
chris b.

Food is good, but over priced in my opinion ... I would rather go to Fernando's for less.
(3)
Doug p.

Great mexican and reasonably priced. The margaritas are fantastic
(4)
Kari S.

I think this place is hilarious. I felt like I was time warped to the 70s/early 80s (and for anyone who knows me, this wouldn't be such a bad thing). The teal-painted walls and neon signs make you want to put on your stone washed jean skirt. The food is delish and the size of the margaritas make you want to stay longer than you should. Its cheap fare for gold coast.
(4)
Emma L.

I come to Blue Agave for the crowd & margaritas, rather than the food. I've eaten here on a few occasions and haven't been too impressed, but it's a popular place to drink with friends.
(3)
Peter H.

this place was okay when i went. margarita was decent, but could've been better, i think i got some steak of some sort, which was solid.
(3)
Katelin M.

Strongest magaritas ever! Have 1 or 2 of these and you are done for the night! I always have a good time at blue agave- it' a fun place to grab a table with some friends and enjoy their potent margaritas. The food is ok...there are better restaurants in the area, but I do enjly their chicken fajitas.
(4)
Lisa T.

The drinks make this place. Food is great...we ordered a bunch of appetizers and shared. Very lively and fest place, always busting.
(3)
Hannah D.

Hey, I'm from Texas and this is alright for Mexican Food in Chicago...it actually hits on Tex-Mex. The service isn't that great, but the food is cheap and the place is HUGE! The margaritas keep me going back for more and more.
(3)
Liliana S.

Good for groups. Mediocre Mexican food. Good lively atmosphere. If you're in the vicinity, in the mood for margaritas, this is a good option.
(3)
Matt N.

Great food and some of the best margaritas. A nice stop for those on a tight budget as it is some of the best Mexican for the $
(4)
a w.

Awesome Mexican food! You have got to try their Chicken Fajitas -- I have yet to find better ones in all of Chicago!
(5)
W W.

I love Blue Agave!!! The margaritas and food are really tasty. I always seem to bring people here whenever anyone comes to visit me. The only negative is that they still allow smoking indoors..so you leave smelling pretty nasty. Definately worth trying! :)
(5)
Julia B.

The prices are great and the food is pretty tastey! The margaritas were my favorite part of my meal! I would suggest getting the burrito with chicken, it tasted great!
(4)
Kristin C.

I'm not a big fan of mexican food ...but I don't go to Blue Agave for the food. I mean, it's good and all, but when you have the most potent (read=awesome) margaritas available, who needs to eat? It's a favorite gathering place for me and my girlfriends. Great for large parties. And it's great on the wallet, because if you are able to control yourself, you only need a couple of margaritas to start the night off right!
(4)
Sara M.

I really like this place. Like everyone else says, the food is nothing exceptional, but I live in this neighborhood and there isn't another Mexican place in sight. Everything I've had here has been great and the margaritas are killer and delicious all at the same time. The service is attentive, even when it's busy.
(4)
Craig H.

My date and I enjoyed the view from the balcony. It's a great vantage point to take in the festive decor, HD TV's and the action at the bar. The complementary chips and salsa tasted wonderful as we sipped on margaritas. They had a tradition Tex/Mex menu and of course the food was terrific! Four drinks and two meals cost us around $45 plus tip. Not too shabby!
(5)
Alex F.

Blue Agave didn't have a whole lot working in its favor. Seating was readily available on a Wednesday night, and props for preparing real, actual authentic Mexican food. But the service was inattentive and the margaritas were warm. Let's face it, there aren't many meals you can enjoy with 25 minutes of neck-craning to find your waiter between every course.
(2)
Karen M.

Last weekend was the first time we went to Blue Agave, after sitting at Mevlin B's for a couple hours with friends, we decided to stop in Blue Agave for some sangria. Fun place to go for sangria! The guacamole was very plain tasting and the salsa too hot. We only went for chips, guac and sangria, so I cannot comment on the entrees, although the fajitas smelled really good. Outside tables fill up fast and the inside is just okay atmosphere. The restrooms were dirty and toilets were clogged the night we went, so that was gross. Probably not somewhere we will stop by again.
(1)
Elizabeth B.

I lost five pounds eating here, and not because the restaurant serves healthy food. Our meal tasted pretty good... the service was great and the margs were strong and tasty. But I got food poisoning, and I spent about 8 hours hunched over the toilet yacking. I had eaten here many times in the past and never had a problem, so at first I wondered whether I got food poisoning from the blue agave. Then I spoke with a friend who ate there the night before I did and she and her friend both got food poisoning as well. Either this restaurant isn't properly refrigerating its seafood or the kitchen is unsanitary. Either way, the night I ate the agave was one of my worst nights in a while. I would stay away from this place. I will never go back.
(1)
K M.

I have to edit my earlier review. The reason its now getting 3 stars instead of 2 is because the delivery was actually pretty tasty, and without the annoying crowd! I ordered through ceo deliveries so it took about an hour (needed some treats for the Lost finale!). The order was put together properly, and the food was better than I remember it being actually at the restaurant - the salsa is pretty tasty and spicy! I would still say don't bother actually coming to this place. If you like quality margaritas, you should feel violated here. I'm not sure if other reviewers actually like the taste, or just like that they are super strong. My first experience with Blue Agave - Cinco de Mayo, for some stupid reason I thought this was a good idea- and the margaritas were gross. Sure they are really strong and will get the job done in kicking your ass. But margaritas are pretty much my favorite thing in the world, and even I make them better than this place. Not sure if they use really bad tequila or just don't get the proportion right. I thought maybe it was because it was Cinco de Mayo and they were mass-producing them, but I came back a few months later and tried again. Still not good. Still got very drunk. The food is so-so, its not bad, just not something to go out of your way for or wait in the long line that seems to always be outside this place. If you're here drinking anyway and get hungry, I think you're ok eating here :) Its your typical generic tex mex The inside is also set up pretty poorly- the upstairs seems to be the best bet, but if you are trying to sit around the bar, or even WALK around it, good luck. It's just designed all wrong for people to hang out. There are far better places to go for food and/or drink!!!!!!!!!
(3)
Olivia R.

I've always really liked this place! Their food is pretty good (don't expect upscale Mexican food, but it works for your typical tacos/fajitas) and the margaritas are wonderful! I tend to come here with a big group of people because we can always find a table even if we are just coming for drinks.
(4)
Shane H.

"How strong would you like your margaritas?" That was seriously a question that the waiter asked us last night. MARVELOUS! The food wasn't anything too spectacular, but we weren't there for the food. We were there for good times. And it was had. The games were on too so I was able to see the WINGS win! Good place for a large group. Birthday parties all over. It was like Chuck E. Cheese for adults. Sadly, there was no giant singing mechanical mouse.
(4)
Jeff L.

I was here once and ordered a single of Black Label. And then when the girl gave me my drink it was a glass filled with scotch. It was like two doubles worth of scotch. And that's really the only reason why I'm giving it four stars. It's because one night they gave me a lot of scotch for cheap.
(4)
Dax R.

The food is OK. This is typical Tex-Mex. Everyone goes here for the drinks. It is a little pricy but it is a large space and a good venue when meeting friends for a fri k after work.
(3)
Katie K.

Just had the most fantastic service!! Our waiter Uzzel was quick, attentive and on top of his stuff! The service all around was solid. We had fajitas which were a big portion and super delicious. Would definitely come back.
(5)
Nicole S.

I recently bought a Groupon for Blue Agave for an appetizer, two entrÃ©es, and 2 house margaritas ($35 for a $60 dollar value). Overall the food and service was amazing. For appetizers we got the taquitos (half chicken and half potato) both of which were very good, but could have used a little more flavor. For dinner we got the carne asada which was very good and the Molcajete with chicken at the recommendation of the server. This was an amazing recommendation! It was served in a giant rock bowl and the sauce was boiling the entire 30 minutes it was on the table, not to mention that the flavor was delicious. The server was very nice, but at some times he was a little hard to understand due to the accent but he was very friendly and fun. Would definitely go here again and recommend it to friends!
(4)
Nari H.

Good place! Came with a friend and ordered the tacos and something else I can't remember, along with two house margaritas. Tequilas are their specialty, bc they have a menu full of selections. On my taco dish they had the verde arroz (green rice) - if you like rice and garlic definitely go for this! We for our margaritas blended and you can have sugar instead salt on your rim. Our server did a very nice job. We left full and happy.
(4)
B P.

General- seems like a great place to come out for drinks, especially tequila. Large alcohol selection, lots of seating. I imagine it to be a fun place to come out with a group. We would give 4 stars for service and atmosphere. Food- good, fast and pleasant service. Ground beef tacos were standard. Mini tacos were also good but nothing extraordinary. Presentation of the pork tamale was good, taste was again standard. The lowdown- as you can see, the word "good" was used a lot. That's what this place is. Good if you are in the area or want to drink some margaritas and tequila.
(3)
Jackie M.

Margaritas are good and strong. I even like the ice cubes. Tried the house and mango on the rocks - I would go for another round if I wasn't feeling too tipsy even after a full meal. Skip the Burrito Cancun, it's so acidic that I thought I was eating Lysol.
(3)
Anthony O.

From the moment I walked in I felt like royalty visiting Mexico. Everyone was quick to serve me at the bar, when my date arrived, I asked a passing waiter if he could help us find a table. The waiter recommended we sit upstairs in Robert's section and Robert would take could care of us. This waiter was not joking! Robert was like a personal concierge- attending to our every need. He truly made our trip to Blue Agave a night to remember!!! Thank you so much.
(5)
K C.

First time I went was in Dec. 14' and second visit was 4/15. Two very different experiences, 1st visit was fajitas and margarita both were great I couldn't wait to go back. So finally got around to a second visit and everything tastes bland it wasn't worth the $ I spent. Went with6 other ppl and ordered the guacamole trio, one was the most mediocre... Taquitos were mushy and tasteless and chorizo I've had always has flavor, and the street corn cold and tough. Not feeling this place, someone in our group did get nachos with steak and the meat was waaaaay too salty. Was disappointed in my return visit.
(2)
Kelly K.

Came here with my 3, 5 year old on a Wednesday. No kids menu, no splitting. The kids wanted to share queso and bowl of black bean soup (they don't eat a lot). The server brought two spoons. Didn't matter, they didn't touch the soup. But they loved the chips, queso. I enjoyed the steak fajitas, but the meat was cut too tiny, into little strips. Good flavor though. I like more red peppers, and this was mostly green. Really thin strips. Like they are trying to trick you on quantity. But it was definitely more than enough food. Decent guacamole... A little chunky for me though. Kids liked the fried icecream, nothing special in my opinion. The margaritas are perfection! Strong enough, not too sweet, with good quality reposado even in the step up margarita. Definitely only need one!
(3)
Nando C.

This is our to go place for Margaritas. Been going here for over 4 years. Great drinks, pretty good tequila selection not extensive but great variety. Staff is awesome specially bartenders, customer service is what keeps us coming back oh yeah and those delicious margaritas... reposado tequila on the rocks salt on the rim please. .yummy!!!
(5)
Ericka C.

I love this place I visited every chance I get, this place can be romantic and a chill back and the food is awesome. The service is great, even the customers that come there are friendly everyone just want to have a great time.
(5)
Jessica M.

Our party of seven came for a quick bite prior to our bachelorette party. It was dinner time on a Saturday night. Blue Agave was nowhere near filled and there was no wait. We were promptly seated and given complimentary chips and salsa which they were also quick on refilling without having us to flag anybody down. We ordered three tequila margaritas, queso fundido, tilapia tacos, shrimp del feugo, two orders of soft shell tacos, and a bunch of other dishes that I lost track of. The margaritas were definitely a plus. Not a bit of the tequila was watered down. It was evident because of the three girls that ordered it, two were tipsy after a few sips. (I kid you not.) I should've ordered one so I didn't have to soberly deal with below average food. My friend and I shared the queso fundido and tilapia tacos. The queso fundido was a thin layer of cheese with ground beef scattered in the middle. If I recall correctly, it was supposed to be sausages... Oh well, I wrapped some up in a tortilla and it was a-okay. It was a little bit oily but if you like cheese, you might enjoy it. The tilapia tacos came in a set of three with corn tortillas and hot sauce as well as two sides. The tilapia was not well-fried and very dry. The hot sauce helped a bit but mind you, it does burn a bit. The cilantro and lime rice were much more subtle but rather lacking in moisture. Our bill came to approximately $150 with 18% gratuity included. It's not pricey considering the downtown location. Unfortunately, I don't think the food quality fulfills the price they charged.
(2)
SC O.

This was the first time at Blue Agave for us. Amazing margaritas, on the strong side, but well worth it! And service is great! Our server Matt was on top of it! There was a table behind us was super difficult from the get go. As it turns out they just wanted a wanted a free meal and drinks. They sent back their food no less than 3 times!! On top of it all once the server left the table to discuss the issue with the kitchen the pair loudly giggled and laughed and joked about how they had threatened other restaurants with contracting food poisoning if they had to pay any part of their check. Throughout it all your sever Matt never lost his cool. Your entire staff supported him with cool heads while making every effort to be hospitable to the difficult duo. This scam was blatantly obvious, but the way your staff handled it was impressive we just had to highlight it in our review. On top of it, our chicken nachos were exactly what we were craving and we couldn't have asked for a better times! Thank you!
(5)
Trisha J.

This has been an old stomping ground of mine for 15years. I was so pleasantly surprised when I took an old friend (that now lives in NYC) back to our old hangout and it was better than ever! Food was great (just like I remembered) and margaritas were perfection. Too boot we had excellent service by an amazing server, Karley! She helped make our experience great! Thanks Karley! Definitely coming back more often.
(5)
Angela D.

This afternoon was the second time in a year we found ourselves in the little area in/around Ruth Page Center for the Arts, and the first time we decided to try Blue Agave. Now, I speak fluent chimichanga and consider myself a lover of smooth tequila, so my expectations were high. I was not disappointed! Out first, upon being seated, was a killer salsa with the right amount of heat - it reminded me of the salsa that we make with fresh, home-grown tomatoes and peppers from our garden. Then, I was promised a bomb diggity margarita on the rocks with an amazing tequila by our server, Max. Oh Max...we'd only just met, but you had me within 10 seconds of delivering that frosty glass! Wowsa!! So good, I had TWO!!! And the chicken chimichanga with dipping sauce was delish, as were the beef tacos and cheese quesadilla--the latter was the best we'd had anywhere. The queso was a bit disappointing compared to the cheese used in the quesadilla, and the chips were so-so. But Blue Agave gets a solid 4 stars from me...we would go back!
(4)
Mackenzie G.

I ordered blue agave from grub hub and it was awful! The food was freezing cold and not even what I ordered. Seriously disappointed and won't be ordering again.
(1)
Keith G.

Best salsa I've ever had
(4)
Jess D.

This is a great place and Diego is the best server! The drinks are so strong and they give you a lot of water and chips refills.
(5)
Kaitlin D.

So I didn't hate it! Just hated the fact that they didn't have handicap accessible entrance (for our strollers) and 2 sets of stairs to get to our table no less. Also, no kids menu? Charged us for a kid drink too.. -_- Wish I would've known that before ordering my daughter likes water just as well. Paid a solid 60 for my meal, app and 2 house margaritas (overpriced much?) but that's what get for dining in Gold Coast. Food note: great margs but the house marg is $10. Great chunky guac. I ordered the tres amigos and could of got the same thing but more authentic from a Mexican taco truck. Very dry meat and they skimped me on the side of sour cream....
(2)
Anne M.

So... an innocent dinner with a friend at Blue Agave turned into a four hour, too-many-margaritas kind of night. That hasn't happened in quite a while, so it took me by surprise. Was it the strength of the margaritas? Was it just "one of those days?" I'll never know - until I go back to Blue Agave and test the waters once again. Food was decent - queso dip (that can't really ever be bad) + chicken fajitas (appetizer). My friend ordered the enchiladas and liked them too. The space is interesting - seating surrounds a central bar, and there's also an upper level that wraps around the space. Our waitress was friendly and checked on us often. It was loud in there, but after a few margaritas, I didn't care any more.
(4)
Kevin C.

Not my first choice for for mexican food. This place was selected for a group dinner so I just showed up. We got the table that backs right up to the kitchen which turned out to be just fine. If you are looking for a casual atmosphere with mexican beers, extensive tequila list, and margaritas then this is your spot. Considering the location this is likely as laid back as you will find and pocket book friendly. It was packed on a Friday evening and the bar was a popular place to stand around and get in the way of the servers. I didn't have any booze that evening but our party was slamming them down. The guacamole was good to start along with the standard chips and salsa. Chimichanga was pretty lame, queso was bland, and the rice tasted caucasian with no hint of lime or cilantro. I should have ordered tacos and been happy. Big risk taker I know. Our server was very pleasant and patient with us. She did a stellar job at keep drinks filled and keeping up with our requests. My soda did disappear and took a hot minute to get another and they charge 2 bucks for refills. Really, we had a group of 10 and soda refill charge? Eh, I think that's a crime. Go for the drinks and fill up on chips and salsa.
(3)
Vikki Y.

Came here on a weekday afternoon with friends. Food came in hugeee portions. I asked for a side of sour cream and they gave me a bucket of sour cream. The music was top 40s and I was totally rocking to Thrift Shop while munching on my taco trio. Guacamole was amazingggggg but the bowl it came in was kind of deceptive. It looked deeper than it actually was. Service was super friendly. Will try tequilas next time.
(4)
Amelia B.

Completely passable not-very-authentic Mexican food. I'd never go out of my way to eat here, but for a local spot, it'll do. [I have to say it kind of reminds me of Chevy's. Do they have Chevy's in the Midwest? Do they still exist anymore? Nevermind.] Chips and salsa are plentiful and neverending, the Mexican beer selection is decent, entrees are reasonably priced, and the Chicken Fajita salad is a favorite of mine. And there are plenty of TVs in the bar area for all your football-watching needs. So nothing to really write home about. But no reason to avoid it either. Sorry I can't be more exciting than that.
(3)
Kyle D.

Blue Agave teters on 3-4 stars for me, but I'll give it a slight edge. Don't be fooled by the high-end location, this place is a margarita bar. If you're looking for mexican drinks and huge plates of food, this place is pretty good. Probably a lot cheaper than nearby restaurants. If you're looking for a classy experience look elsewhere. They have a lot of space, but it is loud and the music is current American pop. Lots of TVs and a bar in the middle. The service is fast and attentive. The drinks are okay, I've had stronger. They only serve mexican beers. But the food is pretty tasty. The salsa with the chips is great, and the main meals are huge portions and taste pretty good. I've yet to leave hungry or unsatisfied. Tons of options to choose from. My carne asada was tender and spicy and the black beans are great. Overall, a good place to bring a group if you're looking for drinks and big portions but don't mind a loud party atmosphere. Atmosphere: 7/10 Service: 8/10 Food: 8/10
(4)
Sarah W.

Karley is a great server! ! Super friendly and attentive. Never waited for drinks and always had a fun attitude. If you come here, make sure she's your server. Karley rocks!!
(5)
Jet L.

Pretty good mexican.. they have Really good Margs!!! They will get you drunk 2 in... that is for sure.. the food is pretty good.. nothing amazing. they do have an outside but it is usually in the shade... dog friendly and very nice staff... I really go here for drinks
(3)
Allyson C.

I very much enjoyed the Don Julio Margarita(s) I had here but the food was just mediocre. The service was pretty slow too. It took forever to get our check and he added 18% gratuity to it for our party of 5. I'd go back again for chips & guac & drinks but not dinner.
(3)
Paul C.

I lived near Blue Agave for a couple of years and went countless times. Based on my countless experiences here my advice is simple: go for the drinks, skip the food. When people tell me they love the food here I assume one of two things: 1) they were home-schooled; or 2) they suffered some terrible accident and lost 95% of their taste buds. The food is bland as hell, and frankly not good. The drinks are decent, if you like tequila. Skip this place if you can.
(2)
Lisa A.

Blue Agave is a great place to hang out with friends any day of the week! Their margaritas are top notch and very strong. The food is okay...I wouldn't go back if it was just for the food. Service is great! In fact I have no complaints about how quickly the staff comes to you and they are friendly. Although I do suggest getting the nachos and maybe the steak tacos. But if a drink is what you want...go to Blue Agave.
(3)
Aaron M.

They have some items on the menu that are quite authentic Mexican fair. Everyone in my group of eight had great food and we all agreed it was quite a find. Perhaps the others who have posted on the bad food were looking for more American Mexican. There were plenty of seriously drunk people there so I imagine their margaritas were stiff but I went for the $12 bucket of 4 imports. There was also a domestic bucket for $8. Nice!
(5)
Morris F.

As a restaurant, The Blue Agave makes a pretty good sports bar. The emphasis is on strong (but mass mix-made) margaritas, multiple tv screens arranged around the bar and an upstairs area from which you can watch the goings-on at the bar. Contrary to what others have said, I think the food here is actually pretty good if you stick to basics. Chiles rellenos, enchiladas, tacos, tostadas, are all available on dinner, or a combination where you can get a choice of any 3 for about $15. Skip the taquitos, unless what you really want are chicken enchiladas with green sauce. Taquitos are supposed to be crisp and served with guacamole. The fancier and more expensive dishes tend to be missable. We like the freshly-made salsa, but the chips are pretty ordinary and clearly not freshly cooked. Even in the dining area, the ambience is majorly conversation-challenged. Prices do tend to be higher for everything than they would be off the Gold Coast. As for service, on our most recent visit our waiter did fine, but much of the staff was absorbed in watching one thing or another on one of the TV's so I'll bet a lot of people found the service inattentive and slow.
(3)
Ev A.

I live down the street from this restaurant. While the food is pretty good and the atmosphere is "A-OK"... i think that is pretty much it. I had the fajita salad. It was fresh and very filling. I had to take 2/3 of it home! The chips and salsa that are served once you sit down are delicious. I wouldn't object to going back, but I'd definitely think twice about going to Chipotle instead.
(3)
Gabriel W.

We always go here before the start of some notorious raunchy s**t. I love this place.
(5)
Kelly W.

I LOVE Blue Agave! My friend and I go here whenever we meet up for dinner and drinks. The margaritas are delicious, the food is great, and the chips and salsa just keep coming! I came here with my mom and my aunt and they love it too! The food is a little on the expensive side (once you start adding drinks) and this is not the destination for a "quick bite." But if you want to kick back, relax, and chat for hours... this is a great destination.
(4)
Lesley S.

This is a hot after work spot for me and my coworkers. I'v never really ordered anything other than a classic margarita. One sip = dreamy drunkiness. After drinking two, i'm usually comatose. I LOVE their chips and salsa (it's of the homemade kind, and it's got a bite too). Service is fine, crowd is fine. Interior is nothing special. Kinda looks like a tornado lifted it out of some Florida beach and dropped it in downtown chicago.
(4)
Sara P.

As a Texas girl who knows good Mexican food, I have to say, this place is pretty good. I went here last night, as I have done many times since I moved to the neighborhood. The waitstaff is attentive, and the food, while not extraordinary, is always good. Like everyone else says, the margaritas are killer...two and I'm done for the night. Great place to go for drinks and chips and salsa when you want to watch some football, too.
(4)
Kara C.

Very nice wait staff, but the food is nothing to talk about. My girlfriends and I ordered veggie quesadillas and shrimp ceviche. Would you ever think to put cauliflower and carrots in a veggie quesadilla? That led me to believe they defrosted a bag frozen mixed veggies and threw them in. It was disgusting. The shrimp ceviche also had carrots in the dish. I'm not a carrot hater, but it just didn't seem appropriate. Plus, there was shrimp COCKTAIL SAUCE in the ceviche. When I think of ceviche I think of cilantro, red onions, lime and cucumber NOT COCKTAIL SAUCE. It was completely unimpressive and expensive. Even the margaritas were nothing to get excited over. Plus you can't even order a pitcher there. They only serve by the glass. I'll never go back.
(1)
Ashley A.

Holla at yo' margarita! Oh, the food is super good too; I love me some fajitas. You can't beat the location, the traditional tex-mex and the booze. I heart it all.
(4)
Digital M.

Holy strong margaritas in one of the best Chicago locations. Go any night
(5)
J D.

Blue Agave has the best margaritas in the city! Don't have more than two of these unless you have a friend to help you down the stairs after your meal. The food is good, but could probably be classed up a little. I LOVE the fajitas, the ceviche, and the chicken fajita salad. Delish! I see that everyone else loves the salsa, but I find it is a little too spicy for my taste buds, and they do not offer any mild options.
(4)
Alex B.

These margaritas will knock you on your a**. Seriously. I am no lightweight and I am not allowed to have more than two. They are about $9 a pop, but for $18 I can get very drunk and I think that's a great deal. I am also a tequila fan (meaning I sip it for the flavor) and appreciate the higher end tequilas that they use in the margaritas here. You can really taste the difference. The food here is decent, but nothing special. The atmosphere is fun, and I like that they don't play your typical bar music. Great place to hang out.
(3)
Carson H.

If you live in the neighborhood it's an OK place to stop for drinks but the food is not that great.
(3)
Ben H.

Its a good place for drinks. food isnt that special but its still tasty
(4)
Angie C.

This place is way bigger inside than I imagined; no wonder it's great for happy hour! I came here for lunch - muy delicioso! Being Tex-Mex myself, I was relieved to finally find a place that has amazing (and free!) chips and salsa - more of a pico de gallo, fresh, chunky and VERY spicy!! Perfect. Their nachos also rocked (I had the plain bean and cheese with toppings, no meat....it's the way to go!), especially with the salsa on top. Their "Mexican style" soft tacos were awesome - grilled pieces of skirt steak in corn tortillas topped with cilantro and onion...yum! It wasn't greasy at all either. I prefer the cilantro/lime rice over the Mexican rice...not as good as Grandma's. The charro beans are ok...a little thick. But all in all, great dishes and good service. My water glass was never empty! Would def. come back.
(4)
Martha Z.

Came here for lunch with a coworker to cure our lunch time blues. I thought blue agave was going to be another hokey trendy viagra triangle dining spot but it wasn't. The food doesn't come close to my favorites such as tapatio, adobo or may street, but its does make for a great feast. The salsa that came with the chips was just how I like it, spicy and cilantro, with lots of garlic. I had a chicken soup and chicken quesadilla. Major kudos for including guac, sour cream and toppings with my order, something that most places charge extra for. My friends steak fajitas looked sizzling. There was just too much food for us to eat, next time I think we will split.
(4)
Becky C.

From what I remember of being here... (ya gotta love a review that starts out like THAT!) Actually, I kid. I do remember being here, but left quite tipsy from only two margaritas.. it was after leaving that I got the "margarita crazies", LOL. This is on top of dinner, too. And normally I have a pretty good tolerance! Anyway, I had some yummy quesadillas. I loved the sour cream that came with them.. I remember it being very flavorful (which is not something you usually recall from a dining experience!) Service was good, atmosphere was fun.. no complaints from me. Just watch out.. those margaritas will creep the hell up on your a$$.
(4)

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Address : 1050 N State St
Chicago, IL, 60610
Phone (312) 335-8900
Website https://www.blueagavechicago.com/
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:00 am - 2:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Loud
Music : Juke Box
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No

Claim Restaurant

Mexican Cuisine

If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.

Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.

Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.

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The Blue Agave Tequila Bar & Restaurant

1050 N State St, Chicago, IL, 60610

The Blue Agave Tequila Bar & Restaurant Menu

Soups Salads & Chili

Crossing The Border

Broiler Sandwiches

Mexican Favorites

Burritos

Healthy Meal suggestions for The Blue Agave Tequila Bar & Restaurant

Soups Salads & Chili

Crossing The Border

Broiler Sandwiches

Mexican Favorites

Burritos

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