Chicago - April 13, 2009

Fire Starter

Fuego Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar Opens

Despite various shortcomings (stroller jams, mom cliques), the burbs do have their perks.

Is it enough for you to make the trek? As if.

Chef Juan Luis Gonzalez understands your plight. That’s why he’s duplicating Fuego Mexican Grill, his Arlington Heights favorite, in Logan Square.

Known for spicing up traditional family recipes, Gonzalez delivers smoky mole, tableside guac and ceviche, and more than 200 tequilas (especially effective in the agave cocktail).

You want more convincing? How about pan-seared sea bass over mole de pistache? Or beer-battered tilapia tacos, grilled pork chops, and black bean tamales stuffed with butternut squash and roasted poblano rajas.

On Wednesdays, roving mariachis provide the perfect beats for your eats. Pick up tix and hit up the live music venue on the upper level.

So you can sit pretty in the city.

Fuego Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar, 2047 North Milwaukee Avenue, between North Maplewood and North Western Avenues (773-252-1122 or fuegomexicangrill.com).