ZipPicks Awards
Best Tacos in River North
Best Late Night Mexican in River North
Best Late Night Tacos in River North
Best Happy Hour Mexican in River North
Master Critic Review
Bodega Taqueria y Tequila – River North
7.9
Vibes:
Girls Night Out Approved
Birthday & Celebration Central
Happy Hour Hotspots
Trendy Table Hotspots
The Miami-born Bodega brand’s River North location pairs a casual front taqueria with a tequila-heavy bar and late-night energy. Tacos de birria, al pastor, and quesabirria headline a menu built for pregame bites, cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights in a space that leans more party than quiet sit-down.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco de Birria, Quesabirria, Al pastor tacos
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Nightlife-focused taqueria-tequila hybrid where birria and cocktails anchor the experience.
Who should go: Groups planning tacos with tequila and a party vibe.
When to visit: Weekend evenings and late nights when the back bar is busiest.
What to order: Taco de Birria, quesabirria, one al pastor taco per person.
Insider tip: Order tacos at the front counter first, then transition to the speakeasy-style bar in back for drinks.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in River North; expect paid garages within a 2–3 block walk. Rideshare is common on weekends due to late-night crowds.
Dress code: Casual-party to smart casual — jeans and sneakers are fine, but many guests lean dressy for the nightlife vibe.
Noise level: Loud during peak evenings with DJ and bar energy — conversation can be difficult in the back bar, easier in the taqueria area earlier in the night.
Weekend wait: Often 30–60 minutes for the bar area during peak late-night hours; food counter moves quickly.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait — faster counter-service flow.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — a few vegetarian tacos and sides, but the menu leans meat-forward.
Vegan options: Limited — some items can be customized, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Some tacos can be made on corn tortillas; cross-contact is possible due to shared prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for fun, high-energy dates than intimate conversation — it shines if you want tacos plus a lively tequila bar rather than a quiet sit-down meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — the taqueria is counter-service and the bar operates on a first-come basis. Arrive early on weekends for the best chance at seating before the late-night rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Earlier hours can work for casual taco visits, but the vibe shifts adult-focused and nightlife-oriented later in the evening — not ideal for young kids at night.
Best For
Better for: Late-night tacos with a party-forward tequila bar, pregame meetups, and groups looking for DJ energy rather than a traditional restaurant setting.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, table-service dining, or a broad selection of refined taco options — choose a calmer taqueria or sit-down Mexican restaurant instead.