Irazu is a vibrant Bucktown gem serving up hearty Costa Rican flavors, from comforting casados to crispy empanadas, all in a spacious BYOB setting.
"Irazu is a BYOB Costa Rican spot with an enclosed patio. And when it’s warm out, they’ll crack the windows and you can get a nice breeze. The Costa Rican dishes, like gallo pinto (eggs, sweet plantains, black beans, and rice) and casado (your choice of meat or fish with cabbage, black beans, rice, and plantains) are all things that make us feel closer to the equator. By a lot." - adrian kane, john ringor, nick allen
"This Costa Rican spot has a large space with large open windows on warm days, and very friendly service. In other words, it’s the kind of neighborhood place that makes you feel welcome the moment you walk in. The menu is long, with lots of sandwiches, massive $12 burritos, and a delicious oatmeal shake they’ve been serving since opening in 1990. And the tasty Costa Rican dishes, like the casado (your choice of meat or fish with cabbage, black beans, rice, and plantains), make us feel closer to the equator, even after sometimes walking here through snow." - john ringor, adrian kane, nick allen
"Family-owned businesses usually show the most empathy for families with youngsters. Irazu, which specializes in Costa Rican food, checks that box. The menu has plenty of finger foods — fried plantains might be enough to entice picky eaters; ceviche might help junior challenge their taste buds. The pressed sandwiches are good for little hands, and adults can ask staff to omit ingredients to sate their little ones." - Ashok Selvam, Naomi Waxman
"Bucktown’s beloved Costa Rican restaurant provides a warm and hospitable environment for groups. Get ready for empanadas, meat and shrimp plates, and sandwiches including the pepito — steak or chicken, sautéed onions, cheese, beans, and Lizano sauce. The creamy oatmeal milkshake is a favorite way to cap off a meal, though you can also take advantage of their new cocktail menu. Make a reservation here." - Samantha Nelson, Eater Staff
"You could probably spend a lot of money at Irazu in Bucktown, but it would take some effort. It’s BYOB, and full of Costa Rican dishes like pepito sandwiches ($9-$12) and empanadas (3 for $12), with the most expensive entree on the menu being a $22 surf and turf. But before you decide to buy a round of oatmeal shakes for everyone in the restaurant, you should know that it’s cash only." - josh barnett, adrian kane
