Emilios Tapas Bar and Restaurant Emilio Tapas Bar and Restaurant Emilio's Tapas Bar & Restaurant

Emilio's Tapas Bar & Restaurant

4100 Roosevelt Rd. (Mannheim Rd.)
Hillside, IL 60162
Map
Cuisine: Spanish / Tapas / Small Plates
Little dishes comprise the bulk of the Spanish menu at this date-ready, circa 1988 tapas staple.
Openings: Lunch Tues.-Sat., Dinner nightly

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Emilio's Tapas Bar & Restaurant, Hillside, IL


Emilio's Tapas Bar & Restaurant Restaurant Review:


Emilio Gervilla's tapas empire got its start at this freestanding restaurant. It’s still going strong --- despite its gloomy near-cemetery backdrop. Fanciful murals, mosaics and miscellaneous artifacts set the stage for meals assembled from a multitude of little dishes, plus a few larger ones. Start by sharing cold tapas, among them garlicky potato salad; Spanish ham with manchego and tomato-topped bread; stuffed squid in piquant tomato sauce; and tuna-stuffed cannelloni in creamy white wine vinaigrette. Then move on to hot dishes like pepper-crusted beef brochette with sweet caramelized onions; spicy sausage and potatoes in cider broth; or bacon-wrapped dates in satiny red-pepper cream. Of course, crispy-skinned baby chicken with creamed leeks in mustard sauce is a must. Some picks disappoint, however, particularly the paella. Spanish wines from several regions, sherries, beers and brandies comprise the beverage list. Desserts go beyond flan to encompass caramelized bananas, rich chocolate terrine and profiteroles. Service tends to be good but sometimes falters when the place gets packed.