Give me a crispy plantain chip with guava butter, and I’ll be happy. Tell me the story of your cooking and of your passion for food and family, and I’ll be eager to learn more. Somewhere in-between exceptional flavors and a deep commitment to authenticity, a son’s love for his mother shines brightly at Marina’s Bistro and Rum Bar, a recent addition to Chicago’s dining scene.
Located in an eclectic restaurant strip in the Uptown District, Marina’s Bistro and Rum Bar opened in August 2023 to rave reviews. Owner and Chef Eric Roldan, a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, has created a menu that highlights the best of Puerto Rican cuisine, incorporating sustainable and locally sourced ingredients to provide a unique dining experience.
Chef Roldan’s culinary journey began at a young age, inspired by his grandmother’s recipes. After Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, he returned to his hometown of Chicago and started his business as a ghost kitchen, offering innovative Latin fusion cuisine. With Marina’s Bistro, Chef Roldan is showcasing the unifying force of food, and honoring his mother’s memory.
This picture of Chef Roldan’s mother Marina welcomes you as you enter the restaurant
Marina’s Bistro and Rum Bar’s menu features classic Puerto Rican dishes, including Mofongos, Arroz con Gandules, and Tostones, alongside a selection of handcrafted cocktails . As Chef Roldan explains, “Marina’s Bistro and Rum Bar is a celebration of my family’s traditions and recipes. (…) At Marina’s Bistro and Rum Bar, we believe that great food and great drinks go hand in hand. Our dishes and cocktails are designed to provide a taste of Puerto Rico that will leave you wanting more.”
I visited Marina’s Bistro and Rum for lunch one glorious fall day, and as I entered the restaurant, I felt a heartwarming magic spell immediately. Exuding comfort and togetherness, Marina’s space looked very familiar, a charming déjà vu. As I got seated and I ordered my mocktail (a bright El Chillin, featuring fresh house made pineapple puree, coconut water, coconut milk, and orange juice) I knew I was in for a treat. Marina’s story had moved me, the mocktail had refreshed me – overall, I could hardly contain my excitement 🙂
Marina’s Bistro and Rum Bar’s El Chillin mocktail
And so, they started coming: fresh and hot Pastelillos de Carne, plump and juicy, perfectly crispy pockets of goodness…
… umami-packed plant-based Jibarito featuring marinated portabella mushrooms, lettuce, red onion and tomatoes tucked comfortably inside fried plantains…
… beautifully accompanied by fragrant and comforting Arroz con Gandules (Puerto Rican rice with pigeon peas)…
…. a Pollo sandwich brimming with slowly marinated chicken thigh meat in a fluffy, deliciously tender bun…
Marina’s Pollo Sandwich (top right)
…with plantain chips seasoned to perfection (and sooo addictive!)…
… and finishing with the glorious duo of desserts, a gorgeous, glistening Flan De Caramelo (caramel custard)…
… and a decadent, oh-so sweet-tooth satisfying Budin De Pan (warm bread pudding with rum ice cream).
While I was savoring every bite and every sip, the restaurant filled up with regulars, greeted with warmth, welcomed with their beloved favorites. Moreover, as time moved into early afternoon hours, the clouds gathered outside, the light subdued, and random raindrops started falling on the pavement, while I was finishing my meal. It was time for me to say goodbye.
I took most of the desserts to-go – first, because I am fundamentally adverse to food waste, and second, because I wanted to extend my enjoyment of the food a bit more, beyond the actual restaurant experience. Leaving Marina was hard…
I had an amazing experience at Marina’s Bistro and Rum Bar, and I highly recommend this restaurant. The food has conquered my foodie heart and belly, while the story has conquered my mind. Marina’s showcases a delicious menu, a shining light of authenticity, and an underpinning love of family which transcends times and spaces. All-encompassing and vibrant, Marina’s legacy is honored by Chef Roldan in a way which inspires, moves, and delights. Looking forward to seeing what tomorrow brings at Marina’s 🙂
*Marina’s Bistro and Rum Bar is open for dine-in, takeout, and catering. Chef Roldan has also just announced his 2023 Thanksgiving prix fixe menu, which you can check out on Facebook.
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