A Taste of Latin America Lands in Wicker Park: Libertad Opens Its First Chicago Location at a Storied North Avenue Address

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Wicker Park · March 16, 2026

Wicker Park's dining scene just got a vibrant new neighbor. Libertad, the beloved contemporary Latin American restaurant that has called Skokie home since 2011, has officially opened its first Chicago outpost right here in the neighborhood — and it's already turning heads.

The new spot lands at 1835 W. North Ave., inside the historic former Las Palmas building — a space with deep roots in the community. Owner Marcos Rivera actually grew up cooking in his family's Las Palmas kitchens, making this a full-circle homecoming. The restaurant's design honors that legacy, featuring a portrait of Frida Kahlo, original Las Palmas-era murals including a Virgin Mary alcove by Chicago artist Laura Gomel, and striking exterior and patio murals by celebrated Chicago street artist Rahmaan Statik. A cozy fireplace and glass-enclosed atrium round out a space built for year-round gathering. In the kitchen, Chef Armando Gonzales — formerly of Chicago's Mas and Amerikas — crafts a menu of shared Latin American dishes sourced from regional farms like Mick Klug Farms and Spence Farms, with exclusive Wicker Park plates like mussels in a tomato-coconut broth. Behind the bar, acclaimed mixologist Ziyad Asrar brings a creative cocktail program featuring tequila, mezcal, and mole bitters.

Libertad serves lunch, brunch, and dinner, and reservations are available on OpenTable. Whether you're a Skokie regular finally getting your Chicago fix or a first-time visitor, head to 1835 W. North Ave. and taste what all the buzz is about — this one feels like it was made for Wicker Park.

Sources:
1. https://www.chicagofoodmagazine.com/news/latin-american-restaurant-libertad-opens-in-wicker-park
2. https://thirdcoastreview.com/food/2026/02/25/libertad-wicker-park-location-grand-opening
3. https://www.theinfatuation.com/chicago/guides/new-chicago-restaurant-openings
4. https://www.chicagostarmedia.com/restaurants/three-new-restaurants-sizzle-with-openings-across-chicago/article_ab564ba7-93d1-463d-83cb-34133f7581d1.html