Chile Toreado & Neighborhood Favorites Crowned: 'Best of McKinley Park' Results Are In — And Round Two Is Coming This Fall

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Mckinley Park · June 15, 2026

McKinley Park neighbors, your votes have spoken — and the Southwest Side's favorite spots are finally getting their moment in the spotlight.

The inaugural 'Best of McKinley Park' contest, a members' choice celebration run by McKinley Park News, has wrapped up its first year in style. Neighbors voted across dozens of categories in fall 2025 to crown their top picks in Dining, Shopping, Services, and Community. One clear standout emerged: Chile Toreado, 2022 W. 35th St., which swept multiple categories — taking home top honors in both Best Latin Cuisine and Best Sit-Down Restaurant, going up against significant competition along the 35th Street corridor. Owners Lorena and Jamie Sotelo can now add multiple community awards to the restaurant's already impressive reputation.

The contest isn't just a popularity vote — it's a love letter to the block. Cadinho Bakery and Cafe at 3483 S. Archer Ave. also earned recognition, reflecting the neighborhood's rich, diverse culinary scene that keeps neighbors eating local. And the good news? The fun is far from over: the 2nd annual Best of McKinley Park contest is slated to kick off in early fall 2026, giving neighbors another chance to champion their go-to spots. Whether you're a loyal Chile Toreado regular or a Cadinho morning pastry devotee, now's the time to start rallying your neighbors. Stay tuned at mckinleypark.news for voting details when fall arrives.

Sources:
1. https://mckinleypark.news/about/letter-from-the-editor/7932-we-celebrate-the-best-of-mckinley-park