Jaleo Chicago announces the appointment of a new executive chef, along with updated menu items, design improvements and more.
Jaleo’s new executive chef, John Borras, brings over 30 years of culinary experience to the restaurant. Originally from Venezuela, Borras’ passion for cooking was greatly influenced by his Spanish father, who encouraged him to pursue fine dining. His family’s Spanish heritage has always been central to Borras’ cooking style and menu development.
Borras is joined at the helm by Executive Sous Chef Miguel Maldonado and Sous Chef Michael Padilla, who bring their own talents and dedication to Jaleo’s kitchen.
Borras has served as Director of Food & Beverage for Marriott Hotels and as executive chef at the Renaissance Hotel and the Museum of Science and Industry. He has also opened his own Spanish-inspired eateries, including 1492 Tapas Bar and Macarena Tapas.
“The new menu at Jaleo stays true to its authenticity,” says John Borras. “That’s what attracted me to this role. I love cooking and sharing Spanish cuisine because it embodies the flavors and memories of my childhood.”
Borras’ culinary philosophy focuses on creating authentic, Spanish-inspired dishes that transport diners to Spain. His new menu at Jaleo is a refined version of the old, emphasizing authenticity and value. He has introduced lunch service with new dishes like JLT, Futbol Club Barcelona and four-cheese sandwich. In addition, he has revamped the dinner menu, adding dishes like cachopo, Iberian pork meatballs, grilled beef skewers, grilled chicken skewers and a beef tenderloin on bread with Manchego cheese and red pepper. New brunch offerings include additions like paella ribeye and Spanish country salad. The updated happy hour menu now offers additional wines and beers in addition to beef skewers.
In addition to menu changes, Jaleo has introduced several new features, including the addition of a lounge, new lighting, more greenery, a selection of appealing and Midwestern-friendly tapas and larger plates, and a new patio. The restaurant, originally designed by Barcelona-based firm Capella Garcia, features a 240-seat interior with bold colors and patterns. The Pigtail speakeasy below Jaleo has also been updated, with a new entrance and reception booth for better guest access.
Jaleo is located in a Friedman Properties building at 500 N. Clark Street in the heart of River North. Dinner is served Sunday through Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Lunch is available Monday through Friday starting at 11:30 a.m. and brunch is available Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Reservations are available online at OpenTable.
