El Alebrije

Went to El Alebrije tonight at 4114 North Kedzie Avenue. They aspire to sophisticated, elevated Mexican food and nailed it.

They offer three styles of mole. I went with the mole verde chicken enchiladas and was quite happy with it. Not a lot of heat but a lot of layers of flavors. Would get again. My companion got the fajitas with steak, chicken and shrimp. The shrimp really shined and steak was tender. The chicken was outmatched and came in a distant third.

Their regular salsa is not hot but is very smoky. An interesting choice that surprised us and we really enjoyed.

This is thoughtful and well-executed menu. Definitely aiming high.

Service was very good. The outdoor patio in back was nice - could maybe use a little sprucing up but seating was comfortable, clean and well distanced. They prefer cash and will add a service card for credit cards. There were some affordable options mingled in with some pricier choices. They had a nice crowd for 7:00 on a Sunday night. We will go back.