Vela Vela is a vibrant restaurant located on W Hubbard Street, inspired by the cultural richness of Mexico City and conceptualized by the Celeste Group. The establishment boasts an intimate Private Dining Room (PDR) that accommodates up to 12 guests, offering a family-style menu for larger groups. Vela invites diners to explore its offerings for group dinners and encourages inquiries for gatherings exceeding 12 guests through their dedicated email. The restaurant features a lively atmosphere with options for happy hour, dinner, and late-night drinks, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

**

Recent social media posts

10/22/2026

POV: you just found your new favorite drink menu in River North 🍸

Meet the new cocktails at Vela. Chile salt rims, fresh mint, rosemary, marigold, olives, spice-dusted foam. Bold, bright and full of flavor, with a Mexican-Middle Eastern twist in every glass.

Reserve your table at the link in bio and taste the new menu this week.

Tag the friend who owes you a drink.

📍 Vela | River North, Chicago

The after-dinner drink that keeps the night going.Reposado tequila, Licor 43, café de olla, cardamom & espresso, finishe...
10/20/2026

The after-dinner drink that keeps the night going.

Reposado tequila, Licor 43, café de olla, cardamom & espresso, finished with golden sesame. Spiced. Nutty. Rich.

Dessert? We think you meant carajillo. Save room & reserve at the link in bio.

10/13/2026

Vela means candle 🕯️

It’s in the name, and it’s in every corner of the room. Dripping wax, flickering candelabras and a glow that turns dinner into an evening you remember.

This is Vela. Mexican-Middle Eastern flavor, candlelit and waiting for you in River North. Grab a table at the link in bio and see it in person.

Send this to the person you’re bringing 🔥

📍 Vela | River North, Chicago

Meet the Velvet Curtain, our smoky agave Negroni.Reposado, raicilla, Campari & two vermouths, finished with applewood sm...
10/10/2026

Meet the Velvet Curtain, our smoky agave Negroni.

Reposado, raicilla, Campari & two vermouths, finished with applewood smoked saline. Smoky. Bitter. Bold.

Negroni lovers, this is your sign. Tag your stirred-drink snob & book a table. 👇🏻

Make this the holiday party everyone shows up for.Candlelight, velvet curtains, shareable Middle Eastern-Mexican plates ...
10/09/2026

Make this the holiday party everyone shows up for.

Candlelight, velvet curtains, shareable Middle Eastern-Mexican plates & cocktails for the whole crew. Vela hosts holiday parties, team dinners & private events in River North.

Dates go fast, so slide into our inbox before your coworker books somewhere boring. Link in bio to inquire.

Happy hour just got a glow up. ✨Your 3pm meeting could have been an email. Your 3pm happy hour could be here.50% off coc...
10/08/2026

Happy hour just got a glow up. ✨

Your 3pm meeting could have been an email. Your 3pm happy hour could be here.

50% off cocktails | Tuesday through Friday, 3 to 6pm.

Tag who you’re bringing 👇

New cocktail menu, who dis?Saffron & mezcal, Scotch & beet, tequila & arak. Our new fall cocktails bring Mexican & Middl...
10/07/2026

New cocktail menu, who dis?

Saffron & mezcal, Scotch & beet, tequila & arak. Our new fall cocktails bring Mexican & Middle Eastern flavors to the bar in River North.

Pick your favorite in the comments, then come drink the whole lineup. We won’t judge. 😉

POV: your group chat finally made plans. 🍸 Cocktails at Vela, the Mediterranean-Mexican restaurant & bar in River North....
10/03/2026

POV: your group chat finally made plans. 🍸

Cocktails at Vela, the Mediterranean-Mexican restaurant & bar in River North. Something smoky, something sweet, something a little sexy.

Tag the friend who always says “one drink.” 👇🏻 We’ll save you a seat.

Make it a sexy weekend with Vela. Dinner and drinks in a seriously vibing atmosphere whether you sit at the bar, grab a ...
10/02/2026

Make it a sexy weekend with Vela.

Dinner and drinks in a seriously vibing atmosphere whether you sit at the bar, grab a cozy booth, or opt for the velvet curtained back tables - all with the candles being the mood setter. 🕯️

Tap the 🖤 button if you love the Vela vibe.

Make reservations for a tasty night out on River North- link in bio 🔗

Order for the table.We love having dishes that are built to enjoy with the table. Order 5-6 plates and sink into one of ...
10/01/2026

Order for the table.

We love having dishes that are built to enjoy with the table. Order 5-6 plates and sink into one of our cozy booths these Fall days are made for and enjoy.

Tag someone you know would share with you. 👇

Address

352 W Hubbard Street
Chicago, IL
60654

**Travel Directions to W Hubbard Street, Chicago**

**Public Transport:**
1. **Train:**
- Take the Blue Line or Brown Line to the "Chicago" station.
- Transfer to the 66 bus heading west and get off at the intersection of W Hubbard St and N Wells St.

2. **Bus:**
- You can take the 37 or 70 bus routes that stop near W Hubbard St. Check local schedules for exact stops and times.

3. **Walking:**
- If you are near downtown, W Hubbard St is easily accessible on foot from various locations in the River North area.

**Driving/Parking:**
1. **Directions:**
- If coming from the north, take I-90/I-94 south and exit at Ohio St. Head east to N Wells St, then turn left onto W Hubbard St.
- From the south, take I-90/I-94 north and exit at Division St. Head west until you reach N Wells St, then turn right onto W Hubbard St.

2. **Parking:**
- There are several parking garages nearby, including options on N Wells St and surrounding streets. Street parking may also be available but check for any restrictions or meters.

Make sure to check traffic conditions before your trip!

Opening Hours

Tuesday 3pm - 10pm
Wednesday 3pm - 10pm
Thursday 3pm - 10pm
Friday 3pm - 1:30am
Saturday 3pm - 1:30am

Telephone

+13128883465

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Vela posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Vela:

Share

Category

What people say

Vela, located on W Hubbard Street in Chicago, captures the vibrant essence of Mexico City through its culinary offerings and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is perfect for intimate gatherings, featuring a Private Dining Room (PDR) that accommodates up to 12 guests. This cozy space is ideal for hosting memorable dinner parties with a delightful family-style menu designed for larger groups.

Guests can unwind and enjoy happy hour, dinner, or late-night drinks in a warm and welcoming environment. One standout cocktail is the Carajillo de Olla, a unique blend of Licor 43, Cafe de Olla, and Orange Brulee that promises to elevate your weekend experience.

With its dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience and a commitment to quality service, Vela invites you to explore its rich flavors and vibrant ambiance. Whether you're planning a special event or simply looking for a place to relax with friends, Vela is sure to impress.