Chicago’s only Costa Rican restaurant remains popular after 3 decades in business [Video]

CHICAGO — Since his parents opened Irazu Restaurant 34 years ago, Henry Cerdas has noticed one thing about the patrons of the staple of Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood.

“Our diners always seem happy,” Cerdas said. “That’s because they know that after 34 years, we are consistently delicious.”

Irazu is also unique to the city. It’s the only Costa Rican restaurant in Chicago and a primary destination for those seeking authentic Central American cuisine.

Cerdas’ mother, Miriam, is the driving force behind Irazu. Back in 1991, Miriam Cerdas and her husband, Gerardo, were recent transplants to Chicago, coming to the city from Costa Rica with their three children.

She noticed an empty building at 1865 N. Milwaukee Ave., and immediately envisioned something grand for her and her family.

“There was a ‘for sale’ sign for this building, and she insisted, says, ‘I want to open up a business here,'” Henry Cerdas recalled. “My dad …