Mirra

The story

Mirra Chicago – Indian-Mexican Fusion Restaurant, Bib Gourmand | Chicago, IL

Mirra: A Bold Fusion of Cultures in Chicago

On West Armitage Avenue in Chicago, Mirra brings together two vibrant culinary traditions: Indian and Mexican. The restaurant’s name itself hints at this cultural fusion, a theme that runs through every dish, drink, and detail of the space. The team, led by Chefs Zubair Mohajir and Rishi Kumar alongside Bartender David Mor, has created a warm, cozy environment that matches the boldness of its food and beverage program.

Chef Rishi Kumar’s path to Mirra is a story of cross-continental discovery. Growing up in Singapore, he first encountered Mexican cuisine at a local restaurant and later trained in southern France and Singapore under Michelin-starred chefs. After moving to the U.S., he joined Rick Bayless’s Frontera Grill, rising through the ranks at Topolobampo and helping the team earn a James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant. Chef Zubair Mohajir, a multiple James Beard Award nominee, brings his own boundary-pushing perspective. Born in Chennai, raised in Doha, and now based in Chicago, he made his mark with Wazwan Supper Club before launching concepts like Lilac Tiger and Coach House. At Mirra, both chefs channel their deep knowledge into a menu that feels both inventive and grounded.

The dinner menu showcases this Indian-Mexican fusion with dishes like the Mirra Mezze, a platter of housemade achar, salsa tatemado, sikil pak, and guacamole served with tlayudas and papads. The Carne Apache Papad Tostada features prime tenderloin tartare with curry leaves adobo and peanut salsa macha, while the Lamb Barbacoa Biryani arrives with a roti seal. Brunch offers its own surprises, from Chilaquiles Rojos made with red chile tomato masala to a Vada Pav Breakfast Sandwich with Westholme Wagyu beef bacon. The beverage program, overseen by David Mor—named Hospitality Innovator by Chicago Magazine—is equally intentional, with cocktails like the Marg No. 5 (blanco tequila, jasmine cachaça, tepache) and a wine list that highlights producers from Mexico, India, and beyond.

Mirra’s recognition with a Michelin Bib Gourmand speaks to its commitment to quality and value. It’s a place where the cooking is confident, the hospitality is genuine, and the flavors tell a story that spans two continents.