Paladar

It makes sense that Jose Gonzalez named his restaurant after Cuban paladares (private restaurants often run out of people’s homes): This Logan Square spot has a surplus of warmth and homeyness. The sign outside calls Paladar a rum bar, and you’d do well to start your meal with the “premium” mojito, which has a deeper, more distinctive flavor from fresh sugarcane juice. But though there’s a designated bar area up front, Paladar is more an easy, quiet restaurant, where standard appetizers (empanadas, tamales) make way for standout main courses, like rich, comforting ropa vieja accompanied by sweet plantains and tender rice.