About Us

Our Story

The name “El Tapeo” originates from southern Spanish local slang “Vamos de tapeo” which translates as, “Let’s go for tapas." El Tapeo offers a menu of Spanish tapas with small plates and main courses for sharing “family style." The lounge offers the same menu "tapas style" small plates to share. Located on the 9th floor of Le Méridien Chicago – Oakbrook Center, guests can indulge in handcrafted cocktails, signature Sangria or fine wines and champagnes.

Meet Chef Emely Medina

Chef Emely Medina’s culinary journey is rooted in passion, perseverance, and family. Born in the Dominican Republic, she began cooking at just nine years old with, her mother, learning to support her family as the oldest of three siblings. She later studied culinary arts in the Dominican Republic before moving to the United States in 2017.

Inspired by Chef Gordon Ramsay, Emely developed her creative and bold cooking style through his cookbooks and television shows. She joined El Tapeo in 2021 as a cook, was promoted to Sous Chef in 2024, and became Executive Chef in October 2025.

Chef Emely describes the El Tapeo menu as elegant, flavorful, contemporary, and robust. She enjoys working with halibut and lamb for their unique qualities. Her favorite dish on the menu is the Ternera a La Brasa, a hanger steak with confit potatoes, spinach, and garlic demi sauce.

Outside the kitchen, she enjoys volleyball, country music, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with her dog, Peanut.

Hours

Breakfast

Monday - Friday 6:30AM - 11:00AM

Saturday + Sunday 7:00AM - 11:00AM

Bar

Monday - Thursday 4:00PM - 10:30PM

Friday + Saturday 4:00PM - 11:00PM

Closed Sunday

Dinner

Monday - Thursday 5:00PM - 10:00PM

Friday + Saturday 5:00PM - 10:30PM