Chicago's Latin Restaurant Weeks is back, showcasing the best in Latin American cuisine.

Co-founder of Latin Restaurant Weeks, Karinn Chavarria-Luckett, said the event is a way to share the stories and contributions of Latin cuisine and display the city's diversity.

"It's a really great way to give these small to medium-sized businesses an opportunity to shine," she said.

This year, fewer places are participating as restaurants feel the impact of increased immigration enforcement.

Chavarria-Luckett said from her perspective, the concerns over immigration have impacted restaurants and their owners.

"They've definitely had an impact in the way they want to operate and be seen, but I don't think that's the whole story," she said.

She adds, "There's a lot of fear and anxiety in these communities, but I think restaurants are facing a lot of challenges right now, also heard of the higher food costs, staffing shortages, and rent increases, and those pressures on top of the immigration is just making it harder to participate, and really shifting their priorities to try and stay afloat and try to stay open."

Despite those concerns, she is encouraging people to attend, as it can be a means of keeping the businesses open.

"Just putting the spotlight on these restaurants, letting them know that they're here, and they really want community support, and they have something great to offer," Chavarria-Luckett said.

The weeks have seen a 20% increase in foot traffic and an uptick in social media followings, according to Chavarria-Luckett.  

Some participants this year include Birrieria Ocotlan, Irazu Costa Rican, and El Nuevo Mexicano.

Latin Restaurant Weeks run until Aug. 29. More information about the event can be found at latinrestaurantweeks.com.