Big Star Chicago: Your Ultimate Guide to Tacos, Whiskey & Tunes!

Welcome to the vibrant, energetic world of Big Star Chicago, a culinary gem that has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination in the city’s bustling food scene. Nestled in the heart of Wicker Park at 1531 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, this iconic eatery is celebrated for its delectable tacos, an impressive selection of over 100 whiskeys, and an undeniably cool, honky-tonk inspired ambiance. From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a lively atmosphere, complete with an eclectic soundtrack of country and rockabilly tunes that perfectly complements the rustic-chic decor. It’s the kind of place where conversations flow as freely as the margaritas, and every visit feels like a mini-vacation to a spirited cantina. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, a casual dinner with friends, or a late-night bite, Big Star offers an experience that’s as memorable as its mouth-watering menu.

The restaurant boasts generous operating hours to cater to all your cravings:
* Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
* Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
* Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
* Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM

For any inquiries or to simply connect with them, you can reach Big Star Chicago at (773) 235-4040 or visit their official website for the latest updates and special events. They are always ready to welcome you to their lively establishment, making sure your experience is nothing short of fantastic. Prepare to immerse yourself in a true Chicago culinary institution!

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Menu Highlights: A Culinary Journey Through Big Star Chicago’s Best

Big Star Chicago’s menu is a carefully curated masterpiece, showcasing authentic Mexican street food flavors with a contemporary twist. Each dish is crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, promising a taste adventure that keeps patrons coming back for more. Let’s dive deep into the diverse offerings, from their legendary tacos to irresistible sides and refreshing beverages.

The Tacos: A Symphony of Flavors on a Tortilla

The undisputed stars of the Big Star Chicago show are, without a doubt, their tacos. Each one is a small, perfectly constructed package of flavor, presented on soft, house-made tortillas. The variety is impressive, catering to every palate, from the meat lover to the vegetarian. These aren’t just tacos; they are an experience, a culmination of culinary tradition and innovative flair. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey.

Taco al Pastor: Marinated pork shoulder, grilled pineapple, onion, cilantro. A classic, sweet, savory, and incredibly juicy combination. This timeless delight features succulent pork slow-cooked to perfection, absorbing a rich, aromatic marinade. The vibrant acidity of the fresh pineapple slices cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious balance, while the finely diced onion and fresh cilantro provide a refreshing finish, making each bite an authentic street food experience.
Taco de Carne Asada: Grilled skirt steak, onion, cilantro, lime. Robust, smoky, and wonderfully tender beef. This taco delivers a powerful punch of flavor from perfectly seared skirt steak, achieving that coveted char and tenderness. Served simply with finely chopped white onion and a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro, it relies on the quality of its ingredients. A squeeze of fresh lime juice elevates every element, making it a firm favorite for meat enthusiasts seeking bold, unadulterated taste.
Taco Pescado: Crispy beer-battered cod, chipotle aioli, cabbage slaw. Flaky, light, and perfectly balanced seafood sensation. A true standout, this fish taco boasts a generous piece of wild-caught cod, encased in a light, golden beer batter, fried to crispy perfection. It’s nestled on a bed of vibrant, crunchy cabbage slaw, offering a textural contrast, and finished with a creamy, subtly spicy chipotle aioli that ties all the flavors together beautifully, creating a refreshing coastal experience.
Taco de Pollo: Achiote-marinated chicken, avocado, pickled onion. Tender, zesty, and delightfully creamy poultry taco. Featuring tender pieces of chicken breast or thigh, marinated in a fragrant achiote paste, this taco offers a subtle earthy sweetness. The richness of fresh, sliced avocado provides a luxurious creaminess, perfectly balanced by the sharp, tangy bite of pickled red onions. It’s a beautifully layered taco, offering both comfort and a burst of bright, clean flavors.
Taco Vegetales: Roasted seasonal vegetables, black beans, cotija cheese. Earthy, wholesome, and surprisingly satisfying vegetarian option. This thoughtful creation showcases the bounty of the season with expertly roasted vegetables—think bell peppers, zucchini, and corn—caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness. Paired with hearty black beans for substance and a sprinkle of salty cotija cheese, it proves that vegetarian options at Big Star Chicago are anything but an afterthought, bursting with garden-fresh goodness.
Taco de Rajas: Roasted poblano peppers, corn, crema, queso fresco. Smoky, creamy, and mildly spicy vegetarian dream. This delightful vegetarian taco brings together the smoky depth of roasted poblano peppers with the sweet pop of fresh corn kernels. A drizzle of rich, cooling crema and crumbled queso fresco provides a creamy, tangy contrast that perfectly balances the subtle heat of the peppers, offering a comforting and profoundly satisfying flavor profile for Big Star Chicago visitors.
Taco de Papas: Crispy potato, chipotle salsa, crema. Simple, comforting, and wonderfully textured potato taco. A surprisingly popular choice, this taco features perfectly crispy fried potato cubes, offering a satisfying crunch and starchy comfort. It’s generously drizzled with a smoky chipotle salsa that adds a gentle warmth and complex flavor, beautifully mellowed by a dollop of cooling crema, making it an unexpectedly addictive and hearty Big Star Chicago staple.
Chorizo & Papa Taco: Mexican chorizo, potato, onion, cilantro. Savory, spicy, and perfectly seasoned breakfast or anytime bite. A robust and flavorful option, this taco combines crumbled, spicy Mexican chorizo with tender diced potatoes, creating a wonderfully hearty and satisfying filling. The savory, slightly fiery notes of the chorizo are perfectly complemented by the simple freshness of chopped onion and cilantro, making it a powerful and popular choice at Big Star Chicago.
Carnitas Taco: Slow-braised pork, cracklings, salsa verde. Rich, tender, and irresistibly crispy pork taco. A true testament to classic Mexican cuisine, this taco features pork that has been slow-braised until incredibly tender, then crisped up to achieve delightful, fatty “cracklings.” Drizzled with vibrant, tangy salsa verde, it’s a masterclass in contrasting textures and flavors, offering a deeply satisfying and authentic experience for any Big Star Chicago diner.
Taco de Chilorio: Shredded pork, chile sauce, pickled onions. Rich, complex, and subtly spiced slow-cooked pork. This taco showcases succulent shredded pork, slow-cooked in a rich, deeply flavorful chile sauce that imbues every strand with an intense savory depth. The sweetness and tang of pickled red onions cut through the richness beautifully, adding a bright counterpoint that makes this a sophisticated and profoundly satisfying choice on the Big Star Chicago menu.
Taco de Huitlacoche: Corn truffle, poblano, cotija cheese. Earthy, unique, and surprisingly gourmet mushroom delicacy. For the adventurous palate, this taco features the distinct, earthy flavor of huitlacoche (Mexican corn truffle), sautéed with roasted poblano peppers for a smoky warmth. A sprinkle of salty cotija cheese adds a creamy, savory finish, creating a truly unique and sophisticated vegetarian option that stands out at Big Star Chicago.
Taco de Hongos: Sautéed mushrooms, epazote, queso fresco. Umami-rich, aromatic, and delightfully simple mushroom taco. This vegetarian option celebrates the humble mushroom, sautéed to perfection with fragrant epazote, an herb known for its unique, slightly anise-like flavor. Crumbled queso fresco adds a creamy, salty touch, enhancing the natural earthiness of the mushrooms and making it a comforting yet refined choice at Big Star Chicago.
Taco de Nopales: Cactus paddle, pico de gallo, queso fresco. Tangy, fresh, and uniquely textured vegetarian treat. For those seeking something distinctive, this taco features tender, slightly tangy grilled nopales (cactus paddles), which offer a unique texture reminiscent of green beans. Paired with a vibrant pico de gallo for freshness and a sprinkle of salty queso fresco, it’s a refreshing and authentically Mexican vegetarian option at Big Star Chicago.
Taco de Calabacitas: Zucchini, corn, onion, crema. Light, sweet, and seasonally fresh vegetable blend. This delightful vegetarian taco brings together the delicate sweetness of zucchini and corn, sautéed with tender onions. A generous drizzle of cooling crema provides a rich, creamy contrast, making this a light yet satisfying option that highlights fresh, seasonal produce, perfect for a lighter bite at Big Star Chicago.
Taco de Lengua: Slow-cooked beef tongue, salsa roja, onion, cilantro. Melt-in-your-mouth tender, rich, and deeply flavorful. For the connoisseur, this taco features incredibly tender beef tongue, slow-cooked to an exquisite softness that practically melts in your mouth. Served with a vibrant, robust salsa roja, finely diced onion, and fresh cilantro, it’s a traditional and deeply satisfying option for those seeking authentic, rich flavors at Big Star Chicago.
Taco Suadero: Confit beef, avocado crema, salsa macha. Crispy-edged, succulent, and intensely flavorful beef confit. A lesser-known but equally delicious cut, suadero is slow-cooked in its own fat until exquisitely tender, then often crisped on the plancha. Paired with a cooling avocado crema and a spicy, nutty salsa macha, this taco offers a complex interplay of textures and bold flavors, making it a standout at Big Star Chicago.
Taco de Pato: Duck confit, pickled cherry, habanero crema. Decadent, sweet, and subtly spicy gourmet experience. This elevated taco features rich, succulent duck confit, its savory depth beautifully complemented by the sweet and tart burst of pickled cherries. A delicate drizzle of habanero crema adds a gentle, lingering heat, making this a sophisticated and truly indulgent option for a special culinary moment at Big Star Chicago.

Starters & Sides: The Perfect Companions

No taco feast is complete without an array of flavorful starters and sides. Big Star Chicago takes these accompaniments just as seriously as their main dishes, ensuring every bite contributes to a holistic and satisfying meal. These dishes are perfect for sharing, encouraging conversation and communal dining, and perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of the tacos.

Guacamole & Chips: Fresh avocado, lime, onion, cilantro. Creamy, zesty, and utterly addictive house-made classic. Prepared fresh throughout the day, this iconic starter features perfectly ripe avocados mashed with just the right amount of lime, red onion, and cilantro. Served with a generous portion of warm, crispy tortilla chips, it’s the quintessential appetizer, bright, flavorful, and irresistibly dippable, a Big Star Chicago must-have.
Queso Fundido: Melted Oaxacan cheese, chorizo, poblano. Gooey, rich, and wonderfully savory cheesy delight. This comforting dish features a bubbling skillet of melted Oaxacan cheese, renowned for its stringy texture and mild flavor. It’s often studded with spicy chorizo and smoky poblano peppers, creating an irresistible, savory dip best scooped up with warm tortillas, making it a communal favorite at Big Star Chicago.
Esquites: Grilled corn, chipotle mayo, cotija cheese. Sweet, smoky, and vibrantly flavorful street corn in a cup. This delightful side showcases perfectly grilled corn kernels, lending a smoky char and natural sweetness. It’s tossed in a creamy, tangy chipotle mayonnaise and generously sprinkled with crumbly cotija cheese, adding a salty, savory depth. Served in a cup, it’s a convenient and highly addictive treat at Big Star Chicago.
Nachos: Crispy chips, queso, beans, jalapeños, crema. Ultimate comfort food, loaded with savory toppings. A generous platter of crispy tortilla chips forms the base for a mountain of deliciousness. Layered with melted queso, hearty black beans, vibrant pico de gallo, spicy jalapeños, and a cooling drizzle of crema, these nachos are perfect for sharing and pack a punch of flavor and texture, a Big Star Chicago crowd-pleaser.
Frijoles Charros: Smoky pinto beans, bacon, chorizo. Hearty, rich, and deeply flavorful stewed beans. More than just a side, these “cowboy beans” are a robust stew of pinto beans simmered with smoky bacon, spicy chorizo, and aromatic vegetables. The result is a deeply savory, slightly spicy, and incredibly comforting dish that adds a substantial and traditional element to any meal at Big Star Chicago.
Salsa Trio: Three distinct house-made salsas with chips. Diverse, fresh, and perfectly spiced dipping experience. This offering provides a wonderful opportunity to explore Big Star Chicago’s expertly crafted salsas. Typically featuring a mild, a medium, and a spicy option, each salsa offers a unique flavor profile—from vibrant and fresh to smoky and fiery—served with an ample basket of crispy tortilla chips for endless dipping enjoyment.
Arroz Rojo: Mexican red rice, peas, carrots. Fluffy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned side dish. A staple in Mexican cuisine, Big Star Chicago’s arroz rojo is cooked to fluffy perfection, infused with a rich tomato base and subtle spices. Studded with tender peas and carrots, it’s a comforting and versatile side that beautifully complements any taco or main dish, adding a touch of authentic warmth to your meal.

Desserts: A Sweet Ending

After a feast of savory tacos and flavorful sides, Big Star Chicago offers a few sweet treats to perfectly round off your dining experience. These desserts are designed to be comforting and satisfying, providing a delightful contrast to the vibrant spice and zest of the main courses.

Churros: Crispy fried dough, cinnamon sugar, chocolate sauce. Warm, sweet, and perfectly crunchy fried delight. These classic Mexican doughnuts are fried until golden and crisp, then generously coated in a shimmering mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Served warm with a side of rich, decadent chocolate dipping sauce, they are an irresistible sweet indulgence that provides a comforting and familiar end to your Big Star Chicago meal.
Tres Leches Cake: Milk-soaked sponge cake, whipped cream, berries. Moist, sweet, and incredibly light and airy. This beloved Latin American dessert features a delicate sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk—evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream—resulting in an incredibly moist and flavorful treat. Topped with a cloud of light whipped cream and fresh seasonal berries, it’s a sweet, ethereal finish at Big Star Chicago.

Beverages: From Zesty Margaritas to Smooth Whiskeys

Big Star Chicago is as famous for its drinks as it is for its food. The bar boasts an incredible selection, making it a popular spot for both cocktail aficionados and whiskey connoisseurs.

Big Star Margarita: Tequila, lime, orange liqueur. Classic, refreshing, and perfectly balanced signature cocktail. This is the cornerstone of Big Star’s beverage program, a perfectly executed classic margarita. Using high-quality tequila, fresh-squeezed lime juice, and a premium orange liqueur, it strikes an ideal balance between tart, sweet, and strong. It’s effortlessly refreshing and notoriously potent, making it a beloved choice for any Big Star Chicago visitor.
Whiskey Selection: Over 100 varieties of bourbon, rye, scotch. Extensive, curated, and exceptional spirits collection. Big Star Chicago prides itself on its truly impressive whiskey list, featuring a diverse array of bourbons, ryes, single malts, and international selections. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your whiskey journey, there’s a pour for every preference, served neat, on the rocks, or in expertly crafted cocktails, solidifying Big Star Chicago’s reputation.
Paloma: Tequila, grapefruit soda, lime. Bubbly, tart, and incredibly refreshing tequila highball. Often considered Mexico’s most popular cocktail, the Paloma is a lighter, effervescent alternative to the margarita. Combining quality tequila with crisp grapefruit soda and a splash of fresh lime juice, it’s a bright, effervescent, and incredibly thirst-quenching drink, perfect for a sunny day or a lively evening at Big Star Chicago.
Seasonal Aguas Frescas: Fresh fruit, water, sugar. Light, natural, and wonderfully hydrating non-alcoholic option. For those seeking a refreshing, non-alcoholic option, Big Star Chicago offers a rotating selection of house-made aguas frescas. These light, fruit-infused waters are simply made with fresh fruit, water, and a touch of sugar, offering natural sweetness and hydration, with flavors changing seasonally to reflect the freshest produce available.

Beyond the phenomenal menu, Big Star Chicago captivates with its rustic-chic interior, embodying a relaxed, yet vibrant honky-tonk atmosphere. Exposed brick, dark wood, and vintage country music posters adorn the walls, creating a cozy and inviting space that feels authentically lived-in. The service is consistently friendly and efficient, adding to the overall welcoming vibe without feeling rushed. Pricing is generally moderate, offering excellent value for the quality and portion sizes, making it accessible for a wide range of diners. The energy is always high, with a bustling bar and a lively dining room, fostering a celebratory and social environment that’s perfect for groups or a casual night out, truly capturing the essence of a lively Chicago spot.

Conclusion: Big Star Chicago – A Wicker Park Icon Not to Be Missed

Big Star Chicago truly stands out as a culinary cornerstone in Wicker Park, delivering an experience that’s as rich and flavorful as its menu. From the moment you walk through its doors, you’re greeted by an infectious energy, a soundtrack of classic country, and the irresistible aroma of sizzling tacos. While every dish is a winner, the Taco al Pastor with its perfectly marinated pork and pineapple, and the crispy, delicate Taco Pescado with its zesty chipotle aioli, are perennial crowd-pleasers that perfectly encapsulate the restaurant’s culinary prowess. The Guacamole & Chips and the creamy Esquites are also absolute must-tries, setting the stage for a memorable meal.

This is the perfect spot for almost anyone: foodies seeking authentic yet elevated Mexican street food, friends looking for a lively place to catch up over delicious cocktails, whiskey enthusiasts eager to explore an extensive collection, or even families enjoying a vibrant meal out. Big Star excels at creating a communal, celebratory atmosphere where good food and good times effortlessly converge. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a Chicago institution that consistently delivers on taste, ambiance, and service. In short, Big Star Chicago is a vibrant, delicious, and utterly essential stop on any Chicago dining adventure – don’t miss it!

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