Big Star

Yesterday I dined at Big Star for lunch. Big Star is a relatively new fast casual Mexican hot spot in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood (1531 N. Damen). It’s owned and operated by a group of Chicago restauranteurs (including Paul Kahan of Avec, Blackbird, and The Publican). Big Star is inside of an old gas station, still complete with large, metal garage doors. Inside is a wrap-around bar, stocking plenty of high end beer, whiskey, and tequila, with stools and booths surrounding. There’s also a quick service window where customers can walk up and order food to go. What kind of food does Big Star serve you ask? Tacos and tostadas.

The menu is very limited, and also deceivingly cheap at first. Available are a variety of tacos and tostadas with lamb, pork belly, fish, and chicken and topped with anything from pineapple to radishes. Each of the tacos and tostadas are priced at $4 or less, however they are quite small. I would suggest ordering at least 3-4 items, which can put your total well over $15/person, not including beer or cocktails. The food is quite good however. I had both chicken and pork belly tacos as well as a mouthwatering fish tostada. Our group also ordered the Queso Fundito, a small casserole dish of bubbling cheese, roasted poblanos, and chorizo served with warm tortillas.

Big Star is ideologically similar to Urban Belly (Big name chef opens small, fast casual dining spot), although I think the food at Urban Belly is far more unique and mind-blowing. Nevertheless, Big Star is an eclectic place to grab a quick taco and a beer. Although I have yet to go in the late evening, I imagine they get extremely busy as they transition from restaurant to full-on bar.

Big Star, 1531 N. Damen Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622. Opens at 11:30 AM everyday.
Big Star does not have an official website, but they do have a blog!

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