0 Followers
Big Star - Wicker Park
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
Big Star - Wicker Park
8.5
Big Star turns Wicker Park’s Damen and North corner into a taco-and-bourbon patio party, with al pastor and pork belly tacos backed by a deep whiskey list. Huge review volume and constant crowds make it one of the city’s most visible modern taquerias, especially for outdoor season and late nights. It’s less about quiet meals and more about tacos, pitchers, and people-watching in a high-energy setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Taco, Pork Belly Taco, Beer-Battered Fish Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A high-energy taco-and-bourbon patio that defined modern Wicker Park hangs.
Who should go: Friends prioritizing tacos, drinks, and a busy patio scene.
When to visit: Warm evenings or weekend afternoons for peak patio energy.
What to order: Al pastor taco, pork belly taco, fish taco.
Insider tip: Arrive early on nice-weather days to lock down patio seating before the lines and long waits kick in.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Wicker Park is limited and metered; expect to circle or use nearby paid lots on busy nights.
Dress code: Casual and trendy — jeans, sneakers, and relaxed weekend wear all fit the scene.
Noise level: Loud — conversation can be tough during peak patio and late-night hours.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes is common without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though outdoor season can still get busy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several taco and sides options can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — a small number of items may be vegan or adjustable with modifications.
Gluten-free options: Some tacos can be gluten-friendly when requested on corn tortillas, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something lively and casual — the energy and noise level are better for fun hangs than deep conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a wait during prime patio and evening hours. Arriving early or off-peak helps a lot.
Is it kid-friendly? During the day, yes — families do come. Evenings skew adult-centric with a bar-heavy crowd and louder vibe.
Best For
Better for: Large groups, patio hangs, whiskey lovers, and social taco nights with music and drinks.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, white-tablecloth dining, or short waits during peak hours.
Big Star - Wicker Park
8.7
Big Star is Wicker Park’s honky-tonk taco bar where al pastor, pitchers of margaritas, and a sprawling patio make it a go-to for groups. Locals use it for long afternoons and late nights built around tacos, whiskey, and loud country playlists rather than quiet dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco Al Pastor, Carne Asada Taco, Queso Fundido
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: High-volume taco bar with a massive patio and late-night energy.
Who should go: Groups who want tacos, pitchers, and a loud patio scene.
When to visit: Warm evenings and weekends for peak patio and bar buzz.
What to order: Taco Al Pastor, Carne Asada Taco, Queso Fundido to share.
Insider tip: Go early or off-peak if you want a patio table without long waits.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only in Wicker Park; metered spots are limited and hard to find during peak hours. Rideshare is common.
Dress code: Casual — patio-friendly outfits, jeans, and sneakers are totally fine.
Noise level: Loud — music and patio chatter make conversation tough during peak times.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes is common, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, except on especially nice weather days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — there are a few tacos and sides that work for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — some items can be modified, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Several tacos are naturally gluten-free, but the kitchen is not a dedicated GF environment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for lively, casual dates than intimate conversation — expect loud music and a party vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — Big Star primarily runs on walk-ins. Expect a wait during peak times, especially for patio tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Earlier hours can work for families, but the vibe shifts to adult-focused drinking and nightlife as the evening goes on.
Best For
Better for: Large patios, tacos with bold flavors, margarita pitchers, and all-day group hangs.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, fine-dining service, or a deep taco-traditionalist experience.
Big Star - Wicker Park
8.5
Big Star is a Wicker Park institution for al pastor and classic tacos served on a sprawling, always-busy patio. Locals use it as an easy outdoor hang for margaritas, whiskey, and tacos that work as well for day drinking as for late-night snack runs.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor taco, Camarones Fritos shrimp taco, Big Star Nachos
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Taco-focused patio with constant energy and strong drinks.
Who should go: Groups and friends chasing lively taco-and-margarita nights.
When to visit: Late afternoons into golden hour before peak waits.
What to order: Al Pastor tacos, Camarones Fritos, Big Star Nachos.
Insider tip: Lines move faster at off-peak hours; patio seats go first on nice days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; it can be tough during evenings and weekends, so rideshare is common.
Dress code: Casual and patio-friendly — jeans, tees, and sneakers are the norm.
Noise level: Lively to loud, especially on the patio during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes during prime patio weather.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tacos and sides can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — a small number of items may be adaptable but choices are minimal.
Gluten-free options: Some options are naturally gluten-friendly (corn tortillas), but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want casual, lively energy and outdoor seating — less ideal if you’re hoping for quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive early or during off-peak times for the shortest wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes during the daytime, especially outdoors, though the scene becomes more adult-focused at night.
Best For
Better for: Large patios, casual taco runs, day drinking, and energetic group hangs.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, extensive vegan options, or a reservation-based experience.
Big Star - Wicker Park
8.6
Big Star is a Wicker Park staple for honky-tonk energy, whiskey, and tacos eaten at picnic tables on a sprawling corner patio. Locals use it as a dog-friendly hangout where you can linger over queso fundido, al pastor, and margaritas while the neighborhood buzzes around you.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco Al Pastor, Queso Fundido, Taco De Pescado
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: High-volume taco and whiskey patio that anchors Wicker Park summers.
Who should go: Groups who want tacos, whiskey, and a lively patio.
When to visit: Warm evenings and sunny weekends before peak waits.
What to order: Taco Al Pastor, Queso Fundido, chips with guacamole.
Insider tip: Grab patio seats early; the prime dog-friendly tables go first.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Wicker Park can be limited, especially evenings and weekends; allow extra time or consider rideshare.
Dress code: Casual and laid-back — patio clothes, jeans, and sneakers are totally fine.
Noise level: Loud during peak hours — conversation can be challenging at busy times, especially outdoors.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes or more for patio tables during peak season.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though the patio can still fill on sunny days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several taco and appetizer options are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — possible to customize, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are gluten-friendly, but the kitchen is not a dedicated gluten-free facility.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something casual, busy, and social. It’s less ideal if you’re hoping for quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive early on nice days to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during the daytime and early evening, especially on the patio. Late-night hours skew more adult-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Large, lively patio hangs with tacos, margaritas, and a dog-friendly outdoor vibe.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, upscale service, or a reservation-based experience.
Big Star - Wicker Park
8.8
Big Star is Wicker Park’s late-night taco-and-whiskey staple, pairing honky-tonk energy with a tight menu of tacos, queso, and bourbon shots. On warm nights the massive patio turns into a packed scene of groups sharing trays of al pastor and margs until the kitchen winds down.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Taco, Panza Taco, Queso Fundido
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.1
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Iconic Wicker Park tacos and bourbon poured in a rowdy, patio-driven setting.
Who should go: Groups chasing tacos, tequila, and a loud late-night patio.
When to visit: Late evening Fridays and Saturdays once the patio really fills.
What to order: Al pastor taco, panza taco, queso fundido with chips.
Insider tip: Order food at the window first—then settle in with drinks so you’re not waiting hungry.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only and it’s tough most evenings; expect to circle or use nearby paid garages.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, tees, and sneakers are the norm.
Noise level: Loud, especially late night and on weekends — conversation can be tough inside and on the patio.
Weekend wait: 30–90 minutes depending on weather and patio demand (walk-in only).
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or a short line when the patio isn’t busy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — a few tacos and sides can be made meat-free.
Vegan options: Limited — some items can be adapted but expect fewer choices.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are gluten-free, but the kitchen is not a dedicated gluten-free environment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want high energy and casual vibes — it’s more loud-party taco spot than intimate conversation place.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — Big Star is walk-in only, so arrive early or be ready to wait, especially when the patio is open.
Is it kid-friendly? Daytime and early evening can work for families, but late night gets very loud and bar-focused — best for older teens and up.
Best For
Better for: Late-night tacos, whiskey, and big-group patio hangs with a lively crowd.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, intimate conversation, or extensive vegetarian/vegan options.
Big Star - Wicker Park
8.3
Big Star is a bourbon- and beer-focused honky-tonk taqueria in a converted gas station, known for griddled tortillas, classic tacos, and a sprawling patio that stays busy late into the night. Locals use it as a Wicker Park standby for post-bar tacos, margaritas, and loud, high-energy hangs.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco Al Pastor, Taco De Papas Con Rajas, Taco De Pescado
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Late-night Wicker Park patio tacos with a honky-tonk bar energy.
Who should go: Groups craving tacos, drinks, and a loud patio scene.
When to visit: Weekend nights after 9pm when the patio is buzzing.
What to order: Taco Al Pastor, Taco De Papas Con Rajas, Taco De Pescado.
Insider tip: On warm weekends, expect a wait and build extra time into your plans.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only and it can be tough at night — allow extra time or use rideshare.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, hoodies, and sneakers are totally fine.
Noise level: Loud — conversation can be challenging during peak late-night hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes or more during peak patio and late-night rush.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or short wait when open earlier in the day.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple options including the papas taco and sides.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications, but not the restaurant’s focus.
Gluten-free options: Some tacos are naturally gluten-friendly, but tortillas are not explicitly handled in a dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great if you want a fun, high-energy taco and margarita spot. Not ideal if you want quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s primarily walk-in friendly, but expect waits on warm weekends and late nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Earlier in the day, yes — casual, loud, and patio-friendly. Late at night it skews more adult bar-scene.
Best For
Better for: Large-group taco hangs, patio energy, and late-night drinks in the heart of Wicker Park.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, fast seating during peak hours, or highly traditional regional Mexican cooking.
Big Star - Wicker Park
8.6
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Group Dining Gatherings
Happy Hour Hotspots
Trendy Table Hotspots
Big Star’s original Wicker Park outpost is a sprawling patio-driven taqueria and whiskey bar where happy hour means margaritas, classic tacos, and a constant buzz of after-work energy. Locals lean on it for al pastor, patio seating, and a drinks-first vibe that flows straight into the evening.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor taco, Walking Taco Frito pie, Crispy pork belly taco
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: High-volume taco patio where drinks and crowd energy define happy hour.
Who should go: Groups who want tacos, tequila, and a loud patio.
When to visit: Weekday late afternoon before peak dinner crush hits.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, Walking Taco, classic margarita.
Insider tip: Grab bar seats inside on packed patio days for faster drinks.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking nearby can be limited, especially evenings and weekends. Expect to circle or use a nearby paid lot.
Dress code: Casual. Patio-friendly outfits and jeans are totally fine.
Noise level: Loud during peak hours with music and patio chatter — conversations may require raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes is common during nice-weather patio season.
Weekday lunch: Often little to no wait, except on especially sunny days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tacos and sides can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — there may be 1–2 vegan-friendly options depending on menu rotation.
Gluten-free options: Some tacos can be gluten-friendly when served on corn tortillas, but always check with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or social dates than intimate ones — the energy is fun and lively, not quiet or romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — most seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive early for the patio to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Daytime and early evenings can work for families, but it skews bar-heavy and loud later at night.
Best For
Better for: Large patios, margaritas, and high-energy group hangs — especially during happy hour weather days.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, elevated service, or a deeply food-focused taco experience.
Big Star - Wicker Park
8.7
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Group Dining Gatherings
Happy Hour Hotspots
Trendy Table Hotspots
Big Star’s original Wicker Park outpost is a high-volume taco and whiskey bar where happy hour means al pastor, margaritas, and a constantly packed patio. Locals treat it as a default meet-up spot before concerts or nights out, especially when the early-evening drink and snack deals are running.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor taco, Pescado fish taco, Camarones Fritos shrimp taco
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Crowded Division and Damen patio where tacos, whiskey, and happy hour collide.
Who should go: Groups wanting buzzy tacos-and-margs happy hour energy.
When to visit: Weekday late afternoon before peak patio crush.
What to order: Al Pastor taco, Pescado fish taco, a classic margarita.
Insider tip: Head for bar seats inside on slammed patio nights to get faster rounds.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots around Damen & Division fill up quickly, especially evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, tees, and sneakers are totally normal.
Noise level: Loud during peak times, especially on the patio — expect raised-voice conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes during prime patio season.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, except on sunny days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tacos and sides can be made or ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — you’ll find a couple viable options but it’s not a vegan-focused menu.
Gluten-free options: Some tacos are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is likely in a high-volume kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a lively, casual vibe. It’s less ideal for intimate conversation since the patio gets loud.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — most seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive early for the shortest waits, especially on sunny afternoons.
Is it kid-friendly? During the day, yes — it’s casual and open-air. Evenings get crowded and loud, so earlier hours are best for families.
Best For
Better for: Large patios, margarita-centric happy hours, and buzzy group energy.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, white-tablecloth service, or extensive vegan/gluten-free options.