📍 1531 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, USA
Weighted rating from:
Google: 4.4 • TripAdvisor: 4.5
Score calculated from online mentions, review sentiment, and dining indicators across Chicago. Trust this score to find where to eat, drink, and dine in Chicago.
Based on verified guest experiences

Big Star is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Wicker Park, Chicago, known for its lively atmosphere and delicious street-style tacos. With a friendly and attentive staff, diners can expect a warm welcome and quick service, making it a perfect spot for casual meals with friends or family. The patio is particularly popular, offering a great outdoor experience, especially when the weather is nice. Guests rave about the unique menu items and the fun, laid-back vibe reminiscent of Austin, Texas. Whether you're stopping by for brunch or a late-night bite, Big Star promises an enjoyable dining experience filled with flavor and fun.
Google: 4.4 (4145 reviews)
TripAdvisor: 4.5 (438 reviews)
Pretty good tacos but not great. Fantastic ambiance when the weather is warm enough to sit in the patio. Our tacos came out suspiciously quick which probably meant they were mostly ready in the back and just plated to order. Don’t have a problem with that but they were served lukewarm warm and got cold quickly. Our server was great though.
Some of the best service you’ll find at any casual restaurant in Wicker Park. Their staff are always friendly and accommodating. The food comes out quick and the servers and bartenders go above and beyond every time. The interior and general vibe is reminiscent of the kind of place you might find in Austin… which I assume is intentional based on the name of the restaurant. I grew up in Texas and can appreciate what they’re going for here. The food definitely isn’t the Tex Mex I grew up with, but it’s good in its own right. I recommend the walking taco, pork belly taco and the nachos.
We came here on a Saturday afternoon and it was pretty packed but we were able to get some seats at the bar. The music was super LOUD making conversation impossible. It took a while before anybody acknowledged us but once we were finally brought menus the service was on point. We ordered chips and salsa, a few of their $6 tacos and a pitcher of margaritas. The tacos were good but worth $6 and after drinking 4 of the margaritas I didn't have a hint of a buzz.
Big Star's service is top-notch, with friendly and knowledgeable staff eager to offer personalized recommendations. The outdoor patio is a sunny and inviting spot for dining. In short, Big Star is a culinary gem in Illinois, offering delectable food, a vibrant atmosphere, and unwavering dedication to quality, ensuring a memorable dining experience that stays with you.