ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Wicker Park & West Town
Best Tacos in Wicker Park & West Town
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Wicker Park & West Town
Best Pet Friendly Restaurants in Wicker Park & West Town
Best Late Night Restaurants in Wicker Park & West Town
Best Late Night Tacos in Wicker Park & West Town
Best Happy Hour in Wicker Park & West Town
Best Happy Hour Tacos in Wicker Park & West Town
Master Critic Review
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.