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ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Highland Park
Best Late Night Tacos in Highland Park
Best Late Night Mexican in Highland Park
Master Critic Review
Tacos La Estrella
7.9
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Late Night Legends
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Parked on York Boulevard, this longtime taco truck turns out late-night al pastor, carne asada burritos, and griddled quesadillas that draw a steady line until close. It’s classic, cash-friendly Highland Park street food with reliably fast output.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Carne asada burrito, Quesadilla with al pastor
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Classic York Boulevard taco truck slinging al pastor deep into night.
Who should go: Night owls needing quick, satisfying tacos after bars close.
When to visit: Late evenings when the pastor trompo is freshest and busiest.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, carne asada burrito, cheesy quesadilla.
Insider tip: Bring cash and order everything at once to beat the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along York Blvd and adjacent residential streets; usually easy on weeknights, tighter on weekends near bar closings.
Dress code: Totally casual—hoodies, jeans, post-gym attire all welcome.
Noise level: Outdoor street noise; you can hold a conversation, but expect cars, music, and general boulevard bustle.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on bar traffic and the pastor rush.
Weekday lunch: Often no wait, though service is walk-up and fast regardless.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Decent—cheese quesadillas and bean-based items; customization possible.
Vegan options: Limited—bean tacos/burritos without cheese are the main option; no dedicated vegan proteins.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact on the griddle is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date vibes with casual street food and eating while standing or at minimal seating; it’s more fun and unfussy than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no reservations or formal tables—this is a taco truck. Grab a sidewalk spot or eat in your car.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick, simple meals—kids who like mild tacos or quesadillas will be fine. Just note it’s curbside with traffic nearby and no high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Late-night al pastor cravings, fast service, and cheap, satisfying tacos without the wait or frills.
Skip if: You want seating, ambiance, expanded vegetarian/vegan options, or a leisurely dine-in experience.
Hours
Monday11am - 10:45pm
Tuesday11am - 10:45pm
Wednesday11am - 10:45pm
Thursday11am - 10:45pm
Friday11am - 12am
Saturday11am - 11:25pm
Sunday11am - 10:45pm