Big Star - Chicago
Bustling and bursting with energy, bourbon, beer and tacos, Big Star in Wicker Park is one of the all-star restaurants operated by Chicago Chef Paul Kahan (Blackbird, Publican, and others) and the One Off Hospitality Group. Backed by a soundtrack of vintage vinyl (including tunes courtesy of the Big Star Recording Company), the kitchen turns out what they call “Mexican street food,”
presented with panache: tacos of fish with chipotle mayo, as well as tofu skin stew, mole-spiced carrots and many other unpredictable though delicious creations, prepared with finesse under the guidance of a chef with multiple James Beard awards. In the summer, the patio is packed tighter than an overstuffed burrito; any time of year, though, you’ll want to come early: they don’t take reservations (but take heart, there’s always the carryout window…or delivery).
