Came here on a girl's night after 4 years of waiting! This place has been on my list for ages, but with the age restriction of 21+ after 8pm and the long waits, I've always been hesitant to come. My friends and I had a great time...the ambiance of the place is fun and lovely - just what you'd want from a good taqueria. The service was generally good, except for the fact that it took them 20 minutes to get us an extra basket of chips. We started the night with a margarita pitcher, which was perfect. However, the food for me was very average. Firstly, I was frustrated that they don't use corn tortillas!! But being a vegetarian, I was excited by the variety they had here, and thought that could be a silver lining. I started with a papa con rajas (potato) and yuba (tofu). The potato taco didn't quite have the zing and burst of flavour you want from a taco. The yuba, on the other hand, was perfect. The texture of the yuba is almost meaty and they seasoned it so well. My friends tried it and said they wouldn't even have realized it was vegetarian/tofu. I loved it so much I ordered 2 more. I'm glad I found that one taco I liked, but not sure if Big Star is worth coming back to just for that. I would rather try all the other great taquerias in Chicago! read more

I was excited to come here recently with a group of friends but was overall disappointed in our experience. I did really enjoy the atmosphere - it was festive and fun without being too loud or rowdy. However, we got several pitchers of both the classic marg and the Paloma and were disappointed to find that they were pretty weak. They were tasty but not worth the price for the amount of alcohol in them. The tacos come out on communal plates which was very stressful for our group to figure out. No one could hear the waitress list which taco was which so it was definitely chaotic to distribute them. I was also disappointed in my tacos themselves. I'm vegetarian and had only two options - potato and tofu. I didn't particularly love the texture of the potatoes or the tofu and didn't find the flavors to be exciting at all. In addition, most of our tacos were cold. I really wanted to like this place but much prefer other taco restaurants in Chicago. Try Velvet Taco or Antique Taco instead! read more

My boyfriend and I visited Big Star, the Wrigleyville location, with friends that live outside the city upon their recommendation. We went on a weekend evening and didn't have a wait. While we waited for the rest of the group my boyfriend and I got a pitcher of margaritas to share. We had chips and salsa to share and it was a great snack. The margaritas VERY potent but that didn't stop our table from putting down 7 pitchers between four people. I ordered the al pastor tacos without onions, they came out just as requested and were delicious. Everyone loved the tacos they ordered and I was so happy and had such a great time at Big Star. We will definitely return. read more

Went to big star in Wrigley, brought some out of town friends who happened to be going to the game later in the day. Thought it would be great to have them eat at one of the best "not authentic" tacos in Chicago. It was so bad, nothing was good. I ordered 4 different tacos to see if one would taste good, they didnt!! none were even close to how good they are at the original. i gave an extra star because the bloody the bartender made me was delicious. will not return...rather go to a dive bar in Wrigley than back to here. read more

I just wanted to give a quick shout out to the girl who was working deliveries/phone on 3/1/22 and the manager who was on that night. They figured out a way for me to add to my DoorDash order after I had already placed it and by after I mean I called 15 minutes after I placed it and realized I was too hungry for only two tacos and needed some guacamole for my chips at home. Since doordash doesn't allow add-ons. They both went out of their way to find a way to make it work and they did! Thank you both for making my night! It's the little things. read more

I highly do not recommend. Group of 5 and 6 were split up to accommodate group of 10 and then management yelled at us throughout our dinner. Left a really sour taste in our mouth. Better bars in the area for sure. Don't waste your money here ... read more

Big Star - Beer Bar Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Poor service, great tacos and big venue, customer service needs improvement. I went here with a big group on a Tuesday. The food was great.. Once we got it. I ordered three different tacos, along with everyone at the table. Everyone's tacos but mine and two others arrived. They were coming in an odd fashion so I did not flag down the server right away. About thirty minutes pass and I finally get his attention and he said he did not know where they were and would reorder them... I honestly expected a slight discount due to the fact that I was now eating about an hour after majority of my friends but nothing. The tacos were super good though... We also got their queso and I was delicious. I am assuming it was a bad server, so their rating should not suffer entirely. read more

Our experience was an absolute joke, to the point of being sadly comical. We arrived early for our 4:45 reservation and were seated promptly. We were brought waters immediately and our waitress was timely in taking our orders. Here's where things went downhill quickly. Two in our party had their salads delivered within about 10 minutes of ordering. The other two assumed their orders (2 tacos each and a side of elote) would be out immediately afterwards. Nope. A full 10 minutes go by, no food. In the interim, however, no fewer than four different food runners came to the table to ask if the food and/or drinks they were holding were ours. They were not. Another five minutes go by and not only do we still not have our food, but we haven't even seen the server in the past 15 minute span. We finally see her at another table and approach her to come to our table when she's done. She does, we explain the problem and ask to talk to a manager. During all of this time, STILL no food. Manager eventually comes over, apologizes, offers to comp the entire meal and go check on our meals. We thank her and look forward to our food. Nope. Another 8-10 minutes go by before we're finally delivered our total of 4 tacos and order of elote (which the manager hits on the table and spills the cojita topping). I don't know if this was a problem with management or lack of staffing, but it was completely inexcusable. read more

Gonna be real simple on this: Star for Service Star for Food Quality No star for not having Iced Tea No star for not having Wine No star for shared bathrooms read more

Horrible excuse for Mexican food. Wait staff was terrible, made us wait 40 minutes with empty tables downstairs. Came down and they were filled. The food was a sorry excuse for cafeteria food, let alone being an establishment serving food for as a business. Will not be coming back. You've been warned! read more

This is so disappointing, how in the world is this $10 dollars? Long wait for my Togo order and it's mostly wrong. Honestly so shocked at this quality for what I paid. Bummer big star....I'll be back eventually but wow you had a bad day. read more

Big Star - Sad, brown, small, over priced guacamole. - Beer Bar Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I went here with a big group and we were seated upstairs, where there were barely any patrons yet. We were grateful for that because downstairs seemed VERY loud. The drinks were pretty weak. We got a few pitchers and were disappointed to leave with no buzz whatsoever for a hefty bill (~$30 each drinks & food). The tacos were pretty good but they came out cold and they were on communal plates which was kind of confusing for a big group (we had to pass the plates all around the table and try to figure out who ordered which tacos). Service was good and the waitress was friendly. Disappointed by the amount I spent vs. quality of food/drinks. I would definitely choose a different taco place in Chicago next time. read more

We stop in for a quick lunch and shared the nachos. The al pastor (pork) was recommended. The pork was dry and chewy. The cheese tasted like cheese whiz, and the guacamole was meh. Based on this experience, we won't be back. read more

Big star has become a go to place for us! They have great tacos, although limited options, wonderful drinks and an inviting atmosphere. Bothersome aspects include that they bring out shared trays of everyone's order together, this can be difficult depending on your comfort level of food touching by others. Second, it is so cramped in there it is hard to get around!! Setting those aspects aside, this is a great place to eat and drink in Wrigley while enjoying the sites of the park across the way. read more

This was my second time at Big Star. First time around, I got together with CMart, we crushed a few margs and tacos, and spent an inordinate amount of time discussing sexual harassment in the workplace. A+. Second time, one year later, we started at Bad Hunter before meeting up with a few CMBs (CMart Buds) who were already headed to Big Star. A few drinks were had by all and much guac was ingested. Mostly by me. Seating was tight when we arrived but we managed to snag a spot at the bar. 30 minutes later, we were able to move to an outdoor table. Said table was conveniently located next to my new, best, out-of-state-pitty-friend, Xena. Hi, Xena! You are a very good dog! read more

Legit. Stumbled upon here on a Sunday. Summer time Chi. Cubs game. Cubs win Cubs win. Holy cow! Tacos 5 out 5. Margs' 5 out 5. Yeah. Ok. ok. Epi. Yezir. Good time. Good food. Happy fathers day. Happy 4th. #blessed I'm high. 100 degrees feels like. In the shade. Drinking. Awesome. read more

You can't die and go to heaven before you try the Panza tacos. OMG awesome. Margaritas are great. I went to a lousy Cubs game and happened into this place. Best part of my day. read more

I was there 9.13.18 before a cubs came with a group of 6 in a booth. The waitress was extremely slow and when taking our order we ordered 11 tacos and only received 8 and the order was all wrong. We had two people mention no cheese on there tacos and they removed all the cheese on all 8. I had to call her over and tell her as she rolled her eyes, that we would like the rest of the tacos and to correct the ones they had brought over. When we got the check we were charged for extra tacos, which I mentioned to her and she took them off but that shouldn't happen. I understand when there is a cubs it gets a little hectic but there should be more servers and be more prepared and attentive. We had a bill over 200$ with food and drinks and It was not worth it all. This big star is not at all like the wicker park location, they really need to step up there game. I was very unsatisfied with the service. read more

I have been to both locations but specifically reviewing the new Wrigley spot.. just went so fresh in my mind. I thought it was solid. And maybe more importantly, it was a perfect place to escape the usual Wrigley bars that I can only handle so much of before I lose my mind (a personal thing but I am sure others can relate) The service is good, friendly, and as fast or slow as you make it. We didn't feel rushed but everything came out quickly. It was casual though, played came out as they were done and so people were waiting to eat while others waited for food. The Margs were better (stronger) than expected, a plus one to that. Beer list was just ok. We also got the chips and guac. Guac is kind of a rip off, oh don't get much for $5. Better off sneaking your own avocado into the bar and mashing it on a plate. Unlimited chips though which was cool, but not in writing initially? I liked the pork and chicken tacos, but nothing amazing. Could have used more sauce of sorts. The fish was a miss for me but I still ate it. Its a simple menu and there are no surprises or remembrances to call out. 4 stars seems generous to me but I support this type of restaurant around Wrigley, and it's easy to have a fun meal there to have like 2/3rds of a dinner in the midst of your drinking. read more

The new location of Big Star in Wrigleyville is great! A group of 5 of us went in on a Saturday afternoon and were seated immediately. This is HUGE since anytime I've been to the Wicker Park location I've had to wait 45 minutes or more for a table. The food was just as good as always - queso, guacamole, salsa, etc. I learned that this location only served Mexican Pepsi (no Mexican Coke), but was happy to discover it's much better than our American Pepsi. Worth getting! As always, the Al Pastor tacos were super tasty. Everything else the group ordered was good and arrived in a good amount of time. *Note, it is all served family style, so remember what you ordered. We'll be back! read more

Great spot, I can't even imagine the amount of biz they are gonna do on a daily basis at this joint! Two spacious floors with a BAR on each floor, obviously bigger bar on main floor but you wanna sit upstairs. Floor to ceiling windows coupled with a great vantage point of Wrigley Field and a drink in your hand.. you can't miss! Everything about it is EXACTLY the same as the Wicker Park location from the bar to the bar stools, glasses, tables, design, etc. Food is the same as well and very well executed, this is One Off.. they do it right! Nice assortment of tacos & a few appetizers is about all you're gonna find on the menu. Great beer list, cocktail list & STELLAR Bourbon list to boot! Service is good as they are very well staffed and prices are the same as Wicker Park believe it or not. Must try in Wrigley/ watch for pickpockets & LooSe women! Talk later. read more

Wow. Cold tacos and rude staff. Showed up 10 min late, restaurant not even close to full, and we are told they have a 5 minute grace period and we lost our table. We sat at the bar and paid $5.50 each taco and they were cold. Never again. read more

I have never done this before but I am hoping this will change the quality of the nachos. I went into big star and made a to go order at the bar. I was the first customer And no one else came in while I waited. That being said the nachos I received were wildly disappointing. There was barley any cheese, NO BEANS, a couple jalapeños and overall a very expensive handful of tortilla chips. I wish I could add a photo. This isn't the first time the nachos have fallen short but it's been at least a dozen times and I really hope it changes. read more

If you're looking for a place where they have a good margarita and yummy tacos, this is the place. Nick was our server and he was super attentive and friendly. I have ordered take out as well and was just as happy. read more

Firstly I only came to Big Star for the margs cause their vegan taco selection included a potato taco with pretty much nothing on it.... well they made my entire weekend when I was told by the bartender that they added two new vegan options, one of which even had cashew cheese! I was the happiest ever and my friends who were visiting from Michigan and I opted for a second pitcher of margaritas and to just eat dinner there! So good and so excited for them to actually have some vegan proteins on the menu now! Oh and all of our bartenders were great and attentive. I think every single one of them checked in on us at least once our entire visit. read more

I have never been to the Bucktown location, due to the crazy wait times. I was excited to try the new location and see what the hype was all about. I was very disappointed. The Queso fundido was good, but a super small portion.( we were 3 people). We tried the fish taco, the Pork Belly and Carnitas. Both meat tacos came out luke warm, the fish was good. The Margaritas were strong, but all I tasted was the mix. Our server rarely came over to check on us. I don't get what the hype is all about, my local Taqueria is much better!! read more

Don't be fooled by "hot chips", they mean cold chips. Apparently 'hot' means spicy. Spicy for an Eskimo maybe. And why not have nachos on the menu? Apparently the only way to get hot nachos is to order "hot chips" and the "queso fundido" and combine them together. And the delivery method for tacos was less than ideal. When separate people order tacos, don't bring them together on the same tray, mixed around, with no sense of logic whatsoever. You've been warned. read more

Great addition to Wrigley area. Large bar that keeps crowd moving during busy times. Food is good. Prices are very decent for area. This is definitely not the same as the location in Wicker Park, so if you are expecting that experience with menu you might be let down. Tip: Predrink here cheaper than in Wrigley (wait, anything is cheaper than in there). Also, great spot to grab a drink and let your rideshare rates go down during surge after an event lets out..over one beer it dropped $14. Savin dollaz! read more

Bomb a$$ atmosphere, tacos, and quac! Great place for happy hour too - specials weekly from 4-6! read more

Big Star - Chips, salsa, and guac! - Beer Bar Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

One of my favorite restaurant groups in the city. I have always wondered why they never expanded on this concept and now I know why. All pitchers of margaritas are not created equal. Have always loved the food, drink and service at the original location. Not so much at this location. Never easy to replicate a winner in the restaurant world consistency is key. Yankees fan that supports the Cubs and will take my business elsewhere. #beerandadog read more

We decided to check this place out and unfortunately we will not be returning. Went to the host stand to be seated and was told that there were 4 parties ahead of us. No big deal, its during the 5th inning of a Cubs home game. Within 5 or so minutes we got the alert that our table was ready. We began to walk through the crowd and the hostess just stopped and said "forget it, go back there, I dont feel like going up the stairs." WHAT??? And sits us right by the entrance where we are being bumped. My husband went immediately to the other hostess and asked to be moved. Which we were. Fine. Waitress came up to the table with a poor attitude. Mind you we've never been here before. We asked what was good and she said tacos. Asked if we were ready, obviously we weren't and she walked away. We ordered a round of beers and 2 of each tacos to try out seeing as we werent getting any suggestions. Food came out. HORRIBLE. Cold and just did not taste good. Needless to say, this place was NOT worth $71. Gave the poor waitress a 20% tip, smiled and walked out. Will not be coming to this place again. It's a shame. Really awesome location. Horrible service. read more

Ordered delivery tonight to support them coming back. It has been 2.5 hours. They do not pick up the phone, they do not allow you to cancel, they do not communicate to the delivery folks from DoorDash. I cannot cancel my order, and now in an attempt to support local business when I could've cooked from home we have no dinner. This is ridiculous. PICK UP YOUR PHONE. LET US CANCEL OUR ORDER. You have been reopened for two day's. You should just close. read more

Great atmosphere! Loud music spun on vinyl. Food was fair. Had the tacos. Spices and veggie were terrific. Their tortillas were as good as advertised . I thought the meat was dry and cold. Service was ok. They seemed courteous , just tougher to be attentive on slower nights. read more

This is really a bar - night spot that also served okay (if not pricey and smallish) Mexican food. The food itself was well made, and tasty (a little greasy, but I did order the greasier items). The tacos themselves are on the small side, and you pay for a small tray of fresh chips with two types of salsa.I would say if you are looking for a nice place to hang out, maybe watch a game on television, or get a little something to snack on and enjoy an adult beverage or two (the margaritas are on the small side as well) before the ball game (it is right across the street from Wrigley), you would enjoy this place. read more

Really disappointing experience. Have gotten the nachos before and loved them but this was pretty unbelievable: 1/3 toppings as normal and cold. read more

Big Star - Full size Big Star Nachos (full size) - Beer Bar Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Has really gone down hill. No more "hot chips" nachos that used to be great - current nacho offering is a sad excuse for nachos with hardly any toppings. They can't get anyone to work here. We showed up and left because no one came over to clean our spot at the bar or serve us. This place used to be great and is worse than mediocre now - it's just flat out bad and overpriced. read more

Came here and got the nachos and they were okay. They came out kinda cold and I regret not sending them back. There was only a few jalapeños and the cheese was just that white queso from the jar. The portion wasn't that big either for the price. I liked the salsa seca cause it was unique and the chips were pretty good. Would give this 3 stars but the service was pretty good so it bumps it up. read more

Big Star - Big Star Nachos (full size) - Beer Bar Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

It's kind of hard to screw up a taco. The food here was good, not especially memorable, and the margs were the same. We went on a home game day and still got a really lovely seat on the patio - the restaurant had a big open air feel that we enjoyed. Overall, a super pricey trip for pretty average food. read more

This is one of those reviews that I really wish I could do half-stars. Big Star Wrigley deserves more than 3, but not quite 4. Sorry! When deciding to come to Big Star you need to have a goal in mind: are you going to eat tacos, or are you going to have a drink (or 2, or 3, or more?) and enjoy the vibes? If you answered "to eat tacos," consider elsewhere. Chicago has some amazing tacos and I don't think they're at Big Star. The flavors are eh and the options are also eh. There isn't a ton to choose from (although I think the Wicker Park location has more options) so you might feel that your choices are narrow. Now, if you answered "to have a drink and enjoy the vibes," by all means, go to Big Star. This is what this place is for. It's open, bright, and fun. I would go back for a drink and chips and salsa any day, and just wouldn't order a taco. Explore other taco options, but go enjoy a drink at Big Star. read more

This taco joint had been recommended to me by several lyft drivers and friends. Since my best friend and I wanted to grab a quick bite before going to see Midnight Sun, a Chicago Soul/Funk band play at Bourbon on Division (shameless plug--they play there every Sunday at 8pm) last Sunday night. The staff was extremely friendly and we were quickly seated upon arrival even though there were many other guests. I was bummed that chips and salsa weren't free, since that's usually a standard at Mexican restaurants and the menu was so small. However each entree was a unique blend even for vegetarian options so that compensated for the lack of variety. I ordered the queso fundido which came like a make your own taco kit. The cheese, green pepper, and chorizo melted into a tiny skillet for you to scoop on the tortilllas. I thought it was a pretty good deal considering I got about 5 little tacos out of that 9 dollar order. Overall I would recommend this place for a girls/guys night out but not a date because it's not romantic, the amount of cheese can upset your stomach, and there's no dessert you can order to share at the end! read more

See all