A Chicago Icon and Favorite of the Cast of ‘The Bear’ Recovers From a Devastating Fire | Eater Chicago
"A family-owned Mexican restaurant suffered a devastating fire on the afternoon of Monday, June 24, at 4852 S. Pulaski Road; no injuries were reported and the blaze originated on the building’s second floor. The restaurant remains closed as the Zaragozas wait to hear from insurance adjusters to assess the damage; it has enjoyed an 18-year run and is a member of the Eater Chicago 38. The wider restaurant community has rallied: Big Star, the taqueria from One Off Hospitality Group, is raising money by donating a portion of Saturday, July 5 sales of their quesabirria at its Wicker Park, West Town, and Wrigleyville locations to fire recovery efforts, and a GoFundMe has raised more than $30,000 so far to help with rebuilding, paying workers, and overall expenses. The family also operates a second location in Uptown near the Riviera Theater on the corner of Lawrence and Broadway. Known as a popular destination for the cast and crew of The Bear and as an essential part of the city’s cultural fabric, the restaurant is celebrated for a simple menu featuring slow-cooked goat served with fresh tortillas and all the fixings and has been a go-to spot for members of the service industry—many of whom are offering support. Notable donors and supporters listed on the GoFundMe include Oriole (chef Noah Sandoval, who "last month" won a James Beard Award for Best Chef: Great Lakes), chef Norm Fenton from Michelin-starred Cariño, and Beard winner Sarah Stegner of Prairie Grass Cafe in suburban Northbrook." - Ashok Selvam
