03-07-2025
A Chicago Icon and Favorite of the Cast of ‘The Bear' Recovers From a Devastating Fire
Chicago's restaurant community has rallied around Birrieria Zaragoza as the Mexican restaurant plots its recovery from a devastating fire.
The blaze struck in the afternoon on Monday, June 24, at 4852 S. Pulaski Road. No injuries were reported. The fire originated on the building's second floor. The Zaragozas are waiting to hear from insurance adjusters to assess the damage as the restaurant remains closed. The restaurant has enjoyed an 18-year run and is a member of the Eater Chicago 38.
Big Star, the taqueria from One Off Hospitality Group, is raising money for Birrieria Zaragoza at its locations in Wicker Park, West Town, and Wrigleyville. They'll donate a portion of Saturday, July 5 sales of their quesabirria to fire recovery efforts.
So far, a GoFundMe has raised more than $30,000 as the family-owned restaurant figures out its next steps. The family also has a second location in Uptown near the Riviera Theater on the corner of Lawrence and Broadway. Donations will go toward rebuilding, paying workers, and overall expenses.
Beyond being a popular destination for the cast and crew of The Bear , the restaurant has become an essential part of the city's cultural fabric thanks to a simple menu featuring slow-cooked goat served with fresh tortillas and all the fixings.
The Archer Heights restaurant, near Midway Airport, has also become a destination for members of the service industry, and many are offering their support. Notable donations listed on the GoFundMe include Oriole (last month, chef Noah Sandoval 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. See More:
