Restaurant Details

Paul Kahan and company's Big Star is a surefire, low-cost, high-value good time. If you're not in the mood for a well-engineered cocktail, you can slum it with a one-buck Schlitz shorty. If you can't decide between a mixed drink and beer, try a Michelada: Tecate in a salt-rimmed glass, with lime and house-made salsa. Either way, pop for a platter of guacamole with chips and drop an extra buck for chiles toreados, a small bowl of flavorful peppers. The high-quality pork belly, lamb, and al pastor tacos are served on fresh house-made mini tortillas that make the big flavors seem almost dainty. The only downside: the few tables are reserved for parties of four or more, so smaller groups are left hovering and pouncing on just-vacated bar stools. (The utilitarian patio is likewise always packed.) But ordering from the carryout window is always an option.

— David Hammond

Features: Outdoor Seating, Cash Only, Full Liquor Service, Delivery, Carryout, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Open Late, Open Sunday, Open Monday, Reservations Not Accepted

Price: $