Birrieria Zaragoza

“Birrieria Zaragoza is hands down one of Chicago’s greatest food treasures.”

Birrieria Zaragoza is hands down one of Chicago’s greatest food treasures. Their goat birria, slow-braised in the traditional Jaliscan style, is unbelievably tender and flavorful. Easily the best I’ve had outside Mexico. The fresh, nixtamalized tortillas, generous toppings tray, and rich consommé make every bite unforgettable. I have sampled across the menu, and every dish impressed: • Birria tacos: juicy, rich, and deeply spiced. • Cabeza tacos: crispy yet tender, with a subtle smokiness that keeps you reaching for more. • Quesadilla de birria: stuffed generously, wrapped in warm, handmade tortillas. The service is quick, the passion shows, and even Michelin has recognized them with multiple Bib Gourmand awards. Pro tip: get the horchata de café if they have it, and go early since they can sell out. Simply put, this is a must-visit in Chicago.

stacylaughs

Dec 2025

“One of the best meals of my life was had at the counter of Birrieria Zaragoza.”

One of the best meals of my life was had at the counter of Birrieria Zaragoza. I got the quesabirria but the next time I return I am ordering the birria plate, because it appears to be incredible. The horchata and salsa de molcajete were divine as well. Not only is the food authentic, made with real goat, the service is some of the kindest I’ve received at any restaurant anywhere. I highly recommend eating in for the true experience (lines move quickly so it’s not a long wait). On a cold Chicago afternoon I couldn’t have asked for a better meal.

Anna Koesel

Dec 2025

“As one of the staff put it “objectively good.” I have no complaints at all, one of the best food...”

As one of the staff put it “objectively good.” I have no complaints at all, one of the best food experiences I have had recently. They explained the menu, made recommendations, and small talk. Everyone was beyond nice and helpful. The birria is fantastic, but the quesabirrias were beyond incredible. Cannot recommend this place enough, we will probably return next time we are in Chicago.

Sheldon

Sep 2025

“Very small place but very good birria.”

Alfredo Sanchez

Sep 2025

“We ordered the Cabeza Grande and it’s good for 3 people.”

We ordered the Cabeza Grande and it’s good for 3 people! But we had to add more tortilla because it was so good. The consommé was so nice and had to drink it because it was SO GOOD. Also, Horchata’s legit. So happy! Can’t wait to go back!!

RA Librando

Sep 2025

“We really enjoyed Birrieria Zaragoza.”

We really enjoyed Birrieria Zaragoza! Quesabirria combo, small plate, and flan was the perfect amount for two. The birria was tender, full of flavor, enhanced majorly with the consume, onions, cilantro, and salsa. Quesabirria was cheesy but not overly heavy. The flan was some of the best I’ve ever had! Horchata pairs perfectly with the meal - lots of cinnamon!

Ryan Wantland

Sep 2025

“Ordered the Plato Grande (bone-in) and it was such a treat.”

Ordered the Plato Grande (bone-in) and it was such a treat. The toppings and utensils came out first on a separate tray, followed by our big plates. Our waitress poured fresh consommé for both me and my friend, which was a really nice touch. The dish came with five fresh corn tortillas: soft, warm, and absolutely amazing. The meat was incredibly flavorful and just melted off the bone. So glad I tried this spot! The menu is simple, but everything is done so well. I want to come back for the quesabirria!

Lucy Chang

Aug 2025

“Ordered the Bone In Large Plate and the food was absolutely delicious.”

Ordered the Bone In Large Plate and the food was absolutely delicious! Outstanding! Huge Kudos to the chef!!! The meat was seasoned to perfection and fall off the bone tender! I really love the authentic flavors that ooze from everything I consumed. The owner even gave me a free taco while I waited for my order which is beyond classy I must say! ❤️ This place is truly a hidden gem! Will most definitely be back!

Ronald Wiley

Jul 2025

“This authentic Mexican spot is a hidden gem.”

This authentic Mexican spot is a hidden gem! The staff's humility and passion for their food truly shone through as they took the time to explain the menu and share their local favorites. I tried the Birria tacos, quesadillas, iced coffee and homemade salsa - EVERYTHING was incredible! The flavors were rich and authentic, and the love for the culture was palpable. If you're craving real deal Mexican food, look no further! Highly recommend!

Swati Bali

Jul 2025

“"Good things come in small packages" must have been a saying created for this very place.”

"Good things come in small packages" must have been a saying created for this very place. It’s a small spot with limited seating, but the food is an absolute delight and the line moves quickly, so getting a seat wasn't an issue. The service was fantastic. My server was incredibly nice, walking me through the menu and helping me with my order since I was unsure about portion sizes. The food came out fast, and it was all delicious. I tried the Quesabirria (which is an award-winner), and the Cabeza (goat cheek) taco which was very interesting. For me, though, the standout was the classic Birria taco - it was perfect. It's worth noting that tacos are sold individually, but they are not overpriced at all considering how tasty they are. IMPORTANT ADVICE FOR VISITORS: Before you go, call and confirm they are open. Their Pulaski location is temporarily closed, but Google Maps still show it as open. I wasted over an hour traveling there first before having to reroute to this location. A quick call can save you a lot of time. Despite the travel hassle, the experience here was so good that I still highly recommend it to everyone.

Jacob Celestine

Jul 2025

“Staff were so nice, all had a smile on their faces and were helpful.”

Staff were so nice, all had a smile on their faces and were helpful. Service was quick and friendly and the food was beyond delicious while being reasonably priced!! As someone travelling from overseas, well worth the ride north of The Loop.

Matthew Robles

Jun 2025

“Delicious birria tacos.”

Delicious birria tacos. Great services by all the staff. Saul is the best host ever. This place will become a must-stop when coming back to Chicago.

Mariana Villicaña

Jun 2025