Introduction to Birrieria Zaragoza
Birrieria Zaragoza has closed temporarily after a stove fire caused damage to the building that houses the popular restaurant on the city’s Southwest Side. Firefighters arrived about 2:45 p.m. Monday at the restaurant at 4852 S. Pulaski Rd. responding to a stove fire, Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford said. It was put out by 3 p.m., Langford said.
The Fire Incident
“It was a pretty good fire,” neighbor Sandy Storino said. “Flames were coming out the side of the building.” The fire caused damage to the building’s siding.
The fire appeared to originate on the second floor of the building, which is a one-and-a-half-story, mixed-use property on the corner of Pulaski Avenue and 49th Street. Siding and window glass were damaged on the building’s north side.
Damage Assessment
Damage to the building was significant, but not substantial, Langford said. “Not real bad. Enough to cause fire damage, but not enough to cause a whole lot of mess up,” Langford said.
Response from Birrieria Zaragoza
In an Instagram post Monday, the restaurant thanked first responders and said nobody was injured in the blaze. “Our family has poured our hearts into this place for years, and while this is a difficult moment, we are committed to rebuilding and coming back stronger,” the post said. “Thank you to everyone who has reached out, we feel your love and support. We will keep you updated.”
Current Status
Reached by phone Tuesday, owner John Zaragoza said the family was still assessing the situation. Other family members declined to comment and requested privacy. A “closed temporarily” sign hung Tuesday on the restaurant’s front door.
Langford confirmed there was no ambulance response and that because the fire started on a stove, it likely would not be investigated further.
About Birrieria Zaragoza
Birrieria Zaragoza is known for its birria, a braised goat stew native to Jalisco, Mexico. In its approximately 20 years of business, the casual restaurant has garnered substantial publicity and accolades. It was one of 38 restaurants in Chicago to receive a Michelin Bib Gourmand nod in 2024, it’s been named one of the Food Network’s top tacos in the country and it was featured in the third season of Netflix’s “Taco Chronicles.” In 2023, Zaragoza opened a second Birrieria Zaragoza in Uptown on the corner of Lawrence and Broadway, next to the famed Green Mill jazz club.
Conclusion
The temporary closure of Birrieria Zaragoza due to a stove fire is a setback for the popular restaurant, but the owners are committed to rebuilding and coming back stronger. The restaurant’s dedication to serving traditional Mexican cuisine has earned it a loyal following and numerous accolades.
FAQs
- Q: What caused the fire at Birrieria Zaragoza?
A: The fire was caused by a stove. - Q: Was anyone injured in the fire?
A: No, nobody was injured in the blaze. - Q: How long will Birrieria Zaragoza be closed?
A: The restaurant is currently closed temporarily, but the owners are committed to rebuilding and coming back stronger. - Q: What is Birrieria Zaragoza known for?
A: Birrieria Zaragoza is known for its birria, a braised goat stew native to Jalisco, Mexico.