High Noon Saloon brings Tex Mex to Wicker Park

When it comes to Tex Mex cuisine in Chicago there aren’t a whole lot of options. In Wicker Park the only place to get the hybrid cuisine has until recently been Big Star. Now the neighborhood welcomes High Noon Saloon, a new outpost from the people behind People. They’ve turned tapas into TexMex and a Spanish lounge into a saloon with style. Step into this bar and you step into a wainscotted chandeliered leather-coated tavern with a kitchen that’ll have you hitching your pony to the nearest meter.

At our Chef’s Table event we were treated to a selection that showcased their menu. Chef Rubin Beltran, formerly of Frontera/Topolobampo, Maya del Sol, and Adobo Grill, introduced each course, from the housemade guacamole to the smoked brisket tacos to the hot churros served with caramel and chocolate sauces. The favorite dishes from the evening were the bright and fresh watermelon, feta, and arugula salad and the festive tilapia tacos topped with mango salsa.

Our dinner was paired with a Mango Margarita and their signature cocktail, the High Noon Margarita. Made with agave nectar and mezcal, the latter offers a smoky twist to the traditional drink. If margaritas aren’t your thing, High Noon Saloon features a nice selection of craft beer. Other cocktails include the Hanky Panky, a tasty concoction made with Deaths Door Gin, Carpano Antica, Fernet Branca, and Lemon Oils.

Stop in for dinner every night of the week all the way unti 1a.m. On the weekends mosey on in for brunch and take advantage of their $25 special. That price gets you your choice of entree paired with unlimited mimosas, bloody marys or Miller Lite drafts.