Illustration of Taquería Chingón featured in Our Story section
Our Story

From a Backyard to the Heart of Fulton Market.

What started as backyard BBQs and late-night pop-ups between Marcos Ascencio and Oliver Poilevey evolved into a mission: to bring the authentic, high-energy spirit of Mexico City to Chicago.

By combining Oliver's legacy at Le Bouchon with Marcos's experience in kitchens like NoMi and Bar Lupo, the duo fused French-trained techniques with a deep respect for Mexican tradition. What began as a passion project quickly became a neighborhood staple, earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand for 2025.

Now in the heart of Fulton Market, Taquería Chingón remains a celebration of that original partnership, a place where high-level culinary expertise meets the unpretentious joy of a perfect taco. While the team has since expanded with Mariscos San Pedro in Pilsen, the mission here hasn't changed: bold flavors, meticulous craft, and a relentless dedication to making everything chingón.

Our Journey

How we got here

2020

Dec 6, 2020 — Opened in Bucktown (2234 N. Western Ave) during the pandemic (carryout-heavy era) and immediately drew big demand (sold out / had to regroup right after opening weekend).

Founded in 2020 by Chef Marcos Ascencio and Chef Oliver Poilevey

2021

Eater Awards (2021): Named one of the best new restaurants.

2022

Apr 2022 — Named a "Best New Restaurant" pick by Chicago Magazine (listed as #14 in their Best New Restaurants 2022 feature).

Thrillist (2022): Recognized as one of the best Mexican restaurants in America.

2024

Jun 12, 2024 — Added to the Michelin Guide Chicago "Recommended" list (eligible for Star/Bib Gourmand consideration).

Nov 26, 2024 — Closed the Bucktown location (closure announced Nov 1, 2024; described as highly acclaimed/nationally recognized, but constrained by the space and other factors).

2025

Mar 21, 2025 — Comeback announced: revival planned for Fulton Market (West Loop) with an expanded menu.

May 2025 — Officially reopened in Fulton Market at 817 W. Fulton Market (reported as open Tue-Sun, 11am-10pm; new space upgrades like twin trompos + more menu breadth).

2025 — Earned Michelin "Bib Gourmand" status for Taquería Chingón (good quality/good value) in the Michelin Guide, tied to the Fulton Market address.

2026

Still listed by Michelin as a Bib Gourmand (current guide listing remains active as of now).

Meet the Team

The people behind the tacos

Michelin Guide feature about Taqueria Chingón
Oliver Poilevey

Co-Founder & Chef

Michelin Guide feature about Taqueria Chingón
Marcos Ascencio

Co-Founder & Chef

Michelin Guide feature about Taqueria Chingón
Angel Guijosa

Co-Founder & Chef

Icon of two Pineaples