HUMBOLDT PARK — The popular pop-up sensation Smash Jibarito is officially setting roots in Humboldt Park, transitioning from its successful kitchen residency at Desert Hawk into a permanent location.
The restaurant is taking over a corner space at 2534 W. Division St., situated along the vibrant Paseo Boricua.
Owner Josean Irizarry shared with Block Club Chicago that the establishment will undergo a full build-out to transform the former Guerrero’s Tacos & Pizza into a family-friendly boutique restaurant.
Smash Jibarito aims to create a calming café atmosphere, infused with Chicago-Hispanic flair that celebrates their cultural roots and the surrounding neighborhood while delivering the quick service characteristic of a burger joint, Irizarry elaborated.
The redesign features white subway tiles, a floor that gives off a swirling galaxy effect, and brand-new kitchen equipment.
Despite having limited indoor seating, there are plans to introduce a small sidewalk patio for diners during the summer months.
In recent years, Smash Jibarito has been a notable fixture in Chicago’s pop-up food scene.
The new establishment is anticipated to change the regular dining experience by shifting focus from nightlife offerings to a more family-oriented engagement.
Irizarry emphasized that the restaurant will not serve alcohol but will provide a selection of sodas and water suited for families.
The menu will kick off with a range of signature sandwiches, featuring options like the Estilo Animal, Ogilla, and the Aye El Amor, which incorporates house-pickled jalapeños, cheese sauce, sautéed onions, and animal sauce, all served with fried plantains instead of traditional bread.
In addition to the sandwich offerings, guests can indulge in hand-cut chips—such as the Loaded Chips topped with cheese and jalapeños—plantain fries, and a Pica Puff filled with a veggie and beef picadillo.
While awaiting retail license approvals, Irizarry is hopeful about opening Smash Jibarito by mid-August.
The path to establishing this permanent location has been a collaborative effort, not only involving the Smash Jibarito team and marketing expert Sophia Silva but also other local restaurants, pop-ups, and creators they’ve partnered with throughout their journey.
“We want to pay homage to the many individuals and businesses that have helped cultivate our success,” Irizarry said.
Looking ahead, Irizarry envisions the success of Smash Jibarito as a blueprint for other ventures in his pipeline.
These include a new pop-up bar concept managed by a long-time collaborator, alongside Kanto Taqueria—a Filipino- and Mexican-owned taco concept led by Chef David Matulac, intended to take over Smash Jibarito’s former space at Desert Hawk.
Currently operating at Desert Hawk on Monday and Tuesday evenings, Kanto Taqueria will transition to a full-time schedule once Smash Jibarito establishes itself in Humboldt Park.
Despite the tumultuous nature of this transition, Irizarry conveyed a sense of gratitude for the journey thus far.
“We’re extremely pleased and proud of where we’re heading,” he expressed.
“It feels like a long wait, yet we are hungrier and more eager than ever.”
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Irizarry offers encouraging words: “Dream the dream.
This started from an idea, which became a plan, which became action, which ultimately led to a dream.”
image source from：blockclubchicago
