In the heart of Chicago’s West Side, Taylor Mason is redefining what it means to be a business owner. Her journey with Taylor’s Tacos began with a simple yet profound mission: to create a space where everyone, especially members of the LGBTQ+ community could feel welcome and be themselves. This mission has evolved into a thriving business that is as much about community-building as it is about serving delicious tacos.
Mason, a native of North Lawndale, launched Taylor’s Tacos in 2016 with her wife, Maya Mason. The taqueria, which operates out of the Hatchery at 135 N. Kedzie Ave., has become known for its unique catering options, including a food truck that brings the party to customers and live taco-making experiences. But beyond the food, Taylor’s Tacos is a testament to Mason’s commitment to visibility and inclusivity as a queer entrepreneur.
From California to Chicago: The Birth of Taylor’s Tacos
Mason’s love for tacos was ignited during her college years in California, where she was exposed to Los Angeles’ vibrant street taco scene. Upon returning to Chicago, she was determined to bring that experience to her hometown, infusing it with a distinct Chicago flair. “I wanted to bring that in and make something delicious, something easy, something humble, so we could keep the party going,” Mason shared.
The menu at Taylor’s Tacos reflects this blend of influences, featuring signature options like extra juicy chicken tacos, savory steak, “really sexy” shrimp, and sweet poppin’ potato tacos. The taqueria also offers a “secret salsa” and a variety of seafood and vegetarian options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The business initially opened a retail spot on Taylor Street in Little Italy in 2026, but as catering became their primary focus, they pivoted to focus on their operations at the Hatchery, where they had previously worked from 2019 to 2026.
Community and Inclusivity: The Heart of Taylor’s Tacos
For Mason, Taylor’s Tacos is more than just a business; it’s a platform to showcase the strength and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. Growing up on the West Side, Mason had few, if any, LGBTQ+ role models or business owners to look up to. “I really wasn’t around gay people that I knew about until I went to college, and I don’t think I even knew I was gay until I was in college,” she recalled.
This lack of representation fueled her determination to create a space where others could see themselves represented and celebrated. “It was super important for me to create spaces where I could just be myself,” Mason said. “That’s how Taylor’s Tacos was born.” Today, Taylor’s Tacos is recognized as a Black-ownedwoman-owned and LGBTQ-owned business, a distinction that Mason takes great pride in.
The Hatchery, a nonprofit food-business incubator, has provided Mason with the resources and community support she needs to grow her business. “Being here in this community space with my people is incredible,” she said. “It’s great to connect with others who are working toward the same kind of growth, and that’s really special.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Taylor’s Tacos
While Taylor’s Tacos has temporarily stepped back from retail, Mason is confident that this pivot will allow them to return even stronger. “We recognized what wasn’t working and decided to pivot so we can come back even better,” she explained. This strategic shift underscores Mason’s commitment to adaptability and growth, ensuring that Taylor’s Tacos remains a vital part of Chicago’s culinary and community landscape.
As the business continues to evolve, Mason remains focused on her mission to build community and celebrate diversity. “We’re all about building community, one taco at a time,” she said. “Community can be wherever you feel you belong, and that’s something that’s really important to us. We also want to show that someone from the lesbian community can build something meaningful and successful.”
In a world where authenticity and inclusivity are increasingly valued, Taylor’s Tacos stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Mason’s journey is a testament to the power of following one’s instincts and the impact that a single business can have on a community. As Taylor’s Tacos continues to grow, it serves as a reminder that food is not just about sustenance; it’s about connection, representation, and the celebration of diversity.
