Salvador Mora has always been known for his cheerful smile, warm hugs and big heart, but now it's his pizza that has people talking.
Mora co-owns Big Gay Sal's, a late-night pizzeria that opened in March at 3445 N. Halsted St. and became a topic of discussion in the Chicago subreddit, where commenters buzzed about what could be moving into the space that previously housed Crispy Chicks.
"We're a pizza place, and a good one too," Mora said. "Anyone can come in here to grab a slice, and they'll be welcomed like they're coming to my house almost."
The pizzeria's name is a reference to Mora, who has a larger-than-life presence and is known for his big heart, said Mike Miller, his business partner.
Miller met Mora around 2019 when he was new to Chicago, he said. Mora was always a friendly face to Miller and his partner, when they'd go to parties and other social events where they didn't know many people.
"Every time Sal walked through the door, he'd have a cheerful smile and come up and give us hugs," Miller said. "He'd spend time talking to us and really get to know us and how we've been doing."
Then one party, Mora walked in with three pizzas he had made, Miller said. Mora has worked in pizzerias for more than 18 years, including at Pizza Nova.
"Mike told me he wanted to send me a business plan, and I thought he was crazy," Mora said. "Then one day I checked my email and it was there. That's when this became real to me and I got so excited."
The pizzeria sells New York-style pies that can be ordered by the slice or whole. Styles include classic pepperoni, sausage, cheese and veggie. But Sal's also has specials like mole pizza using sauce made by Mora's mom.
"I'm still trying to get her to give me the recipe but she won't," Mora said. "She's working behind-the-scenes here."
Big Gay Sal's also offers wings, salads and sandwiches, including a popular egg, cheese and pork roll that's Miller's favorite thing on the menu.
"It's a breakfast sandwich that will change your morning meal plans forever," Miller said.
With late-night hoursSal's is open until 5 a.m. Fridays and Saturdaysthe owners hope to cater to Northalsted's bar scene and industry workers who are looking for a quick bite on their breaks. But the restaurant opens at 11 a.m. Sunday and noon Monday-Saturday, making it an option for neighbors or families looking for brunch, lunch or dinner. The restaurant also has a patio that will be opening soon, Mora said.
As an LGBTQ+-owned business, part of Big Gay Sal's mission is to give back to the community, Miller said. A portion of the money from every slice sold will go toward a local nonprofit. The owners also hope to partner with other local businesses to boost support for both.
"Our strategy is that we're better together," Miller said. "When one business grows, it benefits the businesses around it too."