Mouthful - Tortas
From Sandy Springs to East Point
Believe it or not, there’s more to Mexican street food than tasty tacos. Mexicans also make one mean and memorable sandwich, commonly referred to as a torta. Tortas are served on a bolillo (a crusty roll with a soft interior) and filled with a variety of meats and other traditional Mexican ingredients such as creamy avocado, pickled jalapeño peppers and refried beans.
Las Tortas Locas: This locally owned chain lands the top spot on our list thanks to its multiple locations and consistently clean digs. Although the restaurant serves many dishes, we suggest you stick to the namesake item. The “Milanesa,” a breaded and fried steak with mayo, sliced tomato, onions, refried beans and shredded lettuce, is like a country-fried steak with a lot more punch. 5841 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs. 404-844-4445. Also other locations.
Taqueria Dos Hermanos: Located on the side of a gas station, this under-the-radar taqueria has an expansive menu of Mexican specialties, but nothing beats a torta when you’re in a hurry (it makes ideal airport food). We’re partial to the chorizo tortas from the “calientas” section, topped with shredded cheese, tomato, refried beans, lettuce, mayo and a whole jalapeño pepper for added spiciness. 890 Cleveland Ave., East Point. 404-209-1345.
Puras Tortas: This sandwich joint, located inside the Plaza Fiesta food court, serves up some solid tortas, most notably the “Pepito,” a sandwich filled with chopped beef, Chihuahua cheese, avocado, mayo, onions and a dab of earthy chipotle. Each order comes with a side of fries, but the sandwich is more than enough for even the biggest of appetites. 4166 Buford Highway. 404-633-2110.