Torta Rica Authentic Mexican Kitchen

Torta Rica is a casual, family restaurant in southwest Phoenix. Tortas (Mexican sandwiches) range from $6 to $8. Nachos, quesadillas and burritos are about $6 each. Soft tacos and vampiros are less than $3 each.

Torta Rica was a pleasant experience. Fresh, made-to-order Mexican favorites, like burritos and tacos, are joined on the menu by the more unique (at least in Phoenix) tortas. A torta is a Mexican sandwich. Meat, cheese, vegetables and chile crema, if you'd like, on a custy white roll. On our visit, we tried what might be considered the Torta Rica signature item: La Torta Rica with Carne Asada, bacon, grilled onions, roasted chiles, avocado, tomato, jalapeños, cotijo cheese and green chile crema. If I had to, I'd liken it to a Mexican version of a Philly cheesesteak, only better! We were feeling bold and I like hot and spicy, so the Ahogada was next on the list. Filled with a heaping portion of Adovada Pork, beans, onions, and drenched in a hot and somewhat sweet sauce, this sandwich demands a fork and knife to consume, and it certainly is a meal.

We were split on the shredded chicken burrito; I prefer mine without rice and beans inside, and I actually thought $6 was a bit much for it. The Vampiro was a nice surprise. Not bloody as the name might suggest, and not a Mexican drink, this is pretty much a tostada without the beans. We enjoyed it and the kids will like it, too.

No sides come with the sandwiches, so a Meal Deal -- rice, beans (tasty, and not refried), chips and a drink for an additional $2 -- is recommended. There's a value menu including torta sliders, as well as kids meals for under $5.

The desserts at Torta Rica should not be an afterthought. This is the first time I'd ever tried bionicos, mixed fruit with honey, granola and coconut. It was fresh and delightful. We also gave the flan a thumbs up, although I wish it looked anything like the photo on the web site. The presentation in a takeout container was disappointing.

_{All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice. (09/08)}