Fort Worth's La Tortilandia is a hidden gem, a Mexican restaurant that has stood the test of time and remains a true gem in a city now filled with countless taquerias. It's a place that still surprises with its unique menu items, offering a delightful culinary experience that sets it apart from the rest.
One of the standout features of La Tortilandia is its chilaquiles. These are not your average breakfast dish. The salsa morita, a hotter version of chipotle sauce made with morita chili peppers, adds a fiery kick to the eggs. It's a delightful contrast to the drowsy Saturday morning atmosphere, and a great way to start the day. The chilaquiles platter is an affordable $10, making it an excellent choice for those tired of expensive brunches.
The menu at La Tortilandia is a diverse one, featuring a range of Mexican classics with a twist. The 'orejas de elefante' (elephant's ear) is a large, double-stacked breaded steak Milanesa, a unique take on a classic dish. The tender steak, with its finer breading, is a far cry from the tough or hard versions one might have tried elsewhere. The restaurant also offers a variety of shrimp and fish dishes, including diablo and garlic sauce, Veracruz-style fish tacos, and snapper baked with vegetables.
The lunch platters and weeknight dinner specials are incredibly affordable, with enchiladas and tacos costing less than $10. The recent special of chicken in mole sauce for $11 was a great deal. The dessert menu features a housemade flan, but if it's sold out, sopaipillas, bakery tres leches cake, or La Tortilandia's pancakes are available, a neighborhood favorite.
La Tortilandia's history is as intriguing as its menu. The Berry Street location is in a 101-year-old building that has seen many transformations since its opening in 1925. It started as a neighborhood grocery, then a dry cleaners, a cabinet shop, and a drugstore, before becoming a series of panaderias and restaurants. The restaurant was originally named 'La Tortilandia Oyster Bar', and it's the last of a three-restaurant company owned by the Dorado family.
The restaurant's busy season is just beginning, and it's a popular spot for TCU football fans. It's open from breakfast through dinner daily, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. La Tortilandia is a well-kept secret, a hidden gem that offers a delightful culinary experience and a unique perspective on Mexican cuisine.
