Tortas Chingonas

"This torta shop has a cheeky name (a Mexican abuelita would not approve), but that’s part of the charm. This Paramount shop makes unapologetically huge tortas, so big they’re comical. And the sandwiches’ names lean into absurdity, too. There’s La Mamalona (expletive beep) that manages to fit grilled hot dogs, chorizo, ham, milanesa, and steak into a modest toasted telera roll. This meatpalooza spills out the sides and hangs into the bread by a thread of melted cheese, forcing you to eat this sitting down (and maybe wearing a bib.) Is it a bit much? Sure, but it’s delicious, especially with their spicy curitdo and punchy salsa roja." - sylvio martins

"If you have a sweet Mexican abuelita, saying this spot’s full name in front of her might earn you a smack on the head (spoiler alert: the second word is slang for “badss”). But we find the Paramount shop’s name and other cheeky menu items to be part of its unique charm. This spot’s carefree attitude is also seen in its tortas, which are unapologetically huge, stuffed to the brim, and absolutely delicious. For example, their massive La Mamalona (censor beep*) torta is so big that you might have to split it with Abuelita herself. After the soft telera roll is toasted, the sandwich is stuffed with fresh carne asada, breaded steak, sliced ham, spicy chorizo, hotdogs, avocado, queso fresco, and jalapenos. If you’re interested in a more sweet/savory combo, the La Muy Muy torta (rated PG) has crispy breaded steak, ham, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and its key ingredient: pineapple. We understand that pineapple on pizza is a touchy subject, but just trust us and give this tasty torta a try during your next lunchtime adventure." - Sylvio Martins

"Inspired by Mexico City-style tortas, a Mexican-American food truck riffs on classic chilango sandwiches, super-sized, and bound by queso fundido that pulls apart, beautifully, for maximum Instagram food porn." - Farley Elliott, Bill Esparza