Tortas Frontera

The carnitas tacos are highly recommended, with great flavor. For those who don’t like spicy food, they have a green salsa with excellent flavor and no heat. The way they package their products is impressive, with branded bags and boxes that give a professional touch. Service can be a bit slow, but it’s understandable given the number of orders they handle. The only downside for me was the guacamole — about 3 to 4 ounces for $13, which I think is a very small portion for the price. Other than that, everything is very recommendable.

Tried Cubana Torta, although it was good, it was on the greasy side and had bacon, so not really authentic Cubana torta. Since it’s in the Airport terminal is going to be on the expensive side, going at around $21 dollars with a drink. Turnaround was quick and now they have a self-ordering kiosk Mango Agua fresca was too sweet, had to put water. Habanero sauce was really good and extremely spicy for those not used to it, so be careful

The Baja chicken tacos and guacamole were great. Gluten free corn tortillas. I had time before my flight so I headed over to Frontera. No wait to order and the food was prepared in a reasonable amount of time. The drinks are good and there is a bar but it was a morning flight so I passed on the bar. There are a few seats and a counter to eat if you have time before your flight.

I literally have to stop here every time I go through O’Hare! This is a must for every trip. The bread on the tortas is toasted to a delicious, crispy, golden brown texture, the fillings are so good. Do yourself a favor and get you some frontera on your way through!

I’m not sure if this meal was the trade off for my flight delay but it was worth it either way - the food here was phenomenal. I got the chipotle chicken torta, which came with an awesome smoky salsa. The ingredients were fresh and while it was prepared quickly, the team clearly spent time making it delicious. I will be back.

Was excited to come back for their delicious tortas. Warm Hospitality from Leo at the Bar. The bacon egg and cheese tortas was delicious and freshly made and served with their chipotle sauce! Great quality for the price!

While flying through ORD on a layover, I stopped in, as the place seemed like it would have a nice selection of freshly-made Mexican dishes. I sat at the bar, the bartender was moderately busy, but not very busy and service was ok. The menu wasn’t very vast, just offering several different items. I opted for chips & salsa, with their habanero salsa added (they charge $.50 more for it) and their torta made with a fried chicken breast… It arrived cut in half, the first half I ate seemed to have chicken in it all, but the second half I ate only had a small piece of chicken. The chips were decent, the salsas were just OK, but that habanero salsa was really spicy. The silly music with the same latin beat was annoyingly loud and redundant. Overall – Not worth stopping in… I won’t return.

Ordering was quick at the kiosk. All my questions were answered there. ( soft shell baja tacos not hard)

After a long stressful day of travel we needed to refuel during our layover. Tortas Frontera was busy, but Gabriel and Alex delivered great customer service! We were very pleased with our meals and would recommend!!

I had a chipotle chicken torta, and it was very good for airport food. It took about 15-20 minutes for it to be made. The combination of chipotle chicken, avocado, arugula, and black beans gave lots of flavor and texture. Like a grilled panini, you have to eat it right away as the bread will be the most toasty after it's pressed. You can still take it on the plane, as long as you are okay with soft bread. 1 star off: The packaging box was flimsy. The cover kept popping off and the bottom kept on becoming folded as I walked with it in a bag. Maybe this is more evidence for eating the torta right away!

Sadly this has gone down hill hard! Rick needs to come and do some quality control. Yesterday had chips and salsa and the birria torta. The chips were bad! Seemed old some what stale. The bread for my torta also seemed like just an over toasted stale bread. Wasn't much meat on it either. I loved this place for first several years it was open but it's not the same anymore. With airport food in general getting very expensive these days at least make sure your food is super on point for the price. I sat at the bar and the bartender/ server seemed like he could absolutely care less about anything. Bummer that this has fallen so hard.

I love that they make everything from scratch - or I assume they do because a simple to-go sandwich takes 15-20 minutes. I don't know if they need to figure out how to optimize production of their less than dozen menu items (including soups and salads) or if they need to pay staff enough to care, but if you're heading for a flight give this a pass. This isn't a one time thing, but it's finally become a last time thing for me. Edit: the Cubana was fine, but not 18 minutes worth of fine. It had no special requests. Edit2: ships-soups. No aquatic vessels here.

02/12/25 - This was the second time I've eaten @ Tortas Frontera a Rick Bayless restaurant. Both times I ordered a a Cubana sandwich. The first time I ordered Cubana sandwich it wasn't very good as I bought this to eaten on the plane knowing there wasn't any food being served. This was a big mistake as this should be eaten right away. The Cubana is a Smoked pork loin, Gunthorp bacon, artisan Jack cheese, black beans, cilantro crema, chipotle mustard & avocado. The second time I ate it right away and it was delicious. Lesson learned 5 stars

Jasmine was wonderful!! Food is such better quality than the standard sandwiches at the kiosk's! They were very busy, but they had it all under control, food was out within a few minutes! Delicious!

Solid for airport food! Otherwise the chorizo was pretty salty and the combination of ingredients was underwhelming, but as a whole, it satisfied the hunger and was quick and doable with only a 45 minute layover! Since it's a sandwich station, you can speedwalk to the bathroom midway in Terminal K and back during the time they take to make it and your food will be ready for pickup by the time you're back. I ordered a choriqueso and ate it too fast for pictures of anything remaining but the empty box. If you land Terminal 3 Gate K, and have a layover in G or H, it's on the way!

Chicago O'Hare Terminal 3, Il. Typical high priced that we are subjected to at airports. We ordered at a kiosk, there were a lot of steps, I believe it is faster to just stand in the short line and talk to a human. Easy seating and the food came in about 15 minutes. The Crispy Chicken Milanesa was really good. I added avocado for $3 (!) that really helped perfect it. A tad spicy but not overpowering. Very nice just fried chicken breast and chipotle sauce.There are several sauce choices but chipotle goes well with this sandwich. The Guacamole Salad was huge ($15.50). It really could feed two people. Lots of guacamole and chicken in there with a good dressing. I'll probably just go with this next time.

This is truly good food- for an airport or otherwise. Been here many times and always happy but this latest visit was the best: I had a perfect bowl of tortilla soup topped with barbacoa. Unctuous, a little spicy, and totally filling. Then I booked another flight. Gotta come back!

A must stop for sandwich when connecting in ORD, and always worth a small line/wait. Since I missed the time window for breakfast sandwich, I had the Crispy Chicken Milanesa. Hand made to order, and with the freshest, locally (regionally) sourced ingredients, makes for a tasty Torta!

At first I wanted to be upset soup was $15. But was actually surprised it was delicious. Would I order this anywhere else for $15, no. But for an airport restaurant this was pretty amazing and subpar food would be expensive anyhow. I ordered the child's cheesy toasty and it was ok for dipping in soup but I wouldn't really recommend for anyone over the age of 8. The negative was how long it took to get my food- about 15 minutes. So be prepared to wait a bit.

Still solid food as it has been for all these years. The breakfast torta with chorizo, eggs, and avocado was very tasty and a very good portion size. The loaded guacamole alsoshown was tasty. The breakfast ordering system requires you to go over to the bar to order coffee (nowhere found on the kiosk screen menu). The bartender grumpily is made to have to head back across to the food area to pour a cup from the carafe. Ludacris - I say! needs fixed.

We love Tortas Frontera! Today we had some time in the Chicago so we hunted for this place. The tortas are so very good! I had the chipotle roasted chicken with fire roasted salsa. Chicken, avocado, poblano, jack cheese, arugula and cilantro crema. The salsa had a great heat to it and it brought the flavors of the sandwich forward. Loved it! As Arnold said, 'I'll be back!'

Worst torta of my life - bread was hard, chicken was dry and all for $17! Nah!! And the agua - drink was horrible. Not worth the money or the wait.

The torta milanesa was pretty good. The chicken was crispy and saucy. Because they assemble to order, the breading stayed crispy. The salsas were excellent as well as the Jamaica agua drink. Unexpectedly tasty for an airport food stand. It's somehow affiliated with Rick Bayless since his name was on the packaging. You order tibia 2 kiosks, where you can customize the sandwich to your liking. They do try to upsell you after almost every click, so that's annoying. Ordering in this fashion is also not friendly to people who are not tech savvy. I stepped in to help a lady who struggled with the machine for a while 10 minutes while the line behind her got longer.

I love delays at O'Hare because of this restaurant. The guacamole Cobb with crispy chicken and the agua frescas that are made in-house is the best thing that can happen to you during a layover. They are also quick after ordering, in addition to having some bar seating and tables. The price is right and the food is fantastic.

Employees were rude and the tortas came with very very little meat. Tiny pieces of chicken and pork in the two tortas we ordered.

I waited for 20+ minutes before asking where my order was, as I was seeing others who ordered after me get their food first. I went to the cashier and they told me to order through the kiosk, and when I told them I did, they were quick to make my order. The sandwich itself is good. The bread is the standout, the eggs are a nice soft scramble, the chorizo has a slight spice, cheese is melty, and the red onions give it a nice crunch. Texturally, the sandwich works. In terms of flavor, it's decent but somewhat lacking. Same can be said for the side of chipotle salsa. Because of my forgotten order and the underwhelming flavor, I give it a 3/5

Although there was no line today (Saturday afternoon), ordering online was definitely the way to go! I arrived at Terminal 1 and found the location there was out of their vegetarian sandwich. I put in an order at T3 and by the time I was there it was ready! Lots of layers of flavor in the eggplant and definitely enhanced by the green salsa, it was an easy to eat and satisfying bite at the airport. I'd definitely return next trip. There are a few nice seating options if you are okay to walk - the Rotunda, for example, is bright and open!

While flying through ORD on a layover, I stopped in, as the place seemed like it would have a nice selection of freshly-made Mexican dishes. I sat at the bar, the bartender was moderately busy, but not very busy and service was ok. The menu wasn't very vast, just offering several different items. I opted for chips & salsa, with their habanero salsa added (they charge $.50 more for it) and their torta made with a fried chicken breast... It arrived cut in half, the first half I ate seemed to have chicken in it all, but the second half I ate only had a small piece of chicken. The chips were decent, the salsas were just OK, but that habanero salsa was really spicy. The silly music with the same latin beat was annoyingly loud and redundant. Overall - Not worth stopping in... I won't return.

Very disappointed. I paid $12 for a tortilla soup that consisted in old tortilla chips, water with cilantro. They need to up their game. I always try to support small businesses but I'm definitely not coming back to this one.

I am back in Terminal 5 at Chicago O'Hare Airport waiting for a connecting flight back to NYC, so I had to come here for a bite and a cocktail. It's been a few years since I was last here, but it hasn't changed a bit (I wish I could say the same thing about this airport, which is a mess). The menu is small--less than a half-dozen sandwiches, a few soups, a salad and chips 2 ways. Drinks include a small selection of wine, beer (their on-tap selection is more interesting than the cans/bottles) and cocktails, which I recommend. They have a kids' menu and are open for breakfast with a separate menu, which I didn't have. Service was pretty good (I have seen some reviews where people had long waits for take-away, but I guess it depends on when you get here). I have never had the pleasure of eating at any of Rick Bayless' other restaurants, so I am happy I got the chance to eat here again.

Surprisingly good food in an airport. I got the Chorizo Queso torta and a mango lime agua Fresca. Service was prompt and friendly. The torts was delicious. Hit, fresh, and filling. The agua Fresca had a good sour not to sweet refreshing quality. Next time I'm in O'Hare I'm going here again for sure. No pics was really hungry.

Surprisingly good airport food, this restaurant is located near gate B11 in Terminal 1. While at the going rate of $15 (pretty much the entry-level price at airports these days), the amount of protein is disappointing, the freshness and composition of the tortas (Mexican sandwiches) is something to appreciate. Combined with a staff that genuinely seems to care, Tortas Frontera is almost certainly the best food option in Terminal 1.

Love that Tortas Frontera challenges and raises the bar of "airport food." I got the Chicken Milanese torta - mildly let down on the taste; I was expecting a burst of flavor across the cotija, crema, and jalapeños but shockingly it tasted a bit one-note and bland? Not sure why, as it theoretically checked all the culinary boxes of "salt, fat, acid and heat." However, I was impressed by the freshness of the ingredients and the speedy, efficient service. A solid choice nonetheless.

Had a connecting flight in Chicago and couldn't passed your establishment because it smelled so damn good. The line was really long but that means it's really good lol. We ordered the Mango lime frescas which were so tasty. Guacamole is real avocado and not the fake. That's such a plus. My Cuban torta was delicious loved the flavor profiles

Delicious Tortas, but Service is Slow! The tortas here are packed with flavor and fresh ingredients--absolutely delicious! However, the service is extremely slow. They hold onto large batches of orders instead of sending them out as they're ready, which leads to long waits and crowding at the counter. We waited over 25 minutes for two to-go tortas. If they streamlined their pickup process, it would be perfect. Worth the wait if you have time, but not ideal if you're in a hurry!

Ladies and gentlemen, you can finally get good food at the airport! As a local Chicagoan, everything Rick Bayless does is fantastic in my book, so I was stoked to find his outpost in Terminal 3. The screen where you input your order alleviates waiting in line, you can actually see real food being cooked (vs. re-heated), and the staff are very kind. I had the Choriqueso before my international flight, and it was excellent! I wish I had noticed the bar area before I ordered because the drinks looked good! I enjoyed the music too.

For fast food and had several things from this place over the years of traveling through Terminal 3. I really like the food, good choices for me it's kicked up Tex-Mex. Fast food that feels like a way better version that other fast food restaurants and hands down better than any other fast food chain Mexican food. Good service. Order at the counter of now kiosk. Crazy busy H area where H&K y off. I'd come to their sit down version of this place for sure

On a flight back from Montana, my friend and I went on a search for some good airport food - something that is not fast food and we were not in the mood for a burger or pizza. We found Tortas Frontera and it was that excellent airport food we were looking for. Made to order and quick. You start by ordering at a kiosk. It is big touch screens that are very easy to navigate. The service was friendly and quick. NOTE: keep your receipt. You need to show it in order to pick up your food! The sitting area was a bit noisy, but we were able to find a quieter place eventually - it's open in an airport....

It's my favorite place to eat at O'hare. It's high quality food prepared on the spot, and it's interesting, not just the same ole fare. But their software-based ordering stations are counter intuitive and difficult to use.

Rude service and food is not warm . Overpriced and not worth the wait time. I asked for an update on my order just in case I may have missed them calling my order. They ladies laughed at me and said I did not order a long time ago and need to wait. Never going back

One of the best options in Terminal 3. Made to order, the staff works hard to churn out the food fast. Typically, airport food is just meh but Tortas takes it to another level. Fresh and plentiful ingredients nestled in a great telera roll, you can't go wrong. Be wary, the habanero salsa is hot as advertised so use it sparingly if you are heat sensitive. A solid meal before our flight.

Pro: The food I had was good The service was simple (touch screen order) The food came reasonably quickly Con: Even for airport prices this was a ripoff. 2 street tacos and nothing else for $13.50?? Had I known how small they were i'd have gone elsewhere.

For a quick airport sandwich, the tortas here get the job done. Crispy bread, fresh ingredients, and decent size sandwich. At $17 for a sandwich only, the price is steep but that's airport food for you.

Wonderful quick bite. We got the Milanesa torta and it was a wonderful blend of flavors. Perfectly spicy without killing us. The corn chowder was flavorful as well. Also, ordered the Cubano. Sandwich was packed with flavors and was very rich leaving my tummy very satisfied. Also ordered chips and guacamole. Everything was freshly made which is good to see. Great way to spend a layover or just a little extra time. Food comes out quickly for the last minute grab. Service was fast and they were helpful and friendly. I recommend getting a reservation to avoid waiting and falling in line at the counter. This place is worth visiting! Perfect spot to bring family and friends. Will be back for sure!

Place is just awful. I've went twice and haven't had the order I bought for once. Don't waste your money.

Location: inside airport Parking: airport Staff: nice Wait time: 5mins Seating: bar and table Price: average -high Drink: aguas frescas Food: I had a chipotle torta Food was tasty, perfect meal that does not feel fast food. Had lots of great ingredients like avocado.

Found this place from a Chicago Eater article on where to eat in the O'Hare Airport and this was the first spot listed. The food was extremely unimpressive for the price point. I ordered the Cubana which the menu describes as coming with smoked pork loin, bacon, avocado, jack cheese, chipotle mustard, cilantro crema. As seen from the photo, one of my halves did not have any avocado. The cilantro crema was only brushed lightly on the outside part of the sandwich, and I tasted no chipotle mustard at all. At $15.65 after tax, this was an insane rip off. It also lists that the rolls are brushed with black beans... you can see from the photo at how minimal that is as well. Didn't give it one star because the few ingredients they did put in the sandwich weren't terrible, but nothing I'm going to seek out again. Would wholeheartedly recommend any of the other dozens of restaurants in this concourse.

One of the best airport foods I have grabbed to date! The tortas are simply amazing! It had the right amount of heat, smokiness and flavor. Only downside is the cost!

Overpriced. Tiny portions. And attitude... Did I mention tiny portions? Unbelievably tiny. Adding later. I paid for extra lettuce and extra red onions. There were barely any onions, maybe 3? Ridiculously skimpy. Overpriced air. Move along. I spent 54$, sale and 2 tiny sandwiches. The worst.

I came here with a group of 12 colleagues during a business trip. The waitress, Mallory, was on top of it! She was very attentive to everyone's drink and food needs. There were a variety of dishes, chosen by the group, including both of the steak options and salmon, etc. A very cool restaurant! A medley of dessert choices were chosen for the group to share. Two Fonz, two Keylime pies, and one of the very sparkly chocolate cake! It was one of my colleagues birthdays. Would definitely recommend a return trip or a first stop for anyone.

I had a lovely pit stop before my flight great drink to give me a nice chill. Good service nice pause before my connecting flight took off.

Not exactly like the originals I had tried but pretty good. The poblano corn soup is really good! I added bacon for a bit of protein. Good place to eat at the airport!

Anything Rick Bayless is usually good in my book. This location was no different. I ordered a pepper & egg something for breakfast on an early morning layover. It was great and made so by the green salsa that was served with it. The food is prepared to-order in front of you. I waited maybe 5 minutes from order to ready and that's perfectly fine. The torta was hot and fresh and delicious.

This spot is always my go-to whenever I have a layover at the O'Hare International Airport. The restaurant is always packed with customers and people lining up. Recently they got a kiosk for people to order if they don't want to stand in line, which I find very helpful! It makes ordering much more efficient as it takes less time compared to standing in line. Additionally it makes it easier for the customers if they pay by card. The only ones I've had are the chipotle chicken and the pork. Both are seasoned well and does not require any salsa, but the salsa definitely kicks it up a notch. It creates this wonderful harmony, balancing everything out. Overall, I'll be coming back whenever I stop by this airport(even if it means I have to run through different terminals to get there).

One of, if not the best casual restaurant at O'Hare. It's in Terminal 3 but worth a walk if you have time to kill waiting at the airport. Food is actually good food made fresh from ingredients not super processed. It may take a minute for your order, but it's worth it. Recommend the guacamole, Tortas and chicken tortilla soup. They have local alcohol available as well. Staff is always nice, or order at the kiosk.

Pretty damn good tortas, almost redeeming ORD from its dearth of accessible lounges. I would get this even if it was just in my neighborhood. Order online before you get there, since it can take 15-20 minutes for them to prepare.

Yes it's a little pricey $17 for a salad if you add chicken. It was even more when they used to offer shrimp! I eat here because it's consistently fresh and the employees are always busy but very nice. Just FYI from the time you order, not from the time you get in line could take up to 10 minutes to get your food if it's busy.