Jack H.
Yelp
I was riding the R train up to Margon to get a Cuban sandwich and the train was packed, so I got off at 40th and Broadway and figured I'd just walk the rest of the way. When I got up to the street, boom! Turns out Rick Bayless has a new restaurant right at the subway stop. I've long been interested in his books and show (I'm a white guy who likes making Mexican food, surprising, I know), but had never made it to Chicago to go to one of his restaurants, so seeing that the place was open and there was no wait, I had to stop in.
I sat at the bar and was greeted by a friendly bartender who provided a menu and water (there is bottled, but I went tap). Looking through the menu, there's a variety of options suitable for groups and solo diners. The namesake, tortas, are obviously available, with chicken, pork, beef and vegetarian options, each recognizable as classic Mexican sandwiches as interpreted through a more upscale take. Though I didn't get to try this time, the tlayudas are also very tempting, and would be fantastic for a bigger group or happy hour. The menu also features tacos, tostadas, soups, salads, snacks, sides and churros (also didn't get to try, but the person dining next to me at the bar got some and they looked absolutely incredible). There's also an extensive cocktail program and draft beer.
Having already been in the mood for a Cuban sandwich, I figured a torta cubana would be a great choice, as well as a good comparison to tortas I had previously had. I also ordered a draft beer (a Mexican(?) craft lager) and the peanuts with chili and lime. As you'd expect, the peanuts came before the sandwich and were very good, providing a nice salty, citrusy snack to eat as I sipped on my beer. Soon after, my torta came out. It was simply fantastic. The cilantro crema and chipotle mustard provided a wonderful creaminess along with the avocado that balanced nicely with the smoky meat and crunchy roll. Easily one of the better tortas I've had in my life, and well worth the $16 (I can very easily see myself walking over to pick up a to go order when I'm in the city for work).
Overall, fantastic. Writing this review is making me consider going back for the second day in a row tomorrow. Go now before more people realize how great this place is.