This week’s search for a cheap lunch took me to the Bishop Arts District. I wanted to sample the empanadas at Espumoso Cafe, but they are closed on Mondays (major grrr). Luckily, just down the road was El Jordan Cafe, a place I’ve always wanted to try. It is a cheap eats mecca. Jump for the rest.
El Jordan Cafe is the kind of place I wish I had in my neighborhood. It’s small, it’s divey, and the menu is filled with things I like to eat, like breakfast burritos, tacos, hamburgers, and pancakes. It is cheap. It has character. And, they sell watermelon lollipops covered in chili powder that my boyfriend likes.
It was tough to decide what to order, but in the end, I went with a beef torta. I used to like the tortas at Tio’s, and I haven’t seen many since. El Jordan’s version is huge. Easily two-fists big. The bottom bun had a layer of refried beans (just a thin layer), and it was covered with lightly seasoned, thinly sliced meat. Avocado chunks topped the meat, and then a slice of American cheese, and then shredded lettuce, tomato, and mayo. Next time I would have them hold the mayo and cheese, because it was a little too fatty combined with the creamy avocado. The bread was soft but sturdy. I love refried beans and avocado, so I was happy. The meat on it’s own was a bit dry and bland, but on the sandwich it wasn’t noticeable.
Total cost: $4. I didn’t finish it all. My Bf had a beef taco that was as good as the ones I love at Herrera’s. As I’m reading more about the restaurant online it seems people really dig it for breakfast, so if I can ever get myself out of bed in time to do anything besides the essentials, I’ll have to try it. I would definitely return to El Jordan. 416 N Bishop Ave. 214-941-4451.
