Monday, February 17, 2014

La Casita Yucateca

La Casita Yucateca is located at the Cartlandia food pod (SE 82nd and Harney) in Portland, Oregon.

I stopped by on a Saturday. I quickly saw that this was a family business, perhaps a mother-son business or equivalent. The boy taking my order was very respectful, and I could see he has a great work ethic. The world needs more people like him.


I initially wanted to try the panuchos ($1.50 each), but the fryer wasn't working. As a backup, I got the Cochinita Pibil Torta ($5). Basically, a slow-roasted shredded pork sandwich where the pork marinates in citrus juice and annatto seed. A healthy amount of pork is placed in a roll, with pink (pickled?) onions added. I loved the flavors that pork had. Very tender and delicious.

Cochinita Pibil Torta with Habanero Sauce

I didn't ask where they got their rolls from, but that too was amazing. A crunchy exterior and a soft interior.

The torta came with some homemade habanero sauce. Yup, complete with actual habaneros still in there. I'm sure a shred of the pepper left spice burns on the panda's face. Battle scars are awesome.

Sure, there's a zillion Mexican carts in Portland. Not all of them serve panuchos and tortas like these. Give them a try! 8.75/10

3 comments:

  1. Yes thanks Aaron. how hot did you think the sauce was that came with the cochinita ? we thought it was really hot.

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  2. It had very good heat. Definitely got the habanero kick from it. Great job! :-)

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  3. Super good, super cheap food. Reminded me of the food I had in Merida, Mexico last year. I

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