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I Ate for 8.88

Regulars to JJ’s La Puerta in Sister Bay know the menu is neatly divided into “Mexican” and “American” cuisines. But buried in the lines of the American menu lies a sandwich that is far more Mexican than anything on either side of the menu. Behold, the roast pork torta.

A torta could be described as a Mexican sub sandwich made with tasty grilled or slow-cooked meat (typically pastor or barbacoa) tucked in pillowy warm telera bread—the bread is the key. A hybrid of French and central Mexican food cultures from when the civilizations collided, this sandwich is the quintessential street food of Mexico City, and now a new favorite bite in Sister Bay, Wisconsin.

JJ’s torta ($6.95) is smothered with roasted marinated pork, onions, green peppers and melted Monterey Jack cheese, all cuddled together in the supple yet slightly crispy telera roll. I always ask for a bit a lime and hot sauce to cut through the grill grease. With the rich meat, the snappy veggies, the spice, the citrus, and the perfect bread, this sandwich begs to be inhaled. But try to savor your plate, sip a tecate, and revel in an authentic meal under $8.88.