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We'd Plan A Layover at ORD Just to Score a Rick Bayless Torta

March 31, 2011 at 9:05 AM | by | Comments (0)

We knew celebrity chef Rick Bayless had arrived at Chicago-O’Hare, but only recently did we get to indulge in his latest offerings. We expected to rush through the airport in order to make our connection—but thanks to a flight delay—we were able to take in a little airport lunch. After trying Tortas Frontera, we were actually glad our flight was less than on-time.

The quick service restaurant is located in Terminal 1, so if you’re flying on United—a great possibility if you're heading through ORD—you’re all set. Otherwise, it might just be a little bit of a walk.

On our visit the place was pretty busy with at least 15 hungry travelers perusing the Mexican-inspired menu. There’s quite the selection of tortas, salads, soups, and molletes—kind of like open faced sandwiches with plenty of melted cheese. We went with the Chipotle Chicken torta, and we have to say, it might just be the best thing we’ve ever eaten at the airport.

The cashier warns you that the sandwiches take about ten minutes, so it’s not super quick, but that’s only because they’re making things fresh. Our torta had chicken, poblano peppers, black beans, cilantro, avocado creama, arugula, and Chihuahua cheese—mmm it was good. We skipped on the guacamole bar this time where you can add plenty of toppings to make it your own, including bacon. We did however have some fresh tortilla chips with a smoky red salsa and a refreshing green salsa.

Prices weren’t bad either, as most of the tortas run around $8 or $9. You really could split one too, especially if you’re getting a sidecar of chips. There’s room for a few seats inside the restaurant, as well as a full bar with plenty of tequila options. It was a little too early for us to start the party, but next time we’ll choose either the Deal-Maker or the Deal-Breaker Margarita. Oh—and if you’re looking for a place to plug in—look right under your seat. There are plugs like every two inches under the edge of the bench seating.

We’re already dreaming of trying the Cubana torta on our next trip—smoked pork loin, bacon, and chipotle mustard—as we won’t be able to resist making another stop. There’s even breakfast too, so no need to limit your visit to only the lunchtime hours. The place is definitely a welcome addition to O’Hare, as well as to the airport dining scene in general.

Related Stories:
· "Tortas Frontera" Now Open in Terminal 1 at O'Hare International Airport [Official Site]
· Chicago's O'Hare is Slowly Becoming Quite the Foodie Airport [Jaunted]
· Airport Food coverage [Jaunted]

[Not-that-great cell phone photos, as we were unprepared for airport sandwich heaven: Jaunted]

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