Tortas in CDMX / La Barraca Valenciana: Tortas with Spanish Fillings in Coyoacán

With this in mind, you can expect to find a torta with Spanish omelette and serrano ham or one with grilled squid and aioli here.

Coyoacán's City Hall was established in 1522. Before the Europeans arrived, it was a significant settlement for the Colhuas of Culhuacán. The name Coyoacán, meaning “Place of Coyotes,” reflects its destiny. With so much cultural heritage, we'll introduce you to a spot where cultural fusion meets our appetites. Here, tortas and paella take center stage, steering clear of the usual flamenco or wine botas clichés.

In 1988, José García founded La Barraca Valenciana. Over 35 years have passed, and La Barraca is now a “millennial” venue, soon to hit forty. In 1992, Chef José Miguel García, his son, took over the management. Under his leadership, a space with modest tables and narrow walls emerged, where you can hear the crunch of a torta from the neighboring table.

This isn’t the typical Spanish restaurant overloaded with Iberian décor for tourists; it’s simple and small. No flamenco or bullfighting clichés here. You won’t find people in berets shouting “olé” or youngsters in Real Madrid jerseys. José Miguel’s recipes include a variety of tortas and some specialties like paella, cheek (carrillera), and romesco shrimp (“cucaracha”), named for the color they get during preparation. The resulting cuisine is not commercial but simple and top-notch. Legends and celebrities have visited, including Paul Zaloom from Beakman’s World, who delighted nostalgic 90s kids.

But it's the tortas that draw in the crowds: well-made tortas with minimal ingredients but generous portions. From those with sobrasada, chicken, and overflowing cheese to the classic bacalao. Tortas that shine because of their simplicity, allowing each ingredient (few as they are) to be truly savored. The secret? Homemade garlic mayonnaise that hugs the telera and lingers in your mouth, paired with house-made beers and wines. Now we get why Rick Bayless fell for La Barraca’s charm. You won’t find “La Tatiana” or “La Petrolera” here; they steer clear of the ornate Mexican torta mishmash.

La Barraca Valenciana emerges as the go-to for Sunday cravings, saving you from Sunday indecision. Their tortas and paella are perfect weekend treats, quick and easy to grab and enjoy. We know you might not want to leave your cozy weekend pajamas or Netflix binge, but the solution is here. For chats and beers, you can catch up with friends, share family gossip, and find a spontaneity that will make you come back again and again. And who knows, you might end up sharing that garlic mayonnaise or paella with a disguised celebrity.

• Address: Centenario No. 91-C, Del Carmen, Coyoacán
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Sunday 1:00 pm - 8:30 pm
• Payment: Cash and cards
• Accessibility: Yes
• Parking: No
• Reservations: Not necessary
• Pet friendly: Yes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Vegan options: No