Tortas Mexico City / Tortas La Samaritana, a classic of Polanco
Classic tortas made personally by their founder for 60 years.
By Alejandro Pohlenz
I definitely didn't know that Polanco was the name of a river flowing through the area where the tree-lined Campos Elíseos street now zigzags.
This is relevant because, on that avenue, which runs from Mariano Escobedo to Reforma, there is a grocery store that also makes tortas: La Samaritana. It was established in the 1960s, and its founder, Martha Ortega, still carefully prepares each torta she sells.
The Origin of Tortas La Samaritana
We don't know why Mrs. Martha and her husband named the place “La Samaritana.” The Samaritans, descendants of the 12 tribes of Israel, are the protagonists of a famous parable that teaches us to be compassionate and empathetic.
The fact is that they have been making tortas for many years. They offer both simple and combined options. The ingredients are the classics: milanesa, ham, leg, and sausage. Plus, the old grocery store is still there.
The most requested tortas are the milanesa, either on their own or with accompaniments.
What we don’t like as much: There are few tables on the sidewalk.
- Address: Campos Elíseos 116, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11550 Mexico City, CDMX
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed on Sundays
- Ideal for: Lunch
- Type of Food: Tortas
- Payment: Cash
- Accessibility: Yes
- Parking: No
- Reservations: No
- Phone: 55 5250 2608
- Nearby Public Transport: Metro Polanco and Metro Auditorio
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Vegan Options: No
