Nestled in the heart of Gardena, California, Burnt Tortilla has been serving up authentic Mexican cuisine for over two decades. This family-owned restaurant has garnered a reputation for its mouthwatering dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes passed down through generations. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, Burnt Tortilla offers a delightful dining experience that transports you to the vibrant culinary traditions of Mexico.
Burnt Tortilla welcomes diners to enjoy their meals in a cozy and inviting atmosphere, where the aroma of sizzling meats and fragrant spices fills the air. For those on the go or seeking a convenient option, the restaurant also offers a takeout service, allowing you to savor their delectable offerings in the comfort of your own home or office.
Specialties
Burnt Tortilla’s menu boasts a tantalizing array of specialty dishes that transport diners on a flavorful journey through the heart of Mexican cuisine. At the forefront of their offerings are the legendary Chili Verde and Chili Colorado, two iconic dishes that showcase the restaurant’s mastery of bold and authentic flavors.
The Chili Verde is a culinary masterpiece, featuring tender chunks of pork simmered to perfection in a vibrant green sauce made from roasted tomatillos, jalapeños, and a blend of aromatic spices. Each bite bursts with a tangy and slightly smoky flavor, perfectly balanced by the natural sweetness of the tomatillos. The dish is typically served with warm tortillas, allowing diners to savor every morsel of the succulent pork and velvety sauce.
On the other hand, the Chili Colorado is a celebration of rich, earthy flavors. Slow-cooked beef is enveloped in a robust red sauce crafted from dried ancho and guajillo chiles, garlic, and a hint of Mexican chocolate. The result is a depth of flavor that is both complex and comforting, with a subtle sweetness that complements the heat of the chiles. Served alongside fluffy rice and refried beans, this dish is a true testament to the art of Mexican cuisine.
Another must-try specialty is the Monterey Chicken, a delightful fusion of Mexican and Californian flavors. Tender chicken breast is grilled to perfection and topped with a creamy sauce made from Monterey Jack cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and a touch of white wine. The dish is then finished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, adding a bright and herbaceous note to the rich and indulgent flavors. Served with a side of Mexican rice and black beans, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both traditional and adventurous palates.
Combination Plates
For those seeking a hearty and diverse meal, Burnt Tortilla’s combination plates are the perfect choice. These platters offer a delightful sampling of the restaurant’s signature dishes, allowing diners to savor a variety of flavors in one sitting.
The combination plates typically include a selection of tacos, enchiladas, and tamales, each showcasing the culinary expertise of Burnt Tortilla’s chefs. The tacos are generously stuffed with flavorful fillings like seasoned ground beef, tender chicken, or succulent carnitas, nestled within warm corn tortillas. The enchiladas, smothered in rich and zesty sauces, offer a delightful blend of spices and melted cheese.
Complementing these favorites are the tamales, meticulously crafted with masa dough and filled with savory ingredients like shredded chicken or pork, often enhanced with the smoky notes of roasted chilies. These delectable parcels are steamed to perfection, ensuring a moist and flavorful experience.
What truly sets Burnt Tortilla’s combination plates apart is the inclusion of traditional Mexican rice and refried beans as accompaniments. The rice, infused with tomato and spices, adds a vibrant touch to the plate, while the creamy refried beans provide a comforting and satisfying contrast to the boldly flavored main dishes.
Burritos
Burnt Tortilla’s burritos are a true testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Mexican flavors. Whether you’re craving a deluxe or regular burrito, the options are endless, and each bite promises a burst of tantalizing flavors.
The deluxe burritos are a standout on the menu, generously stuffed with your choice of fillings, such as succulent carne asada, juicy carnitas, or flavorful chicken. These burritos are then smothered in Burnt Tortilla’s signature sauces, like the rich and velvety green chili or the robust and smoky red chili, elevating the flavors to new heights.
One of the restaurant’s crown jewels is the legendary green chili deluxe burrito. This behemoth of a burrito is packed with tender chunks of pork, perfectly seasoned and simmered in a tantalizing green chili sauce. The burst of flavors from the chili, combined with the savory pork and melted cheese, creates a harmonious symphony of taste that will leave you craving for more.
For those seeking a more traditional burrito experience, Burnt Tortilla offers a variety of regular burritos, each one carefully crafted with fresh ingredients and expertly seasoned fillings. From the classic bean and cheese burrito to the hearty carne asada or pollo asado options, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
No matter which burrito you choose, you can expect a generous portion that will leave you feeling satisfied and eager to explore more of Burnt Tortilla’s culinary delights.
Tacos and Enchiladas
Burnt Tortilla’s menu boasts an impressive selection of tacos and enchiladas, each bursting with authentic Mexican flavors. The taco offerings range from the classic carne asada (grilled steak) to the mouthwatering al pastor (marinated pork with pineapple). Vegetarians can savor the flavorful rajas (roasted poblano peppers with onions and cheese) or the hearty potato tacos.
For those seeking a more substantial meal, the enchilada varieties are sure to satisfy. The traditional enchiladas rojas are smothered in a rich, smoky red sauce, while the enchiladas verdes feature a tangy tomatillo sauce. Fillings include shredded chicken, beef, or cheese, all complemented by the restaurant’s signature blend of spices.
Soft tacos are another popular option, allowing diners to customize their experience with a variety of proteins, such as carnitas (slow-cooked pork), chorizo (spicy Mexican sausage), or grilled fish. These handheld delights are served with fresh toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.
Fajitas and Salads
For those seeking a lighter or more customizable option, Burnt Tortilla offers a delectable selection of fajitas and salads. The fajitas are a crowd favorite, sizzling with your choice of grilled steak, chicken, or a combination of both. These flavorful proteins are accompanied by sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a side of warm tortillas, allowing you to create your own personalized fajita experience. Enhance your fajitas with an array of toppings, including guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
The salad options at Burnt Tortilla are far from ordinary. The Taco Salad is a hearty and satisfying choice, featuring a crisp tortilla bowl filled with seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and your choice of dressing. For a lighter and refreshing option, try the Grilled Chicken Salad, which showcases juicy grilled chicken atop a bed of mixed greens, accompanied by avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and a tangy cilantro-lime dressing. Vegetarians can delight in the Veggie Fajita Salad, a colorful medley of grilled vegetables, black beans, and crisp romaine lettuce, all tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.
Soups and Egg Dishes
For those seeking comforting and authentic Mexican flavors, Burnt Tortilla’s menu offers a delightful selection of soups and egg dishes. One of the standout offerings is the menudo, a traditional Mexican soup made with beef tripe, hominy, and a flavorful broth seasoned with chili peppers, onions, and herbs. This hearty and warming dish is a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, often enjoyed as a hangover cure or a satisfying weekend brunch.
Another must-try item is the huevos rancheros, a classic egg dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. Two fried eggs are served atop crispy corn tortillas and smothered in a zesty ranchero sauce made with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. Refried beans and crumbled queso fresco (fresh cheese) accompany this dish, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Beyond these iconic options, Burnt Tortilla’s menu features a rotating selection of seasonal soups and egg dishes, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to explore. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of pozole (a hearty hominy-based soup) or a satisfying plate of chilaquiles (fried tortilla chips simmered in a flavorful sauce and topped with eggs), you’re sure to find a dish that satisfies your cravings for authentic Mexican flavors.
Beverages
No Mexican meal is complete without the perfect beverage to complement the flavors. At Burnt Tortilla, you’ll find a tempting selection of soft drinks and traditional Mexican beverages to quench your thirst. Refresh your palate with the tangy and sweet tamarindo, a refreshing drink made from the tamarind fruit. For a burst of vibrant color and fruity notes, try the jamaica, a beverage crafted from hibiscus flowers. Or, indulge in the creamy and comforting horchata, a traditional rice-based drink infused with cinnamon and vanilla.
Whether you prefer a classic Coca-Cola or a refreshing Jarritos soda, Burnt Tortilla has a wide range of soft drink options to suit every taste. Embrace the authentic flavors of Mexico and elevate your dining experience with these delightful beverage choices.
Conclusion
Burnt Tortilla’s menu is a culinary journey through the diverse and authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine. From the signature green chili deluxe burrito and hearty combination plates to the tantalizing Chili Verde and Chili Colorado specialties, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition.
Whether you’re craving a classic taco or enchilada, a sizzling fajita, or a refreshing traditional beverage like tamarindo or horchata, Burnt Tortilla has something to satisfy every palate. With its inviting ambiance and attentive service, the restaurant offers a dining experience that perfectly complements its mouthwatering menu.
So, what are you waiting for? Embark on a flavorful adventure and visit Burnt Tortilla in Gardena, California, to savor the authentic taste of Mexico. Remember, the restaurant is cash-only, so come prepared to indulge in this culinary delight without the hassle of credit cards. Your taste buds will thank you!