THE FOOD
Tortilla Jo’s in Downtown Disney is one of a chain of restaurants owned by the Patina Restaurant Group. The company also owns Naples Ristorante and Catal Restaurant and Uva Bar in Downtown Disney.
Tortilla Jo’s offers the gamut of traditional Mexican food – both in a big mission-style, sit-down interior and at a Taqueria walk-up window outside. I had carne asada. The steak itself was delicious, but the mashed sweet potatoes and tamale that came with meal were way too sweet. What saved the meal were the tortillas – they’re made fresh in the restaurant right before your eyes, and they’re hot, soft and delicious.
I also had tortilla soup, which was tasty. It could be spicier. I guess in Downtown Disney, they have to make the food palatable to the pasty Midwesterners who visit Disneyland en masse.
Still, the tacos are good and it’s a relaxing place to spend a long lunch away from the hubbub of the rest of Disneyland.
And if you’re not having enough fun, there’s a menu of dozens of specialty tequilas to try.
THE ATMOSPHERE
Soaring ceilings, faux adobe walls and heavy, dark lacquered furniture give this mission-style building a south-of-the-border feel. The floor plan is mixed up enough to give most diners a sense of privacy because their tables and booths are angled to form nooks.
THE SERVICE
The service was excellent. I had waitresses and busboys all over my table, bringing me drinks and taking away my dishes. As soon as I set my fork down, my empty plate was gone. If you’re in a hurry, but still want a sit-down meal, this is the place for you.
Contact the writer: 714-704-3706 or atownsend@ocregister.com
