Mexico City Torta Fair draws crowds with diverse sandwich offerings

The Venustiano Carranza borough in Mexico City hosted its 21st annual Torta Fair, transforming its plaza into a culinary showcase. Over two dozen vendors offered a diverse array of "tortas," Mexico's beloved sandwiches, with prices ranging from 110 to 220 pesos. The event provided a vibrant platform for both established and emerging food businesses to display their creations.

Among the participants was Vanessa, representing the fifth generation of a family renowned for their "tortas ahogadas" from Jalisco. This was her fourth year at the fair, where she offered a carnitas-filled torta for 110 pesos, accompanied by three salsa options. "We are famous in Jalisco, where we always sell, and also here in the borough," she commented, highlighting the event's role in expanding their reach beyond their home state.

Vendors like Vanessa expressed enthusiasm for the fair, viewing it as more than just a sales opportunity. It's a chance to connect with fellow exhibitors and introduce their culinary heritage to a broader audience. "We have a great time, people try our tortas, and many later look for our establishment," she said, underscoring the event's effectiveness in driving future business.

Regina Valentina, alongside her mother, managed a stall featuring "tortas de chilaquiles" and "cochinita pibil." She shared that her family has been involved in commerce for years, with her mother selling "atole" and her father selling "raspados." Regina, who grew up immersed in this environment, is now learning the family trade, assisting with both customer service and food preparation. "I practically grew up in this environment; my parents have always sold, and now I am learning to continue the family business," she stated.

Raúl Rivas explained that his family has been crafting tortas for three generations. For his family, participating in the fair represented a chance to showcase the quality of their products. Their most elaborate torta, featuring a mix of arrachera, chistorra, barbecue bacon, and Argentine chorizo, was priced at 220 pesos, demonstrating the premium offerings available at the event.