By Flavor & The Menu
May 6, 2021
Victor Albisu
The fried chicken sandwich inspires fantastic variations, and diners just can’t get enough of them. Chef/Owner Victor Albisu banked on that fandom, designing a version that finds a natural home at Taco Bamba, his Mexican street food-inspired fast casual. The Big Red Torta, served at the micro chain’s newest location in Arlington, Va., is now one of the restaurant’s signature oversized stuffed sandwiches.
“The torta features a full spectrum of bold flavors and is not for the faint of heart—or appetite,” says Albisu. The fried chicken delivers the fiery flavor. A chile-marinated breast is dusted in red-hot chile powder, breaded and deep fried, then loaded into a toasted telera roll. The torta is layered with griddled Chihuahua cheese—dotted with pickled chiles, then topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, avocado and “Rooster Sauce,” a sweet, tangy barbecue mayonnaise. “We aimed to create a memorable fried chicken sandwich that could best represent the ingredients and flavors of Taco Bamba,” he says.
Featuring the Big Red Torta at only one of its six stores is a strategic move. “Being able to make new and different items at each of our locations allows us to share more of our craft with our guests and gives each location its own identity,” says Albisu.
