This year’s Best Sandwiches prove that chefs around the country continue to push the boundaries of the hand-held favorite. See all the winners >>
Winner: El Luchador
Restaurant: Rosa Mexicano, Los Angeles
Units: 17
Creator: Chef Ben Diaz
Price: $14.50
Food cost: $3.25
Ingredients: Brisket, chorizo, guacamole, pickled red onions and chipotle mayo on torta bread.
What makes it special: Diaz said much research and listening to guests went into the creation of this sandwich, with its combination of sweet, spicy, meaty and fresh locally sourced ingredients. “It’s a fusion of two great meats jammed into an amazing piece of bread for an explosion of flavors,” he said.
What others are saying: The Gayot guide said, “Who would have thought that a chain restaurant in a mall would dish up some of the city’s best Mexican fare? Despite sounding all wrong, this restaurant really gets it right, offering diners contemporary Mexican dishes in a stylish, relaxed setting.”