Delightful Discovery at Tortas Washmobile

By Erin Dunigan

Hitting the Baja backroads for adventure? Whether you're exploring the rugged beauty of off-road trails or navigating the dusty caminos of Valle de Guadalupe, one thing's for sure - your car will get dirty! But fear not, intrepid travelers, there's a pitstop suggestion that combines a much-needed car wash with a legendary Baja experience: Tortas Washmobile in Tijuana.

Yes, you read that right. Tortas Washmobile isn't your average car wash. This iconic Tijuana institution is a two-in-one haven for both your rumbling stomach and your dust-caked vehicle. Pull up, hand over your keys, and prepare to be amazed.

A Family Legacy, Washed and Served

Tortas Washmobile is a true family business, steeped in tradition and deliciousness. Founded in 1964 by brothers Juan Manuel Hernandez and Jesus Hernandez Padilla, the story begins not with tortas, but with a car wash. These Jalisco natives, working at the car wash, noticed a glaring absence: there was nowhere nearby to grab a bite.

Juan Manuel, seeking to avoid the daily long walk to look for lunch, proposed the idea of a taco stand to his boss. The next day, Juan Manuel was serving up tacos seasoned with his secret ‘sazon’ - a recipe that continues to tantalize taste buds today.

But innovation wasn't over. One day Juan Manuel decided to fill a telera roll with his famous carne asada. The idea caught on, and soon, everyone wanted their own torta. The taco stand morphed into a torta stand, and Tortas Jalisco was born.

Initially named Tortas Jalisco after the brothers' home state, Jalisco, as well as the stand's location on Avenida Jalisco. But, as things often happened, customers simply referred to it as "the tortas by the car wash." So, Juan Manuel took a playful twist, and "Tortas Washmobile" became the official moniker.

The Secret Ingredient: Family, Tradition, and a Dedicated Telera

Today, the legacy continues with Isaac, Alejandro, and Jose Hernandez, sons and a nephew of the founders, running the operation. They've been around the business since they were young boys, learning the ropes and inheriting the family passion for good food. Most importantly, they continue to use the original "sazon" recipe for the meat, ensuring that every bite is an explosion of flavor.

But the secret goes beyond the seasoning. Tortas Washmobile takes pride in using only the freshest ingredients. This includes the telera, the bread that is the foundation of the torta. The Hernandez family doesn't skimp here. Just up the street, a dedicated bakery, owned and operated by the family, bakes these delicious telera rolls specifically for Tortas Washmobile. They are not available for public purchase - these rolls are reserved for the perfect torta experience.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits

The classic torta at Washmobile features a grilled telera roll filled with their signature carne asada. Each torta is a symphony of flavors, with the perfectly grilled telera cradling a generous portion of meat, sliced tomato, pickled red onion, and a touch of chile sauce. Upon receiving your torta, right off the grill and wrapped in paper, you will be asked if you want an ‘agua.’ This agua is actually horchata, made daily and served out of a large thermos.

Beyond the Clean: A Tijuana Tradition Endures

While the original car wash closed for a while, the torta stand remained a steadfast fixture. Even when faced with the prospect of relocation due to development, the owner of the new car wash, recognizing the value of this Tijuana tradition, created a new space specifically for Tortas Washmobile. Today, the original cart - a cherished reminder of their humble beginnings - resides at their home.

The success story continues with six additional locations across Tijuana, each adhering to the family's commitment to quality and tradition. The seasoned carne asada is still prepared at the original location, ensuring consistency across all branches. For the ultimate experience, however, the original Tortas Washmobile is the place to go. The higher traffic volume here translates to fresher, juicier meat, elevating your torta experience to new heights.

Insider Tips for Your Washmobile Adventure

• Early Bird Gets the Torta: Tortas Washmobile opens at 8:00 am and closes by 3:00 pm, or whenever they sell out. For the most selection and freshest meat, aim for an early lunch.
• Parking for Your Pitstop: While some patrons get their car washed while enjoying their torta, the popularity of the tortas can sometimes lead to limited parking. Be prepared to park nearby and walk over, or simply double park in front of the cars being hand dried at the car wash.
• A Bite of History: Soak in the atmosphere! The original location offers a glimpse into Tijuana's culinary street food history. Observe the skilled preparation of the tortas and the friendly banter between staff and customers.
• The Car Wash 411: Silver, Gold, and Platinum are the basic car wash options, ranging from about $10 to $15. All car washes are a combination of hand wash, tunnel wash, and then hand dried. The Silver is exterior only, while the Platinum is the highest level, including the exterior wash along with Armor All treatment of tires and interior, vacuuming and a tunnel waxing.

A Wash and a Win for Your Baja Journey

With its unique combination of car care and culinary delight, Tortas Washmobile is a must-stop for any Baja adventurer. You'll leave with not only a sparkling car but also a satisfied stomach and a memory that perfectly captures the spirit of Baja: a place where ingenuity, family, and delicious food come together to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Tortas Washmobile, the original location, is located at Av. Jalisco 2424, Centro de Tijuana or can be found on Google Maps.