¡Qué Padre!: Providence’s sole tortilla factory serves them up hot

La Mexicana Mini Mart & Tortilleria is the only tortilla factory in Providence. Located in a building that serves as both a restaurant and convenience store, it packs a lot into a small area. The attached restaurant is a one-level stone enclosure with a four-table outdoor seating area protected by a fence. 

The store has a plethora of basic convenience store items with all the daily necessities: sodas, candy, canned goods and a small number of personal needs products. As a bodega, the store features Hispanic groceries and hard to find items, such as Hispanic candies, cheese sauces and drinks. The store also provides a money service, including cash checking, money orders and a fax machine.

La Mexicana was inspired by the family tortilleria in Mexico. It was opened upon realizing that Providence didn’t have a tortilla factory.

The restaurant isn’t big, with three two-person tables (with plexiglass currently separating each table) stationed across from the counter, but it feels comfortable. Spanish lyrics drift through the room as friendly staff take orders. The sounds and smells of the food being cooked make it feel like you are in their kitchen, even though it’s located in a separate room. 

The menu features nine reasonably-priced entrees to choose from: tacos, tostadas, quesadillas, burritos, tortas, huaraches, gorditas nachos, empanadas, flautas and a carne asada plate. Sides include rice, refried beans, guacamole, a small bag of chips and a cup of salsa. There are frozen seasonal items (mangonadas, shaved ice) available during the summer.

And of course, La Mexicana makes their own corn tortillas daily. Ask at the bodega counter. They are sold hot and fresh. The gluten-free tortillas are made with no preservatives or additives, ensuring stellar quality and taste. The smallest order available is a pound and a half, which can make for many meals or be eaten by itself for a quick and tasty snack. Best of all, these tortillas are firm, and hold up well to microwaving or reheating. No need to double-up.

La Mexicana is a family-run business with a dedication to quality. Both the restaurant and mini-mart have a steady stream of customers. The friendly staff are always smiling, helpful and appreciative of their patrons. La Mexicana is a gem set in Silver Lake.

La Mexicana is located at 403 Plainfield St in Providence. Hours are Sunday 9 am – 6 pm, Monday – Friday 11 am – 8:30 pm, Saturday 9 am – 8:30 pm. 401-228-8553. https://la-mexicana-inc.business.site. Available for eat in, take out for delivery from Seamless, Postmates, Grubhub and UberEats.