El Purepecha picks up where Jose's Tacos left off
It's a humble setup in the Loft District with four counter seats and five snug four-tops lining the wall.
Last year's shutdown of Jose's Tacos, the unassuming shop at the corner of 10th and Buttonwood Streets in the Loft District above Spring Garden Street, left a void for Union Transfer-goers and the local lunch crowd.
Happy to report that tacos are coming off the flat-top again. And with Viaduct Rail Park opening soon a block away, the timing is perfect.
Owner Jose Mendosa, however, moved back to Mexico. His nephew Jose Medina, who worked at Jose's, is running the show, now called El Purepecha (469 N. 10th St., same number: 215-765-2369).
No way, Jose? Medina did not want to keep the name - one, because he wants to move on and two, because everyone calls him "Alex" after Alejandro, his middle name. His wife, Janneth, helps out.
Menu hits the basics: sopes (three generous-size thick, topped tortillas per order, $5.80/$6.50); tamales ($2 for chicken and pork, or $2.50 for corn); tostadas (three per order, $6.75/$7.75); tacos (three per order, $6.75-$8.50); burritos ($5.50-$9.50); fajitas ($10.90-$12.90); plus tortas, enchiladas, and salads. The fridge stocks Jarritos and Boing, or get a glass of cinnamon-topped horchata or tamarindo.
Two people can eat very well for $20.
Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Closed Sunday. There's takeout (credit cards accepted) and delivery.
Also in the neighborhood, check these dining options.