Our friends from across the river love driving to Oak Cliff for the delights of our culinary renaissance. But locals know the favorite breakfast spot in Bishop Arts is this no-frills Mexican diner. Juan and Reina Gonzalez opened El Jordan 17 years ago, and while Bishop Arts changes constantly, little has changed inside this breakfast-and-lunch café next door to Hattie’s. Few menu items are priced over $8. Breakfast plates such as migas and huevos rancheros are served with refried beans and fried potatoes. Posole and caldo de res make warm and flavorful lunches on cold January days.
El Jordan Café, 416 N. Bishop, 214.941.4451
Ambiance: Cafe
Price range: $1.50-$9
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Did you know? Juan Gonzalez named his restaurant after the biblical river as an excuse to share the gospel when diners ask about the name.
| Three more spots for locals only |
Restaurant El Padrino
We miss the old taco stand on West Davis at Bishop, but there is another El Padrino. The original opened 20 years ago on Jefferson, and the tiny café still offers all your old El Padrino favorites, plus coffee.
408 W. Jefferson, 214.943.3993
Taquería El Si Hay
This taco spot received a recent mention in Texas Monthly, but we’re still claiming it for the ’hood. The tacos are worth waiting in line for, but remember, it’s cash only.
601 W. Davis, 214.941.4042
El Tizoncito
Since it opened in our neighborhood in 2009, this Mexico City-style taquería has expanded to Far North Dallas and Lemmon Avenue, but we still don’t understand how it hasn’t taken over the world yet.
3404 W. Illinois, 214.330.6153, eltizoncitous.com