Among a packed district of primarily Vietnamese businesses and restaurants in Tacoma's Lincoln International District you will come across El Zocalo Tortas Y Bakery.

This isn't a polished date night atmosphere in the least. In fact, El Zocalo is a bit of a hole in the wall dive-y sort of joint. That said, its tortas and baked goods are sought out far and wide and for good reason.

During my most recent visit I skipped the self-serve baked goods sections. No normal human being could possibly have room in the belly for a cookie AND Zocalo's monstrous torta - unless of course you're looking for a Man vs. Food Nation dining experience.

Zocalo's most popular torta is the Deliciosa ($7.99). This behemoth features a mean meat trio with steak, ham and bacon stuffed between crispy toasted fresh bread. Evenly sprinkled throughout you'll nibble on jalapenos, fresh avocado, sliced tomato, onion, mayo and gooey melted Mexican mozzarella cheese. Though the thinly sliced steak can be a bit tough in some bites, this is the sandwich's only downfall. The rest is pure perfection. For those who like a little added heat Zocalo provides an amazing creamy salsa condiment bottle at your table - use it.

Each torta is served with a side of housemade potato chips; though the sandwich is so satisfying it's hardly necessary. To wash down your sammie El Zocalo has a selection of refrigerated beverages such as bottles of Coca-Cola, Vitamin Water and juices.

You can always grab a variety of baked goodies to go for when your appetite returns.

EL ZOCALO TORTAS Y BAKERY, 701 S. 38th St., Tacoma, 253.474.9000