Since 1963 the Torres Cafe has been providing delicious Mexican food to the lucky people living in or passing through Billings.I cant say enough good things about this family-owned restaurant. The waitresses are happy and friendly, the service is fast considering that everything is made from scratch, and the food is absolutely, mouthwateringly, delicious.
On my first visit I had the midweek pork carnitas special, which includes 3 small corn tortillas (handmade in the kitchen) and a pile of shredded seasoned pork. Today, having learned my lesson that eating a lot of good food can sometimes be too much, I ordered a moderate-size taco bowl, shown in the photo. Just right in every sense.
In the photo you can also almost see a bottle of Jarritos soda made in El Paso, Texas. This comes in several flavors, and I chose my waitresss personal favorite, mandarin. It is a refreshing not-too-sweet beverage made from cane sugar. I was sorry to learn that it no longer comes in watermelon or tamarind flavors, so I think Ill try lime next time.
I was also a bit sad to learn, after talking to one of the family owners, that Torres will probably die with the current generation. The younger members of the family, who literally grew up in the restaurant, are all too aware of the work hours that go into such a business. They prefer to spend quality time with their families and have chosen other professions.
But meanwhile we can all enjoy this fabulous food. Go, go, go to Torres and eat your fill!
And in addition to the food, there is plenty of visual entertainment. Hanging on the walls and from the ceiling are many interesting Mexican items, including bullfighters painted on velvet, wooden carvings, pinatas, and cooking utensils.
If youre small enough, a ride on a bucking bronco is well worth the price.
Or try your luck with the Fun Chicken. I have no idea whats in any of those eggs, but why not find out for yourself?
If youre in a more serious mood, perhaps needing peace and quiet or even spiritual guidance, you can stop for a moment in the meditation room, which opens right off the dining area. The owners mother donated one Catholic statute many years ago, and the collection grew from there.
To find the cafe, go to the Kings Avenue exit (exit 446) and turn south, then west onto Frontage Road. Look for all the cars of eager customers.
Torres Cafe
6200 South Frontage Road
Billings MT 59101
406-652-8426
Ill be honest here and say right out that a museum is not my favorite place to spend precious time. I prefer the present, alive with real people doing things in real time. Or else I like to spend my time alone, reading a favorite book.
Inside the museum, I enjoyed exhibits showing arrowheads found in the area, old medical equipment used by a much-loved doctor, and military uniforms proudly worn by local veterans.
Just as interesting to me as the dinosaur were the things related to food. Near the bones, a popcorn popper from an old movie house and a peanut roasting machine from a long-gone drug store were on display.
Most holidays revolve around food, and Memorial Day is no exception. The most important, aspect, however, is remembering those who have given their lives to allow us the freedom to live our lives as we wish and to have all that great food to eat.
But I really came to see the Kill Kare Klub display honoring its 100th anniversary. This club was formed in 1910 as a way for area women -- many of whom were isolated on ranches -- to enjoy a few relaxing hours with each other. Its still going strong, with get-togethers including quilting bees and eating homecooked food. In 2007, the group published a cookbook that also tells stories of the hardworking women who have belonged to the club.
