15 Bold Salvadoran Dishes At Balcon Express That Tacoma Locals Love

Tacoma’s food scene gets a major boost from Balcon Express, a cozy spot on 6th Avenue where Salvadoran flavors take center stage. I’m excited to share with you the dishes that keep locals coming back for more, from traditional pupusas to creative fusion bites.

Whether you’re craving something cheesy, meaty, or packed with fresh vegetables, this restaurant delivers bold tastes that’ll make your taste buds dance. Get ready to explore the menu favorites that have earned this place a special spot in Tacoma hearts.

1. Bean and Cheese Pupusa

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this classic Salvadoran staple that’s been feeding families for generations. I love how the thick corn tortilla wraps around creamy refried beans and gooey melted cheese, creating a combination that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying.

Every bite delivers warmth and flavor that reminds you why pupusas are El Salvador’s national dish. The cheese stretches perfectly when you pull it apart, while the beans add earthiness that balances the richness.

Pair it with tangy curtido and spicy salsa for the full experience. Locals order these by the half-dozen because one is never enough. It’s affordable, filling, and totally addictive in the best way possible.

2. Pork and Cheese Pupusa

When you’re ready to level up from the basic pupusa, this savory version brings serious flavor to your plate. Seasoned ground pork mixed with melted cheese creates a protein-packed meal that hits all the right notes for hungry diners.

The pork is cooked with spices that give it a slightly smoky, rich taste you won’t find in other dishes. Combined with the cheese, it becomes this irresistible filling that oozes out with each bite.

Tacoma locals swear by this variety when they want something heartier. The handmade masa exterior stays crispy on the edges while staying soft in the middle. It’s messy, delicious, and worth every napkin you’ll need.

3. Spinach and Cheese Pupusa

Vegetarians rejoice because this green goodness proves that meatless options can be just as exciting. Fresh spinach gets folded into melted cheese, creating a filling that’s both nutritious and downright delicious for anyone watching their diet.

The vibrant green color peeks through when you cut into it, showing you’re getting real vegetables in every mouthful. Unlike some veggie dishes that taste bland, this one has personality thanks to the cheese and perfectly seasoned spinach.

It’s lighter than the meat versions but still keeps you satisfied for hours. Kids who normally avoid greens often change their minds after trying this version. Health-conscious Tacoma residents make this their go-to order at Balcon Express.

4. Putaco

Fusion food reaches new heights with this genius creation that marries two beloved Latin American classics. Imagine all your favorite taco fillings stuffed inside a thick pupusa shell instead of a regular tortilla, and you’ve got this unique invention.

The masa exterior provides a sturdier base than typical taco shells, so nothing falls apart while you’re eating. Inside, you’ll find seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, cheese, and all the toppings that make tacos irresistible.

This dish shows how Balcon Express isn’t afraid to get creative with traditional recipes. Locals love ordering it when they can’t decide between Mexican and Salvadoran food. It’s Instagram-worthy and conversation-starting, making it perfect for adventurous eaters.

5. Steak Burrito

Sometimes you need a meal that comes wrapped up and ready to conquer your hunger in one convenient package. Tender grilled steak gets seasoned to perfection, then wrapped with rice, beans, cheese, sour cream, and fresh pico de gallo.

The steak is never tough or chewy here, which makes all the difference in burrito quality. Each ingredient complements the others, creating balanced flavors in every section you bite into.

It’s massive enough to share, though most people guard theirs protectively. The flour tortilla holds everything together without getting soggy, even if you save half for later. Workers grabbing lunch often choose this because it’s filling and portable for busy days.

6. Steak Quesadilla

Cheese lovers find their happy place with this menu favorite that keeps customers coming back week after week. Generous portions of grilled steak get layered with mountains of melted cheese between crispy flour tortillas that are grilled until golden.

The cheese-to-meat ratio is absolutely perfect, giving you plenty of both in every triangle. Unlike some restaurants that skimp on fillings, Balcon Express loads these up so you actually taste the steak.

It arrives hot and crispy with the cheese still bubbling. Dip it in their house-made salsa or sour cream for extra flavor. Families often order a few to share as appetizers before their main dishes arrive at the table.

7. Chicken Quesadilla

For those who prefer poultry over beef, this lighter option delivers all the cheesy satisfaction without feeling too heavy. Seasoned grilled chicken gets shredded and mixed with cheese, then pressed between tortillas until everything melds together beautifully.

The chicken stays moist and flavorful, never dry like some places serve it. You get plenty of protein without the grease that sometimes comes with red meat options.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters enjoy. The crispy exterior contrasts nicely with the soft, melty interior that stretches when you pull the pieces apart. Parents ordering for kids know this one rarely goes uneaten, making it a safe choice for family dinners.

8. Veggie Quesadilla

Vegetables get the spotlight they deserve in this colorful creation that proves meatless meals can pack serious flavor. Grilled peppers, onions, tomatoes, and other fresh veggies combine with melted cheese to create something truly special for plant-based eaters.

The vegetables are cooked just right, maintaining some crunch while releasing their natural sweetness. Cheese binds everything together, making each bite cohesive and satisfying.

It’s not just for vegetarians either plenty of meat-eaters order this when they want something fresher. The portion size surprises first-timers who expect veggie options to be smaller. Tacoma’s health-conscious crowd appreciates having a tasty option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for nutrition.

9. Pork Quesadilla

Pork fans have found their perfect match in this underrated menu item that deserves more attention. Slow-cooked, seasoned pork gets shredded and layered with cheese, creating a combination that’s both rich and comforting in ways beef just can’t match.

The pork has a slightly sweet, smoky flavor that pairs incredibly well with the melted cheese. It’s more tender than steak and carries more flavor than chicken.

Regulars who’ve tried everything on the menu often circle back to this one. The tortilla gets perfectly crispy without being hard, giving you that satisfying crunch with each bite. If you’ve never tried pork in a quesadilla before, this is your chance to discover something amazing.

10. Steak Torta

Mexican sandwiches reach new levels of deliciousness with this handheld masterpiece that’s basically a flavor explosion between bread. Grilled steak gets piled onto a soft telera roll with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and a secret sauce that ties everything together.

The bread stays soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without falling apart. That secret sauce adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick that makes you wonder what’s in it.

It’s messy in the best possible way, so grab extra napkins before digging in. The steak is always tender and well-seasoned, making every bite memorable. Lunch crowds love these because they’re filling, affordable, and ready quickly for people on tight schedules.

11. Chicken Torta

Lighter than the steak version but equally satisfying, this sandwich proves chicken can be exciting when prepared with care. Grilled chicken breast gets sliced and layered with fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and that mysterious house sauce on soft bread.

The chicken is never dry or bland here, which makes all the difference in sandwich quality. Fresh ingredients add crunch and brightness that balance the richness of the meat.

It’s substantial enough for a full meal but won’t leave you feeling stuffed. Office workers grabbing takeout appreciate how well these travel without getting soggy. The flavor combination works so well that you might forget you’re eating something relatively healthy compared to other menu options.

12. Pork Torta

This sandwich variety brings the same delicious pork you’ll find in the quesadillas but presents it in a whole new way. Tender, seasoned pork gets loaded onto fresh bread with refried beans, vegetables, and all the fixings that make tortas irresistible.

The beans add creaminess that complements the meat’s texture perfectly. Combined with crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes, you get contrasting textures that keep things interesting.

It’s a filling meal that doesn’t cost much, making it popular with students and budget-conscious diners. The bread gets lightly toasted, adding a subtle crunch to the soft interior. First-timers often become regulars after discovering how much flavor gets packed into this unassuming sandwich.

13. Cheese Quesadilla

Sometimes simplicity wins, and this straightforward option proves that point beautifully for cheese enthusiasts. Multiple types of cheese get melted between flour tortillas and grilled until golden, creating something that’s pure comfort food without any distractions.

The cheese blend they use creates the perfect stretch and flavor combination. It’s not too salty or bland but hits that ideal middle ground.

Kids love this classic version, but adults order it too when they want something familiar. The crispy exterior gives way to gooey, melty cheese that makes you smile with every bite. It’s also the most affordable item, making it perfect when you’re hungry but watching your wallet.

14. Aguas Frescas

No Salvadoran meal feels complete without one of these refreshing traditional drinks that cool you down and cleanse your palate. Made fresh daily from real fruits, flowers, or grains, these beverages offer flavors like horchata, jamaica, and tamarindo that you won’t find at typical restaurants.

They’re lightly sweetened, not sugary like sodas, making them perfect for washing down rich, cheesy dishes. Each flavor has its own personality horchata is creamy and cinnamon-spiced, while jamaica is tart and floral.

Locals know to order these instead of regular soft drinks for the authentic experience. They come in generous portions that keep you hydrated throughout your meal. First-time visitors should definitely try at least one to complete their Balcon Express adventure.

15. Revueltas Pupusa

Why choose one filling when you can have them all mixed together in this ultimate pupusa variety? Revueltas means “mixed,” and that’s exactly what you get pork, beans, and cheese combined into one glorious package that represents the best of Salvadoran cooking.

The three fillings complement each other perfectly, with the beans adding earthiness, the pork bringing savory richness, and the cheese tying everything together. It’s like getting three pupusas in one.

Experienced pupusa eaters often consider this the gold standard by which all others are judged. The flavors are complex yet balanced, giving you something new to notice with each bite. If you’re only trying one pupusa during your visit, make it this one for the full experience.