#48: Lengua Tacos at La Vallesana

Evan C. Jones

​There are many tempting options available at La Vallesana (2801 Cherokee Street; 314-776-4223), but whether you're getting quesadillas, burritos or tortas, there's something on the menu that leaps out to most people as something to avoid: tongue.

Offal is something that most Americans would consider, well, awful. But the undesired cuts of meat actually make for some great food. Tongue is best described as gateway offal. Because it is a cut of meat that's primarily muscle, it's typically braised and cooked down over several hours until it's tender. If you're a fan of pot roast, then tongue is something you need to try.

Why not on a taco? La Vallesana serves its tacos without a lot of bells and whistles: two flour tortillas, your choice of meat, cilantro, onion and a lime wedge. The simplicity allows the meat to really come through with a touch of acid from the lime. One taco quickly turns into another two, and then three.

Beginning last year, RFT restaurant critic Ian Froeb counted down -- in no particular order -- 100 of his favorite dishes in St. Louis. Now Gut Check has taken up where he left off. Check back frequently as we detail our 100 favorites, and don't hesitate to send us yours, too, either via the comments thread or at tips@riverfronttimes.com.

Previously:

#49: Hummus and Balela Platter at Nosh Bistro

#50: Bread Pudding at Harvest
#51: Root Beer Float at Dr. Jazz
#52: Le Croque Monsieur at LaBonne Bouchée
#53: Biscuits and Wild Mushroom Gravy at Blood and Sand
#54: The Gracey at Fozzie's Sandwich Emporium
#55: The Sun-Dried Tomato Pizza at Katie's Pizzeria
#56: Brioche French Toast at Half & Half
#57: Fish and Chips at Llywelyn's
#58: Chicken Kabob at Al Waha
#59: Seafood Ravioli at Gian-Tony's Ristorante