Tattoos on the Stomach: Homegirl Cafe

An unexpected yet delightful lunch invitation came my way yesterday from RB. I had my tastbuds set for Vietnamese food (originally the plan was to walk down to Blossom, our reliable standard) but he said, "Have you heard of the Homegirl Cafe?"
"Near Chinatown...part of Homeboy Industries?
"Want to go?"

"Yes!"
I recommend that you say the same.  I had neutral expectations for the food at Homegirl Cafe, and I was pleasantly surprised by the subtleties of flavors of the taco and torta selections.  I ordered Green Chicken Mole as a torta (translated in to Gringo as "sandwich") with serrano peppers, roasted pumpkin seeds and cilantro. RB ordered Martha's Green Salad with julienned jicama, beans, peas, mango, and pumpkin seeds with a citrus dressing. Perhaps the most flavorful item I tried was the spinach mint limeade. I also bought a chocolate-chocolate chip cookie which I cannot comment on yet, since I am hording it for snack later today.
Ambiance: I have to say I felt a bit like a voyeur into gang life. Most of the workers were Latina women.  Our charming server was eight months pregnant. Tattoos abound on all the staff. (We later learned on a tour that tattoo removal is one of the key services offered by Homeboy Industries for former gang members.) Walking in, the cafe looked like a cookie cutter Panera Bread or Chipotle-styled layout.  Nothing original, but modern enough to lend credibility to the non-profit enterprise. "Who are these people?", I wondered, and tried not to stare. After lunch, our tour guide Brian (super nice, great communicator) explained that the staff in the entire complex is made up of former gang members and ex-cons who want to turn their lives around. He took us through the bakery and said that they are selling breads and salsas to Ralph's and soon at Trader Joe's. (He also said he has never been to a Trader Joe's. Can you imagine? This is another world.)
Eating at Homegirl Cafe is a great adventure.  Not only do you have excellent value-priced menu, it also has a thrill-seeking element. Try not to stare, although the staff does not seem to mind.  Maybe it's my middle-class white culture POV that made me self-conscious. I'll certainly go back. I want to try more baked goods.
Budget note: Baked goods are buy-one-get-one-free after 2:00pm.
Book note:  Buy Tattoos on the Heart by Father Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries.