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Good Taste: Simple Mexican comfort from Cafe Ynez

On the wide spectrum of Mexican options now available in Philadelphia, from the taquerias of South Philly to the high-end nuevo polish of Distrito, Cafe Ynez on Washington Avenue sits somewhere in the middle.

Huevos con chorizo from Cafe Ynez on Washington Avenue.
Huevos con chorizo from Cafe Ynez on Washington Avenue.Read moreCRAIG LABAN

On the wide spectrum of Mexican options now available in Philadelphia, from the taquerias of South Philly to the high-end nuevo polish of Distrito, Cafe Ynez on Washington Avenue sits somewhere in the middle.

The cheery midcentury American decor, with its turquoise accents and boomerang-patterned tables, reflects a love of diners drawn from owner Jill Weber's Midwestern childhood.

The brunch-centric menu speaks to the notion of midday comforts, too, especially appealing to the growing neighborhood around the old Graduate Hospital and Point Breeze.

But the flavors are a direct homage to the authentic flavors of Mexico City, where chef Juan Carlos "JC" Piña grew up.

I tasted that in the sharp tang of the guajillo salsa that glazed the tender chicken enchiladas bright red beneath a sunny-side up egg.

My favorite dish, though, was a simple scramble of eggs with cuminy chorizo sausage, complete with tortillas and another homey touch - tender stewed pinto beans left whole for extra texture when you wrap it all up into one bite.

Huevos con chorizo ($11)
Cafe Ynez, 2025 Washington Ave.
cafeynez.com