Hubbers and I always make it a point to treat ourselves after dropping of recyclables a couple of miles down. With Mom in tow, we let her decide what kinda eats to have. "Chicken Fried Steak." was her response. We all also wanted to try something new. While I was behind the wheel, Hubbers was throwing out places for he kind of eats Mom wanted. We all collectively decided to come here . And this place is poppin'! There was a crowd already waiting and we sorta had 2nd thoughts about staying because we were starving! Got my name on the list and played the waiting game. It took no time at all: we were (literally) seated less than minutes later. (Will elaborate on this later.) Mom called an audible on her original grub soon as she saw the steak and egg breakfast option. I went for her original eats (since that's the first thing I ever order on a first time diner visit) and Hubbers went with the pancake combo. This place truly has an old skool diner vibe. I think the single seats facing the kitchen are still the original ones they placed 40 or so years ago. We were entertained by looking at old pictures and relics placed all over their walls. There's a lot of history here! Our food came though not so long after. Mom's steak was cooked a perfect medium, Hubbers pancakes were fluffy and bacon was crispy, and my chicken fried steak was perfect. The gravy was a good consistency (not too thick or watery), the steak's batter was thin and crispy and both were seasoned well. I didn't need to add anything else. Over-easy eggs were cooked perfect as well. There was absolutely nothing wrong with this plate! FOOD: 5. SERVICE: 5+! Every staff member hustled. When a table becomes available, it only took a few seconds before someone was cleaning it up for the next set of customers. And it's not like a lazy cleaning kinda thing - table was really cleaned before putting the table settings. No wonder people get seated quickly. Our drinks were refilled without having to be asked and they made sure we had everything we needed. I got a good look at the kitchen staff and every person in there didn't stop moving - it was like watching a kitchen dance choreography, they all work well together! VALUE: 5. Worth every penny! PARKING: Private lot. Not an issue. OVERALL: 5. That was a great first run. Nowhere near home but we all agreed we're willing to make the drive to eat here again! (Most likely after the next recycling run!) And looking forward to it!
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"Who would have thought a small, rinky, hole in the wall Mexican diner would offer one of the best chicken fried steaks!! Being from the south, I grew up on hearty breakfasts. Everything loaded with gravy. Carlito's CFS did not disappoint!! Crispy chicken steak smothered, no, drowning in sausage gravy! For the price you really get a large portion too. It included 3 eggs made your way, I opted for hashbrowns and a side of toast. The diner itself is very tidy and clean. Excellent customer service. Upon entry, go to the counter to place your order then they will bring your food out."
"Came Saturday morning where it was very busy but there were plenty of seats outside to sit with my dog Max. Others had their dogs as well. Nice place in Old Torrance. The food was great! I loved how fluffy the biscuit was and the gravy made it even better. The country fried steak was delicious with just a thin layer of breading. The French toast is an excellent choice as well! Definitely want to come back to the other items on the menu."
