Summer 2011 Truckspotting

Truckspotting during Summer 2011 continued despite the lack of updates here. My posts were derailed for several months due to a broken camera that I clumsily dropped soon after beginning this project and right before 3 weddings. Smart. This was complicated by the fact that for a 29-year old, I lag significantly behind my generation in technology and social media, only very recently learning how to get pictures off of my phone. So while my summer adventures may seem far away, I'd still like to share very brief summaries of my mobile-culinary adventures. Hopefully they'll get your mouth-watering and ready for what can be found during Winter 2012.

Pera Turkish Tacos @ Tavern on the Green, Central Park
Pera received attention for being the first truck to serve alcohol. Apparently this is what has been missing from the gourmet food truck trend. I'd argue that food is central to the truck phenomenon, and that drink becomes burdensome. That's what bars or picnics are for. At a truck, I just want one hand free to hold my napkin while I shovel something awesome into my mouth. This "Mediteranean Brassiere" on wheels features Lavash Bread Tacos, Zucchini Pancake tacos, a hummus bar, sides, desserts, and beverages. I ordered the Smoked Lamb Lavash Bread Taco and the Mediterranean Fries. While this was a satisfying enough meal, it could have been better. The taco was weak (not enough filling), while the flavor was vaguely Mediterranean but not particularly spicy or smoky. A container of chicken-and-rice from 53rd and 6th would be more satisfying, especially for the carnivorous. The fries were nothing to write home about - only a dash of herbs to distinguish them from McDonald's. I'm not sure what I had been expecting, but "Turkish Tacos" had sounded really enticing. I would have a taco there again, but to satisfy my hunger and not my need for cheap food thrills. This one gets a B.


Korilla BBQ
It is unfortunate that my experience at Kimchi Taco truck was defined by - the tacos. They didn't exactly live up to my expectations. When I spotted Korilla BBQ on the UES, it would have been a good opportunity to compare their version with Kimchi Taco's. Alas, this experiment made too much sense and instead, I veered toward the numerous bowl options - rice, a protein, various types of kimchi, sauces, cheese, etc. Looking at the website, it was hard to tell which one I actually had because I don't remember there being so many options at the truck itself. I believe I had the "Superbowl" version of the "Chosun Bowl," with pulled pork, bacon & kimchi fried rice (drool), and several kimchi varieties. If I could find this truck more often near my office, it would be my new winter comfort food. This bowl of Korean-Mex goodness was simply amazing. There was nothing wrong with it. Perfection. Spicy and piping hot, with lots of texture between the juicy pork, crunchy kimchi, and creamy cheese and crema fresca. With any of the 3 sauces available (kBBQ, korilla sauce, and korean hot sauce), you just cannot go wrong with these. I now believe that all the tacos at all these trucks are a bit overrated and that the real sensation are the bowls, so I really do need to try Korean Taco Truck's version. A couple of suggestions for those with an entrepreneurial spirit (because mine is a spazz): 1) Including Korean meat and kimchi options would update Chipotle's rice and salad bowls and at long last, give us a chain of Korean-Mex food! 2) Someone needs to start a truck that sells fried rice varieties. Korilla BBQ earned a solid A with this one.


Taim Mobile: Falafel & Smoothie Truck


My falafel sandwich

This was one seriously great falafel. It may be the best I've ever had. It's true that I usually order shwarmas over falafels at Middle Eastern joints, so perhaps I don't have the best examples to compare. But after I inhaling one from Taim, I wondered why I don't have them more often. This truck is worth stalking for the Falafel Sandwich, which is made with an amazingly flavorful green falafel that manages to be both tart and savory. I didn't know that green falafel existed, and I'm not sure if they are traditionally green or not. They are, however, spectacular, especially with the combination of tahini, hummus, and a surprisingly bright Israeli salad expertly rolled into a warm and non-soggy pita. Although Taim had a number of sauces and sides to try, keeping it simple was more than rewarding. I plan to return for some interesting ice tea and lemonade flavors (ginger/mint and pomegranate/honey), as well as healthy doses of feta and s'rug (cilantro-garlic-chili sauce). Extremely impressive for a dish commonly found on NYC streets. Grade: A+

The Taco Truck at the Highline's The Lot

The Lot

Here is the dependable taco truck that we on the East Coast are so unfortunate to not have more of. Not only is it one of the few, it also seems to be a step up from the average. Why is that? Because despite being named The Taco Truck, TTT makes one mean torta (Mexican toasted sandwich). Like, mean. As mean as Num Pang's Cambodian 5-spice glazed pork belly sandwich (note to Num Pang: please start a truck). One splendid summer evening after a walk down the entire length of the Highline, I came up The Lot, a temporary plaza with a roller rink, food trucks, a bar, and benches. With no more fantastic way to conclude my Highline stroll, I took to the trucks. After surveying the taco, soup, salad, sides, and sandwich options, I chose the Barbacoa De Costilla torta ($7) at TTT. Now, sandwiches are a funny thing. They are so simple and can be so right, and yet so much can go wrong - they can become so average so easily. Which is why I appreciated the robustness of my torta. Shredded beef, chipotle salsa, white onions, pickled jalapenos, avocado, a crema and black bean spread, and queso between two slices of bread - all that, and you could still taste every part of this well-constructed sandwich. Especially the beef. It's disappointing when meat just functions as something fleshy and mushy to shred between your teeth. This beef actually functioned as the star of the show, both in terms of flavor and texture. Washed down with an orange Jarritos (Mexican soda), this was a fabulous truck meal. Grade: A.


My Torta (front)


Sweetery NYC

A short 'n' sweet nod to this surprise of a truck for a late summer afternoon snack of Salmon and Dill quiche and a red velvet whoopie pie. Especially since I'd already had an omelet earlier and really didn't need much more egg in my day. I happened to be on my way home when I saw the Sweetery NYC truck, and so was able to warm up my quiche a tad bit and sip some coffee with my cookie. While the temperature certainly did help, there's no doubt that this quiche was packed with flavor, freshness, and identifiable as well as tasty chunks of salmon with just the right amount of dill (which I'm not a huge fan of). It was also a substantial portion - maybe a little over 3 inches wide, with sturdy, flaky crust. The whoopie pie was also surprisingly good. In case you didn't know, a whoopie pie is two soft cookies with a filling. In this case, the filling was the the cream cheese frosting that usually goes on top of a red velvet cake or cupcake. I'm still not sure what the difference between whoopie pies and macarons is. Call me unsophisticated. It doesn't really matter, because I'd take this whoopie pie over an over-priced macaron any day. Sweetery NYC has a lot of sweet and savory options that work as both large snacks and small meals. A great treat, and definitely a step above from the Cinnamon Snail. One sweet A for Sweetery.

The Cinnamon Snail @ 2011 Gourmet Food Truck Festival

At last, a few quick thoughts on the final food truck I sampled at the 2011 Gourmet Food Truck Festival on Sunday, 4/10. Because I had already overloaded on Rickshaw Dumplings and Schnitzel & Things, my third and final stop had to be something short 'n' sweet. With a name like The Cinnamon Snail, this seemed like the perfect place for that.

The Cinnamon Snail, 2011 Gourmet Food Truck Festival (Photo credit: Truckspotter)

Although there was no more time or stomach muscle left to try a full meal here, I wish I'd known sooner about the interesting sandwiches and other entrees this truck's seasonal menu offers (Korean BBQ Seitan sandwich sounded just weird and yummy enough for instance). In fact, they have a menu even more extensive than Schnitzel & Things, including a full breakfast and pastries menu in addition to the sandwiches and entrees. I haven't heard of this organic, vegan food truck but the website indicates that it is actually based out of Hoboken, NJ. This is NJ Truckspotter's turf, so perhaps she'll be able to sample more of the menu someday and give us a more complete review.

Out of an array of vegan donuts and pastries, I chose the Chocolate Cake Donut and Coconut Milk Creme Brulee (they were out of the Raw Chocolate Pudding). The donut really didn't do much for me. I'm not sure if it had just been out too long, or if the vegan ingredients gave some what of a dry texture and not-so-yummy nuttiness. Overall, not my cup of tea and wouldn't go very well with one either.

The Brulee, on the other hand, was fun, different, and springy. Mostly because the sugar on top was just a little burnt the way I like it. And while I don't usually opt for coconut-flavored anything, this had a natural but mild coconut taste that helped polish and seal up my appetite for the day.

The side of the truck says: Food to help you transform into a being of pure light who can serve all living creatures simultaneously and eternally. That's great! Usually not on my mind when I'm stalking a food truck and trying to satisfy my appetite on the go, but it's wonderful that a more mindful food truck-eating experience exists. I'd give them a "grade" but since I just had dessert, that wouldn't be entirely fair. The website says that these guys are working on getting a permit to park in Brooklyn, so look out for them soon!

The Krave Truck - Jersey City, NJ

I'm pleased to introduce you to NJ Truckspotter, a great friend of mine and fellow foodie. Her 'hood in Jersey City is the first place I caught sight of a Korean-Mexican food truck. Although there has been tremendous hype surrounding Kimchi Taco Truck, this one may just have been the Tri-State Area's first. Here are NJ Truckspotter's thoughts on The Krave Truck in Jersey City:

The food truck phenomenon is not confined to New York City – they’ve spread to my side of the river, in Jersey too!

The Krave Truck is a mobile peddler of the iconic truck food from LA – the Korean taco. Similar to the Kogi Truck, and brethren to the Kimchi Taco Truck that Truckspotter just reviewed, the Krave Truck offers a blissfully brief menu of Korean-inflected Mexican food. Or maybe it’s the other way around. Given my love for Korean, and my penchant for food from a foam container, I went to go check it out.

The Krave Truck travels to different locations in Jersey City throughout the week, and I found them at their usual dinnertime spot, the corner of Columbus and Marin Blvd right outside the Grove St. PATH station. The truck is a bright pea green, and hard to miss. I picked an unseasonably warm day in the spring for my visit, and I was able to eat on the steps of the PATH station, while people-watching – a glorious way to enjoy my food.

I had luckily familiarized myself with the menu beforehand, because the photos in the window of the truck were a bit haphazard and difficult to understand. Based on Truckspotter's soggy taco experience, I decided to order the BBQ Rice Platter, which comes with the option of two out of three meats – galbi short rib, tangy pork, or sesame chicken. I opted for just one meat – the galbi short rib – and I ordered a regular size for $6. The Krave Truck also offers a large option for $10, but I figured that was probably more than I could (or should) eat.

BBQ Rice Platter @ The Krave Truck (Photo credit: NJ Truckspotter)

As I suspected, the regular was a more than generous portion of barbequed Korean short rib, steamed white rice, and kimchi. There was a bit of sriracha and some sesame seeds sprinkled over the beef as garnish. All in all, a lovely sight in a styrofoam box. When I ordered, they also gave me the option of something that was described as yogurt sauce. While I love yogurt, the idea of it on my Korean food was less-than-appetizing, so I decided to skip it. I would later find out while perusing Yelp reviews that it’s more of a sour cream sauce. No matter though, I didn’t miss it.

The beef was in lovely bite-sized pieces, and was fantastically soft and chewy. It was simultaneously spicy, tangy, and a little bit sweet with that great Korean bbq flavor. The rice was a bit clumpy, and probably came out of a rice cooker, but it was the perfect accompaniment to the beef. And there was a small portion of kimchi on the side to set everything off. The kimchi wasn’t quite as fermentalicious as the stuff you can get in a proper Korean restaurant, but it did hit the right notes and tasted good mixed in with everything else.

And it was a perfect amount of food. I was full, but not too full. The meal made me so transcendentally happy that I actually had a pleasant conversation with a friend who called during my dinner – who, as it were, I was mad at. And yet after my BBQ Rice Platter, I was happy to hear from him! Go figure. I hopped and skipped my way to my subsequent grocery shopping engagement.

I went back a few days later because I had too much work to do to be bothered to make dinner. Having fallen hard for the galbi, I decided to get it in tacos this time – in the name of science, of course. I really wanted the rice platter.

Galbi Tacos @ The Krave Truck (Photo credit: NJ Truckspotter)

I ordered 2 galbi tacos ($2.50) each. They were also available in the tangy pork and sesame chicken, but you know... galbi. The tacos are described as being ‘served on a flour tortilla, kimchi puree, onion-cilantro relish, our special pink sauce, and a dash of roasted sesame seeds.’ They did indeed include all of these components.

The tortillas were a bit thick for my liking (not a huge fan of tortillas to begin with) but the wonderful beef was the same as in the platter. I do wish it had been served a bit warmer though; I feel like more of the taste would be evident that way. The kimchi was indeed pureed, and I honestly have no idea what the special pink sauce is. I’m going to guess it’s a mix of sriracha and mayo. Or maybe sour cream. Or yogurt, like the guy tipped me off to in our first exchange. The meat is better suited to rice, in my opinion, but the tacos are good.

Two tacos is not quite enough food for dinner, but it was satisfying. The BBQ platter is the better deal, though.. and when I return, that’s what I shall get. But it might be a while, because in the name of foodtrucking everywhere, there’s plenty more to try!

Schnitzel and Things @ 2011 Gourmet Food Truck Bazaar

If you read the post below, you'll know that in addition to this truck, I also ate at the Rickshaw Dumpling Truck. Did I mention that there is a third truck I tried? Um, yeah. Basically, I ate 3 semi-meals after Sunday brunch - at the Rickshaw Dumpling Truck, Schnitzel & Things, and The Cinnamon Snail. Told you I was a bottomless pit. Here is what went on at Schnitzel & Things:

Schnitzel & Things, 2011 Gourmet Food Truck Festival (Photo credit: Truckspotter)

This was a *very* popular truck. Even more so than the Rickshaw Dumpling Truck. This has much to do with Schnitzel's rather extensive and very unique menu, and the fact that that the prep time is necessarily longer than that of dumplings. Their menu is amazing - 3 types of schnitzels (pork, chicken, and cod) plus 2 other options (bratwurst and schnitzel burger), all available as either sandwiches ($8) or platters ($10), as well as 7 different types of sides ($3 each), 6 condiments, and even a dessert. Many options and combinations possible here, including an awesome Sides Sampler (4 sides for $8). I wasn't sure where to start but the platter option (schnitzel of choice, 2 sides, and 1 condiment) looked like a great deal and the popular choice. I went with the Pork Schnitzel with Austrian Potato Salad, Braised Sauerkraut, and Chipotle Mayo.

An admission here - I didn't realize what a schnitzel was until I opened my box. Seriously, I don't know how I went through life thinking a schnitzel was some variation on a sausage/hot dog, but it definitely is not. It is actually a thin cutlet. Oops. You live, you learn.

Once I got past the cutlet thing, I really enjoyed this meal. It is not only a fantastic value, but a complete, pretty wholesome meal that stands apart from the standard chicken-and-rice combo. My schnitzel was thin, lightly breaded, tender, and not greasy in the least. I haven't had sauerkraut in years, and I have vague memories of a soggy, vinegar-y mess. The slightly tart Braised Sauerkraut was certainly not a mess, so I'm glad I tried this classic side. The Potato Salad was also refreshing - more like an un-burnt home fries with no heavy mayo or dressing. Best of all, everything tasted great with the Chipotle Mayo (which I have to either hunt down and purchase or make myself - I can see myself ingesting unhealthy amounts of this).

Sometimes, I come across a great meal that I know my father, who writes his own food rules and has a very interesting appetite, would love - this is one of them. For that accomplishment alone, and for being uncomplicated, street soul/home food, it deserves an A.

Rickshaw Dumpling Truck @ 2011 Gourmet Food Truck Bazaar

The Rickshaw Dumpling Truck, 2011 Gourmet Food Truck Festival (Photo credit: Truckspotter)

What did I decide to do after a very filling brunch this past Sunday afternoon? And why did I have such a filling brunch to begin with on Gourmet Food Truck Bazaar-day? Who knows. In any case, not too long after Sunday brunch, I made way over to the Hell's Kitchen Flea Market to sample what I could. First up, the Rickshaw Dumpling Truck:

This was a major treat! I've seen this truck elsewhere but never had the chance to try it. I've also never been to it's mother, the Rickshaw Dumpling Bar, so I was ready to dive in. Sadly, the truck was so popular that they were out of several items, including the Pork & Chinese Chive Dumplings, a few sides, and the spicy peanut sauce. I ordered the Chicken & Thai Basil Dumplings ($6) which were supposed to be accompanied by the spicy peanut sauce, but instead, I had to settle for the Soy Sesame Dip (usually served with the Pork & Chinese Chive Dumplings). The sides cover a range of salads, soup, and edamame, but I didn't want to complicate things and decided to stick to a purely dumpling-situation.

But let's put the dumplings aside for a second and talk about the wonderful way in which they are served. The hardest part of eating truck food is the how/where. Sometimes the packaging/serving is quite bulky and standing just won't do. But Rickshaw Dumplings takes care of this problem by serving 6 delicious dumplings in a large, clear, plastic cup with a lid (sauce inside) and chopsticks. It makes me want to start a food truck for the sole purpose of serving food in a cup. This made things so much easier, especially since I had a few more trucks to try, and made carrying the leftovers in my bag a cinch.

Ok, now the dumplings - delightful! The only dumplings I've ever been impressed by and am somewhat committed to are the Joe's Shanghai soup dumplings (and a few momos on the streets of New Delhi). The Rickshaw dumplings have joined this elite crowd. They were thin, light, and slightly chewy, with a Thai-inspired filling of chicken and veggies that was equally light and flavorful. Instead of just a salty soy sauce concoction, this dip included small bits of green chili mixed in along with sesame seeds. I didn't miss the Spicy Peanut Dip at all (ok, maybe just a little). This light, steamy snack was perfect for the chilly day - filling, but not overwhelmingly so - and gets a perfect "A" grade.

If you don't have the time to chase it, then definitely check out this truck's parent restaurant. My taste of the truck menu has me convinced that it will be worth it.

Wafel & Dinges - 86th St. and Lexington Ave.

You wouldn't think it, but plenty of food trucks make their way up to my part of town. 86th Street and Lexington Avenue is an awesome spot to food-truck hop, especially during the summer. When I spotted Wafels and Dinges there last Sunday, I decided to welcome the new season (when and if it actually arrives) with a tasty waffle + even yummier spread. A couple of days earlier, my friend had told me about the famous Spekuloos spread, which sounded like some divine combination of peanut butter, cookies, and Nutella that my sorry tongue needed immediately. So I couldn't resist a mini-Wafelini with Spekuloos ($3). This was the perfect snack. A crisp wafel (soft on the inside) with a perfectly warm and gooey spread. If I had been feeling better, I could have tried a more complicated waffle combo, but this was simplicity at its best. I used a fork, but I imagine this would also be awesome finger food depending on the size of your wafel. But the Spekuloos? Well, you know how I said it sounded like a divine combination of cookies, peanut butter, and Nutella? Let's adjust that to a combination of Le Pain Quotidien's Praline spread and Nutella, jars of which I already keep at home. If, however, I had neither, I definitely would have a bought a jar of Spekuloos (yes, the truck sells it - it can also be found at Arcadia NYC).

Wafel and Dinges is a great alternative to the coffee & muffin/cupcake/brownie/cookie/whatnot combo, and there are some interesting savory items to try as well (de bacon-syrup wafel, anybody?) Try it if you spot it!

Official 2011 Gourmet Food Truck Bazaar - 4/10/11

How fortuitous that this blog launched today - 2 short days before the Official 2011 Gourmet Food Truck Bazaar at the West 25th St. Hell's Kitchen Flea Market this Sunday, April 10th. Music to my ears - this must be a sign and some validation of why I have been in NYC for so long. I'm destined to stalk food trucks and get a taste of each and everyone of them! It just so happens that the Kimchi Taco Truck will be at the Bazaar, along with the Rickshaw Dumpling Truck (which I've been meaning to try) and the Schnitzel & Things Truck (a new one to my ears and so a must!). Definitely worth checking out for anyone who loves a good food truck meal.