Ethnic Food Trucks Around the US: A Food Lover's Road Trip

Food trucks have become a popular trend in the United States, offering a wide variety of cuisines to satisfy every palate. From tacos to burgers, and from pizza to ice cream, food trucks have something for everyone. However, one of the most exciting aspects of the food truck scene is the diverse range of ethnic cuisines that are now available on wheels. In this article, we will take you on a food lover's road trip around the US, exploring some of the best ethnic food trucks in the country.

The Rise of Ethnic Food Trucks

Food trucks have been around for decades, but it wasn't until the early 2000s that they started to gain popularity in the US. The recession of 2008 played a significant role in the rise of food trucks, as many people were looking for affordable and convenient dining options. Food trucks offered a unique experience, with chefs serving up high-quality food at a fraction of the cost of a traditional restaurant.

As the food truck scene grew, so did the diversity of cuisines on offer. Chefs from all over the world started to open up their own food trucks, bringing their unique flavors and cooking techniques to the streets. Today, you can find food trucks serving up everything from Korean BBQ to Jamaican jerk chicken, and from Indian curries to Mexican street tacos.

Top Ethnic Food Trucks in the US

Los Angeles, CA: Kogi BBQ

Kogi BBQ is one of the most famous food trucks in the US, and for good reason. This Korean-Mexican fusion truck was started by chef Roy Choi in 2008 and quickly gained a cult following. Kogi BBQ's signature dish is the Korean BBQ taco, which features marinated beef, spicy salsa, and a tangy slaw, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. Kogi BBQ now has multiple trucks and even a brick-and-mortar restaurant in LA.

New York, NY: Calexico

Calexico is a Mexican-American food truck that started in Brooklyn in 2006. The truck's founders, brothers Jesse and Brian Vendley, grew up in California and were inspired by the flavors of Mexican street food. Calexico's menu features classic dishes like tacos and burritos, as well as unique creations like the Chipotle Pork Roll, which is a spicy take on the classic breakfast sandwich.

Portland, OR: Nong's Khao Man Gai

Nong's Khao Man Gai is a Thai food truck that has become a Portland institution. The truck's owner, Nong Poonsukwattana, grew up in Thailand and learned to cook from her mother. Nong's signature dish is Khao Man Gai, which is a simple but delicious dish of poached chicken, rice, and a flavorful sauce. Nong's Khao Man Gai has won numerous awards and has even been featured on the Food Network.

Miami, FL: Ms. Cheezious

Ms. Cheezious is a gourmet grilled cheese food truck that has become a Miami favorite. The truck's menu features a variety of creative grilled cheese sandwiches, including the Crabby Cheese Melt, which is made with lump crab meat and fontina cheese. Ms. Cheezious also offers a selection of sides and desserts, including truffle fries and Nutella and marshmallow sandwiches.

The Future of Ethnic Food Trucks

The food truck scene shows no signs of slowing down, and the diversity of cuisines on offer is only going to continue to grow. As more and more chefs open up their own food trucks, we can expect to see even more unique and exciting flavors hitting the streets.

However, the food truck industry still faces challenges, including regulations and competition from traditional restaurants. Despite these challenges, food trucks continue to thrive, offering a unique dining experience that can't be found anywhere else.

Conclusion

Ethnic food trucks are a vibrant and exciting part of the US food scene, offering a diverse range of cuisines that can satisfy even the most adventurous foodie. From Korean-Mexican fusion to Thai street food, there is something for everyone on the streets of America. As the food truck scene continues to grow, we can expect to see even more exciting flavors and culinary creations hitting the road.