SOBEWFF Trucks on Midtown Tracks

For the second year Travel Channel’s Andrew Zimmern hosted Food Trucks on Midtown’s Tracks for the 2013 South Beach Wine & Food Festival. An event showcasing Miami’s ever-growing food truck scene. Held in the Wynwood neighborhood, more than 20 food trucks participated in the event this year, most from Florida. I really enjoyed this year’s event. The best part of this years event, NO SAND! It was held under a massive tent where all the trucks easily parked. There was a little bit everything: air hockey, pool, and Ping-Pong tables, as well as basketball backboards, and guests in line had their wine glass refilled by volunteers pouring Brazilian sparkling wine provided by Wines of Brasil. There was a wide range of cuisine available. Burgers, pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches, hot dogs, fish sausage, waffles, cookies, frozen yogurt, cupcakes, and gelato. I had to pace myself in order to try every dish, it wasn't easy.

By the end of the evening, Zimmern picked Slow Food Truck's "Beef Shorty Slider" topped with queso fresco, arugula, and crispy shallots as his choice for the event's winner. Personally I was quite surprised. I didn't “WOW” me. But I for one think that the fan vote counts more and for the second straight year Ms. Cheezious had the most poker chips and took home People’s Choice. Their “South in Your Mouth Melt” with smoked BBQ pulled pork, fried pickles and cheddar on Texas toast was as my mom put it, increíble! I whole heartily agreed.

Largest Food Truck Event!

If you love food trucks than mark your calendar! On Saturday April 20th Magic City Casino will be home to the Largest Food Truck Event Ever! Starting at 5PM till 10PM enjoy some of the best eats from local and visiting food trucks. From delicious gourmet burgers to delectable desserts you’re sure to find something you love. Also this event will start with a bang! All 70+ food trucks will be escorted to the event by police two miles from the Casino. This will start at about 4:30PM right before the event kicks off. Come hungry, see you there!

Check out a complete list of participating food trucks by visiting the Burger Beast website. 

Killer Pasta Food Truck

If you’re looking for a food truck that delivers great tasting pastas & salads, uses only the freshest ingredients and won’t hurt your pocket, then Killer Pasta has you covered. Unlike others they don’t use pre-made sauces. Using fresh ingredients is something they don’t slip on. When Homestead tomatoes are in season; they make their homemade red sauces using those. When out of season they use canned plum tomatoes from San Marzano, Italy that is famous for their tomatoes. So no matter what time of year you eat at Killer Pasta, their homemade sauce is at a constant high level of freshness. Honestly, I had my second thoughts about ordering pasta from a truck. Other pasta or Italian food trucks will take pre-boiled pasta, add some sauce throw in some meat and call it a dish. Not the case here! They cook your pasta to order. The menu has a little of everything- four different Ravioli, long noodle and Penne dishes, including the dish that started it all the “Killer Penne.” Also a wide verity of salads, side dishes, and even a kid’s menu. Also in the near future they are going to be coming out with 3 new Asian pasta dishes as well as 3 different Mac n' Cheeses. I for one can't wait! Killer Pasta is one of my favorite food trucks in the South Florida area. The food is inexpensive, the portions are big and the service couldn't be friendlier. Be sure to find them in one of the many local food trucks events and check out their full menu at Killer Pasta . 

Killer Penne

Pasta Fresca

Caramelized Pear

Follow Killer Pasta on Twitter.

Food Truck Piracy

Food trucks have become the evolutionary ladder from the traditional sidewalk food cart. I mean, who doesn't love a good outdoor meal? I love these mobile hot spots that serve food from pizza and burgers as well as culinary creations of unique sandwiches, fresh seafood and delectable desserts. All of my favorite food trucks excel in providing a hearty, home cooked meal at a fair price and with wonderful service. The quality found at many of these eateries is as such that I often times find myself enjoying a meal from a food truck at least 2-3 times each week. However, in the last few years of covering the food truck scene in South Florida, I've noticed some uncomfortable trends. With the widespread growth of these trucks and carts around the area, a battle for territory and spots at local events has become a matter of, “who do you know?”

Despite all of this, food trucks have become very popular for those who enjoy killer recipes and for those seeking a new business. However, for some this food truck scene is short-lived. It isn't easy, and if you think it is you’re already setting yourself up for disappointment. As with any small business, be prepared to devote all of your time to your new endeavor. Be ready to start your day early in the morning prepping food, work throughout afternoon, and most likely late nights. And keep in mind, this is not your typical weekday job, it is essential you work on the weekends to succeed in this business. Licensing and permits are always required, not to mention dealing with South Florida's bipolar weather, promoters and the competition. It is important to understand that just because others have been successful in the food truck business doesn't mean everyone will be. As someone who is very familiar with this niche industry, it is disheartening to attend one of these food truck gatherings only to recognize roughly 2 out of the 12 trucks in the line-up. Those short-lived trucks with mediocre food are only hindering the growth of this otherwise great concept. As a veteran of these events it is slightly different for me as I always know what’s good and before going to any gathering I make sure to research the line-up so I know what to expect. But for a family of 4 that is new to the scene, spends their time to park and stand in some of the outrageous lines, and then pays $40-$50 at the event for food from a subpar truck, the experience can be one that does not necessarily encourage a return visit.

Promoters and other food truck owners don’t make it any easier when trying to break into the business. I have seen countless horrifying scenarios: food trucks being asked to leave an event because their truck wasn't “big” or “nice” enough, hidden agendas resulting in getting a bad location at a gathering, even food truck owners calling the police on other owners! I would like to believe that being in the same industry as others, people would have the decency to practice fair business and treat others with respect. In many cases this is far from the truth. If you’re a promoter you should work for the food trucks, not the other way around. I find it ridiculous that truck owners are forced to pay a truck fee which can range anywhere from $80-$150 before an event. What if the crowd is weak or the weather turns nasty before or during the scheduled start time? Why should this loss be passed directly to the restaurateurs rather than shared between them and the venue owner? Additionally, there are road blocks in place that keep owners from obtaining any knowledge as to the mixture of culinary diversity at these events. For example, if I own a taco truck, I would want to be sure I am not frequenting events with an abundance of other taco trucks or similar food influences in order to increase my probability of greater revenues. Food truck owners should have the right to know what other trucks will be booked at a specific event and be allowed to decline those events without repercussions. Often times, situations arising from circumstances such as these can have dire consequences for the owners of some of these trucks and that plays a huge role in their success. As one food truck owner told me, “I don’t think you’ll see me at any other big events - you see, I've been black listed” Another said, “It’s sad that the fun and joy of our dream and the money from our pockets have been sucked away”.

Owning a food truck takes a lot of hard work and dedication and it is a great way to expand an existing restaurant or break into the food industry. Variety is always good but on the flip side, too much of something can be a bad thing. As a customer I look for 3 simple things: the menu, customer service and the quality of the food. If any of these are off, trust me I will not be coming back. Also showing a little bit of professionalism couldn't hurt. Just because you’re in good with some promoter or have plenty of followers on any social media outlet doesn't necessarily mean your food is worth eating. Remember that.

Papas Tapas

Covering the South Florida food truck seen for almost two years now, I’ve come across some good and not so good eats.  Luckily Papas Tapas doesn’t fall into either category.  From a scale of 1 to 10 Papas is a 20!  Owned and operated by Chef Eduardo Bruno and his family, Papas brings an amiable attitude and offers a wide range of homemade delicacies.  No matter what you’re in the mood for, Papas Tapas has you covered.

Papas Tapas has a pretty extensive menu. I consider them a gourmet food truck. With everything from fresh tilapia ceviche, beef or chicken skewers, tacos, a delicious pork sandwich, soups and their world famous fried Mac & Cheese Balls with marinara sauce.  All for a price that won’t hurt your pocket.  To me, the benefit of homemade cooking is knowing exactly what you’re eating.  Papas Tapas offers a freshly prepared weekly menu which you can taste in every bite.  Not to mention outstanding service and a friendly staff. Having tried everything on their menu I can honestly say you can't go wrong with anything you order.  However their tacos and what I like to call 'hangover soup" are my favorite items.

Miami is a big place with many edible wonders, which is common for a big city like ours.  Luckily, it’s easy to keep up with Papas Tapas. Follow them on Twitter @PapasTapasMIA or thier Facebook page.  Papas Tapas truck is one of my favorites in Miami.  With over ten visits they’ve yet to disappoint and if I was a betting man, I’d bet they never will.

Bocadito's

Are you a fan of eating the finest humanely raised meats, organic cheeses and a wide mix of organic produce? Well then Bocadito’s food truck has your back South Florida! Established back in December of 2010, they specialize in serving up some of the best micro-sandwiches made from the finest organic products and humanely raised meats. Their motto is simple, food first followed by profit second. I quickly came to the realization of that on my first visit.

Driving thru unbearable afternoon traffic on US1, I made it to a corner where Bocaditio’s was posted up for the night. As I made my way up to the truck, I noticed a gorgeous brown eyed girl smiling at me. I knew I was at the right place! Before I made my order I was pleasantly greeted by these sandwich making gods. They had the perfect idea, why not try all six sandwich's.

Bocadito’s serves up six fine sandwiches: the Provoleta, Cuban Reuben, Micro-Cuban, Chikichurri, El Pavo and the Diablo Dulce. It was fortuitous to try all these month watering creations. My taste buds where in heaven with all six, however, two really gave me a mouthgasm. The Cuban Reuben, which consists of nitrate-free corned beef and melted baby-Swiss, topped with organic curtido. Not to be out done was the El Pavo - sliced turkey breast topped with grilled bacon, melted Colby Jack cheese, chipotle mayo and a delicious guacamole spread. Don't let me forget about the fries. Thin cut and crunchy they were great, but if you like yours with a little kick, go with the “spicy mama” fries.

We finished our meal with a refreshing Monin Tropical soda. My friend and I ordered the chipotle pineapple, but they serve up a nice selection including coconut, guava, kiwi, lime and mango. I inquired if they had any lemonade- type drinks, which they don’t, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

Bocadito’s marches to the beat of their own drum. They could care less about all the hype that can come with having a food truck. Their goals are simple - serve up good wholesome food with better ingredients, and to keep you coming back for more. With a growing number or loyalists, I’m proud to say I’ve signed on!

Check out www.bocaditostruck.com for info and a lay out of each micro-sandwich which calls attention to the ingredients used on each one.

Bite Gastrotruck

Being a burger and food truck enthusiast in Miami isn’t easy.  There is a wide variety of meals on wheels to choose from.  However, when it comes to eating the best burger from a local food truck look no further than Bite Gastrotruck.

Last year at the Riverwalk Trust’s Burger Battle in Ft. Lauderdale, I had the pleasure of meeting Chef Ron Kerr.  Born and raised in Naples, Florida, and a graduate of the New England Culinary Institute, Chef Ron is well known across South Florida.  A few months back a brilliant idea came about - to give this culinary genius some new wheels.  Back in September, for the 790 Food Truck Derby at Gulfstream Park, I decided to drop in for their debut.

I ordered “The Burger" - 100% Creekstone beef, aged cheddar cheese, with all the toppings, chipotle mayo, and on a toasted challah bun.  At the heart of every burger is the patty. What really sticks out to me was how tender this patty was.  It was cooked to perfection, had good flavor, and just the right amount of seasoning.  Trust me, I don't mind having “burger juice” running down the side of my hand after every bite.

Not to be outdone is the St. Andre burger. This delicious burger made its formal introduction at this year’s Burgie Awards.  It’s topped with applewood smoked bacon, garlic truffle mayo, and a bun dipped in butter. To my displeasure, it didn’t win best food truck burger at the Burgies, but take it from me, the St. Andre is a must try!

This food truck might not have crazy colors on it, or 9,000 followers on Facebook, but at the end of the day, sometimes all that hype is for a product that really isn’t that good.  Bite Gastrotruck is here to stay and it’s just a matter of time until all of South Florida realizes that.  Friendly service, ridiculously good food and fair food truck prices. Go get you some!

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El Rincon del Coqui

If you’re looking for 100% authentic Puerto Rican food then El Rincon del Coqui has you covered! Family owned and operated this food truck is taking South Florida by storm! The menu is full of “antojitos” such as the Tripleta & churrasco sandwich, Alcapurria de Yuca, Pastelillos de Camarones and of course the Bori burger.

The Bori burger consists of a half Pound burger with onions, bacon, shoe string potatoes, swiss cheese and special house sauce. Note to self, make sure to ask for extra house sauce. The patty was cooked to a perfect medium and the flavor jumps at you right after the first bite. The perfect amount of spice and the house sauce were the key here people. Sauce on a burger is not essential but in this case its a welcome compliment.

I wasn’t surprised at all by the cordial welcoming that I received. Puerto Ricans are known for their warm hospitality and genuine greetings. Without a doubt, service with a smile is what your receive at El Rincon del Coqui.

Do you wish to fill your stomach with the aroma and spice that gives Puerto Rican cuisine its distinctive taste and color? Here you will find a wide variety of Puerto Rican dishes that will guarantee your family and friends mouth will be watering for days. Puerto Ricans have blessed us with two main gifts, incredible salsa and delicious island food. El Rincon del Coqui has you covered with one!

Daddy's Grill

I have to say that I’m getting close to naming my top five food trucks for eating a delicious burger.  I’m happy to say that Daddy’s Grill will make that list!  A picture is worth a thousand words, and after seeing a picture of the Big Daddy Burger, I kept repeating the same thing over & over again... “must have!”

Daddy’s Grill is owned and operated by Robert Martinez and his family.  I guarantee you’ll find three thing’s at Daddy’s grill; service with a smile, NO outrages prices, and great food!  They offer a wide verity of things to like pinchos, bacon cheese fries, burgers, cuban fritas and pan con bistec.

I decided to go with Big Daddy’s burger.  It's a monster of a burger containing double meat, bacon, ham, cheese, sauteed onions, lettuce, and tomato.  Each part of this burger complimented the next perfectly.  I especially liked the melted cheese over the ham which gave it a sweetness right before tasting the tenderness of the beef.  I’m a big believer that too much bun is uncalled for and a sign that the ingredients and/or patty cannot be trusted.  Not in this case.  Everything was built and presented perfectly and the taste did not fail to impress!

Long lines, high prices, and mediocre food are why I’m here people! You won’t get that with Daddy’s Grill.  I give it two thumbs way up and recommend it to everyone.  Check them out at any of the local food truck events, I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Daddy's Grill

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The Rolling Stove

 Whenever there is a food truck gathering I make sure to look for those bright red and yellow flames! When it comes to food trucks,  I’m very picky.  I want to make sure I get quality and not go over my budget.  The Rolling Stove stands alone when it comes to that!  Chef and owner Troy Thomas hit the nail on the head, providing great food for a reasonable price, and outstanding customer service.  I ordered the Jerk Burger.  It was hot and spicy, just how I like it.  The patty,  which is a mix of short rib, brisket, ribeye & bacon, was flavored with their secret jerk rub and jerk BBQ recipe.  The onions and sauce gave it a sweetness that blends well with the spiciness.  It’s a sizable and messy burger.  One I enjoyed eating!

 I regret waiting so long to try The Rolling Stove.  By far it’s on my top 3 list of food trucks!  Don’t waste your time standing in long lines, waiting for overpriced and overcooked pieces of meat!  Check out The Rolling Stove; winner of 'best burger among food trucks' by eater.com.  Follow them on Facebook and Twitter!

http://www.therollingstove.com/

Dolci Peccati Gelato

By Far the sweetest thing on wheels!

Take it from me "it's the best Gelato in town!"

http://www.dolcipeccatigelato.com/