Food Trucks – Page 2

Road Trip – Lone Star Bistro (Lone Pine), Gull Lake, June Lake Brewing, and the La Parilla Truck (June Lake)

August 31, 2024 mmm-yoso Beer, Food Trucks, Mexican Restaurants, Pubs and Pub Grub, Road Trip, Sierra Nevada, California, Travel

During our trip to the Galapagos back in April-May (yeah, I know, I'm really behind on my travel posts), the Missus really took to doing stuffs in the water. One thing She picked up on was SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) and in fact, we ended up getting one for Her. Several of Her coworkers are really into the kayak and paddleboard thing and will often plan their road trips around camping and those type of activities. So guess what the the Missus wanted?

Yep, She got some recommendations of areas to paddleboard and soon enough we were headed up the 395. Final destination a little town on the west bank of Lake Tahoe named Tahoma. But first, it was recommended that we spend a couple of nights in an area east of the Sierra's named June Lake. My mission as official planner and chauffeur for the Missus? Well, plan things out.

So, it was going to be like a 7 hour drive to where we were staying at in June Lake, which ended up being a comfortable motel/lodge named the June Lake Villager. Of course we needed to stop for lunch. It was early July and super hot, we ended up taking a break in the town of Lone Pine. I had a place picked out for a quick meal; the Lone Star Bistro. Yes, the Alabama Hills Cafe is much loved, but man, it was so busy. So instead we entered this combo ice cream-cafe-coffee-gift-sandwich shop. The place was fairly busy and we even saw some remote workers doing their thing as well. In Lone Pine!

I walked up to the sandwich counter and the friendly young lady filled me in on the "drill".

I basically filled out an "order form" and the Missus handed me two bottles of sparkling water.

I ordered the "signature" sandwich called the "Lone Pine Charmer"; with bacon, turkey, avocado, provolone, it sounded like a single sandwich would be enough for the both of us. I asked that they cut the sandwich in half, paid, and we took a seat in the covered back patio, which wasn't too hot.

The young lady who dropped off our sandwich wasn't quite as friendly….when I thanked her, she went "umph….." Can't win 'em all, right?

I was pleasantly surprised to see that Marbled Rye was used, which added an interesting yeasty-tangy-sourness to the sandwich. As a whole, a routine sandwich, basic mass produced sliced turkey; we enjoyed the cucumber and sprouts the most. It was enough for our lunch and we walked thru this western theme town to our car and headed off.

Lone Star Bistro
107 North Main St.
Lone Pine, CA 93545

From here it was up the 395. I had wanted to stop at Manzanar, it's one of those places on my "list", but it was over a 110 with crazy winds as we drove by, so that visit will have to wait until the next time.

About two hours later we got to the southern junction of I-395 and I-158. The 158 is a loop road, known as the June Lake Loop and passes four different lakes before reconnecting with the 395 just past SR 120. It was a fairly nice drive up to about 7,600 feet.

We arrived at the charming little village of June Lake and went to the motel to see if our room was ready. It was a bit too early, but I had a plan just in case. Gull Lake, the smallest of the four lakes along the loop is close by. And the Marina and launch area was just a few blocks away.

We easily found parking and the Missus set off on Her adventure.

I took a stroll around the lake a bit and then headed to the Marina Shop, which does boat rentals….I saw families and folks fishing off boats in the lake.

The area is quite charming……

I walked into the shop to get some sparkling water.

And I asked about the sign above, which cracked me up. I was told that the cats here are really tough and territorial; "they don't play around!" But there was a sweet pooch hanging out by the sign? I was told "oh, he knows better….he learned his lesson a long time ago!" I would actually find out that the sign is true a bit later on during our visit.

IMG_9880a

I had a seat and checked emails and stuff.

Looking over the lake, I felt so relaxed…..

Soon, I got a text from the motel telling me our room was ready. The Missus had the car keys with Her, so I took the short walk up the hill and got the room keys. When I walked back down to the lake, the Missus was packing things up.

Once in the room, which was quite large, it was a one bedroom unit with a kitchen; the Missus freshened up and then we took a short walk . Most of the restaurants, the general store, and businesses were on the main road. But there were some nice shops down driveways and side streets.

We weren't particularly interested in any of the restaurants; so we decided to head on over to the June Lake Brewery which was basically around the corner from where we were staying….but most everything was!

The brewery had a large, welcoming outdoor space, with a food truck at one end of the lot.

Boy was this place popular! It was the most people we'd see during our time here.

While I went to get our brews, the Missus went to order our food at the truck.

The two gals pouring the beers were so nice and friendly.

We wanted something on the lighter side since it was pretty warm out; so we got the two lagers, both were under 5% ABV.

I found us a table and waited for the Missus. She soon arrived with a buzzer which would go off when our order was ready. The Missus took to the Japanese Lager, which She thought was smoother and easier to drink than the lighter "Lager for Joggers".

There were some pretty interesting "seats" in the place.

Soon enough we got "buzzed" and I went to pick it up and return to our table.

We had gotten the "Boss Nachos" with Carne Asada. The portion size was large and this supposedly was quite spicy, the Missus was warned, but it wasn't overly hot to us. The portion size was quite generous.

The carne asada was nicely grilled, but quite chewy, and mildly seasoned. There was just a small amount of ghost pepper cheese on this, which had some kick, but there wasn't enough to really matter. The chips were routine, there was sour cream and guac added. Overall, just like what you'd get at an Americanized Mexican spot here in San Diego.

I had wanted to try the Al Pastor, so we ordered a taco.

From the bland and brittle tortillas, to the dry and flavorless al pastor, this was not to our taste.

Still, we enjoyed the vibe of the brewery and the service was quite friendly. We'd return for a brew on the following evening.

June Lake Brewing and La Parrilla Grill & Tacos
131 S Crawford Ave.
June Lake, CA 93529

After dinner we walked back down to Gull Lake and took in the view.

It had been a pretty long day; but I'd say the view and vibe was worth it!

Thanks for stopping by!

Kiko’s Place – the Seafood King Mariscos Truck now on Morena

June 27, 2024 mmm-yoso Food Trucks, Mexican Restaurants, Seafood

For the last couple of months I had noticed that a Mariscos Truck had been parked off of West Morena, in the parking lot of Coles Fine Flooring. Taking a closer look, I noticed that it was one of the Kiko's Place trucks, I believe there are several trucks, plus one brick and mortar restaurant in San Diego.

Man, to think, there was a time when I wouldn't blink an eye at taking a drive down to Chula Vista to have some tacos eaten on the hood of my car, but that was over 6 years ago now. Of course time and inflation have changed things. Heck, the last time I'd visited a Mariscos Truck was when the Pacific Seafood Truck was in the outlet of V-Outlet, (which has been replaced by the La Chorreada Truck) over 4 years ago!

Over the last couple of months I'd keep passing that truck on Morena, making a mental note to drop by one of these days, and the recent heat wave seemed the perfect time. The truck seems to open for business around 9am, which is when I dropped by on this day.

Kikos Place Mor 01

The guy working was quite friendly. I also liked the fact that there were tables set-up on parking lot sidewalk of Cole's with everything from napkins to hot sauce, with trash cans readily available.

Kikos Place Mor 02

The very chatty gentleman asked me if I'd been here before and I told him that I had visited the Kiko's Truck that used to be on the corner of Friar's Road and Vias Las Cumbres, in the parking lot of the liquor store. He laughed and said "that's us!" We had a nice chat, I wondering why they had moved, after all, that truck seemed quite popular. He told me that they had so many regular customers and they loved the spot, but the owner of the liquor store wanted to start charging them $6000 a month to park there! Whoa….. So, they had to find another place, which is how they ended up at this location. He said he felt bad that many of his regulars now have to drive to see him, but really appreciated how many of them still do drop by.

After our chat, I walked on up to the window to order. And whoa….

Kikos Place Mor 03

Well, the last time I had a Gobernador or Tacos de Marlyn it was $4, which I thought was expensive then….now it's $8! The "OG" Fish Taco is now $3.50. The last time I had one from a Mariscos Truck it was $1.95. Well, it's indeed a sign of the times.

I decided to get a Taco de Marlyn; funny thing, I guess due to the "customer base" his taco is on the menu as Smoked Fish. I also got one of the OG Fish Tacos as well.

I was given a cup of absolutely scalding consomme. It was so hot that I wasn't able to finish this until after my tacos!

Kikos Place Mor 04

Not bad, a bit on the "thinner" side, strong celery tones, not overly salty, pretty good "seafoody" flavors.

Soon enough, my tacos were ready and I slid over to the "salsa bar", which is nicely protected from the elements by glass doors.

Kikos Place Mor 05

I basically just needed some lime and some salsa roja for the Marlyn.

Kikos Place Mor 06

The Tacos de Marlyn was definitely the better of the two.

Kikos Place Mor 08 Kikos Place Mor 07 The generous portion fish has a mild smokiness, wasn't too salty, and wasn't fishy in the least. Think of it as "bacon of the sea". Not a big fan of the queso on the fish, but I really enjoyed and appreciated the layer of melted cheese on tortilla which ensured that things wouldn't fall apart. I do enjoy the onions and peppers and the tortilla was pliable did the job.

As for the Taco de Pescado. Well, this is what $3.50 buys these days. At least it wasn't as bad as what I'd last had at El Zarape.

Kikos Place Mor 09 Kikos Place Mor 10 The fish was fried nicely, crisp, the flesh moist, no off flavors. The issue would be how skinny it was. There was so much cabbage and crema that it kind of overwhelmed the poor guppy….. Well, at least the tortilla held up, but I probably won't be getting this again.

Overall, I enjoyed that Taco de Marlyn. I recall not enjoying the Gobernador from this truck while it was on Friar's Road, but heck, that was about a decade ago! Though the thought of paying $16 for two tacos….well, I need to think about that! I wonder what prices would have been like if they had stayed at the old location and pay $6000 a month for a parking spot?

Kikos Place Mor 11

Kiko's Place-The Seafood King Mariscos Truck
1170 West Morena Blvd. (In the parking lot of Coles Fine Flooring)
San Diego, CA 92110

The La Chorreada Taco Truck

July 20, 2022 mmm-yoso Food Trucks, Mexican Restaurants

Earlier this year I noticed a new taco truck in the parking lot of V-Outlet.

La Chorreada 01 La Chorreada 02 On occasion I would take either my or the Missus's car to Victor's next door for a hand carwash, especially after roadtrips. So, during one of those sessions I decided to have some tacos while waiting for the Missus's car.

I liked the table set-up next to the truck; it was even better that I had the spot all to myself.

And even though taco prices have gone up a bit; it is still the most inexpensive non-chain option in the area, another plus. The woman working was very gracious and I placed my order.

I know most folks would have done the carne asada or carnitas….but it had been a while since I'd had some nice street tacos, so I went with the Lengua and the Cabeza tacos.

La Chorreada 03 La Chorreada 04
There were several things I immediately liked….the sautéed onions on the side. I'm thinking that Covid precautions meant that the salsa; in this case a salsa verde is served in a container on the side.

I really enjoyed the lengua, which was quite tender, very beefy, the guacamole added a nice rich creaminess to the tacos. The corn tortillas were adequate for the task; having a nice maize flavor and being a sturdy vessel for the fillings.

The Cabeza was decent, a bit tougher than I prefer, but quite beefy over all.

La Chorreada 05

Overall, this was a nice change of pace for the neighborhood and I enjoyed it!

So, after our last roadtrip, I decided to bring my car in for a wash and of course I strolled over to La Chorreada to grab some lunch while I was waiting.

La Chorreada 06 La Chorreada 06b Again I was the only customer and even though it was just 1045 in the morning I was the only customer, which made me a bit concerned about sustaining business.

I placed my order and had a seat at the table to wait for my order. For some reason, I was entertained by the cover as it would rise with the wind, creating a "groovy" wave of sorts….

On this visit I got the buche, adobada, and chorizo con nopales. Three tacos, for $7.50 without tax.

La Chorreada 07 La Chorreada 08 I should have known better, but perhaps I was missing CDMX, the adobada obviously was not on the trompo and was really mild. The buche was interesting, enjoyable texture, decent offaly flavor, and did really well with a squeeze of lime and the guacamole.

La Chorreada 09 I enjoyed the textural contrast of the Chorizo with Nopales….but of course I enjoy the supposed "mucilaginous" texture. I do think I'd enjoy a more assertive flavor component.

La Chorreada 10

It's hard to be negative about paying $7.50 for lunch these days, so I'm going to leave it at that.

I'm happy to have the La Chorreada truck in the neighborhood as it gives me an option to the usual chain or corporate style food that is prevalent here. La Chorreada 11

The Tacos La Chorreada Truck (In the Parking Lot of V-Outlet)
3030 Clairemont Dr
San Diego, CA 92117

Mike’s Red Tacos Truck

July 18, 2021 mmm-yoso Food Trucks, Mexican Restaurants, Taco Shops

**** Mike's now has a Brick and Mortar location. You can read an updated post here

I've been reading how birria has been one of the latest food "fads" over the last year or so. Of course, it isn't Birria de Chivo (goat) being mentioned, but Birria de Res, the beef version. Folks who've been reading our little blog for a while know that I really enjoy birria and over the last 7-8 years, I've found my favorite birria de res….from Fernandez Restaurant in Nestor, which has become a favorite of mine. The birria de res is so flavorful, tender, the consommé is so well seasoned that you can just squeeze in a bit of lime, add onions and cilantro and make a meal of by itself. The tortillas have been dipped in the comsomme and placed on the comal, but are always still pliable and up to the task of handling the well flavored, tender birria (must get the tacos "nervio" – topped with buttery tenson)…….you get the point, right?

The popularity of birria tacos hit home when I read about Mike's Red Tacos in Eater. You see, the food truck was going to be stationed in Bay Park! I guess birria really has hit the mainstream now. The truck was scheduled to be in the parking lot of the long running, but now closed Old Trieste restaurant on Fridays, from 4pm. My good buddy Candice was also kind enough to inform me of the opening as well since it's in my 'hood. I was working from home on the first day of business and since I normally start around 530-6 and with no late meetings, I could call "pau hana time" by 330 and headed on down to Morena. I got there at 345….and oh my…..

Man, check out that line!

In some ways it was quite heartening. It showed me that folks in the area really want more variety and (hopefully) quality.

On the other hand; it was 40 minutes in line and then the wait. Another 40 minutes later, I got my tacos. I really felt for folks as the line kept getting longer. The girl taking orders and working the register was very friendly, though of course this was "opening day" and I'm not sure they expected this kind of reception. I know I didn't.

So, two birria tacos and consomme……

So, first off; the tortillas did well, they held up to the barrage of sauce and meat juices quite well. I liked the fact that they were dunked in the "consomme"….however….

The consomme was so bland and devoid of flavor that the only leg to stand on was mouthfeel…..and at this point it just felt like I was drinking and dunking my tacos into a vat of grease. The actual beef in the tacos was a bit on the dry and stringy side….and the flavor was quite mild, though it had a bit of beefiness to it. I had hopes for some nice savory-smokey flavors. So…..this was closer to "food not too offend" then birria de res to me. I had requested salsas, but with all the customers and such it had been left out.

And so, because this food truck is in my neighborhood, I decided to wait a month before revisiting. By this time, the hours had changed to Saturdays from noon until they ran out of product. They were still quite busy at noon on Saturday when I arrived.

The service was still smiling and friendly and the wait much shorter than before. Things I expected after that initial grand opening surge.

This time around I ordered a birria taco….with queso, a mulita, and of course some consomme.

The first thing I tasted when I got home was the consomme. It was still very bland which left me with a greasy mouthfeel….I'm thinking that Mike believes that the consomme is just for dipping and should not be consumed on its own.

The taco with queso was better than on my last visit. A bit more flavor, the meat more tender….the cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime helped things, but it was the cheese….which added a nice textural addition as well as some milkiness that did help. It was still really mild for my palate. I think the tortilla could have spent a bit more time on the comal, which would have added more crispness and a bit of caramelization. But that's just me.

As for the Mulita……well, it was a bit too much for me.

A lot of cheese as both sides were coated…..think of this a sort of a quesadilla if you will. Again, if the tortillas, which were quite good had been a bit charred adding some crispness and caramelization….perhaps it would be a different story. This was just a bit too rich for me and the beefiness seemed a bit lost here.

As for the salsas….I enjoyed the salsa verde the most. The acidity really helped to cut the richness. And yes, lime is your best friend here.

In then end; well, like I always say, I'm not happy "just to have something". And yet, I'm pleased to see folks out to support this business. And hope it's a bellwether of things to come.

On my first visit to Mike's, while waiting for my tacos, a nice, friendly gentleman walked over to me and asked me if I'd ever had Birria before…….I'm thinking that he's used to the more "hip" folks…I named off a couple of places and then mentioned Fernandez and also how much I enjoy birria de chivo…..which led to an interesting surprised look and an "ok….I hope you enjoy yourself" as he walked away…….

Mike's Red Tacos – Currently in the parking lot of Old Trieste
2335 Morena Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92110
Current Hours:
Saturday – Noon – 7pm

The Pacific Seafood Mariscos Truck

April 2, 2020 mmm-yoso Food Trucks, Mexican Restaurants, Seafood

I noticed that this Taco Truck is again parked in the lot of V-Outlet, so I thought I'd go ahead and do the post.

A couple of months back, I noticed a Mariscos Truck parked in the lot of V-Outlet.

It's been a while since I recall a Mariscos Truck in the area. So, after a bunch of delays, I managed to make a visit.

It seems to be a nice husband and wife team running this truck. Their young daughter helped mom put the sign and up kept herself amused on the wall in back of the truck.

On this visit, I decided to get one fried and one none fried taco….I really wanted a Gobernador, but didn't see it until after I ordered ("Governor"), so I got a fish taco and a shrimp a la diabla and ate on the hood of my car.

The woman kindly offered me some consommé……

Super hot, though lacking in seafood flavor and too much celery.

The beer battered fish taco was the better of the two.

The tortilla was basic, but decent. The batter on the fish was light and crisp. The fish while not being of the highest quality (what do you expect for two bucks?), was moist and tender. The cabbage was crisp; the tomatoes in the pico….well, wasn't fully ripe, but the textures were nice. not bad.

The Shrimp al la Diabla, wasn't my favorite.

Well, this wasn't very spicy, though those cebollas de habanero had quite a kick and added to the taco. The taco was quite hefty, though there didn't seem to be much shrimp in this and it was fairly greasy and really lacked flavor. The double tortilla was a good idea, but this was just mediocre overall.

Well that fish taco wasn't too bad, so on my next visit a couple of weeks later, I decided to go with something fried (shrimp taco) and the "Governor" (Gobernador). I was again graciously given a cup of the consommé, which tasted the same as on my previous visit.

The Beer Battered Shrimp Taco was probably the best thing I've had from this truck.

There was a good portion of shrimp, like the fish taco, the batter was crisp and fairly light……as before the pico de gallo left something to be desired, but this was pretty good….I'd have it again.

The Gobernador; while not as bad as the Shrimp Diablo left something to be desired.

I did enjoy the avocado, but again there was too much vegetables and "stuff" compared to shrimp, which was overcooked and on the rubbery side. It also was on the greasy side and fairly bland.

Overall, some nice folks, the food is definitely not on par with the Mariscos Trucks in the South Bay. The shrimp taco was decent….I think staying with the fried stuff here might be the way to go.

And yes, I just passed by today and the truck was in the parking lot.

Pacific Seafood Mariscos Truck
In the Parking Lot of V-Outlet
3020 Clairemont Dr
San Diego, CA 92117

El Huerco Food Truck

October 15, 2019 mmm-yoso Food Trucks, Peruvian Restaurants

While walking to my car to grab lunch a few weeks ago I saw this food truck.

I really didn’t pay attention to the menu, or much else….it was the company Mira Flores LLC that caught my eye. I looked up at the menu and noticed it was a Peruvian food truck! Well I’ll be damned! I suddenly knew what I’d be having for lunch. I really don’t eat much at food trucks these days as it seems most do not make particularly good food, nor are they a good value. But heck, even if I wasn’t transported back to Miraflores, just having a decent Lomo Saltado would make me happy.

The young lady working was very ncie and cheerful and really helped folks out when explaining the different dishes.

So, I got the Lomo Saltado ($12) and a side of Yuca Frita ($5).

The Lomo Saltado was served like a rice bowl. The rice was nice, fluffy and moist. The papas fritas were typical, though fairly dry. Which would have been too bad if there were enough sauce from the Lomo Saltado to coat them, which wasn’t the case. The beef was dry, the onions over-cooked, though the tomatoes, which were diced…I prefer larger slices, were fine. The sauce was heavy soy thus salty, and needed more acidity.

The Yuca Frita on the other hand was quite good. Crisp outside, fluffy, yet substantial inside.

It was quite nice and well done. Though I wasn’t a fan of the Aji Amarillo as it had too much mayo (true versions don’t use mayo) and was more spicy than the usual Aji Amarillo would be. Still, those were some good Yuca Frita.

A couple of weeks later, I saw the truck again and decided to give them another try.

Same nice young lady.

I decided to go with the Anticucho Sliders ($8) and of course, more of those Yuca Frita.

This version of Anticuchos was braised shredded beef, sort of like Cuban Ropa Vieja. I enjoyed the roll which had been slightly toasted and held up well. I tasted the Salza Criolla (something easy to make at home) and it needed more time for the flavors to meld. The flavor of the beef was heavy handed with citrus, making it quite tannic, it was also on the dry side.

While this was better than the Lomo Saltado; it still fell short of expectations. I don’t expect anything like Peru, but this just didn’t do it for me.

While the Yuca Frita was perhaps even better this time around.

Though it’s tempting, I don’t think I could make a meal out of Yuca Frita.

Nice folks, the food is pseudo Peruvian in my mind and while I say that the great thing about Peruvian food is that it’s always evolving; this isn’t that evolution.

Perhaps it’s worth a try and I’ll definitely get that Yuca Frita again….but perhaps go somewhere else to get my main course.

Budapest – Langos from Langos Burger at Street Food Karavan

June 20, 2019 mmm-yoso Budapest, Food Trucks, Hungarian Food and Restaurants, Hungary, Travel

We were really having a great time walking around Lipótváros (Leopold Town); there seemed to be something around every corner. By now, the clouds had started melting away and the sun started shining through. As we crossed thru Liberty Square I noticed this (yet another) statue.

Yes, it's a statue of Ronald Reagan. It is said that RR is beloved in Hungary because of his efforts to end the Cold War.

A few yards away is the Soviet War Memorial. Which commemorates Liberation Day (April 4th) when the Soviets forced the Nazis out of Hungary. I find it somewhat interesting that Ronald Reagan's Statue sits just a few meters away. Such is the complex history of Hungary I guess.

Right past that is the Monument to the Hungarian Victims of the Nazis.

Which is a controversial monument, after all, didn't Miklós Horthy ally himself with Adolf Hitler? The memorial was so controversial that from what I read; it was completed under the cover of darkness. Like I said; its complicated.

A short stroll away is Szent Istvan Bazilika (St Stephen's Basilica). I read that the plaza in front of the Basilica was once a huge parking lot; but the parking lot has been moved underground, creating this nice, open, plaza.

We enjoyed the little stretch of Sas Utca leading up to the plaza where the Basilica stood. Here and there you'd see bits of normal life……

We headed down the pedestrian only Zrinyl Utca back to the Danube. With the sun peeking out, the Royal Palace sure looked wonderful.

All this walking had stirred up our appetite. We had what seemed like a pretty hefty dinner planned, so I thought we'd head toward the Jewish Quarter; past the Great Synagogue.

And the Tree of Life Memorial in Raoul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial Park in the back of the Synagogue.

A few blocks past the Synagogue is a very popular area; once full of abandoned buildings, the area is now full of Ruin Bars and restaurants. We went to check out the original ruin bar; Szimpla Kert, but it was Sunday, market day, and the place was packed to the rafters.

After unsuccessfully trying to find us some space we headed next door, to a lot full of food trucks called "Street Food Karavan Budapest".

I had wanted to try some Langos, the fried dough specialty of Hungary. I'd been told that "Langos Burger", parked in this lot of food trucks was a great place to try them.

And yes, while they do actually have a "Langos Burger", I was after a more traditional version, which is what I ordered. The Missus went with the "red", which is topped with red peppers.

These are made to order, so there's a short wait. For which you are rewarded with steaming hot fried bread.

Like I said, I got the "Classic" which is served with the traditional sour cream (very mild) and grated cheese (ditto). The bread was fairly yeasty, with a mild salt, and very light sweetness. It wasn't greasy, but overall was pretty mild in flavor.

The "red" had more flavor from the mildly spicy and slightly sweet red peppers which we enjoyed much more.

This was filling stuff.

I'm not sure I'd have this again….well, maybe one more time if we're back in Hungary. But it was fun, the sun was now shining down brightly and people were enjoying the day.

Street Food Karavan Budapest
Kazinczy Utca 18
Budapest 1075, Hungary

It had turned into quite a beautiful day. And since the sun didn't set until nearly 9pm, we'd be assured of a nice evening.

Even after a short nap!

Mastiff Food Truck and Mastiff Kitchen at North Park Beer Company

December 17, 2018 mmm-yoso Food Trucks, Pubs and Pub Grub, Sandwiches

**** Mastiff Kitchen is no longer at North Park Beer Company.

Here’s a post that was going to “die”; that is, if the place is local, and I, or we, do only one visit and aren’t inclined to return, I’ll delete the photos after about a year. However, for some reason, I just decided to return to North Park Beer Company last weekend, so I now have enough for a post.

The Mastiff Food Truck was parked near our office earlier in the year and I was running between meetings, so one of my coworkers was nice enough to grab something from the Mastiff Food Truck while I finished up my conference call. Before my next call, I was able to quickly eat.

First up; the Bratwurst with the House Kraut ($9):

Though Mastiff’s sausages are quite popular; I wasn’t too impressed with this as a whole. The sausage wasn’t hot and was sort of flaccid, it was very mild in flavor, there was little color on the sausage and the sauerkraut was also very mild, lacking in a nice slightly funky fermented flavor. I guess all of that sauerkraut in the Czech Republic and Charcroute in Alsace might have ruined us. The roll was on the chewy side for my taste. Granted; there was about a five minute wait from when this arrived on my desk and my call finishing; so it definitely wasn’t sitting around.

I also got the Mastiff Fries ($4).

These potatoes were on the dry side and had lost any crunch. While the harissa mayo had a tiny (I wish it was more spicy) bit of zip, it did add to the flavor, making this rather rich. This was also on the salty side.

And that would have been about it; until a couple of months later; when the Missus had Her hair appointment in North Park. I’d usually wait for the Missus at Toronado and we’d hit up Tribute or Tiger Tiger. However, on this occasion I hung out an had a beer at North Park Brewing and the Missus met me there.

We just decided to have dinner.

We both really like the space; high ceilings, you hang out with the beer tanks. Mastiff Kitchen is located at the rear of the place. You order and pay for your food there; then head on over to the bar to order your beverages.

I’d warned the Missus about the sauerkraut, but really wanted to try the Bratwurst again; so we just got a sausage ($6).

Having been married over 20 years must have an effect…..the Missus’s verdict? Pretty much the same as mine. Though this time the sausage was nicely browned and hot. Still, it was somewhat underwhelming overall.

What wasn’t underwhelming, at least in terms of richness were the “Pig Fries” ($12).

The potatoes were more thinly sliced than what I’d had before; they were hot and crisp; if on the dry side. There was a bit too much cheese and sauce for our taste and this was too salty for us.

We did like the pork belly and the chicharrons, the carnitas were on the greasy side and the al pastor sausage was too mild to be enjoyed.

We really didn’t enjoy the beer at NPBC and this was fairly soon returning from all that fried food in Alaska, that the Missus really couldn’t see Herself returning anytime soon. So, I put this in my “to delete folder” and was fully expecting to delete the photos at the end of the year.

Instead, I found my self with an entire day off this past weekend, after having worked like 18 days in a row. The Missus however, had to work. So, after shopping, cleaning up things, doing some food prep for the Missus’s meals at work, prepping Frankie’s meals (we get the most use out of the Instapot making his food), then giving him an overdue bath, I found my self with some time on my hands. And it was only noon!

I figured most of the places I’d want to check out in KM were crowded and decided to head on up to North Park….where most of the places were also packed. But not NPBC.

So I decided to give them another try. Though they were serving a rather limited brunch menu.

I decided to do this by chance; removing the items I didn’t think I’d like (I don’t like sweets and decided against anything too “simple” for some reason), then removed the Benedicts, because I’d just pass out after that. By coin toss, the Hungry Man Hash ($13) won out. Looking back, had I stared at that menu enough, the hash would have seemed very close to the “pig fries” and I might not have chosen it. But I did.

Unlike the “fries” this wasn’t over sauced and there wasn’t too much cheese, just a touch of light spice and milkiness. The carnitas had a mild crunchiness to them and combined with the pork belly, made a nice, porky, “one-two” punch. The breakfast potatoes were typical, but at least weren’t over-cooked or dry. The eggs were over done for my taste and the yolks were hard. I could barely finish the eggs and about half of the rest.

I brought the rest home and heated it up with two perfectly easy-over eggs and the Missus thought it was pretty good.

Also, the young lady working the counter on this day was a total joy; efficient, friendly, and just plain nice.

So, even though the food might edge on being a bit “too much”; the Missus and I might return and perhaps share a breakfast.

Mastiff Kitchen (at North Park Beer Company)
3038 University Ave
San Diego, CA 92104

Mariscos Monday – The Mariscos on Miramar Truck

July 16, 2018 mmm-yoso Food Trucks, Mexican Restaurants, Seafood

I've often said that things around these parts would not be as delici-yoso without all the recommendations and tips I receive. About three weeks ago; "MichaelW" was nice enough to drop me an email letting me know about a Mariscos Truck that had started doing business in back of the strip mall at 6904 Miramar Road….you know; the one that houses Jersey Mike's, Denny's, Pho Ha Noi, and the Philadelphia Sandwich Company, among others. I was able to run out to check the place out the following week. And yes, there it was…..

The truck has the back corner of the strip mall parking lot, there are signs on the road, and if take the turn north onto Commerce Avenue, you can't miss the signs. Funny, I guess I haven't been to the Sandwich A'Fare in a while. The truck is in the same side of the mall as that shop. There are also three parking spots against the building designated for the truck….I think they've got a nice deal.

It was pretty busy even at 11am when I arrived. A lot of the local guys were lined up waiting to order or waiting for their order.

The menu is nicely varied; from the usual Mariscos Truck suspects; the Gobernador, Fish Tacos, Camarones a la Plancha, Tostadas, Cocteles, and Botanas.

Ordering was pretty easy for me; as Michael had made a recommendation and I went with my usual; the Gobernador. The woman working the window is very nice, though the salsas are limited and things take a while….not necessarily a bad thing as it means items are really made to order. Though one should keep that in mind.

I was handed a consommé while waiting. Strong celery and pepper tones; on my first visit it was quite mild, on my second visit, much stronger in the celery/seafood department.

My order took about 20 minutes or so, but it was worth the wait. While the Gobernador wasn't among the best I've had; not enough peppers and onions; the tortilla was nicely coated with cheese then griddled, thus protecting the tortilla from breakage. The shrimp was plump and tender; this was a bit light in the seasoning department; but not bad at all.

Michael had recommended the Taco de Costa Azul, a nice combination of shrimp, bacon, and some slightly smokey, but not fishy smoked tuna….this trucks version of the usual smoked "marlyn". This was quite good as the crunchy bacon, complemented the shrimp and smoked tuna, which wasn't overly salty. The avocado and squeeze of lime, along with the standard seafood salsa just worked together in harmony. The tortilla; though quite standard held together well with the light coating of melted cheese protecting the integrity of the taco.

I was pleasantly surprised. I also bought two extra tacos for the guys in the office to taste. They all enjoyed them.

In fact, the following week, I returned with Calvin and also ordered some tacos for JeffP to try.

It was right before 11 when we arrived and there were already people there.

I got a bit greedy and ordered tres tacos for me this time.

The best of the bunch was the Machin; shrimp, octopus, and smoked tuna….though it wasn't quite as good as the Costa Azul. The pulpo al ajillo was the weakest of the bunch….not much octopus; what it contained was tender, but quite bland. The camarones al ajillo was decent; the shrimp again decently prepped and cooked, though I expected a bit more of a garlic "punch". The tortillas were left on the griddle too long this time around….though while the crunch was nice; it just tore to pieces when biting into them.

Still, this was better than many other trucks I've eaten at over the years.

Like I mentioned; I really like the woman who works the window here. No nonsense, but also quite nice. It's not a bad choice for lunch in the area….though like I mentioned; you might want to give yourself some time for the folks to prep your food. You can use the time tasting the consommé.

Notice the "Mariscos Rolex" tag on the truck.

Mariscos On Miramar Truck
6904 Miramar Rd – in the back parking lot
San Diego, CA 92121
Hours
Mon – Fri 1030am – 8pm
Saturday 11am – 6pm
Closed on Sundays

Thanks for the recommendation Michael! I owe you some tacos!

Circling Back to The Mariscos el Pescador Truck

January 4, 2018 mmm-yoso Food Trucks, Mexican Restaurants, Seafood, Taco Shops

I needed to get my New Year Wagashi from Hogetsu Bakery. So I headed down to Chula Vista. As I went past the H Street offramp on the I-5, I had a sudden craving for tacos from the Mariscos el Pescador truck. I got off at L street and headed on over. Man, had it really been a year-and-a-half since I last visited?

It was just a few ticks after 10am so there were no crowds. I noticed two semi's parked in the lot. Both drivers were eating in their rigs.

Since I hadn't been back in a while; I decided to see how my old standbys here were. I ordered a Tacos Gobernador and Marlyn. It actually looked even better than what I had on my last visit. Though I was offered no consommé…..I guess I could have asked, but I figured what I ordered would be enough.

The Gobernador was better than what I had here on my last visit. Nice balance of peppers to onions and the shrimp was moist, tasty, and plump. The one detail that I noticed was that there wasn't much cheese melted on the tortilla. The melted cheese, along with adding milky goodness to the taco acts like a "barrier", allowing the tortilla to stay whole during the eating process. The taco fell apart after two bites. I also noticed the tortillas aren't as good as they were as well. Don't get me wrong. This is still good; but not great.

The smoked fish taco was really nice; smoky, the essence of the sea, and more moist than I recalled. Lime really helps to cut the oiliness of the fish. This was very good.

I really need to return more often.

Mariscos El Pescador (In the parking lot of Toys R Us)
1008 Industrial Blvd
Chula Vista, CA 91911