QandAs: Food

What is a taco truck?

Answer:
Taco trucks can be found in most US cities with a significant

Latino population. They are just one time of mobile restaurant, looking like a bit like large ice cream trucks. Taco trucks, sometimes called “roach coaches” in a derogatory fashion, generally provide authentic Mexican food. Some taco trucks offer Central American food or hamburgers in addition to or instead of Mexican food.

The food available on a taco truck is usually advertised on a hand-painted menu on the side of the truck. Offerings are usually limited to various types of tacos, sometimes with burritos, hamburgers, or other dishes included. Tacos at a taco truck are prepared in an authentic manner, with fillings such as carnitas (a type of roasted pork), carne asada (roasted beef), or lengua (tongue). These fillings are combined with corn tortillas, cilantro, onion, and salsa to produce a delicious, if rather greasy, meal. Often, marinated radishes, peppers, and carrots are served on the side.

Many Americans look down on taco trucks, claiming that they are unsanitary and using the alternate name “roach coach.” However, in the United States, these trucks are required to be inspected by the Department of Health, just like any restaurant.