While many big cities have veteran gourmet food trucks rolling around the streets, it’s the newest culinary trend to hit Houston. Talented chefs are taking their tasty treats on the road with them, and Houstonians are eating it up. But if you haven’t had a chance to check out the food offerings, try some of the city’s best at the Haute Wheels food truck festival on March 23 and 24. This gathering will include more than 34 of Houston’s top food trucks, plus wine, beer, craft artisans and live music. Here are five of my favorites that are must-tries:
Bernie’s Burger Bus
Possibly the most delicious-smelling school bus ever, Bernie’s is known for creating some of the best burgers in the city, not just among the food trucks. The Substitute Burger topped with blue cheese, thick-sliced crispy bacon, mushrooms and Bernie’s tipsy caramelized onions is popular, as is the critically acclaimed Study Hall, with housemade barbecue sauce and a crispy, seared, slow-braised pork belly. With a menu full of old-school burgers, Bernie’s is the best school food I’ve tasted.
H-town StrEATs
Most Houstonians have H-town StrEATson the top of their food truck lists. You simply cannot go wrong with anything on the menu. From the truffle-oil-Parmesan fries and quirky hotdogs, to the fried boudin and Monte Cristo balls, you’ll chase these guys all over town (especially on days when they make their lemon meringue doughnuts). The menu changes often, so you’ll be able to enjoy a new dish every time you dine.
Good Dog Hot Dog
If you are a fan of the traditional Chi-town dog, Good Dog’s version is pretty darn close to being authentic. But if you prefer a little Tex-Mex with your frankfurter, the Guac-a-Dog with avocado, fresh jalapeño, tomatoes, onion, roasted garlic aioli and spices is equally delish. No matter what you order, try the homemade Short Bus mustard. It’s made in house from scratch, as are all of Good Dog’s fresh condiments.
The Waffle Bus
As its name implies, the Waffle Bus specializes in the traditional breakfast food, but with a twist. This truck isn’t just serving up sugary waffles. The waffles on this bus are both sweet and savory — think buttermilk fried chicken and waffles with spicy mayo, and a waffle burger. For something more like dessert, try the Nutella and banana waffle with sweet cream, or the strawberry Irish cream crème brûlée with burnt raw sugar. After sampling what this bus has on board, you’ll be tempted to go home and wrap waffles around everything in your fridge.
Stick It
Food on a stick. Plain and simple. But this isn’t merely a corn dog and frozen banana stand. You’ll find skewered fare like Korean barbecue pork belly lettuce wraps with basmati rice and sesame gastrique. The menu also includes fish and chips, along with the so-bad-it’s-good buttermilk fried chicken with four-pepper gravy. Stick It’s menu options are updated regularly, so you’ll always find something new to spear.
Photos Courtesy of Femme Run
