These days, you don’t need the King, the Clown and the Colonel to curb your hunger in a hurry around Tampa Bay. The area is peppered with tasty, fail-safe food trucks helmed by local chefs who actually want you to enjoy the things they’re cooking. There’s a little pride involved. And with it, a kickass plate of food. Here are three surefire food trucks to hit for when you’re on the go about the bay area.
Vanchetta Rolling Rotisserie, St. Pete
MVPs: Original Vanchetta Sandwich, Beer-Battered Mahi Sandwich, NY Chopped Cheese
Vanchetta’s rolling menu has a permanent residence now over at Cage Brewing, with specialties rotating on a daily basis and staple menu items available year-round. The resounding theme here is a generous helping of fresh Italian Porchetta elevating almost every sandwich. Even if solo hits like the Mahi Fish Filet and Sunday Chopped Cheese don’t need it.
Sabroson, Downtown Tampa
MVPs: Chicken Tacos, Mofongo, Carne Frita Plate
Generally speaking, if you have to translate a food truck’s entire Facebook page to English, the food is probably going to be pretty stellar. That’s Sabroson, which recently leveled up with a downhome, shaded patio in front of its truck on Florida Ave and Channelside. It’s a fine place if you have 20 minutes to crush a taco and some mofongo.
Meanchi’s Peruvian Inspired Sandwiches, St. Pete
MVPs: Pan con Chicharron, Chicharronaso, Specialty Tacos
Meanchi’s recently made the move from Tampa to St. Pete thanks to a new location at Par Bar. Chef Josh Varon does Peruvian street food how it’s done in the homeland, highlighting vibrant ingredients, family-style sauces and perfected chicharron.