Vendy 2009 Finalist: Country Boys-Martinez Taco Truck

In following with my earlier post, 2009 Vendy Awards, I visited each of the 5 finalist to select my own favorite prior to the ceremony on September 26th.  My final stop was to the Country Boys – Martinez Taco Truck.

There was a significant but easy going crowd in front of the truck when I arrived.  It was a lovely day and the Red Hook ball fields gave everyone something to look at while they waited on line.

The  primary item on the menu is something called a hurache.  According to Wikipedia, is a popular Mexican dish consisting of an oblong, fried masa base, with a variety of toppings. The name “Huarache” is derived from the shape of the masa, similar to the popular sandals of the same name. Huaraches are similar to sopes but differ in shape.  While I enjoy Mexican food, I had never tasted a hurache before, so I had no idea what I was missing!

I ordered 2 huraches, one chorizo and one pork. They were both delicious!  The spicy meat, luscious guacamole and vegetables all combine to make a perfect pocket of flavor.   I even back on line to order a vegetable hurache, which is not in keeping with my carnivore style!

Maybe it was the setting of the green ball fields, or the relaxed crowds who were enjoying a lazy Saturday afternoon, but the Martinez truck was my best street vendor experience of this journey.  The Martinez’ secret to success, in addition to fabulous food, may be that they only serve crowds at leisure.  The clientele of the of the other finalists are all trying to squeeze in a little food in a stress filled workday where time is short.

The Martinez truck was out of the way, but certainly worth the trip! I give Country Boys – Martinez Taco Truck a 97% rating. [rating:97/100]

Country Boys-Martinez Taco Truck

Red Hook ball fields at the intersection of Clinton & Bay