Unlike in the rest of the country, in Austin, the word "trailer" does not coincide with the word "trash." Instead, you are more likely to hear it juxtaposed with "food" or "delicious." Food trailers in Austin are everywhere. The hip, cute, quirky, and popular spots are popping up by the dozens and have not only been welcomed by the city, but have been completely integrated into Austin's unique vibe. Some stands are here for a season and move on, but others, like "Hey Cupcake," have been around for years and are now signature dishes of Austin. Sure other major cities have food stands, but none are as eccentric and involved as Austin's very own. You won't just grab a generic hot dog or a simple slice of pizza from some unnamed source, instead, here you can choose from Vietnamese, Mexican, French, Japanese, American, Turkish, German, Indian, Texas BBQ, soups, smoothies, innovative desserts and more. Many of these landmarks have picnic tables set up in front, while others have full on fire pits for do-it-yourself s'mores. Austinites don't only eat out of trailers though, they live in them. It's not only socially acceptable to say you live in a trailer here, it's strangely trendy. In fact, some of Austin's most demanding real estate does not have penthouse view, rather, it comes with a hitch. Matthew McConaughey, for example, is just one of many affluent trailer owners residing in Barton Springs trailer park. So, if you tell your mother you're living in a trailer park in Austin, she should ironically feel at ease.
I find myself frequenting these mobile tin cubes on the regular. They are scattered around the city, but you can find the majority along South Congress and at the Trailer Park and Eatery on South 1st Street. For me, the crowning jewels of this category are East Side King (long may she rein), Kababalicious, Me So Hungry, The Mighty Cone, Torchy's Tacos, and Crepes Mille. Now, I could go on here to explain each in great detail, but being that I am a pious disciple of each, that could make this post a bit lengthy. Instead, I will suggest my favorite treats from each so you can make your own humble pilgrimage to these sacred sites.
East Side King- Located in the back of Liberty Bar on E 6th. The first time I ate here, my taste buds were slightly confused. A good, cheap, fast-food Asian restaurant? I ordered their special katsu dog- a panko fried hot dog with shiso on a sticky bun. Outrageous. If you get the curry buns, expect the heat.
Kababalicious- Appropriately named, is located on E 7th and Trinity. I usually end up here after a night on the town and I am not alone in my craving. If you're too having a late night episode of the munchies, skip the slice of pizza, and wait here in line here for fifteen minutes with a collection of inebriated and salivating individuals. My best advice when you get to the front, order their lamb/beef kabab that is delicately wrapped in a pita with lettuce, tomato, and taziki sauce. Try it spicy, or alternatively, go for the hearty vegetarian falafel wrap. Whatever state of mind you're in, you will not be disappointed. Me So Hungry- Me so happy that it is newly located at E 6th Street. Try their spring rolls with peanut sauce and the BBQ pork banh mi. You could stuff a mattress with this sandwich's delectable bread.
The Mighty Cone- Mighty overpriced, but worth it if you are craving crunch. Located on South Congress, this staple stand has hot and crunchy shrimp and avocado that has been fried with sesame seeds, almonds, chili flakes, sugar, and corn flakes all stuffed in a cone shaped tortilla. I must admit that I don't recommend their fries however- too small. Why not get another cone instead, or better yet, try their sliders!
Torchy's Tacos- Located at the Trailer Park Eatery on S. 1st Street. My favorite taco, aptly named, is the Trailer Park: Fried chicken, green chilies, lettuce, pico de gallo, and cheese served on a flour tortilla with poblano ranch. As it says on the menu "get it trashy" and substitute lettuce for queso. I say, while you're at it, "be a fat ass" and don't forget a side of their green chili queso!
Crepes Mille- I have to pause for a moment out of silent gratitude for discovering this place. If you want to partake in the most savory, flavor explosion of your life, order the mango and sticky rice crepe. Black sticky rice, mango, nutella, peanut butter, corn flakes, and sugar. In between euphoric bites and "Mmmms" that transformed me into Bill Murry at the dinner scene from What About Bob, I literally mumbled to passing pedestrians saying, "You're making a grave mistake. Come try this! You don't know what you're missing. I pity you."
So there you have it guys. I am still dying to try Treat, Sushi A Go-Go, The Best Wurst, G'Raj Mahal, and Flip Happy Crepes (just to compare). If you have anymore suggestions, don't hesitate to share, especially if you know of any new trailers heading my way!
