What would Austin be without trailer food?
The outdoor style of dining takes on a whole new meaning here in the Texas capital and more and more mobile restaurants in anything from converted school buses to vintage airstreams have pulled up and parked in our favorite neighborhoods all over town in the past few years.
I had a chance to check out Chilantro BBQ a few weeks ago on a cold night here in town. The unique Korean-Mexican fusion (a flavor combination I had never tried before) sounded really great so I decided to give the trailer a shot.
Still not quite sure what Korean-Mexican fusion really is? Well, according to the website, “the name “Chi’Lantro” is derived from two, distinct, cultural staples: Kimchi + Cilantro.” Sounds pretty easy, right? Well maybe not, but be prepared to enjoy some really awesome flavors.
flickr photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/people/theusual/
The menu is pretty simple and showcases a variety of tacos, burritos and burgers (tofu options included!) that each offer up the unique, fresh ingredients that are staples of the cultures they represent.
I ordered a simple Spicy Chicken taco and was pleasently surprised to find it not too spicy at all. You can definitely taste the Mexican influence with the cilantro and lime jumping right out at you but the Korean flavor is right behind it.
mmm
I chatted with owner and propietor Jae Kim when I visited Chilantro and talked about making the move to Austin from L.A., Austin’s trailer food culture and getting the word out about his new business. Kim said things were coming along well and the busy Spring schedule (with things like SXSW) and the warming weather will help kick things off even better.
Chilatro’s schedule is unique in that they travel to different spots around downtown each day for lunch and dinner to reach as many people as possible. Keep up with their schedule online or follow their tweets for regular updates.
jennifer
brandonfried
