Monroe Street mania and some food (trucks) for thought

They sit up on the ledge at Monroe Street, waiting like birds ready to feed on their prey. Hungry, anxious, huddled in groups, and ready to “pounce” upon hearing their name called and the sweet sound of “your order is ready!.”

Such is the scene nearly every day at Chicago’s beautiful Monroe Street just east of Michigan Avenue, as food trucks line the area right next to the Art Institute. Sometimes four, sometimes six, sometimes as many as eight, depending on the time and day. But if you are a food truck fan (or just curious about the fuss), this is the place to be.

 The trucks are lined up almost like baseball players in a batting order, with the lineup and batting order changing daily (depending on which trucks get there first). The color of the trucks alone could almost be an Art Institute exhibit with eye-popping shades of red, green, yellow, pink, white, and purple. A virtual cornucopia of colorization.

In recent years, food trucks have come a long way in all areas, including quality, selection, and service. They are restaurants on wheels and have mastered the art of serving piping hot fresh food and fabulous refreshing delicacies, all from the comforts of their very own vehicle.

No better example than the jam-packed scene at Monroe and Michigan. Some examples (and we will continue with the baseball lineup theme):

The “Mr. Quiles” Food Truck leads off this delicious lineup with chili peppers, quesabirria, and their special Jarritos drink— amongst the many Mexican-themed items on the menu.

Next, there is “Yummy Halal,” a food truck with a Mediterranean theme, including their famous “yummy halal bowl” as well as burgers, gyros, chicken breast strips, and the always tempting “corn in a cup.”

Third in the batting order was the Tasty Chicago Food Truck, featuring the bacon cheeseburger, buffalo chicken sandwich, wings, and some killer smoothies. And I can’t forget those mouth-watering mozzarella sticks.

At this rate, we might not make it through the whole lineup, but proud taste tester I am, I soldier on.

Batting in the illustrious clean-up spot (#4 in the order) would be Caseras Sabor Real,  another Mexican specialty food truck with items such as the veggie taco, horchatas, and tortas. More corn in the cup? They have that too!

Batting fifth and next in our award-winning food truck lineup was Mr. Queso. Mexican specialties continue here, including burritos, tacos, and horchatas. There was a bonus in the form of music from the Mr. Queso truck— with some quality tunes entertaining the masses as they waited for their chow.

Batting sixth was a staple and a long-time veteran in the food truck wars. One could say they were a “food truck” way before food trucks became a thing. Yes, The Good Humor Truck was there in all its sartorial splendor,  with white veneer and featuring all the treats to help cool off the mouth after consuming too much of the spicy foods mentioned previously. Everyone has their favorite Good Humor treats, but really can you beat the toasted coconut ice cream bar? Me thinks not.

Finally, in our batting order of food (truck), fantasia is the “El Azteca” food truck. Gorditas, Burrito Suizos, Spanish rice, and much, much more here, including some exciting varieties of yogurts. Not a bad way to finish up. Not bad at all.

Remember, this was just from a couple of days visiting the Monroe Street location. Different trucks are always there, so come early, come often, and check out the always-surprising variety.

A few final notes:

One, I was impressed by how patiently people waited for their food, including very young, hungry kids—not always the easiest to keep in check when the tummy calls. But they all waited peacefully and patiently. The mood on sight was very upbeat with music and good people watching.

 Also, as I looked around on both days I went there I was pleasantly surprised at the little garbage there was. With all the wrappers and paper products in the area, it was impressive that people were courteous enough to keep the site clean and free from debris.

Finally, the variety of people that were there was inspiring. Every age imaginable enjoys the food trucks, from seniors to little kids and folks coming in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Beautiful to see as it reflected the actual makeup of our city— and all were there with one common goal: To get some good food!

And based on the happy faces I saw (and some taste tasting of my own strictly on a professional basis), it was a smashing success.