With (sometimes) cheap, (often) chic fare, like arugula pizza, squash empanadas and fish tacos, the country’s 15,000-plus food trucks are rolling into virtually every big city and many small towns across the United States, including Atlanta. The food truck revolution is upon us, and while mobile food is not typically classified as nutritious, there are certainly some delicious lighter options that don’t compromise when it comes to satisfying appetites.
Given that my first food truck experience included a huge plate of french fries topped with an obscene amount of cheese and every nacho topping known to mankind (I know, I know…I’m sorry, but it was worth every stinkin’ calorie.) at a Serenbe May Day celebration, I was shocked to later find food truck options filled with local produce, grass-fed meat, and antioxidant-packed superfoods. My new personal fave? Happy Belly’s kale waldorf salad. It’s good, y’all.
And if you’re a food safety junkie like me (or just don’t want to eat food made under gross circumstances), a recent article from Health Magazine answers the burning question: Is it safe to grab a bite to eat from a truck that cooks for hundreds in a space that’s a fraction of the size of your kitchen? It’s a good read, and you may be surprised at the conclusion.
So if you’re up for some foodie fun, here’s a mini-guide to where to find Atlanta’s smokin’ hot food trucks:
Atlanta (Howell Mill Rd): The first permanent food truck site in Atlanta offering food truck fare for lunch and dinner
Smyrna Food Truck Tuesdays: 5:30 – 8:30 PM at Taylor Brawner Park (arrive early to avoid the lines) – Opening again soon
Alpharetta Food Truck Alley (NEW): A feast on the street every Thursday evening
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but here’s the low down on many of the Atlanta food truck vendors. Eat well and enjoy!
