The Observer headed downtown Monday to sample some treats from the World Financial Center’s new food truck court. The four-wheeled eateries showed up on Friday, and the mobile food market brings fresh, high-quality lunch fare to the community of Battery Park City.
Just be forewarned: there will be obstacles separating you from achieving that happy Buddha belly. A barrage of yuppies and tourists (a rather dangerous combination) will attempt to frustrate and delay you, so remember to stay focused, and agile. The Observer was nearly taken out by a suited-up-stockbroker.“Is he serious? That’s gonna be a ridiculously impossible trade!” he yelled into his cell phone while his flailing arm came inches away from close-lining me.
But after making your way through the crowded city streets, you will find an urban oasis. Fou trucks were parked outside of Four World Financial Center when The Observer arrived: Kimchi Taco, Taïm Mobile, Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream, and Gorilla Cheese NYC. NYC Food Truck Association has 21 local food trucks participating in the new dining concourse and they alternate throughout the week (visit the World Financial Center site to view the day’s vendors). While each of the trucks seemed to be offering up equally good eats, The Observer decided to check out why Kimchi Taco’s line was the longest.
The East-meets-Southwest truck’s menu features a $9 sampling combo of their four featured tacos: Grilled Korean BBQ Short Rib, Spicy Seared Pork, Pulled Chicken, and Tofu Edamame Falafel. The fare was light, fresh, and delicious—although the vegetarian option was sub-par, so you might want to opt for the $7 combo of three tacos instead.
After picking up your order you can sit along the waterfront and enjoy your meal (or feel guilty you’re stuffing your face while joggers frequently pass by). But if it’s too cold and windy for your liking, you can dine-in at Winter Garden, which has stadium style steps you can plop down on. Added bonus: the indoor public courtyard has palm trees, so you can even pretend you’re in Korea or Cozumel.
The World Financial Center Food Truck Court will definitely be a popular attraction come springtime. The waterfront provides a nice setting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. And because the line-up of food trucks changes daily, you can be sure to find something you like.
The mobile dining option has evolved from the dirty
Visit the World Financial Center Food Truck Court: Monday through Friday from 11AM to 3PM at Four World Financial Center on North End Avenue and Vesey Street