La catrachita food truck

"Sure, La Catrachita on Columbus Blvd. makes a few things besides birria. But like Rihanna once said, “baby, this (birria) is what you came for.” The thick-cut beef is incredibly flavorful thanks to its bath of peppers, onions, and cilantro, and it’s all pan-fried with so much queso Oaxaca that you end up with a side dish of chewy cheese crust. The tortillas are the perfect mid-point between crispy and chewy, even after soaking in that savory consomme. They also make a cheesy birria ramen using the consomme for broth if you prefer to eat with silverware." - alison kessler

"Sure, La Catrachita on Columbus Blvd. makes a few things besides birria. But like Rihanna once said, “baby, this (birria) is what you came for.” The beef is incredibly flavorful thanks to its bath of peppers, onions, and cilantro, and it’s all pan-fried with so much mozzarella that you end up with a side dish of chewy cheese crust. They make a hefty quesabirria (a birria-packed quesadilla), but we find the tacos to be the better vehicle for all that savory meat. They also make a cheesy birria ramen using the rich consomme as broth, and if you’re not into birria, the al pastor tacos are a solid second choice. There are a few seats in the strip mall space, but your best bet is taking your spread to go. photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo Food Rundown photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo Birria Tacos Incredibly tender shredded beef, a thick layer of deliciously salty mozzarella cheese, and a bowl of velvety, oniony consomme for dipping. Need we say more? No, but we will. Go get these tacos, pronto. photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo Al Pastor Tacos If you’re someone who can’t choose between sweet and savory, or, better yet, prefers your sweet with savory, the al pastor tacos are a good addition to your order. The pork can be on the tough side, but it has a mild adobo spice and is tossed with big hunks of juicy pineapple. photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo Shrimp Tacos The shrimp is well-cooked and there’s a smattering of cilantro on top, but even with a squeeze of lime, these tacos are bland. Skip ‘em." - Alison B. Kessler