Ep 5. Austin

Taco Trip season 2 episode 5 - Austin takes viewers on a journey through the taco scene in the Texas capital city. Host Aaron Sanchez starts his tour at Veracruz All Natural, an authentic Mexican food truck that serves up delicious tacos with colorful homemade salsas. Sanchez is impressed by the freshness of the ingredients and the bold flavors that the trucks inject into every dish. Later in the episode, Sanchez visits a food market in Austin, where he samples a variety of creative and diverse tacos, ranging from Korean-inspired tacos to a classic Texas-style brisket taco.

For the next stop on his taco trip, Sanchez seeks out the famous Torchy's Tacos, a local chain that has made a name for itself in Austin with their distinctive and flavorful tacos. Sanchez chats with the founder of Torchy's, Mike Rypka, and tries their famed Brush Fire taco, which packs a punch with its spicy jerk chicken, grilled jalapenos, and Cajun-style spices. As Sanchez enjoys his taco, he appreciates the funky, laid-back atmosphere of the restaurant, which embodies the fun-loving spirit of Austin.

The episode also features Rosita's Al Pastor, a local favorite that specializes in the eponymous spit-roasted pork. Sanchez watches as the expert cooks shave off thin strips of pork and serve it up in warm tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. Sanchez is impressed by the tenderness of the pork and the balance of the sweet and savory flavors. The episode highlights how the taco is a versatile and evolving food that reflects the cultural heritage and culinary creativity of the people who make and enjoy it.

Another highlight of the episode is Sanchez's visit to Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ, a unique fusion restaurant that combines barbeque and Tex-Mex flavors. Sanchez watches as the chefs tend to the smoker to prepare brisket and sausage, which they then pile onto a tortilla with guacamole and tomato serrano salsa. Sanchez marvels at the unusual combination of smoky, savory meat and fresh, tangy salsa, and notes how Austin's food scene is always pushing the boundaries of what is possible with the humble taco.

Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive and engaging look at the vibrant taco culture in Austin, Texas. From classic street tacos to fusion cuisine, viewers will see the endless variations and delicious possibilities that exist within the world of tacos. Sanchez's enthusiastic and knowledgeable hosting makes this episode a must-watch for anyone who loves food and adventure.