Wanted to try Tacos Maria on Saturday at SOCO. I gather that several of the farmer's market merchants and loncheras were wrapping up, as it was later in the afternoon. But my lady and I were in line behind a couple that was ordering and the lady told us that they could only serve one more customer. Seemed kinda' bunk to me, as the lad cooking seemed to be making some fresh eats for the customer in front of us. It did not appear that they were out of ingredients so much as perhaps on a deadline by the host property to close shop. But who knows? I don't want to slam an eatery without having tried their product, but I did not get the distinct impression they were eager for our business, which was a bit of a disappointment. With several other options around, it wasn't the kind of encounter that would make me eager to seek them out. Shame, too, because they had a very interesting pumpkin taco that had piqued our interest.
Hi Wallbangr,
This is Carlos, chef and owner of Taco Maria. I remember Saturday and I believe it was almost 3 - well past the 2pm closing time for the market - when we were, regrettably, turning customers away.
While our truck is powered down and we are cleaning up, our equipment is cooling rapidly, our food is stowed, and our tools are away. If we can scratch out of few tacos on the warm griddle, we will, but we must also be respectful of our hosts who must close down the market and clear the parking lot.
What's more, we are a mobile restaurant after all and must carefully keep a schedule given the travel and traffic, set-up and take-down time.
I apologize that you were turned away. We are, of course, eager to serve any and every one. Hope you have a chance to come by again while the market is open and give us a try.
Carlos, Thank you for the thoughtful response. The one issue with the farmer's market setup at SOCO is that there isn't a clear delineation of hours, etc. It struck us as curious that the person in front of us was able to be served, but it now makes sense in light of your lengthy explanation. Thanks again and best of luck. We will be sure to try to stop by again before closing time.
