Went out yesterday in Ames with the intent to try the food truck, Rico's Tacos. Unfortunately, Rico had other ideas. Drove to his usual spot and could only find a "CLOSED" sign. Dejected but undaunted, I doubled back on my route to Duff Ave., where I found Tacos El Primo set up in the parking lot of Ames Tire Shop.
Right off the bat, I was impressed; they had picnic table seating for customers, WITH an awning overhead! Now that we're reaching the really hot part of the year, that little detail is greatly appreciated. Not only that, but as I walked up, the staff was immediately sanitizing the tables that had just vacated by some customers. Another greatly appreciated aspect.
I looked over the menu and found pretty much what you'd expect from a taco truck. Nothing really popped out as strange or exotic, and that was perfect; I just wanted some standard, solid, taco truck fare. One thing they DID have that caught my eye was birria options. I'd heard of it before, but had never tried it, so this was clearly kismet.
I placed my order--one regular taco and the Mega Quesabirria--and was given a pager. Rare for Iowa in August, it was a beautifully sunny, yet mild, day, with frequent cool breezes under that canopy, as I waited for my order. And I didn't have to wait long at all.
The paper basket I was handed was delightfully heavy, my friends. Included with my food were two different sauces of varying heat, my cup of birria consomme, a roasted jalapeno (I think), two lime wedges, and some grilled onions lining the bottom. It was very nice, and stacked/presented beautifully. And that birria sauce is magic! Not only does it add some incredible, rich flavor, but a spoonful of the consomme quelled the heat from those hot sauces in no time. As for my food, well, my dinky regular taco wasn't half bad, and had a wonderful amount of cilantro on it. The birria quesadilla, though--I think the analytical part of my brain powered down when it hit my tongue; my mind went from "scrutinize" to "devour" after the first bite. It was incredible and I didn't want it to end.
I wouldn't be honest if I didn't include my disappointment at the size of my $2.50 taco. I don't know if the photo does it justice or not, but it was TINY. The taste was fine but, compared to the value of what was on the menu and the other part of my order, that widdo baby taco was overpriced by at least a dollar.
That being said, I look forward to visiting them again, and soon! read more