Food trucks were all the rage last year as foodies across the country took to the streets to order and devour their favorite cuisines.  Despite the controversy their presence stirred up in some communities, food trucks continue to be a hip hit among Angelenos.

Before their resurrection and sudden appearance in the zeitgeist, food trucks were essentially reserved for construction sites so workers could grab some quick sustenance off the beaten track.  Then some savvy chef’s saw the potential of taking their culinary shows on the road and really getting a chance to serve the people.  Though there were many trucks to pull into town before his, Roy Choi of the Kogi BBQ truck is considered one of the leaders of this movement and in 2100 was the first food truck chef to be named “Best New Chef” by Food and Wine Magazine.

But with their rise in popularity, so too came controversy for the food trucks as restauranteurs and other business owners became angered by the competition and traffic congestion caused by these newbies.  First Fridays on Abbot Kinney were a hot spot for trucks to park and serve eager attendees until angered residents and professionals raised hell and had them evicted.  Now you can find some trucks in the Brigs Parking lot during First Fridays.

So where else can you find a fleet of food trucks?

• Mid-Wilshire during lunch hours (across the stress from LACMA)
• Street festivals often host a variety of top food trucks
• Sundays on Olvera Street
• Food Truck Festivals

In response to the attention certain trucks were getting, developers created iPhone apps that would allow users to follow their favorite trucks and find the best gourmet food on-the-go in their neighborhood.  Here are some good resources:

1. Food Truck Fiesta
2. Road Stoves GPS
3. TruxMap

It does seem to take some of the fun and randomness out of the experience, but hey – give the people what they want.

How have you experienced the food truck craze?  What’s your favorite truck? Do you think it’s ending or just evolving?  Share your thoughts and leave your comments below.

Photo courtesy of Slathills’ Flickr