Intrigued by the bustling American's street food scene? The Lime Truck, winner of Food Network's "The Great Food Truck Race", has driven its way from United States into PasarBella @ Suntec City. Founded by Celebrity Chef Daniel Shemtob, this is the brand's first overseas outpost.
There are 6 tacos to choose from, one of which is meat-friendly, as well as side dishes that are inspired by classic Latin American street food. What's notable here is that the tortillas are handmade daily. That rustic taste certainly stands out in the corn tortilla, in a good way, while the flour tortilla is soft and chewy.
Legendary Brussels Sprouts 4/5
Chef Daniel's signature Legendary Brussels Sprouts ($3.90) is a must-try here. The burnt roast brussels sprouts takes on a bittersweet caramelised flavour along with a hint of smokiness. The piquant dressing complements without overpowering such wonderful flavour. For an extra edge, Lap Cheong (Chinese sausage) replaces the original bacon bits, if that will piqué your interest even more. Chargrilled brussels sprouts hardly make into the menu of restaurants, not sure if it's just Singapore. Even if it exists, I reckon it's going to be real expensive.
Chips + Zesty Lime Guac 2.8/5
Fresh, crispy tortilla chips is always welcome, more so with homemade guacamole. Even if you don't intend to stay put at Pasarbella, Chips + Zesty Lime Guac ($3.90) makes a quick grab-and-go munchies. If only the dip can be much much more generous.
No. #1 Steak Taco 3.5/5
No. #1 Steak Taco ($4.60) is number one for a reason. The steak topping is compact with soy singer slaw atop to balance its meatiness and cilantro chimichurri, a traditional Argentinian condiment, to brighten up the taste.
The Gringo 4/5
I feel The Gringo ($4.50) surpasses my expectation of a steak taco. The shredded beef ribs is tender and the flavour of the beef remains pronounced. Juice trickled down my hands as I bit through the soft taco. With arugula and fried onion, it's almost like savouring a gourmet burger with a premium patty sandwiched in between a fluffy bun.
Slow Braised Pork Belly Taco 3/5
Slow Braised Pork Belly Taco ($4) was somehow disappointing. As I lift the diced pork belly into my mouth, half expecting the texture to be like my Asian style Kong Bak Pau, it just didn't go that way. A flour tortilla, with its softer texture could have been a better companion to this dried out pork belly than the firmer corn tortilla. The saving grace is the great salsa atop create a taste that's as vibrant as its colour.
Fried Chicky Taco 3.5/5
On the other hand, the Fried Chicky Taco ($4) receives a much better feedback with its buttermilk fried chicken, that is surprisingly quite juicy and tender in the inside, with a well seasoned crispy crust. The tangy lift given by the Dijon slaw and pickles completes the taco.
Grilled Barramundi Taco 2.8/5
The Grilled Barramundi Taco ($4.60) is forgettable but I will give credit to them for keeping the fish tender and not using deep-fried dory. The satisfaction just isn't there. Perhaps, a fatty fish may work, like salmon?
Churros 3.5/5
The Churros ($5.90/$6.90) is handmade here with Cinnamon and Green Tea variant. Judging from the consistency and colour of the green tea sauce, I reckon the green tea sauce is made in house too. The texture is really chewy with crispy edge. I feel it should be priced similar with the Tacos which would be more reasonable. Couple it with a cup of Sarnies' black coffee, that would sum up my meal really well.
Crowned in Yahoo!'s "Top 10 Trucks in America" for three years running, I do expect a little more from The Lime Truck. Perhaps it should be out running along the streets rather than being cooped up in the mall. Easier said than done but these tacos are indeed fun to have along with other dishes in Pasarbella, for a more complete street food experience in town.
#TacoTuesdays at The Lime Truck Singapore will be running for an indefinite time. As part of #TacoTuesdays, all tacos will be going for just S$3.50 a pop on Tuesdays.
Words and photos by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.
The Lime Truck
PasarBella Suntec City
3 Temasek Blvd
455-456 / 459-461
Singapore 038983
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC Line)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]
2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]
