By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – In a casual yet lively gathering, the three Guys from Pittsboro having lunch, decided to explore the culinary offerings at Tacos Paraiso, a local food truck known for its authentic dishes with a Guatemalan twist. The trio—Gene Galin, Eric Andrews, and Greg Stafford—took a moment to share our favorite picks from the menu, discussing everything from our meal choices to the unique fusion of Mexican and Guatemalan flavors. Our lunch highlighted both the simplicity and the joy of dining from a food truck that has become a community favorite.
It was Taco Tuesday, and what better way to celebrate than by indulging in some local, “authentic Mexican food.” While this food truck boasts traditional Mexican dishes, one of us quickly pointed out an interesting twist: the cuisine’s Guatemalan influence. As Greg Stafford quipped, “It says Mexican food, but it’s Guatemalan food. It’s false advertising… but in a good way.” This statement set the tone for the meal to come—full of flavorful surprises that reflect the area’s growing diversity in food culture.
Menu Picks: From Carnitas to ACP
Each member of our group picked our own go-to order from the truck’s extensive menu, providing a mix of familiar Mexican dishes and the chef’s Guatemalan inspirations. Greg opted for the carne asada plate, pairing it with fresh guacamole. Eric, on the other hand, chose a lighter option, ordering three soft chicken tacos with rice on the side—no beans, just rice.
However, it was the mention of ACP (Arroz con Pollo) that garnered the most attention during our conversation. Tacos Paraiso’s version of this classic dish, made with chicken, rice, and a cheesy sauce, came highly recommended by the truck’s driver, Chrissy. “It’s very good. ACP is one of our top sellers,” she explained. After hearing the recommendation, I decided to give it a try.
The Unique Appeal of Guatemalan Spicing
Tacos Paraiso stands out in Pittsboro not just for its convenience but for the distinct flavors it offers. While listed as a Mexican food truck, the culinary team at Tacos Paraiso adds Guatemalan spicing to many of its dishes, particularly the ACP. This fusion of flavors has made the food truck a favorite for locals who are looking for something a bit different from the typical Mexican fare found in the area.
As Greg mentioned during our meal, “They do complete Guatemalan spicing on stuff… and it’s different, but very good.”
Food Trucks: More Than Just A Trend
In recent years, food trucks have grown in popularity across the U.S., becoming a staple in both urban and rural areas. Pittsboro is no exception to this trend, with Tacos Paraiso being one of the most popular. What seems to make food trucks so appealing is their ability to offer high-quality meals at affordable prices, while also providing flexibility in terms of location. Whether it’s at a downtown corner across from Havoc Brewing, a festival, or parked near an office, food trucks can cater to a wide audience.
Community Connections: Pittsboro’s Growing Food Scene
Food trucks like Tacos Paraiso aren’t just about the food—they’re about fostering a sense of community. Pittsboro, a town with a population of just under 5,000, is known for its close-knit atmosphere, where dining establishments often serve as gathering places for friends and neighbors. The town’s food scene, although small, has been steadily growing, with a mix of traditional Southern fare, global cuisine, and local food trucks adding to its charm.
“Even though we’re in Pittsboro, people over in Siler City still come here to eat,” Eric noted. The local popularity of Tacos Paraiso demonstrates how food trucks can become a cornerstone of community life, drawing people from surrounding areas and creating a shared experience over a meal.
Greg, who suggested that we eat at Tacos Paraiso that day, summed it up this way jokingly: “Wherever we are, it’s the place to be.”
The Humor and Camaraderie of a Simple Lunch
Throughout our lunch, we poked fun at each other and joked about everything from our food choices to our plans for the day. At one point, Eric, concerned about maintaining his “girlish figure,” insisted on skipping the beer. “I can’t drink a beer. I have to go to the gym tonight,” he remarked. “You can work it off, work an extra 10 minutes,” Greg suggested, reminding him that a little indulgence wouldn’t hurt. For us, our lunches aren’t just about the food—it was about spending some quality time together.
Fine Dining? Not Exactly, But That’s Okay
As our meal wrapped up, I joked about whether dining at a food truck qualifies as “fine dining.” Eric, taking a more practical approach, observed that the food was served on paper plates, cementing its status as a casual, no-frills affair. However, we all seemed to agree that while it might not fit the traditional definition of fine dining, the quality of the food and the overall experience were worth much more than the presentation.
“You can’t say it’s the best… but it’s really, really good,” Eric concluded, acknowledging that the food at Tacos Paraiso, with its unique blend of Mexican and Guatemalan influences, was a standout in its own right. Our lunch conversation also touched on the fact that the quality of a meal is subjective—what matters most is the enjoyment of the food and the company.
Tacos Paraiso, A Gem in Pittsboro’s Culinary Landscape
For the three guys from Pittsboro having lunch at Tacos Paraiso was about more than just tacos and ACP. It was about connecting with one another, discovering new flavors, and enjoying the simplicity of a food truck meal. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a casual hangout, this food truck has carved out a special place in the hearts—and stomachs—of its patrons.
In a world where dining out can sometimes feel impersonal or rushed, places like Tacos Paraiso remind us that sometimes, the best meals are the ones that simply bring people together.