When you think of vibrant and flavorful Latin Food in New Haven, Connecticut, Portabello Latin Food cart should be at the top of your list. This isn’t just your average food cart; it’s a culinary experience that brings the heart and soul of Latin American cuisine right to the streets. Owned and operated by Francisco Mendez and his wife Zenaida Muñoz Lima, Portabello has become a local favorite, especially renowned for their irresistibly delicious arepas.
Francisco, originally from Puebla, Mexico, embarked on his food journey in Connecticut in 2008. He honed his skills at “Tijuana Taco Company” under Arturo Franco Camacho, learning the art of crafting authentic burritos, tacos, and quesadillas. After four years of invaluable experience, Francisco was encouraged to venture out on his own. In 2012, Portabello Latin Food was born, starting with a single cart on York Street, near the popular Ashley’s ice cream. The business thrived, leading to a second cart and a family affair with his brother Carlos and wife Zenaida joining the team. Currently, you can find Portabello serving up their latin food delights at two locations: Prospect Street by the Yale hockey rink and Cedar Street near Yale Hospital.
Zenaida, who hails from Tlaxcala, Mexico, adds another layer of warmth and authenticity to Portabello. She cherishes working alongside Francisco and connecting with the diverse community they serve. While she’s continuously improving her English, her passion for sharing her culture through food shines brightly. The welcoming atmosphere of their cart is a testament to their dedication to customer service and genuine hospitality, key ingredients in the success of any great latin food establishment.
For Francisco, the joy of Portabello lies in the simple act of serving food he loves. Cooking is his passion, and customer satisfaction is his reward. The enthusiastic feedback, especially about their arepas, fuels his dedication. Customers frequently declare Portabello’s arepas as “the best in New Haven,” a testament to the quality and flavor they consistently deliver. This positive reinforcement underscores the appeal of authentic latin food and the impact of a dedicated food vendor.
While Portabello offers classic Mexican staples like burritos, quesadillas, and tacos, it’s their arepas that truly set them apart in the latin food scene. Arepas are a Colombian and Venezuelan specialty – a corn-based patty, grilled to perfection and in Portabello’s version, filled with mozzarella cheese. This simple yet satisfying dish has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of New Haven locals, becoming the undisputed star of their menu. The popularity of arepas highlights the growing appreciation for diverse latin food options beyond the typical Mexican fare.
Francisco’s Puebla roots also influence the menu, bringing a taste of regional Mexican cuisine to Connecticut. He recalls “mole poblano,” a traditional dish from Puebla, often served with chicken. While they offer mole poblano enchiladas at Portabello, they also feature more familiar enchiladas with meat and mole sauce, giving customers a taste of authentic Mexican flavors within their broader latin food offerings.
Running a food cart, especially one serving latin food outdoors, comes with its own set of unique experiences. Zenaida appreciates the dynamic environment of the food cart, contrasting it with the isolation of a restaurant kitchen. The daily interactions with people from various backgrounds, both local and international, are a highlight of the job. However, the outdoor setting also presents challenges, particularly the harsh New England winters. Despite the seasonal difficulties, the Mendez family perseveres, driven by their love for latin food and the community they serve.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant hurdles for Portabello, forcing a temporary shutdown and a slow recovery. Like many small businesses in the food industry, they had to adapt to a changed landscape. While they previously operated three carts, they now focus on two, streamlining their service to maintain quality and navigate the ongoing challenges. Despite these obstacles, Portabello Latin Food remains a testament to resilience and the enduring appeal of delicious, authentic latin food.
In conclusion, Portabello Latin Food cart is more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a cultural experience that embodies the spirit of latin food. From Francisco and Zenaida’s warm hospitality to the mouthwatering arepas and diverse menu, Portabello offers a genuine taste of Latin America in the heart of New Haven. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking to explore new flavors, make sure to visit Portabello and discover the magic of their latin food for yourself.
