Experience the Authentic Flavors of Puerto Rican Cuisine at En Mi Viejo San Juan Food Truck
For Hispanic Heritage Month, a visit to En Mi Viejo San Juan, a Puerto Rican food truck, offers a culinary journey to the heart of Puerto Rican culture. Owned and operated by Chef Ariel Rivera, a professional chef and proud Boricua, this food truck is a must-visit for lovers of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine.
Located at 7657 W Hillsborough Avenue in Town ‘n’ Country, En Mi Viejo San Juan serves up classic Puerto Rican dishes that are prepared with passion and love. Chef Ariel Rivera’s culinary journey began at a young age when he would cook breakfast for his brothers and friends. Over the years, he honed his skills and learned more about traditional Puerto Rican dishes.
Inspired by his aunt, grandmother, and mother, Chef Ariel Rivera mastered the art of creating staple Puerto Rican dishes like rice and other popular favorites. At En Mi Viejo San Juan, two of the most beloved dishes are bacalaitos and alcapurrias. Bacalaitos are salted cod fritters, while alcapurrias are a delicious fritter made with a combination of taro, masa, yucca, plantains, and stuffed with picadillo. These mouthwatering treats are fried to perfection, offering a burst of flavors with each bite.
One of the highlights of En Mi Viejo San Juan’s menu is the mofongo, a classic plantain dish that is a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine. Every order of mofongo is made to order, ensuring freshness and authenticity. The dish is made by frying plantains and then mashing and mixing them with garlic, butter, and seasonings like sazon. Chef Ariel Rivera emphasizes the importance of balance and texture in creating the perfect mofongo. He ensures that the dish is soft and flavorful, distinguishing it from other versions that may be drier.
En Mi Viejo San Juan operates Wednesday through Sunday, with Chef Ariel Rivera often handling the cooking himself. His girlfriend, Anica Rivera, lends a hand in the afternoons after finishing her own work. Together, they create a lively atmosphere with Latin music playing in the background while navigating the small kitchen to prepare meals that bring the tastes and comforts of the Isla del Encanto (Island of Enchantment) to the streets of Tampa.
As Chef Ariel Rivera shares his love for Puerto Rican cuisine with the people of Tampa, he also takes pride in showcasing his culture. His food truck becomes a platform to educate others about Puerto Rican traditions and flavors. When asked about the satisfaction he derives from this, Chef Ariel Rivera joyfully expressed, I feel so proud of myself when I cook, and I see people who enjoy my food. They come by and tell me, ‘I love the food. I like your mofongo; your mofongo is very soft.’ All these comments make me feel very proud of myself the way I cook.
By visiting En Mi Viejo San Juan food truck, patrons not only get to indulge in authentic Puerto Rican cuisine but also support a passionate chef who is dedicated to sharing his culture and love for food. It is an opportunity to embrace the richness of Puerto Rican heritage and savor the flavors that have been passed down through generations.
So, if you’re craving the taste of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, head over to En Mi Viejo San Juan food truck in Tampa and experience the delectable delights that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico.
