Fresno’s beloved Taco Truck Throwdown marked its 15th anniversary on Saturday night at Chuckchansi Park in downtown Fresno. The family‑friendly event honored the city’s rich taco‑truck tradition with awards for the top taco, top michelada and top salsa, while live music from Waka Flocka Flame, Too $hort, La Sonora Dinamita and Malo kept the crowd energized.
Judges Choose First‑Time Winners
A panel of eight judges evaluated each taco on a 1‑10 scale. After tasting dozens of offerings from 21 participating trucks (one withdrew due to illness), the judges awarded their top honors to newcomers. The Judge’s Prize for best taco went to a first‑time winner, while the Judge’s Prize for best michelada was claimed by Howie’s Micheladas, also a first‑time winner.
Fans Vote for Their Favorites
Attendees cast their votes by scanning QR codes posted outside each truck, which linked to the Throwdown website. The People’s Prize for best taco and best michelada both went to trucks that had not placed in the judges’ top three, underscoring the community’s diverse tastes. The People’s Prize for michelada was awarded to El Cejas Michelada Mix, a repeat winner from the previous year.
Salsa Competition Completes the Feast
In its fourth year, the Salsa Throwdown ran alongside the taco and michelada contests. While the source did not list the specific winners, the competition added another layer of flavor to the evening’s festivities.
Local Vendors and Hours
Several participating trucks shared their regular locations and hours, giving Fresno residents easy access to award‑winning fare year‑round. Highlights include a truck at 2848 W. Ashlan Ave. (open Tuesday‑Friday, 7 pm‑11 pm), a Valero Gas Station site in Visalia (Tuesday‑Sunday, 5 pm‑10:30 pm), and a mobile unit near S. Chestnut Ave. and E. Florence Ave. (2259 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno, CA 93725). Additional trucks operate out of Sanger, N. Cedar Ave., and 21 E. Shaw, with varying schedules.
Looking Ahead
For those who missed this year’s celebration, Fresnoland Food is planning its first‑ever Taco Crawl, featuring many of the same beloved trucks. While Waka Flocka will not perform at the crawl, organizers promise a lively atmosphere and plenty of delicious tacos.
The Taco Truck Throwdown continues to showcase Fresno’s entrepreneurial spirit, support local businesses, and bring families together over shared meals and music. It remains a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its culinary heritage.
Original reporting: Fresnoland — read the source article.
