The winter months are upon us – frost-filled mornings, shorter days, and a continuous chill. So, what better way to warm up than with some delicious steaming food at OakTree Station? They recently introduced a $5 tasting on Thursdays to encourage people to try more food carts. The majority of the food carts offer these $5 options and the portions are the perfect size (especially for a quick lunch). However, it will be known that with tax and potentially a tip – it’s more like $6. Nevertheless, I highly recommend walking over during lunch on Thursday with your water and $6 and taking advantage of this deal. After exploring this new deal and enjoying these food carts – here are my reviews and suggestions for this winter season:
PNW Smokehouse
Wait Time*: 10/10
Price $
It’s chilly out, and that calls for chili. Their $5 Thursday Tasting chili has a lovely brisket that melts in the mouth with a subtle kick of spice. Not only that, but they offer meat-filled sliders too for $5 every Thursday. With plenty of warm meat options, they make the perfect soft buns to pair with any meat, alongside an array of unique sauces and add-ons. Their meals might be a little more spendy at around $17, but that’s made up for their high quality. If you want some flavorful meat, the Smokehouse never misses.
Pho LOC
Wait Time: 7/10
Price $
Pho LOC has a lot to offer with its Vietnamese food, its fresh and warm flavors are light and flavorful. Their menu includes Bánh Mi’s, big steaming bowls of Pho, rice plates, and delicious appetizers. Generally, a big bowl of Pho is $15, and a Bánh Mi is around $8. The Bánh Mi’s make the perfect afternoon pickup and are easy to eat. Also, after a long day – especially a cold one – there’s nothing better than the heat of a cozy bowl of Pho.
Montage A La Cart
Wait Time: 8/10
Price $
The “Classic Mac” includes a variety of options, from spicy cajun to vegan. If you love spicy mac-n-cheese, Montage A La Cart has amazing options. There is a wide range of meats you can add on, from Gator to spam – oh, and don’t forget the broccoli. On $5 Thursday they offer a homey cajon “Spold Mac.” The flavor is unique and perfect for cheese lovers (it includes that cheese pull). Aside from their “Classic Mac” options they offer Po-Boys, Jambalaya, and Salad. Also, they have a unique appetizer – “Fried Artichoke Hearts.” And to top it all off they have relatively cheap chocolate chip cookies (the perfect sweet treat).
KO Sisters (Seoul Food)
Wait Time: 9/10
Price $
A taste of Korea from halfway across the world, ranging from Korea Fried Chicken, Bulgogi, Tteokbokki, Bibimbap, Kimchi, and so much more. Prices vary, but for the meals, it’s around $15. However, the sizes are generous and can be split if need be. Their tasting Thursday Tasting deal includes 4 oz. protein and 4 oz. rice. To add, their chicken is amazing, especially the spicy chicken – the sauce with the rice adds this perfect balance of sweet and fiery. And the size is perfect for a meal. They offer four different tasting options – spicy/not spicy chicken or tofu with white sticky rice. Besides this – they have so many other options available. It’s not every day you come across Tteokbokki, Bibimbap, or Bulgogi in a food cart or restaurant. Also, for an off-campus lunch, they have a Korean corn dog for $7.
Premier Hibachi
Wait Time: 7/10
Price $$
Premier Hibachi is a decent option when it comes to Japanese food. They offer Bento Boxes, Ramen, Burgers, and of course – Hibachi. To top it all off, they also have a Japanese twist to their burger options. Premier Hibachi has the perfect warm food. Ramen is especially perfect for a cold day – its steaming broth and noodles just warm the soul. For the Thursday Tasting deal, they offer 4 oz. of chicken and 4 oz. of grilled rice. Like KO Sisters they also offer four different chicken options: spicy, orange, teriyaki, or classic. The grilled rice pairs wonderfully with their tender chicken.
Pan Roast
Wait Time: 6/10
Price $$
There’s one thing the North West never fails at – and that’s good seafood. Pan Roast offers fresh fancy seafood – the perfect rainy weather food. They’ve got clams, lobster, crab, shrimp, and even oysters. Their menu options include Fish and Chips, Seafood Rolls, Pasta, and their “Signature Pan Roast.” While the prices are a little more on the pricy side, their high-quality seafood and large portion sizes are phenomenal. For their Thursday Tasting, they offered a bowl of clam chowder. It’s very fresh and creamy and comes with two pieces of white bread. They also offer different varieties of garlic bread and other sides.
That’s all for this review, comment your favorite food cart meal below!
*Wait time depends on your order. This is just a general guideline.