The Kogi Experience

Another item knocked off my to-do list!  When I saw that my work schedule and Kogi’s truck schedule would have us both converging in downtown LA this evening, I realized it was time to check it out.

Technically it’s just a taco truck, one of many throughout LA County.  But with its Korean-Mexican fusion, clever use of technology, and über-friendly staff, Kogi has elevated itself to become a total experience – one that everyone’s been talking about and many are copying. The line formed in front of JANM well before there was any truck in sight.  Shortly after 6PM, anticipation became reality as we saw the truck come up Central, cross 1st Street, and pull into the plaza, almost like a bus of rock stars.  They took but a few minutes to set up.  And this included music – from a full Alpine sound system.

The crowd was a young, fun one.  I was the only one there in a suit.  Everyone was laid back, and most clearly had been there before. This is definitely the kind of thing that you want to do with your friends – it’s all part of the experience.

By 6:30 I had made it to the front of the line (and the end was longer than when I had even arrived – maybe 30-35 people long) and decided on my order: the Korean Tofu Taco and the Kimchi Quesadilla.  (I’m mad at myself that I failed to inquire about the chef’s special – turns out it was the Kimchi Puerco Pupusa, dang!)  It was a bit of a wait, but I have to say the food was tasty.  In the end, it was still basically a taco and a quesadilla, but the flavors were definitely  a nice change from the ordinary.

I’d go back and do it again – but next time with friends.  Kogi’s fun not just for the food, but the whole crowd that it brings together to enjoy a good time on a summer evening.

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