Ep 5. Brownsville, TX: Tacos

Brownsville, TX is a town located along the southernmost border of Texas adjacent to Mexico. In this episode of Roadfood, the focus is on the town's most beloved culinary creation, tacos. Hosts Jane and Michael Stern embark on a journey to discover the best tacos the town has to offer.

The first stop on their taco tour is at Vera's Backyard BBQ. The restaurant is known for its smoked meats and tacos al pastor. Jane and Michael try the popular dish and are impressed by the sweet and savory flavor combinations. The pork is marinated in a spicy chili sauce, then grilled to perfection, and served on a corn tortilla with fresh pineapple and cilantro. Jane remarks that the tacos are "delicious" and says, "I could eat these every day."

Next, they visit La Jaiba Mexican Seafood Restaurant, which is known for its seafood tacos. The hosts try the shrimp, fish, and octopus tacos, and all three are hits. Jane particularly enjoys the shrimp taco, which is filled with plump, juicy shrimp and topped with tangy, homemade pico de gallo. Michael is a fan of the fish taco, which is breaded and fried to crispy perfection, then topped with cabbage and a creamy chipotle sauce.

The third stop on their taco tour is at Taqueria Orozco. This restaurant is known for its barbacoa, a popular Mexican dish made with slow-cooked beef or lamb. Jane and Michael try the barbacoa tacos and are blown away by the rich, tender meat. Michael comments that the tacos are "brimming with flavor" and says, "this is what real food is all about."

Their next stop is at El Ultimo Taco, a small, unassuming stand located in a parking lot. The restaurant is famous for its carne guisada, a stew made with chunks of beef cooked in a rich, spicy tomato sauce. The hosts try the carne guisada taco and are impressed by the depth of flavor. Jane says, "it's like a warm hug in a tortilla."

The final stop on their taco tour is at Delia's Tamales. While tamales may not be a traditional taco, Delia's are a local favorite and deserve recognition. The hosts try the pork and chicken tamales and both are a hit. The tamales are wrapped in corn husks and filled with juicy, tender meat. Jane says, "this is what comfort food is all about."

Throughout the episode, the hosts learn about the history of tacos in Brownsville and how they have evolved over time. They also interview locals to get their opinions on the best tacos in town. There are debates over which taco is the best, but one thing is clear, tacos are a beloved part of Brownsville's culinary landscape.

In the end, Jane and Michael have eaten their way through Brownsville's taco scene and have found some truly special dishes. They conclude the episode by recommending each restaurant and dish to viewers and express their gratitude for the chance to experience the town's culinary delights.