El Jefe Street Eats - Austin's Legendary Taco Truck Founded by Kristie Acuña

Introducing El Jefe Street Eats

Tucked away in the streets of Austin, Texas is a little taco truck making big waves in the local food scene. El Jefe Street Eats is bringing authentic street tacos and Tex-Mex flavors to the people, one taco at a time. The bright yellow food truck is hard to miss with its colorful murals and lively atmosphere. The tantalizing smells of carne asada and al pastor fill the air, beckoning you to take a bite of their tacos. So who is the big boss behind El Jefe Street Eats? Let's take a closer look at this rising street food star.

The Origins of El Jefe

El Jefe Street Eats was founded in 2019 by Kristie Acuña, a native Austinite with a deep passion for food. Kristie grew up in the local restaurant industry, learning traditional recipes and techniques from her aunt. She worked in Tex-Mex restaurants through high school and college, mastering the complex balance of flavors. After graduating from the University of Texas, Kristie decided to branch out on her own and launch a taco truck that blended classic street foods with unique fusion flavors. The name El Jefe (meaning "the boss" in Spanish) was chosen as a nod to her leadership in running a successful food business.

Putting a Creative Spin on Tacos

While the tacos at El Jefe showcase traditional meats like carne asada and al pastor, Kristie experiments with eclectic ingredients to put a modern twist on the classics. Tacos are stuffed with Mexican street corn, chile relleno, and even Texas-inspired fillings like smoked brisket and fried avocado. Salsas range from mild to ultra-spicy, allowing customers to customize the level of heat. In true Austin fashion, the menu also features breakfast tacos served all day to satisfy any late-night cravings. Blue corn and flour tortillas are made fresh daily and double as wrappers for epic tortas, quesadillas, and burritos.

Bringing the Community Together

Part of El Jefe's success stems from Kristie's commitment to building community. The truck parks at local breweries, supporting small businesses and giving patrons tacos to accompany their craft beers. Monthly donations are made to Austin pet rescues and shelters. Kristie also partners with organizations and companies for taco-themed fundraisers and events. For Tacos & Tequila Tuesdays, drinks are BYOB and tacos are buy-one-get-one-free. The Saturday morning hangover brunch draws big crowds. Seeing familiar faces in line each week keeps the El Jefe crew going strong.

Signature Items You Have to Try

With a menu packed with mouthwatering options, it's tough to narrow down favorites. But there are certain El Jefe tacos and other items that have reached legendary status on Austin's food scene. Here are some signature dishes you absolutely have to try.

The OG Breakfast Taco

This classic Austin breakfast staple gets an El Jefe makeover with eggs, chorizo, pico de gallo, guacamole, and cheese nestled in a toasted flour tortilla. It's topped with sliced avocado and their signature creamy cilantro sauce. This taco fuels you up with the ideal combo of protein, veggies, and Mexican flavors to start your day off right.

Al Pastor on Pineapple

Marinated pork is slow-roasted trompo style and carved to order, then paired with pineapple, onion, cilantro, and a little heat from the habanero salsa. The sweet and savory pork contrasts beautifully with the tangy grilled pineapple. Order it "con todo" to add beans, cheese, and avocado.

Brisket & BBQ Tacos

Smoked brisket gets the Tex-Mex treatment and is chopped and loaded into two flour tortillas with tangy BBQ sauce, shredded cabbage, crema, and pickles. You get the best of Texas barbecue in taco form thanks to the tender, juicy brisket and classic flavors.

Vegan Bean & Roasted Veggie Tacos

El Jefe caters to vegan and vegetarian diets with roasted poblanos, sautéed onions, mushrooms, squash, refried beans, avocado, lettuce, and vegan cheese in organic blue corn tortillas. Spicy salsa verde and creamy cilantro sauce add bold flavors. Even meat lovers go back for seconds on these hearty veggie tacos.

The Woman Behind El Jefe

It's impossible to talk about El Jefe without highlighting Kristie, the passionate founder who built it from the ground up. Here's more on this inspiring Texas entrepreneur and how El Jefe reflects her unique personality.

A Strong Female Business Owner

Kristie always knew she wanted to run her own show. Opening El Jefe allowed her to be her own boss and make all the decisions from menu design to truck operations. She takes pride in being a successful Latina business owner and role model. Though taco trucks are male-dominated, Kristie confidently holds her own.

A People Person

From chatting with customers in line to building relationships with breweries, Kristie thrives on the community aspect of running a food truck. She remembers regulars' orders and makes everyone feel like her friend the minute they walk up to order. Kristie creates a welcoming, lively environment that keeps guests coming back.

Always Adventurous

Kristie constantly experiments with new taco creations, pushing boundaries with unexpected ingredients. One week you may find Korean barbecue tacos, and the next is filled with tasty experiments like churro dessert tacos. Her fearless creativity keeps the menu fresh and exciting. Kristie encourages her staff to innovate too and try their own unique taco recipes.

The Future of El Jefe

In just a few short years, El Jefe Street Eats has earned a loyal following of taco-obsessed fans. Kristie has big plans to grow the business while staying true to their street food roots. A second food truck may soon hit the streets to spread the taco love to neighboring cities. El Jefe merch like t-shirts, hats, and stickers allows fans to show their pride. No matter how big the business gets, you can bet the focus will remain on serving amazing tacos in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

So next time you're in Austin craving authentic tacos with a gourmet twist, seek out the El Jefe truck. Let Kristie and her crew inspire you with their passion while filling up on their incredible flavors. Just be prepared for the tortilla chips to quickly run out—these tacos go fast!

FAQs

What are El Jefe's hours?

El Jefe Street Eats is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 9pm, and Sundays from 11am to 5pm. They are closed on Mondays.

What types of payment does El Jefe accept?

El Jefe accepts cash, credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. ATM is available on site.

Does El Jefe cater events?

Yes, El Jefe offers full taco catering for events and parties. You can customize a taco menu and they'll bring their truck onsite.

Is El Jefe wheelchair accessible?

Yes, there is a wheelchair accessible window located on the right side of the truck.

Can I order El Jefe tacos online?

You can order tacos online through third party delivery apps like UberEats, Grubhub, and Postmates.