Nestled on a Phoenix street corner, a fire engine red food truck named El Cevichazo is anything but ordinary. It's easy to miss this weekend warrior, especially if you haven't been venturing out much. But for those lucky enough to stumble upon it, El Cevichazo offers a taste sensation unlike any other.
This husband-and-wife team, Yoan Gonzalez and Yazmin Chavez-Lopez, bring their passion for authentic Mexican cuisine to life. Yoan, the chef, learned from generations past, ensuring his dishes are bursting with family tradition. Yazmin, originally from Mexico, complements his skills with her own culinary heritage.
Originally a food stand at El Super, El Cevichazo graduated to a full-fledged food truck in November 2023. Their current location, on the corner of Thomas Road and 29th Place, is a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely weekend meal. Open Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 10:30 pm, they also offer catering with advanced notice.
Don't let the unassuming exterior fool you. El Cevichazo boasts a spotless A health rating, reflecting their commitment to quality and cleanliness. A peek at the menu reveals a treasure trove of Sonoran specialties. All the salsas are made fresh by Yazmin, a delightful addition to any dish.
Tempting options include cabeza and pastor tacos ($3 each), a refreshing Sinaloa-style ceviche de camaron (shrimp ceviche, priced between $10 and $20 depending on size), and a must-try Sonoran hot dog for $5. For a sweet ending, their arroz con leche (rice pudding) at $4 is the perfect way to cap off your meal. Of course, no Mexican fare is complete without beverages, and El Cevichazo offers Mexican Coke and aguas frescas to quench your thirst.
Be prepared for a short wait, as everything is made to order, ensuring maximum freshness. This allows you to savor the anticipation, building excitement for the culinary delights to come.
The shrimp ceviche is a vibrant combination of textures and flavors. Plump shrimp mingle with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and cilantro, all bathed in a tangy lime and tomato juice marinade. Avocado slices and crunchy tortillas complete this refreshing masterpiece.
The cabeza tacos are a revelation. Melt-in-your-mouth tender braised meat nestled in warm corn tortillas is simply adorned with onions and cilantro. Fresh lime wedges and house-made salsa allow you to customize the experience. Delicious on their own, they're even better with a touch of salsa for a delightful kick.
But the crown jewel of El Cevichazo has to be the Sonoran hot dog. This masterpiece features a juicy hot dog swaddled in crispy bacon. A symphony of toppings follows: diced tomatoes, onions, mustard, avocado salsa, and a dollop of creamy sour cream. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a touch of savory indulgence. The finishing touch? A roasted chile guero (roasted green chili pepper) or banana pepper for a vibrant pop of color and a hint of heat.
El Cevichazo isn't just a food truck; it's a culinary adventure waiting to be discovered. So, keep an eye out for that fire engine red beacon, and get ready to fall in love with the Sonoran flavors of El Cevichazo.