Barton Springs Picnic takes patrons on a culinary trip around the globe | Traveling Soldier

AUSTIN, Texas — Food trucks are all the rage and Austin has become a food truck mecca.

Barton Springs Picnic is a food truck haven just minutes from Zilker Park in Austin that offers a variety of culinary creations with a side of vibes and relaxation, because the only thing better than one amazing food truck is multiple amazing food trucks.

The park brings together some of the city’s premier food trucks and, depending on what you’re craving, you could travel the globe with your taste buds alone.

The atmosphere is welcoming with a covered seating area among food trucks lining the perimeter of the park.

Adorned with bright colors and decorated with traditional sugar skulls, the Have a Taco truck grabbed my attention — I am always down for a taco!

The menu featured tacos, nachos, quesadillas and sides like street corn, chips and guacamole.

There was also Arepa World which offered a variety of arepas, or round, grilled corn cakes, filled with meat or veggies with unique names like The Boss Hog, Morning Glory and Perfect Vegan. Customers can also opt for a bowl.

For those who like it spicy, Pete’s Cajun Seafood delivers. The truck offers a good spread of seafood, with a healthy dose of spice and flavor. Simply choose your seafood, pick a flavor, select a side and enjoy.

The Coat and Thai food truck piqued my curiosity because of the creative title and because I am not familiar with Thai food, and the Italian food lover in me was tempted to try the paninis, pizza and salads offered at I Panini.

I was craving a burger, so Black Bear Burgers seemed like the best choice. I ordered a cheeseburger with the works and a side of fries. The food came out piping hot, my burger was well cooked and the mountain of fries was seasoned to perfection. The truck also offers lobster rolls.

There were plenty of savory offerings, but Midnight Cravingz could satisfy any sweet tooth any time of day with cookies topped with peach cobbler, Dubai chocolate and strawberry cheesecake, just to name a few of the delectable flavors. The truck reminded me of an old school diner with round windows and a black-lacquered finish.

The food truck park typically operates seven days a week, with most trucks open for lunch through early evening. Seating is picnic style, and it’s always a good idea to have cash. There is also free parking.

Barton Springs Picnic reflects Austin’s food culture — creative, diverse and community oriented. Whether you are a local, or just passing through, it’s well worth a visit.