What the Fork: truckin’ amazing?
Recently, the television show LIVE with Kelly and Michael nominated 20 food trucks from across the country in what the program called “LIVE’s Truckin’ Amazing Cook-off.”
Kelly Ripa stated on air, “We’ve combed the country, and you have voiced your opinions,” referring to the contestants that took part in the nationwide contest, and the public who voted for their favorites.
While speaking with the Independent Gazette regarding the cook-off, Mario Bevilacqua, owner of a local food truck named What the Fork, revealed that his business finished second in the national contest in which it featured its signature creation, “the pork taco.”
On the show, Ripa described the pork taco as “delicious,” while Michael Strahan could only respond with “Oh, my goodness,” after taking a bite. America voted, the contest concluded, and What the Fork walked away with $5,000 as its second place prize.
Some Gazette staffers stopped by the establishment while it was parked at the Goodwill store in Dunmore to sample the signature dish for ourselves. Not only was the pork taco everything that Ripa and Strahan had intimated, but we were amazed by the overall portion size. The box contained not one, but two pork tacos, jam-packed. When asked about the generous portions, Bevilacqua explained, “Our intent was for folks to order two menu items, and you won’t go away hungry. We feel we give you just enough to leave you fully satisfied.”
During our visit, this reporter had the opportunity to interview several patrons: some were regulars, while others were first-time customers. Joe Fabricatore, chief of staff for State Representative Kevin Haggerty, was with Haggerty at the truck, and referred to himself as “a regular customer.” Fabricatore normally orders the crab cakes, but was trying the pork taco mainly because of the contest on “LIVE.” After the meal Fabricatore stated that he did enjoy the taco, “but the crab cakes are still my favorite.”
When asked what folks who’ve never considered dining at a food truck should know about his, in particular, Bevilacqua replied, “We take pride in what we do; anyone is welcome to come and look. Our truck is always clean—we’re not a roach coach.”
Questioned about the origin of his business’ interesting title, Bevilacqua responded, “I don’t know exactly where the name came from. We wanted something catchy, and I guess that’s the name that stuck.”
The What the Fork truck is usually located in the Greater Scranton area, but also makes regular trips to Wilkes-Barre. Arriving next summer will be a second truck dedicated solely to the Greater Wilkes-Barre Area.
For more information about What the Fork you can visit their website www.WhattheForkTruck.com or find them on Facebook as What the FORK Truck.
