Street Fare

Hidden away in a cramped courtyard on the corner of Washington and Ashley sits one of Ann Arbor’s newest hidden gems. Since opening this past May, Mark’s Carts has been serving up delicious and affordable ethnic street fare for hungry patrons and townies.  There are currently seven carts selling everything from the Middle Eastern inspired vegetarian / vegan dishes of the “Lunch Room” to the cart simply called “Eat,” which describes it’s offerings as “hot meat on a bun” and so good that “the food speaks for itself.”  Mark’s carts has something for every appetite, whether you’re looking for a quick snack as you walk through downtown or a full meal during your lunch break.

The first thing I sampled was the carnitas soft tacos at Darcy’s Cart. While I feel they could have been a little heavier with the braised pork, the toppings were fresh and, for only $3, you really can’t complain. I also grabbed a Lucky One, a sweet, Asian-style pork belly flatbread sandwich topped with pickled veggies at the San Street cart. At only $5, probably the best deal I saw was the Rev. Joseph, a hummus sandwich served on multi-grain bread, topped with local greens and veggies and served with a side of tortilla chips at The Lunch Room. They also had fresh, homemade cookies. I had to try one of each: a molasses gingersnap and a Mexican hot chocolate cookie. For only a buck each, they were a perfect ending to a delicious lunch.

Most items at Mark’s Carts range from about $3 – $6, which gives patrons the opportunity to pick and choose small items from a variety of carts and put together their own meal. If you’re looking for hot dogs and nachos, you will be severely disappointed.  But if you’re looking for fresh, local, made-to-order food, I highly suggest checking it out. Mark’s Carts is located at 211 W. Washington in downtown Ann Arbor. For more information, visit MarksCartsAnnArbor.com.