Alan's Taco Truck

"Alan’s Tacos, 1644 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines — During a Dec. 22/23 visit to this food truck, an inspector cited the establishment for 11 risk-factor violations, an unusually high number. Among the problems: The person in charge was not a certified food protection manager, and the person in charge was not fulfilling their duties as evidenced by the extent and significance of the violations related to time- and temperature-controlled foods. Also, the water heater had been disconnected, and so the handwashing sink could not produce hot water; the sink itself was not hooked up, which meant that employees could not wash their hands; bags of shredded cheese were measured at 46 to 49 degrees, well above the 41-degree maximum; and meat was measured at 52 degrees and hot dogs at 44 degrees. The inspector also reported that the three-compartment sink could not be used to immerse utensils and equipment in sanitizer; a vegetable dicer was stored on the floor and was visibly soiled; and salsas, cooked meats, and cooked tamales inside the reach-in cooler were not marked with their preparation dates. Also, ribbon-style fly traps were hanging above the food preparation area and were filled with multiple dead flying insects; a bag of onions was stored directly on the truck floor; and drainpipes from the handwashing sink were leaking wastewater once the sink was reconnected. Due to the lack of functioning refrigeration units, as well as the food truck’s inability to sanitize food-contact surfaces, Alan’s Tacos agreed to close and to contact the state for a reinspection prior to reopening. Three hours later, the inspector returned and determined the refrigeration unit and plumbing had been repaired, eliminating the imminent health hazard that existed earlier that afternoon, and the food truck was allowed to reopen."

"The elote was big and on point! Meat could have been seasoned and veggies could have been fresher. Add some queso to the menu as well. But I wouldn't mind going back."

"Stopped by for tacos. Got 2 each lengua, tripa, birria, and chorizo; all were fire, super delicious! The hot salsa was top 5, not the flavor I expected but it was very good. Thanks for the tasty and filling lunch!"

"One of my favorite places to eat shrimp cocktail Beef burrito was decent"

"These are the best street tacos out there! My son just introduced me to this taco truck and I highly recommend trying it! Try it on a Thursday. They are only &1. They are only $2.50 the other days, so still cheap. They also make great creamy fruit drinks. Try them!"