I had the privilege of meeting José Ralat, "aka @TacoTrail," several years ago when I started following him online. José is one of the most knowledgeable people I know on the topic of tacos—he takes his research very seriously and travels all over the US and Mexico to get the best taco insights. Since knowing him, José has left his role as the food and drink editor of Cowboys and Indians magazine to become the first ever Taco Editor of Texas Monthly. And José has released his tome on tacos that is an incredible read!
And don't take my word for it, here are what the critics say about American Tacos!
“A deeply researched guide to north-of-the-border taco culture and history.”
Los Angeles Times
“[Ralat] gives an in-depth look at each taco's history and showcases other aspects of taco culture that has solidified it as a go-to dish on dinner tables throughout the nation.”
Smithsonian Magazine
“If you thought this would be a polite and matter-of-fact history of America's most popular taco styles, you're in for a surprise...[American Tacos] offers plenty of recommendations on where to get great tacos…But it offers much more than that, tackling history, culture and some controversial points as well.”
Chicago Tribune
“You'll learn an enormous and entertaining amount about [tacos] in…American Tacos...The book literally covers the map of American tacos, from Texas and the South to New York, Chicago, Kansas City and California.”
Forbes
“[A] fascinating look at America's many regional tacos...From California’s locavore tacos to Korean 'K-Mex' tacos to Jewish 'deli-Mex' to Southern-drawl 'Sur-Mex' tacos to American-Indian-inspired fry bread tacos to chef-driven 'moderno' tacos, Ralat lays out a captivating landscape.”
Houston Chronicle
“Ralat's casual, conversational style and his passion for all things taco make for a delightful read. Reading American Tacos is like listening to a friend share his adventures over a shared plate of tacos and a bucket of cold beers. You'll find yourself dipping back into this book like your favorite salsa...American Tacos is the perfect book to help you appreciate the social and culinary importance of tacos and El Paso's influence on Mexican food across America.”
El Paso Inc.
“Ralat gives a Texas-sized tribute to the Mexican food staple.”
Austin Monthly
“Everything a food history book should be: illuminating, well-written, crusading, and inspiring a taco run afterwards. You'll gain five pounds reading it, but don't worry--most of that will go to your brain.”
Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times features writer, ¡Ask a Mexican! columnist, and author of Taco USA: How Mexican Food Conquered America
