Midtown Lunch

 Today, Luncher John is feasting from another local truck

When it comes to ingredients used by a food establishment, generally, the more local they are, the better it is for everybody. Local proximity of ingredients means that the meat or produce is fresh and goes from the farm to your plate as quick as possible. Regional food suppliers benefit, and the restaurant’s costs are lowered.

The Local 215 Food Truck, which has been roaming the city’s streets for almost a year, is dedicated to this mission. Most of its ingredients are sustainable and sourced from local suppliers. I’m not quite sure the lobsters for its lobster rolls come from the Schuykill River, but those are among the few exceptions. From these ingredients, Local 215 offers a menu featuring innovative combinations of sandwiches and dishes.

Local 215 offers duck and pork belly buns, and I tried the duck buns ($8). Braised duck is complimented with thinly-sliced cucumber, pickled radish, baby greens, cilantro and chili aioli. Instead of a traditional bun, Local 215 uses Laffa bread, which is similar to pita bread. The “bun” was not as soft as a typical bun, so expect a different texture and taste. The duck was excellent, and the aioli and vegetables impart a nice Asian flavor to the buns. They’re definitely messy to eat, with juice from the duck soaking the bread and your hand. The buns may not be the most filling meal, but they are tasty.

Next, I ordered the roast pork and creamy polenta ($8). I really need to work on my reading comprehension. All I read was “roast pork,” so I expected a sandwich before receiving my order in a bowl. Instead, it’s polenta with a serving of roast pork in the middle. The meal, itself was delicious, though I was still somewhat hungry afterwards. The roast pork was nice and tender.

The menu also has traditional sandwiches, such as the roast turkey sandwich ($8). This version is served on a large challah bun. The turkey, which is served in large chunks, is cold and topped by red onion, romaine, and chili aioli sauce. Just like the duck buns, the aioli sauce adds essential flavor. By contrast to the first two dishes, this sandwich is quite filling even if the price is on the higher side for a sandwich on a challah roll.

Local 215 is making some appearances this summer at both LOVE Park and the City Hall Courtyard. Follow it on Facebook or Twitter for its updated schedule.

THE + (What somebody who likes this place would say)

• Innovative combinations on dishes.
• Locally-sourced ingredients.
• Roast turkey sandwich is a big serving

THE – (What somebody who doesn’t like this place would say)

• Duck buns are messy to eat.
• Certain dishes are not very filling

Local 215 Food Truck, LOVE Park, City Hall, and Navy Yard on selected days
@Local215, 215-970-0024