If customers take the time to use a bit of imagination when visiting Atlanta's new food truck at the corner of North Louise and West Allday streets, they might sense the energy and enthusiasm of young people.
This intersection was the location of what used to be Atlanta's high school and its campus, including the auditorium and gymnasium. Louise Street at the time was U.S. Highway 59, and students would sit on the stone block fence at the highway edge to watch the traffic go by.
At the moment, the areas bordering the intersection are occupied by Atlanta's Police Department on the southeast side, the Atlantean Bed and Breakfast on the southwestern side and an apartment complex on the northeast corner. Now the food truck occupies the northeast edge.
This northeast corner had been a service station belonging to Glynn Vaughan, who later moved to Linden and then went on to become founder of the original Catfish King restaurant near Avinger.
More recently, the corner was occupied by a detail shop. The current propetry owner, Cecil McCraw, is leasing it to the food truck operation.
The Anita's Tacos and Tamales food truck is owned by Ana Caro Castillo. At its opening last week, cars and people were stopping by in crowds. Once again, at various times in the day, the area is filled with activity.
Castillo's food facility is brightly colored with room to drive up and park. Picnic tables sheltered by huge orange umbrellas provide patrons a place to wait for their orders.
The entire surrounding area is shaded and gives a welcoming impression to everyone for conversation and relaxation. The Catholic church is nearby to the south. An Episcopal church that is now closed is on the northern edge. The wide space behind the police department is now used for farmers' markets, the Atlanta schools and sometimes activities for the American Legion Post.
The food truck's menu is that of usual Mexican items such as tacos and burritos. Employee Mauricio Pablo Morales takes orders at the truck's window.
A few days after opening, Castillo said that business had been exceptionally good. The food truck will be open five days a week Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.