Lunch at the Lake never disappoints

 Sure it’s hot outside, but when has the weather been any different in July. In Southeast Texas, you find ways to navigate through the hot temperatures. If you are looking to experience some good eats with a different vibe, then head downtown every Tuesday around 10:30 a.m. for Lunch at the Lake.

Nestled at the Downtown Event Centre (700 Crockett St.), Lunch at the Lake features locally owned food trucks from 10:30 a.m. until sold out, or before 2 p.m. Plan a picnic and enjoy delicious food with coworkers, family and friends all while admiring the views of Downtown Beaumont. Say hello to the resident ducks, enjoy the playground or grab a bite to go.

Each week, a different lineup of food trucks will be showcased including Old West Smoke Company, Home Plate and Mabel’s on Tuesday, July 11. 

Juss Rabalais and his Old West Smoke Company needs no introduction. He created the company in 2017 and has been one of the most sought-after food vendors in Southeast Texas.

“Our food is inspired specifically from a Southern Texas traditional – smoked meats with a kick of Hispanic and Gulf Coast influence,” he said. “It truly turns it into an authentic Mexican dish.”

Everything he has turned out has truly turned into food gold like his Texas Twinkies (brisket, cream cheese, bacon and jalapeños in an egg roll), brisket ramen, smoked street corn, chicken sausage hotdogs, brisket pizza, fried quesa brisket tacos and so much more.

“I grew up in Southeast Texas,” said Rabalais. “I think my love of food came from the water we drank. My family always cooked to express love and affection. If we had a birthday, we cooked for the entire family to come over. If someone passed away, we cooked...holidays, we cooked, so it didn’t matter the occasion – we just cooked.”

He has recently launched a new brand, “Side Chick – Hot Chicken,” which he described as “fried chicken with soul.”

Rabalais also added that people eat with both their eyes and mouths, so presentation is key. “We really try to nail both aspects,” he said. “The flavors you get, mixed with the presentation on how the food comes out, is all an art. I put my heart into it and the outcome hasn’t been disappointing. I’ve been blessed to find a passion that I’m good at doing.”

Home Plate will offer a variety of items such as birria tacos, burgers, street tacos, nachos and more.

And when it’s hot, why not turn to a Southeast Texas staple? Mabel’s Shaved Ice and Mexican Treats will quench your thirst in a big way.

There’s fruit, ice cream, baked goods and a plethora of options more expansive than some full-food menus. Shaved ice and Mexican treats in time for this summer heat? Check. Street nachos and corn in a cup? Double check. Mouthwatering mangonadas? Triple check.

The remainder of the Lunch at the Lake for July is as follows – Broke Boyz, Bread Bus and Kona Ice (July 18) and Dudes Food and Cajunxion (July 25).