It is official, the Thursday Night Market is back and bustling.
One of the best farmers markets I have ever been to, I look forward to the reopening of this iconic Chico tradition spring after spring.
I love looking at the fresh produce, beautiful clothes and friendly faces downtown during the warm Chico seasons — not to mention the out of this world food. These Thursday night markets are the perfect opportunity to relax, grab a bite to eat and mingle around town.
In the celebration and appreciation for this weekly event, I decided to seek out a Starving Student friendly meal to share with my fellow market goers. Although many of these food booths are already popular among Chicoans, I was able to find a unique dish at an affordable price at the Maria’s Gone Tamales food truck.
You can’t miss this food truck due to the pink paint job that is recognizable anywhere. It is famous for its pink lemonade, which is perfect refreshment after swerving through the crowds for an hour or two. This food truck almost always has a line on Thursday nights, but the wait is well worth it.
Authentic Mexican food with a unique twist, I decided to order the chicken tamale nachos after perusing the menu. Everything is Starving Student friendly, but if you are willing to splurge, I definitely recommend buying not only a meal but a pink lemonade as well. However, to keep from going over my budget, the solo tamale nachos would have to do. Plus, you can always sneak a sip or two from your friend’s drink, at no extra charge. The nachos were $7 and with a $2 tip, my total was $9.
I was surprised at how quick my meal came to me, even though the line was pretty long. Less than two minutes after ordering I was walking away with chicken tamale nachos in one hand and a smile on my face. I went to the grass just across the street and sat, listened to some live music and appreciated the beautiful city I lived in. I also appreciated the beauty of my tamale nachos.
It was a classic chicken tamale with lots of gooey cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream and jalapeños, mixed together with corn tortilla chips. I don’t think I have ever been more excited to eat in my Starving Student endeavors before. I didn’t know where to start.
Cutting up the tamale and mixing it with the nachos was a good choice, in my opinion. I applaud Maria’s Gone Tamales for not skimping out on the cheese. The jalapeños added the perfect amount of kick while not being overpowering and the chips stayed crunchy despite being completely covered in toppings. The tomatoes and lettuce added a refreshing bite as well.
It was the perfect meal to enjoy while sitting and taking in the farmers market and sunset. It was filling, affordable, not too heavy or spicy but full of flavor. If you ever find yourself downtown on Thursday nights, check out the pink truck, grab some tamale nachos and perhaps a pink lemonade. There is nothing quite so delicious.
Welcome back, Thursday Night Market.
Kendall George is a Chico State University journalism student. Each week she is asked to find a meal that costs no more than $11 (one hour at minimum wage), including tip, and then write about it. Email her at starvingstudentkg@gmail.com.
