Low Country's Newest Food Truck Focuses On Signature Sandwiches
By Jeff Walker, Business Review
Carlos Munoz doesn’t claim to be a renowned chef or even a whiz in the kitchen. However the Miami native does know a thing or two about serving up some of the best tasting sandwiches now available on street corners throughout the low country. Since relocating to the Charleston Munoz has partnered w
ith fellow foodie Victoria Rehberg bringing his half dozen signature sandwiches to the hungry masses. While Carlos tends to his creations, Victoria works alongside taking care of the business and marketing aspects of Mama Chef. While other food trucks offer up a variety of dishes Munoz concentrates on the few sandwiches he has mastered over the years, many derived from family recipes and childhood favorites. Although all his creations come on your choice of fresh white, wheat, and French rolls, they all have one common theme, they reflect the 'Caribbean way', prevalent in southern Florida. Mama Chef’s roving caravan says it all ‘we serve the best Cuban sandwich', guaranteed. Focusing all his energies on great hoagies Munoz lives by his motto ‘making food the way you want it, the way you like it, and the way you deserve it’. Preparation is key to the ‘grinder guru’. While his succulent sandwiches might take only a few minutes to assemble from the time you order to melting in your mouth, the thinly sliced beef and pork smoldering on the grill has been marinating no less than one week to enhance your dining pleasure. The last minute flavor kicker comes from Munoz’ own garlic infused ‘mojito sauce’. Traditionally a dipping sauce Munoz applies his concoction to the bread before slightly grilling, further sealing in the tang that becomes your sandwich host. Like KFC’s 11 herbs and spices, and Dr. Pepper’s magical elixir, Munoz’s mojito blend is a highly guarded secret and that’s okay. All you need to know is that it is awesome. What about the sandwiches. The Cuban (ham, pork, Swiss, pickles & mustard) as promised is the real deal, sure to bring a smile to even Fidel Castro’s face. The Philly is a variation from the traditional City of Brotherly Love favorite but ‘muy excelente none the less. Oozing with cheese with a hint of mojito. Philly fans will have no problem welcoming their Latin inspired cousin on the menu. One of Munoz’ most popular sandwiches is The Tripleta. As the name suggests, it’s a triple threat (steak, pork, & cooked ham) smothered in Swiss wrapped around fresh French bread. Three times the flavor and three times the mouth watering sensation. Affordable, how about $6 and $7 for any six inch sandwich (foot longs available). Add a buck and get chips and a drink. You’d pay the same for fast food and wouldn’t recall what you had for lunch by the time 3 o’clock came around. Keeping it simple says Munoz is the best way, that’s why he only does sandwiches, not trying to confuse the customer. But I can tell you this, if it is a particularly hot day (that’s about to hit) or maybe you just want to spice up your meal than I would recommend the Pina Colada. It’s okay to have during the day because it’s alcohol free. It may be free of rum but it kills on taste. One of the best non alcohol coconut and pineapple potions I’ve ever had. Yummy and refreshing. Great with or without a sandwich. If you’re looking for a quick lunch that not only satisfies but delivers a flavorful punch I suggest you seek out Mama Chef. When they aren’t in your neighborhood you can find them at 6710 Dorchester Road (El Cheapo Gas Station) near the entrance to the Charleston Air Force Base. An ideal location for the military and Boeing employees. Of course they cater. Call them at 843-730-7426 or follow them on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/MamaChef.SC
