Manteca is now serving up food trucks on a daily basis from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. along the grassy promenade extension of Library Park on Poplar Street to the west of the Library.

Upwards of 400 people turned out Monday evening during a three-hour event to mark the opening of the Manteca Food Truck Court that featured seven food trucks.

Manteca Parks & Recreation Deputy Director Toni Lungren noted how many food trucks will be at Library Park depends upon those that secure city permits as well as how well the community supports them.

Mike Torres Jr. performs at many places throughout the area but playing at the inaugural Food Truck Takeover on Monday was special.

“It’s always great to (perform) in your community,” said the local musician.

The Mike Torres Jr. & The Child Support Band entertained those attending the early evening function at Library Park. 

While at it, Torres and his guitarist Mike McKiever enjoyed their takeout orders of spare ribs and quesadillas, respectively, while setting up for their performance.

Among the choices on this comfortable, warm October day consisted of Mexican food from Antojitos Hidalguenes, Hawaiian choices from Aloha Plate, linguisa from Smokin’ Portugese, barbecue meats from DJ’s Tri-tip & BBQ, funnel cakes from Costa’s Finest, and a little of everything from the likes of Salo’s Kitchen & Grill and Charles Place.

“This is a perfect location,” said Lisa Duncan of Kona’s Ice of Tracy.

Like many of the portable vendors here, she, too, has traveled to the various locations, doing mostly fundraising endeavors.

Tania McClain stopped by Kona’s Ice, purchasing a pair of king-size servings for the do-it-yourself flavorings.

“I think it’s great bringing back to food trucks,” she said.

The Library Park location features shady trees, grass, tables, benches, restrooms, and playgrounds for kids.

The Food Truck Takeover at Library Park is operating on a trial six months or more basis.

The Manteca City Council approved the return of the food trucks back in August.

Lungren is hoping that is the first of many for this event.

“What’s more, it can benefit local businesses and provide people with more food options,” she said.

In addition, the Food Truck Takeover is a partnership involving the City and the Manteca Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber Ambassador Dani Bettencourt and Casey Strong provided the spirits, serving up craft beers and a variety of wines in the area sectioned off as the beer garden.

They took pleasure in serving adult beverages in this designated area of Library Park to those with their takeout orders.

They relaxed and grooved to the Mike Torres Jr. & The Child Support Band, who performed a variety of music, including the Classics, Latin and even some Country.

The Food Truck Takeover also featured giant sets of Jenga, corn hole games, and other activities.

“There’s something for everyone,” said Lundgren. “This is the Family City.”