BALTIMORE (WJZ) — It’s one of the hottest trends in food, and Baltimore is helping to pave its way to popularity.

Monique Griego has more on the food truck phenomenon and where you can get a taste.

Bill Irvin helps run Kooper’s Chowhound Burger Wagon, a restaurant on wheels.

“You’re able to get gourmet quality food on the street,” said Irvin.

He serves up gourmet burgers from various locations citywide.

“It’s economical. It’s delicious,” said a customer.

“Not be confined to a restaurant is one of the biggest attractions,” said Mark Pyne, food trucker.

But getting people to buy fine food from a wagon window wasn’t easy. 

“When we started this, everyone was like, ‘Oh, a roach coach.’ Then all of a sudden, ‘This is really good,’” said Irvin.

The “roach coach” stigma seems to have been stamped out, though.

“It’s just as good as a restaurant if not better,” said a customer.

For business owners, the trucks make sense economically, and now more are popping up.

“We serve lobster rolls, lobster mac and cheese with truffle essence,” said Damian Bohager, The Silver Platter.

Bohager started The Silver Platter a few months ago.  His crew is getting ready to take part in “The Gathering Take 4,” a rally that will bring nearly 20 food trucks together in Fells Point.

The last rally was expected to draw a few hundred people. Instead, thousands showed up.

“All of a sudden swarms of people started coming. It was like the stink bugs out there,” said Irvin.

Irvin says crowds are craving something new, and he’s just happy he’s helping fill their appetite.

The Food Truck Rally is Friday in Fells Point from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

The Baltimore Sun also has a food truck tracker so you can see where your favorite food truck is during the week.