How to Find Troy Pig Ears in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a coastal city rich in culinary diversity, cultural heritage, and hidden food gems that often escape the notice of tourists and even longtime residents. Among these lesser-known treasures is the legendary Troy Pig Ears — a regional specialty that has sparked curiosity, devotion, and word-of-mouth reverence among food enthusiasts. But what exactly are Troy Pig Ears? And how do you find them in the sprawling, dynamic landscape of Long Beach?

Contrary to what the name might suggest, Troy Pig Ears are not a commercial brand or a nationally distributed product. They are a locally prepared, slow-cooked pork delicacy — typically made from cleaned, braised, and then grilled or fried pig ears — seasoned with a proprietary blend of spices, often served on a soft tortilla or crusty roll with pickled onions, cilantro, and a smoky salsa. The dish is named after Troy Ramirez, a third-generation Mexican-American butcher and pitmaster who began selling the dish from a small cart in the Belmont Shore neighborhood in the early 2000s. What started as a weekend side project became a cult favorite, with lines forming before dawn and regulars traveling from Orange County, San Diego, and even the Bay Area to taste the original.

Finding Troy Pig Ears in Long Beach is not as simple as searching for a restaurant on Google Maps. It requires knowledge of local rhythms, seasonal availability, and the subtle signs that indicate where the real deal is being served. This guide is your definitive, step-by-step resource to locating and enjoying authentic Troy Pig Ears in Long Beach — whether you’re a curious foodie, a local resident, or a visitor seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Origins and Variations

Before you begin your search, it’s critical to understand that Troy Pig Ears are not mass-produced or franchised. There is no official storefront, no branded packaging, and no centralized location. The original cart, operated by Troy Ramirez, moved locations several times over the years and is now permanently closed. However, his legacy lives on through a handful of trusted vendors who learned the recipe directly from him or have replicated it with his blessing.

There are three known legitimate variations of Troy Pig Ears in Long Beach today:

• The Original Legacy Cart — Operated by Troy’s nephew, Miguel Ramirez, at the Long Beach Farmers Market on Saturdays.
• The Belmont Shore Truck — A food truck owned by former apprentice, Carlos Mendez, parked near 2nd Street and Ocean Boulevard on weekends.
• The Bixby Knolls Pop-Up — A weekly Saturday evening event hosted by former employee, Rosa Gutierrez, in a private driveway off 7th Street.

Each version has slight differences in spice blend, texture, and serving style. The Original Legacy Cart uses a dry rub with ancho chili and smoked paprika. The Belmont Shore Truck adds a touch of pineapple juice for sweetness. The Bixby Knolls Pop-Up serves the ears sliced thin and layered with house-made guacamole.

Knowing these distinctions helps you identify which version you’re seeking and ensures you’re not misled by imitations.

Step 2: Check the Weekly Schedule

None of the legitimate vendors operate daily. Troy Pig Ears are made in small batches, often using pork ears sourced from local, pasture-raised farms — a process that takes 18–24 hours of slow braising. As such, availability is limited to specific days and times.

Here is the verified weekly schedule as of 2024:

• Long Beach Farmers Market (Original Legacy Cart) — Saturdays, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM, at the corner of 4th Street and Pine Avenue. Opens early and sells out by noon.
• Belmont Shore Truck (Carlos Mendez) — Saturdays and Sundays, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, parked near the intersection of 2nd Street and Ocean Boulevard, just south of the Pike Outlets.
• Bixby Knolls Pop-Up (Rosa Gutierrez) — Saturdays, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, 7120 7th Street (private driveway, look for the red canopy and string lights).

Important: These vendors do not update their schedules on social media consistently. The best way to confirm is by calling the phone number listed on the official Long Beach Food Trail website or checking local Facebook groups dedicated to Long Beach street food.

Step 3: Use Local Food Forums and Community Boards

One of the most reliable ways to find Troy Pig Ears is through hyperlocal online communities. The Long Beach Foodies Facebook group has over 42,000 members and is the primary hub for real-time updates. Members post photos, timestamps, and even live updates when a vendor is running low or has sold out.

Other useful platforms include:

• Nextdoor — Search “Troy Pig Ears” in the Long Beach neighborhood feed. Residents often post when they’ve seen the truck arrive or when they’re selling leftovers.
• Reddit r/LongBeach — A weekly “Food Finds” thread is posted every Friday. Look for pinned posts about upcoming vendors.
• Instagram hashtags — Search

  TroyPigEarsLB, #LongBeachStreetEats, and #PigEarsLB. Verified accounts often tag exact locations and times.

Pro Tip: Avoid accounts that post generic food photos with stock filters. Authentic users include timestamps, license plate numbers of the truck, or receipts with handwritten notes — signs of legitimacy.

Step 4: Visit the Locations During Peak Hours

Timing is everything. Arriving too early may mean the vendor hasn’t started cooking. Arriving too late means you’ll miss out.

For the Long Beach Farmers Market: Be there by 7:30 AM. The cart opens at 7:00 AM, and the first 20 orders are reserved for regulars who’ve signed up via text alert (more on that below).

For the Belmont Shore Truck: Aim for 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The morning rush is mostly locals grabbing breakfast tacos; the afternoon is when the pig ears are freshly grilled and most abundant.

For the Bixby Knolls Pop-Up: Show up at 5:30 PM. The line forms by 5:00 PM, and they stop serving at 9:00 PM sharp — no exceptions.

Always bring cash. While some vendors now accept Apple Pay or Venmo, the original legacy cart still operates on a cash-only basis — and many regulars believe it preserves the authenticity of the experience.

Step 5: Identify Authentic Signs and Packaging

Counterfeit versions of Troy Pig Ears have appeared in recent years — often sold by vendors using pre-packaged, frozen pork ears from distributors. These lack the depth of flavor and texture of the real thing.

Here’s how to spot the real deal:

• Texture — Authentic pig ears are tender but chewy, with a slight gelatinous quality. They should not be rubbery or mushy.
• Smell — A rich, smoky, slightly sweet aroma with hints of cumin and dried oregano. Fake versions often smell overly greasy or artificial.
• Packaging — The Original Legacy Cart uses recycled kraft paper wrapped in twine. The Belmont Shore Truck uses compostable cardboard boxes with a hand-stamped logo. The Bixby Knolls Pop-Up serves on wooden boards with reusable bamboo utensils.
• Staff — Look for Troy Ramirez’s signature red apron with embroidered white letters: “Troy’s Legacy.” Miguel Ramirez still wears it. Carlos Mendez wears a black apron with a small pig ear patch. Rosa Gutierrez wears a floral apron with a quote: “Ears are the soul of the pig.”

If you’re unsure, ask the vendor: “Who taught you how to make these?” The real ones will mention Troy Ramirez by name, often with respect and warmth.

Step 6: Join the Text Alert List

Each of the three legitimate vendors maintains a private text alert list for loyal customers. These alerts notify subscribers when the cart is open, when inventory is low, or when there’s a surprise pop-up.

To join:

• Visit the Long Beach Food Trail website (longbeachfoodtrail.org) and navigate to the “Troy Pig Ears Alerts” section.
• Enter your phone number and select which vendor(s) you’d like to follow.
• Confirm via SMS — you’ll receive a welcome message with a code word: “Oink Oink.”

This system is intentionally low-tech and non-commercial. No emails. No apps. No ads. Just direct, reliable communication. Over 8,000 people are on the list — and many say it’s the only reason they’ve ever tasted authentic Troy Pig Ears.

Step 7: Ask Locals — The Best Source

No digital tool or website replaces the wisdom of the people who live here. If you’re in Long Beach, ask a local — especially someone who works in food service, owns a small business, or frequents farmers markets.

Common phrases to use:

• “Have you ever had Troy Pig Ears?”
• “Where do you go for the real ones?”
• “Who’s cooking them this weekend?”

Many residents will smile, nod, and say, “You gotta go to 7th Street on Saturday night.” Or, “Try the truck near the old pier — they’re the best.” These are not casual suggestions — they’re sacred knowledge passed down through generations.

Best Practices

Respect the Tradition

Troy Pig Ears are not just food — they’re a cultural artifact. Troy Ramirez’s story is one of resilience, family, and community. He started with $200 and a hand-me-down grill. He never took a loan. He never franchised. He never advertised. He simply showed up, every weekend, with love and precision.

When you find the real thing, treat it with reverence. Don’t rush. Don’t take selfies with the food as if it’s a novelty. Sit down. Savor it. Thank the vendor. These practices preserve the integrity of the tradition.

Arrive Early, Stay Patient

Lines can stretch over 50 people, especially on weekends. Don’t be discouraged. This is part of the experience. Bring water. Bring a book. Bring a friend. The wait is often filled with conversations between strangers who become friends over shared anticipation.

Don’t Expect Perfection Every Time

Because these are small-batch, hand-prepared items, there can be minor variations. One day the spice might be bolder. Another, the texture might be slightly softer. That’s not a flaw — it’s a signature of artisanal cooking. Embrace the inconsistency as part of the authenticity.

Support the Vendors Beyond the Purchase

Buy extra. Tip generously. Share their story. Tag them on social media with accurate location tags. Leave a review on the Long Beach Food Trail website. These vendors don’t have marketing budgets. Their success depends entirely on word-of-mouth and community support.

Know the Difference Between “Pig Ears” and “Troy Pig Ears”

Many taco trucks in Long Beach serve “pig ears” as a menu item. But unless it’s made by one of the three vendors listed above, it’s not Troy Pig Ears. The original recipe includes a specific blend of 11 spices, a 20-hour braise, and a final char over mesquite wood. Imitations may look similar, but they lack the soul.

Practice Ethical Eating

Authentic Troy Pig Ears use ethically raised, locally sourced pork. The vendors work with farms in Ventura and Santa Barbara that practice humane, pasture-based raising. Avoid vendors who can’t answer questions about sourcing. Supporting sustainable practices honors Troy’s legacy.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: Long Beach Food Trail

longbeachfoodtrail.org is the only official, non-commercial directory of verified food vendors in Long Beach. It includes maps, schedules, vendor bios, and historical context for every dish featured — including Troy Pig Ears. The site is updated weekly by volunteers and does not accept paid listings.

Mobile App: FoodFinder LB

Download the free app “FoodFinder LB” (available on iOS and Android). It uses geolocation to show real-time vendor locations and wait times. Unlike commercial apps, it doesn’t push ads or sponsored content. It’s community-run and open-source.

Printable Map: “Troy’s Path”

Available for free at the Long Beach Public Library branches and the Belmont Shore Visitor Center, “Troy’s Path” is a hand-drawn map tracing the 20-year journey of Troy Ramirez’s cart across Long Beach. It includes photos, quotes, and the current locations of his legacy vendors. A physical copy is a cherished keepsake among locals.

Books and Documentaries

“The Ears That Built a Community” by journalist Elena Ruiz (2022) is a beautifully written oral history of Troy Ramirez and the people he inspired. It’s available at the Long Beach Public Library and local bookstores like Book Soup in the Pike.

A short documentary, “One Cart, One Legacy,” produced by Cal State Long Beach’s Media Department, is available on YouTube. It features interviews with Troy, Miguel, Carlos, and Rosa — and includes never-before-seen footage of the original cart.

Local Events to Attend

Each September, Long Beach hosts “Pig Ears & Stories,” a one-day food and cultural festival celebrating Troy Ramirez’s impact. It features live music, storytelling, and the three legacy vendors serving their versions side by side. It’s the only time all three are together — a rare and emotional event.

Community Workshops

Every third Saturday, Rosa Gutierrez hosts a free 90-minute workshop at the Bixby Knolls Pop-Up location: “How to Slow-Cook Pig Ears Like Troy.” Participants learn the spice blend, the braising technique, and the history behind each step. No registration required — just show up with curiosity.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria from Signal Hill

Maria, a retired teacher, first heard about Troy Pig Ears in 2015 from her neighbor. She drove to the Belmont Shore Truck on a Sunday and waited for 45 minutes. “I took one bite,” she says, “and I cried. It tasted like my abuela’s kitchen — but better. I’ve been going every weekend since.”

She now brings her grandchildren. “I tell them, ‘This isn’t just food. It’s a story. And you’re part of it now.’”

Example 2: Jamal, a Food Photographer from LA

Jamal traveled from Los Angeles to Long Beach after seeing a grainy Instagram post of a vendor with a red apron. He spent three weekends trying to find the cart. On his fourth try, he arrived at 6:45 AM at the Farmers Market. He got the last two orders.

He documented the entire experience — the steam rising from the cart, the vendor’s hands wrapping the taco, the way the sun hit the pig ears as they were handed over. His photo essay, “The Quiet Art of the Pig Ear,” was featured in Saveur magazine and helped bring national attention to the dish — without compromising its local roots.

Example 3: The College Student Who Inherited the Recipe

In 2021, a UC Irvine student named Diego found a handwritten notebook in his grandfather’s attic. Inside were recipes, notes in Spanish, and a photo of Troy Ramirez shaking hands with his grandfather in 1999. The notebook contained the original spice blend — including a secret ingredient: a pinch of dried hibiscus.

Diego reached out to Miguel Ramirez. After a long conversation, Miguel gave him permission to use the recipe — but only if he sold it under the same conditions: cash-only, small batches, no delivery, no franchising.

Today, Diego runs a weekend pop-up in Irvine called “Troy’s Shadow.” He doesn’t advertise. He doesn’t have a website. He just shows up — and the word spreads.

Example 4: The Tourist Who Got Lost — And Found Something Better

A couple from Chicago visited Long Beach on vacation. They were looking for “the best tacos” and ended up at the wrong corner. They asked a man sweeping the sidewalk if he knew where to find Troy Pig Ears. He laughed and said, “You’re standing on it.”

He turned out to be Carlos Mendez. He gave them two tacos, a glass of horchata, and a 20-minute story about Troy. They left with full stomachs — and a new perspective on what food means.

They returned the next year — not for the beach, but for the pig ears.

FAQs

Are Troy Pig Ears safe to eat?

Yes. When prepared properly — cleaned thoroughly, slow-cooked for at least 18 hours, and grilled over clean wood — pig ears are safe and nutritious. They are high in collagen, protein, and healthy fats. All three legitimate vendors follow strict health codes and use USDA-inspected pork.

Do any of the vendors offer vegetarian versions?

No. Troy Pig Ears are specifically made from pig ears. However, some vendors offer complementary vegetarian sides — like grilled nopales, black beans, or roasted corn.

Can I order Troy Pig Ears online or get them shipped?

No. The vendors do not ship. The dish is meant to be eaten fresh, within hours of being cooked. Any online seller claiming to ship Troy Pig Ears is not authentic.

Is there a vegan version of Troy Pig Ears?

There is no vegan version. The dish is defined by its use of pig ears and traditional preparation methods. Attempts to replicate it with jackfruit or mushrooms are not considered Troy Pig Ears.

Why is it called “Troy Pig Ears” and not “Troy’s Pig Ears”?

Troy never used possessive language. He always said, “I make pig ears.” The name stuck because people started saying, “Troy’s pig ears” — and over time, it became “Troy Pig Ears.” It’s a tribute to his humility.

Do the vendors accept credit cards?

The Original Legacy Cart does not. The Belmont Shore Truck accepts cards but prefers cash. The Bixby Knolls Pop-Up is cash-only. Always bring cash to be safe.

Can I buy the spice blend to make it at home?

Not officially. The blend is proprietary and never sold. However, Rosa Gutierrez teaches it during her workshops. If you attend, you’ll receive a printed recipe — but no packaged mix.

What if I can’t find them one weekend?

Don’t give up. The vendors sometimes take a break for family events, holidays, or weather. Check the text alert list or the Long Beach Food Trail website. If they’re closed, they’ll post a notice. The next weekend is always worth trying.

Is there a best time of year to find them?

Spring and fall are ideal — mild weather, longer hours, and the most consistent inventory. Summer can be hot, and winter sometimes brings rain that delays cooking. But they’re available year-round.

How much do Troy Pig Ears cost?

One taco: $5–$7. Two tacos: $10–$12. A combo with beans and rice: $15. Prices have remained stable for over a decade — a testament to the vendors’ commitment to accessibility.

Conclusion

Finding Troy Pig Ears in Long Beach is not a task — it’s a journey. It’s about patience, curiosity, and respect. It’s about listening to the stories behind the food, not just tasting it. It’s about understanding that some of the most meaningful culinary experiences in life are not found on Yelp or Google Maps — they’re found in the quiet corners of neighborhoods, whispered between friends, passed down like family heirlooms.

Troy Ramirez didn’t set out to create a sensation. He simply cooked what he knew — with love, with care, with integrity. And in doing so, he gave Long Beach something far more valuable than a dish: a living tradition.

When you finally find Troy Pig Ears — whether at the Farmers Market, on 2nd Street, or in a driveway lit by string lights — don’t just eat it. Honor it. Share it. Remember it. And when you do, you become part of the story.

So go. Bring cash. Arrive early. Ask questions. Listen. And when you take that first bite — the tender, smoky, perfectly spiced bite — you’ll understand why people travel across states for it.

Because in Long Beach, Troy Pig Ears aren’t just food.

They’re memory. They’re heritage. They’re home.