By Colleen Gundlach
Have you wondered what that delicious smell in the air is in Canaan recently? As soon as you pass McDonald’s in Canaan headed west you will notice a distinct change. Suddenly your stomach rumbles with hunger for whatever is creating the amazing smell. As soon as you cross the railroad tracks, your nose will be drawn to the left and you will pull your car into the parking lot of Trackside Tacos, where a fun and delicious experience awaits.

Keigen Kittle and Keisha Kittle, a brother-and-sister team from Torrington, rented North Canaan’s landmark yellow caboose and opened Trackside Tacos this summer and it has become a town-wide attraction, already known for its fresh authentic tacos, flavorful ingredients and savory guacamole.
The siblings had a scout on the ground—an uncle who works at John Deere next door—and a mentor in landlord Bob Gandolfo. The pair developed a business plan, made kitchen renovations and, after more than a year of planning, opened Trackside Tacos in June. They will be open through Nov. 16 and then return in Spring 2026.

The name of the business is fitting because Canaan’s Housatonic Railroad train passes right next to the building. Patrons sitting on the deck overlooking Canaan Valley could almost touch the train as it chugs past, and the train’s whistle will certainly alert them to its presence. Kittle says he often thinks that Trackside Tacos should have their own whistle and be able to respond directly to the diesel locomotive. “It might be fun,” he says.

Even with an iconic caboose, an up-close-and-personal train and a to-die-for view from the dining deck, the food is still the highlight of a visit to Trackside Tacos. The menu is simple. Diners may order tacos, quesadillas or a bowl, with layers of rice, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppers and a choice of protein. It is all topped by sour cream and a choice of several house-made sauces, including cilantro lime, pineapple mango, hot honey and spicy cherry pepper to mention a few. Protein choices include ground beef, chicken, steak and shrimp, or Impossible Meat for vegetarians. “We can accommodate vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians—everyone, including those who are dairy free,” says Kittle.
Until Nov. 16, Trackside Tacos is open Thursdays from 4 to 8 p.m. and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 8 p.m.

All aboard!