It’s Algorithmic!

By Michael Allen

An algorithm is a process a set of rigorous instructions to solve a problem. In this case, the problem to solve: re-imagine meatbased comfort food in a locally sourced, artistic, vegan way. Matt Rafferty not only accomplished that but did so in a 120-square-foot food truck! His food truck was named Philadelphia Magazine’s Best of Philly in 2021. Now, that awardwinning, West Philly food truck has “parked” at 795 E. Passyunk Ave.

“Growing up with my mother and grandparents, I learned that food was a way of expressing care,” Matt says. “It feels wonderful to express the gift of nourishment.” Many of his warmest memories return to that sense of nourishment— body and soul—whether it was the hamand-cheese pinwheels his grandmother used to make or the “wake and steak” sandwiches he looked forward to after a long bus ride to the city from his home in Phoenixville. How do you recreate those simple experiences in a healthier way without factory farming and animal agriculture? Let’s start with tacos!

Algorithm offers four taco options, but for the full transportive experience, order one of each! Catch a deep-water tuna (er, expertly prepared watermelon) with the Big Blue the savory explosion of Asian flavors is fin -tastic! Meditate on the Roasted Tempeh under the shade of an apple tree and you will deconstruct the meaning of the many layers of flavors.

“That one is a sleeper hit,” Matt says. Love a fine slaw and Korean BBQ? One Crispy Tofu coming right up! Finally, the Huevos Rancheros are a perfectly hearty send-off for a hard day in Big Sky Country.

Sandwiches more your thing? Then sizzle away the last spring chill with the Nashville Hot. It’s reminiscent of a spicy chicken sandwich because Matt and Chef Cody deliver a real smack-your-cheeks heat without sending you to the nearest fire station. The Breakfast Sandwich is hard-hat serious—an entire breakfast medley over a crispy delicious hash brown. Lastly, don’t forget fries with the famous Calabrian chili wiz. It’s tangy, sassy, and just enough heat to rouse you on a sleepy day.

With everything, you will be struck by the colors and beauty of the presentation.

In the afterglow of a spectacular vegan meal, Matt reflects on his many inspirations, all of the challenges and successes that led him to Queen Village. You can tell how proud he is of the team, their comradery, the hard work, and how they have created a recovery-friendly workplace. “The neighbors in Queen Village are so warm and amazing,” he says.

So stop by and meet the crew, over a house special Vietnamese iced coffee. Feeling breakfast? Lunch? Dinner? IF (you = hungry) and (incredible vegan creations > same-old, same-old), THEN Algorithm Vegan Grill is the place for you. ■