Food Truck Phenomenon Takes Over Ypsilanti’s Campus
Ypsilanti’s Food Truck Phenomenon Returns to Campus
Ypsilanti’s food truck phenomenon is back with a regular schedule on campus. After a limited trial run last summer, Eastern Michigan University is working with three trucks.
Cortez operates Birria El Jefe from a 1927 Lark travel trailer. The menu features birria tacos, quesabirria and grilled corn. It’s all homemade with no artificial flavors, sweeteners or preservatives.
What is a food truck?
A food truck is a motorized vehicle or trailer that is equipped to store, cook, prepare, serve and sell food. These vehicles are popular with budding culinary entrepreneurs who lack the capital to start a restaurant but still want to showcase their cooking skills. They are also a convenient option for people who do not have time to sit in a restaurant and want quick, tasty meals.
Many states require a food truck business to obtain a seller’s permit and a commercial driver’s license. They may also have specific zoning and parking requirements that need to be followed. The best place to find this information is on the state’s website. Private websites can be misleading, so it is important to use only government-owned websites ending in “.gov.”
Another important aspect of a food truck is its marketing plan and sales strategy. It is important to understand the demographics of your area, and identify any unmet needs that can be addressed with your food truck business.
How to start a food truck business
A food truck is an ideal business model for entrepreneurs who want to pursue their culinary dreams without the risk of investing in a traditional restaurant. In addition to lower startup costs, food trucks offer greater mobility and flexibility. They can be operated in a variety of locations, including public spaces and private events. The food truck business model also allows for more experimentation and creativity in menu offerings.
A successful food truck business requires a team of highly trained and enthusiastic employees. They must be able to prepare and serve food efficiently, interact with customers, and maintain a clean and organized workspace.
Food truck owners can leverage their brand recognition, social media presence, and strategic location selection to attract and retain customers. They can also promote their offerings through local events and community partnerships. The close-quarters setting of a food truck also encourages customer interaction, which can help build loyalty and a following for the business.
Where to find a food truck in Ypsilanti
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or just looking for a tasty snack on the go, Ypsilanti’s food trucks can meet your needs. You’ll find everything from tacos to rolled ice cream at these mobile eateries.
Jamerican Grill’s Allen Willard and Sebastien Keeler are dedicated to honoring the island traditions they fell in love with during a visit to Jamaica that began as a culinary school project. The couple now runs a truck serving Jamerican’s take on classic Caribbean dishes like jerk chicken wraps with fresh pineapple coleslaw, festival bread and hand-cut fries.
Crepe Day-Twah serves up scrumptious French crepes, stuffed with ingredients like mini marshmallows, Oreo crumbles and Cinnamon Toast Crunch in the sweet options, and sliced prosciutto, mozzarella and baby spinach for the savory ones. You’ll find this mobile dessert vendor at events throughout Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan. The truck also travels to Ypsilanti on occasion. You can book them for your next event by clicking here.
How to find a shared-use or commissary kitchen
Running a food truck is a lot of work. Between prepping, cooking, shopping, cleaning and the driving involved, it can be difficult for one person to do alone. That’s why many food businesses choose to use a shared kitchen. These facilities provide clean, commercially-licensed space for chefs, caterers, trucks and other food producers.
A number of these facilities are available throughout the state, including in Ypsilanti. The Growing Hope Incubator Kitchen, for example, offers a space to rent at affordable hourly rates and provides commercial-grade equipment. It also offers business training, networking and individual guidance.
Dan Evanski is a cook and foodie who dreamed of starting his own sausage company, inspired by a family recipe. His new business, Ski’s Sausage, launched the week Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued her initial “stay home, stay safe” orders, but it’s been a hit since then. The truck sets up in different neighborhoods two or three times per week.
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