Food trucks are mobile restaurants offering different varieties of food on a short-term basis. Many types of food trucks offer diverse menus catering to a variety of tastes. They are also known as sidewalk cafes or mobile taverns. A Mexican Restaurant Portland food truck typically has a small or non-stationary kitchen on the back with several carts or racks where the food is served.
In the early years, the term “gourmet food trucks” described only local food services such as Japanese, Italian, Chinese, or Mexican food services. As the years progressed and new markets were opened, gourmet food trucks quickly became popular all over the United States.
Today, these trucks are found in almost every major area, from Portland City to outerPortland. The main difference between a traditional food cart and a gourmet food truck is that a cart has its kitchen and can prepare the food on-site. A gourmet food truck normally serves its customers on the street, allowing them flexibility in when they wish to eat their meals.
To ensure fair and equal treatment of all food vendors, food trucks are required by law to follow even the most stringent health and safety regulations. These regulations, which can be found in state and federal laws, include a requirement that the drivers keep their food trucks at a minimum distance from public parking areas and that they only employ licensed drivers.
In addition to having a valid driver’s license, the drivers must also obtain a CDL. Drivers may also be required to undergo fingerprinting, background checks, drug and alcohol testing, and inspections. To keep abreast of these requirements, it is best to hire a truck inspector to conduct random inspections of your business to ensure compliance.
While sanitary conditions do not appear to be a top priority for food trucks, a sanitary procedure should still be followed. Food trucks should only be allowed to leave the parking lot with a deposit, which will then be held by the restaurant until the food is ready. Inspectors will also likely want to check for cleanliness, as food trucks are often exposed to outdoor and indoor elements during their daily travels.
Inspectors will also likely want to verify that the temperature control is working properly as food temperatures can become dangerously high in the summer months. These inspections are necessary for two reasons: ensuring that workers are being paid a fair wage and ensuring consumers are being protected from unhealthy food.
Because food trucks are considered food services, they are subject to various local and state regulations. Because many cities and states have ordinances covering food trucks and restaurants, business owners should take a few moments to research their local laws and requirements before launching their business.
After all, if they are unable to comply with local ordinances, they could lose their city’s operating license. The most important advantage to thorough inspections and legal agreements is the ability to ensure that consumers are getting a good price for their dollar. That means consumers must always get what they pay for.
Food trucks and restaurants are expecting to succeed in the future, but food truck operators must also be mindful of the risks involved. By keeping business practices organized and by providing quality products and services, food trucks can help themselves stand out from the competition. With a strong following and smart marketing, food trucks can help restaurants remain relevant in an increasingly competitive marketplace.a
