A food hall is a cafeteria-like setting where customers can choose from multiple food vendors and dine in a communal environment. Food halls have been gaining popularity and are starting to pop up in cities all over the country at a very high rate. A common characteristic of food halls is that they often showcase the different varieties of cuisine that a city has to offer, giving guests many options all conveniently located in the same place. Similar to the food truck trend, food halls represent an alternative method of dining that provides more options and freedom than other types of restaurants.
Food Halls vs Food Courts
Food halls are different from food courts in a few different ways. Where food courts are usually populated by fast food operators, food halls are curated with local, artisanal dining options. The food hall environment is specifically designed as a meet up space where groups of people can relax at communal tables. A lot of thought and attention is placed into the fixtures, seating, and lighting to keep up with current decor trends. In a food hall you'll find a wide variety of food stalls and retail booths, with everything from vegan chocolate to ramen bars.
How Do Food Halls Benefit Restaurateurs?
Food halls offer a variety of benefits for foodservice operators. Starting your own restaurant from scratch involves a lot of moving parts. Instead of investing in a building and being responsible for utilities, safety codes, and upkeep, aspiring restaurateurs simply rent their space from the food hall operator.
- The total investment cost is much more affordable than opening a brick and mortar location
- There is much less risk involved with renting a space in a food hall verses investing in your own
- You won't be responsible for maintaining the building, the exterior, or the parking lot
- It gives you the opportunity for a trial run of your concept
- Without the distractions normally associated with owning a restaurant, you can focus on making your brand clearly defined
Types of Food Halls
Currently, there are two types of food halls you'll find in operation:
- Multi-concept - In a multi-concept food hall, all dining options are operated by the same vendor or owner. This gives the operator opportunities to play around with many different concepts.
- Multi-vendor - Multi-vendor food halls rent out space for a variety of vendors to come in and set up shop. Some food halls rent out their spaces long-term and some rotate vendors for the best variety.
Where Can I Visit a Food Hall?
If you'd like to visit a food hall to see if renting a stall is the right choice for you or if you're considering starting your own food hall, you're in luck. Chances are, there's a food hall near you that you can visit.
- Revival Food Hall - Located in Chicago, Illinois, the Revival Food Hall is one of the most popular in the country. You can find it in the central business district on the first floor of The National, a recently renovated office building. Revival features 15 food stalls that spotlight local cuisine, including barbecue, charcuterie, and poke vendors.
- Morgan Street Food Hall - The Morgan Street food hall in Raleigh, North Carolina, opened its doors in August of 2018 and has already been voted as one of the top food halls in the country by USA Today. Anchored by an indoor/outdoor bar called The Arbor, Morgan Street is located inside a re-purposed warehouse. Inside are over 20 different vendors offering everything from boba teas to Lebanese cuisine.
Food halls are very attractive to guests because groups can meet up and easily find a dining option for everyone. With a food hall, consumers get the feeling they are supporting local, independent businesses rather than chain restaurants. For operators, food halls are a great way to launch your brand and figure out what works for your business and what doesn't. It's no surprise that food halls are seeing continued growth considering all the benefits they offer to vendors and consumers alike.
Related Resources
Choosing a Restaurant Concept
Choosing a restaurant concept is a crucial decision that sets the foundation for the success of your establishment. It involves selecting the theme, atmosphere, and style of your restaurant, which all will ultimately shape the dining experience you offer to your customers. A successful restaurant concept will resonate with the customers in your target market and set your restaurant apart from the competition. Below, we cover some of the most important parts of creating a restaurant concept and ensuring it’s successful. Use these links to learn more about different aspects of choosing a restaurant concept: What Is a Restaurant Concept? Restaurant Concept Elements Restaurant Concept Design What Makes a Good Restaurant Concept Restaurant Concept Examples What Is a Restaurant Concept? A restaurant concept is the overall idea or theme that defines the restaurant. Concepts include your menu's design, service style, dining room decor, and — of course — the style of food. Many restaurants are conceived based on a chef’s personal experiences or interests. Heritage, local ingredients, traditions, or family are all common sources of inspiration for restaurant concepts. Concepts can also be defined by a chef’s travel experience, training, or an interest in a certain area of art, science, or culture. Why Is a Restaurant Concept Important? A restaurant concept is the foundation on which a successful establishment is built. It is the unique identity and personality that sets a restaurant apart from its competitors. Having a well-defined concept is crucial for targeting the right audience and building a strong, recognizable brand. In terms of restaurant service, a quality restaurant concept can engage employees, reducing turnover and ensuring consistent results. Restaurant Concept Elements A good restaurant concept will cover an array of elements with one cohesive mood or tone. From the name of the establishment to even the paint color on the walls, every detail contributes to the overall concept. Restaurant Name The name of your restaurant should give customers a pretty good idea of the type of food you serve. It needs to be memorable, preferably simple, and most importantly, authentic. There are many different approaches to choosing a restaurant name, but owners often take inspiration from their location, a signature dish, or even a family member who inspires them. Menu Writing Menu descriptons can be as literal as listing off the ingredients in the food and the ways they were cooked, or as poetic as a brief description of an experience, visual image, or abstract theory. Your approach should make sense in the context of your food and overall theme. Service Styles While service styles may seem unrelated, the type of service you offer directly relates to your restaurant concept in the sense that it affects the diner's experience. Here is a list of service types that can impact your concept: Bistro Mid-Scale Dining Family Style Coffee Shop Bar Pop-Up Ghost Restaurant Buffet Food Truck Fast Food Restaurant Decor and Ambiance Wall color, lighting, furniture, table settings, music, and decor all play a huge role in the overall impact of your restaurant. So, even though your food must be the main focus of your efforts, it’s important to make some basic decisions about decor pretty early on in the planning process. Do you want a fun, casual vibe for game days or a romantic spot suitable for date nights? Considering the needs of your customers can act as a helpful reference point for decor and theme decisions as well. Restaurant Concept Design Of course, deciding on one concept can be tricky. We’ve broken the process down into five steps to help guide your thoughts: Find Inspiration - This is easier said than done and often takes chefs an entire lifetime to figure out. Deciding the style of food that you gravitate towards the most is a good place to start. It can come from your heritage or upbringing, but it doesn’t have to. Add a Unique Spin - Restaurants that offer something unique stand a much better chance of sticking around and getting customers excited about your food. Research Your Customer Base - It can be tough to tell exactly what type of restaurant will resonate with people in a given area, but it’s important to make sure that there is some demand for what you want to offer. Get a sense for the competition and observe where other businesses have found success. Try to think about what’s important to your prospective customers and communicate those values through aspects such as your restaurant mission statement. Develop a Menu - While it’s okay to stray from traditions a little bit, it’s important to avoid conceiving dishes that are muddled or confusing. So, if you brand yourself as an Irish pub, you may want to offer all the classic staples that people will expect before they even walk in the door. If your concept is Chinese-Mexican fusion or molecular gastronomy, you can probably get away with a lot more whimsy. Choose a Service Style - Once you have your menu mostly figured out, it should be easy to pick a service style that will lend itself well to your dishes. For example, many Italian foods are great when served family style, but pricey seafood entrees might be best in a fine dining environment. What Makes a Good Restaurant Concept? Just as every artist finds a different path for each project, developing a restaurant concept is very personal to each restauranteur. While there’s never any clear cut strategy that works for everyone every time, there are a handful of basic guidelines you can use to measure the success of your restaurant concept. Discover the most important features of a quality restaurant concept below: Consistency - A good restaurant concept should deliver a consistent experience to customers every time they visit. Target Audience - Whether it's for families, young professionals, or food enthusiasts, a restaurant concept should be tailored to your target market’s needs and desires. This includes factors such as menu options, pricing, ambiance, and overall experience. Scalability - Scalability is an important consideration, especially if you have plans for future growth or expansion. A good restaurant concept should be scalable, meaning it can be replicated and adapted to different locations without losing its essence. Profitability - Ultimately, a good restaurant concept should be financially viable and profitable. It should have a clear understanding of the target market's spending habits and be able to generate sufficient revenue to cover costs and generate a profit. Flexibility - The ability to adapt and evolve is crucial in the ever-changing restaurant industry. A good restaurant concept should have room for innovation and flexibility to accomodate changing trends, customer preferences, and market demands. Restaurant Concept Examples When it comes to choosing a restaurant concept, there are numerous options to consider. The concept you choose will ultimately define the atmosphere, menu, and experience you offer to your customers. Here are some popular restaurant concept examples to inspire you: Fine Dining - Locations like Michelin Star restaurants are known for their elegant atmosphere, exceptional service, and high-quality cuisine. These establishments often offer a sophisticated dining experience, featuring upscale decor, a carefully curated wine list, and a menu that showcases gourmet dishes prepared with the finest ingredients. Fast Casual - These establishments offer a more relaxed atmosphere compared to fast food chains, with menu options that are often customizable and made-to-order. Fast casual restaurants typically focus on fresh ingredients and healthier alternatives, appealing to customers looking for a convenient yet satisfying dining experience. Sports Bar - Sports bars are popular destinations for sports enthusiasts looking to catch a game while enjoying food and drinks. These establishments often feature multiple large screens, comfortable seating, and an extensive menu of bar food favorites such as wings, burgers, and nachos. Farm-to-Table - The farm-to-table concept emphasizes the use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients in the menu. These restaurants often work closely with local farmers and suppliers to ensure the freshest and most sustainable ingredients are used in their dishes. While developing a restaurant concept might seem like an impossible feat, if you break down the process into smaller steps, it becomes a lot more manageable. Creating a menu, mood, and service style that feels cohesive largely relies on a keen intuition and clear vision. So, whether you’re opening a restaurant for the very first time or thinking of fresh restaurant concept ideas that differ from restaurants you’ve established in the past, the same basic principles apply. Try to balance uniqueness with expectation, keep things consistent, and put food first.
How to Buy a Food Truck
Whether starting a food truck business or looking to upgrade your existing one, finding the right truck is integral to your success. However, there is more to the process than just picking one out and driving off the lot. There are several different ways to buy a food truck, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages. Identifying a food truck that fits your price range, meets your culinary needs, and adheres to local regulations can be difficult, but understanding the options available can make the process easier. We'll examine the different ways to buy a food truck below so that you can prepare for your purchase. Shop All Food Truck Supplies & Equipment Click any of the tips below to skip to the food truck purchasing step that interests you: Choose a Food Truck Concept Decide Which Type of Truck to Buy Inspect the Vehicle Negotiate a Sale Customize Your Food Truck How Much Does a Food Truck Cost? In general, the cost of a food truck ranges from $50,000 to $250,000. This figure can fluctuate depending on the size, quality, and customization of your truck, as well as other factors. On average, a person should expect to spend $70,000 to $100,000. This price range includes the basic setup of a food truck with essential equipment and features. How much does a new food truck cost? New food trucks typically cost between $100,000 - $150,000. How much does a used food truck cost? Used food trucks typically cost between $50,000 - $100,000. How much does a converted food truck cost? Converted food trucks typically cost between $100,000 - $250,000. How much does leasing food truck cost? Leasing a food truck typically costs between $2,000 - $3,000 per month. Steps to Purchasing a Food Truck When it comes to buying a food truck, you might not know where to start. We've provided a detailed list of steps below to walk you through the process. 1. Choose a Food Truck Concept Your food truck concept encompasses what kind of truck you'll operate, the foods on your menu, and a wide range of other details about your business. It should be clearly defined in your business plan and set in stone before you start shopping for a truck. Understanding your concept will guide your process and help curate a cohesive and appealing food truck experience, while failure to do so can result in poor decision-making. As you evaluate your concept, keep the following details in mind so that you can identify a truck that fits your preferences: Equipment: The food you plan to serve will dictate the food truck equipment you need. For example, if you're operating a burger truck, you'll need a grill, fryer, and refrigeration for storing meat and produce. Layout: Certain concepts require more prep space, while others prioritize cooking or storage space. For example, a food truck specializing in made-to-order sandwiches may need a larger prep area for assembling ingredients, while a dessert truck may need more space for displaying and serving treats. Branding: Your concept will influence the design, colors, and overall aesthetic of your truck. A food truck serving Mexican cuisine may opt for vibrant colors, while a health-focused truck may choose a clean and minimalist design. 2. Decide Which Type of Truck to Buy There are three main ways to buy a food truck: buying one new, buying one used, and converting an existing vehicle. The best choice for you ultimately depends on your budget, how much you are willing to pay upfront, and your business needs. Consider the alternatives available to you and what the market looks like to get the best possible deal, and evaluate your options before making a final decision. Remember that there isn't one option that works better than the others, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Buying a New Food Truck Purchasing a new food truck may be more expensive up front, but it can be worth it in the long run. From kitchen layout to equipment and storage space, many new food trucks can be custom-tailored to fit your requirements. New trucks are less likely to have mechanical issues or breakdowns and will likely last longer than other options. Many new food trucks come with a warranty, providing peace of mind that potential damage will be covered during the warranty period. Whether building a food truck from scratch or buying a new one to customize, the process will take time. Specific requirements or design preferences may result in a longer construction process, and certain companies might run low on inventory. Additionally, the high cost of a new food truck makes it harder to upgrade in the future if you start to outgrow it. Where to Buy a New Food Truck There are several ways to buy a new food truck. Whether you prioritize customization, local support, or convenience, we'll explore some of the most popular options below so that you can choose the one that best fits your needs: Manufacturers: Food truck manufacturers allow you to design a truck that best fits your needs. You'll have direct input in your truck's design, allowing you to customize it to your specifications. Food truck manufacturers exist on both a national and local scale, ensuring that you find a company you're comfortable working with. Specialty websites: Certain websites allow you to design a truck or purchase a new one from a selection of models. These platforms provide more options and allow you to easily compare different types to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Buying a Used Food Truck Purchasing a used food truck is a practical option for those who can't afford the hefty investment of a new vehicle. They offer a great opportunity for newcomers to test the waters and determine if the food truck business is the right fit. Used food trucks are initially cheaper than new trucks, allowing businesses to control their initial startup expenses. Many come with pre-installed kitchen equipment, making it easy to evaluate their layout and functionality. Used food trucks carry a higher risk of needing repairs or maintenance and may have unknown wear and tear, leading to unexpected issues down the line. They generally have a lower life expectancy, meaning you'll have to buy another truck sooner rather than later. Some vendors may be hesitant to work on a used truck since previous modifications may be unknown, making it difficult to modify your truck. Where to Buy a Used Food Truck When purchasing a used food truck, there are two primary options to choose from: individual owners and used food truck websites. We'll introduce each option below: Individual owners: Individual owners looking to exit the food truck business may be open to selling their trucks directly to prospective buyers. This offers a more personalized approach, allowing you to potentially negotiate a better deal and ask questions about the history and condition of the truck. Used food truck websites: These websites typically feature a wide selection of trucks with varying specifications and price points, providing buyers with a diverse range of options. They offer a convenient and efficient way to browse multiple listings and compare trucks. Buying a Converted Food Truck Converted food trucks are unique vehicles modified to serve food. Inspired entrepreneurs have converted a wide range of vehicles, including vans, boats, trolleys, and even fire trucks. This creative approach allows your business to stand out from the competition and create a memorable experience for your customers. Acquiring and converting an existing vehicle requires substantial work to ensure it is up to food truck standards and complies with health and safety regulations. If you already own a suitable vehicle, opting for a converted food truck can be cost-effective. Working with a professional conversion company can streamline the process and ensure your vehicle meets all necessary standards. Where to Buy a Converted Food Truck Whether you're in the market for a vehicle that has already been converted or are seeking one to convert yourself, there are various avenues to explore: Individual owners: If you're looking to find unique, customized vehicles that already have the equipment you desire, shopping from an individual owner is a good place to start. These owners have already put in the work of converting the vehicle, so it will likely require minimum customization. Food truck websites: These websites often have a wide selection of vehicles to choose from, allowing you to browse styles and layouts. Auctions: Some auction houses may feature unique vehicles to bid on. You may be able to get these vehicles for a reduced price and convert them yourself. 3. Inspect the Vehicle If you think you've found the right vehicle, inspect it before entering negotiations. Conducting a detailed inspection and test drives allows you to gather more information before making a purchase and avoid making a bad investment. You can make sure it handles correctly, meets your needs, and that there are no hidden issues that may have gone unnoticed. Verify that the details below meet your standards before closing on a deal: Power: Make sure that the power is working correctly. No matter what kind of generator your truck uses, it's essential to make sure it can support all of your appliances. Floor plan: Verify that there is enough space in the truck for you and your staff to work efficiently. A well-designed floor plan can contribute to the smooth operation of your food truck business. Appliances: Inspect the appliances that come with the food truck, if any, to ensure they are in good condition. Built-in equipment and appliances should run effectively to support your food preparation and service needs. Driving performance: A successful test drive will give you confidence in the vehicle's reliability on the road. Ensure that the truck runs well and that you are comfortable driving it. Damage: Inspect the food truck for any wear and tear that may not have been initially noticeable. Identifying any damage early on can help you make an informed decision about the vehicle's condition and potential maintenance needs. If the truck is more damaged than you initially thought, you may have to pay more in insurance costs. 4. Negotiate a Sale Whether purchasing a new or used food truck, the negotiation process is crucial in ensuring you get the best deal possible. If you are buying a new food truck, the manufacturer may be willing to work with you to tailor the vehicle to your specific requirements while staying within your budget. On the other hand, when negotiating for a used food truck, finding a price that satisfies both parties is key. Researching the market value of similar vehicles can provide you with leverage during negotiations. Keep the following tips in mind to get the best deal possible for your food truck: Be objective: Purchasing a food truck is a significant investment, and the process can be stressful. Emotions can cloud your judgment, so focus on the facts and figures rather than how you feel. Get pre-approved for financing: If you plan to finance your food truck purchase with loans, obtaining pre-approval can streamline the process and demonstrate your credibility as a buyer. This may give you an advantage over other prospective buyers. Start low and negotiate: Begin with a reasonable but competitive offer. From there, be prepared to negotiate back and forth until you reach a mutually satisfactory agreement. Don't be afraid to walk away: If negotiations are not progressing favorably, don't hesitate to walk away. Avoid forcing yourself into an agreement that does not align with your needs or budget. 5. Customize Your Food Truck No matter what kind of food truck you buy, it will require customization. Whether that is something simple like swapping out equipment or something more extensive, such as redesigning the truck to match your brand, the important thing is to make sure you have everything you need for your business to succeed. We've listed some of the most common ways that new food truck owners customize their vehicles below: Specialized equipment: To effectively prepare the foods on your menu, you will need to invest in specialized equipment tailored to your menu items. This may include commercial-grade cooking appliances, refrigeration units, storage containers, and food preparation stations. Food truck exterior: The exterior of your food truck serves as the first impression for potential customers and is the easiest way to catch their eye. Consider incorporating your logo, brand colors, and graphics that convey the type of cuisine you offer. A visually appealing exterior can help create a memorable and inviting experience. Special features: Depending on your location and concept, you may want to invest in features that enhance the functionality and appeal of your food truck. This can include awnings or umbrellas to provide shade for customers, speakers to play music or announce specials, and menu boards to display your offerings. Back to Top Buying a food truck is a significant investment that requires thorough research, time, and financial commitment. Before diving into the process, it is essential to understand the expectations and requirements involved to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. By adhering to the information above, you can position your food truck business to succeed.
Top 10 Food Truck Cities in America
Determining the best cities for food trucks isn’t exclusively based on good weather and public interest. State-and-city-imposed fees, permits, and regulations heavily affect a food truck’s success and must be factored into your food truck business plan. So, where exactly are food trucks most successful? We’ve rounded up the top 10 food truck cities in America. Click on any city’s name for its breakdown. Portland Denver Orlando Philadelphia Indianapolis Houston Austin Los Angeles New York City Nashville How Profitable Are Food Trucks? So far, the food truck industry's revenue in 2020 is $1.1 billion, and its market size has a greater rate of increase than the rest of the consumer goods and services sector. New and seasoned restauranteurs alike are interested in starting a food truck and tapping into the profitable mobile vending industry. While experts predict that the food truck industry will continue to sky-rocket, how profitable food trucks are for their owners varies widely based on their city's licensing and operational procedures. Individual owners should evaluate their city's friendliness to food trucks before investing in their own. Top 10 Best Cities for Food Trucks in America While most cities have at least a handful of food trucks, some cities are more profitable for food truck owners and provide a friendlier environment for food truck operations. Learn more about the top 10 food truck cities in America for food truck operators. 10. Nashville, Tennessee Music City, Athens of the South, Nash-Vegas, Nashville is known by many names, all of which bespeak its reputation as a cultural mecca for musicians, intellectuals, and late-night revelers alike. Nashville is the perfect environment for inventive food trucks to thrive. Thankfully, the city of Nashville provides moderate regulations on food trucks, making it number 10 on the list of the most profitable cities for food trucks. Operating a Food Truck in Nashville Registration: Food truck operations in Nashville face somewhat high registration fees and an additional water permit. City Acceptance: The cost of operating a food truck in Nashville is consistent with national averages. In a recent survey by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation,, food truck operators reported that officials are friendly to them at office visits, and that they’re only required to visit city offices an average of 15 times to run their food truck business. Vending Limitations: It is Nashville’s unusually high proximity limitations that keep it at the bottom of our top 10 best food truck cities in America list. Nashville food trucks cannot be within 150 feet of a building inhabited by either a full-service or fast-food restaurant. 9. New York City, New York New York City is steeped in food truck history and is home to some of the best food trucks in the country. However, it's comparatively stringent food truck rules and regulations keep it from topping the list of the best cities for food trucks in America. Operating a Food Truck in New York City Licensing Cap: New York City has placed a cap on the number of available food truck licenses, making it nearly impossible to legally obtain one. Food truck operators in New York City reported that acquiring a two-year vending permit often requires 15 years on the waiting list or paying over $25,000 to obtain one on the black market. Impossible Restrictions: Food trucks are not allowed to vend from metered parking. Not only are open parking spots hard to come by, they must also be 20 feet from a building’s entrances and 10 feet from crosswalks. These two restrictions combined make operating in Manhattan nearly impossible. Food truck operators reported that receiving $65 tickets from the police is just a part of operating a food truck in New York City. Extra Licenses: Every employee working in your food truck, from the cashier to the chef, is required to have a food handler's license and attend a health department class. 8. Los Angeles, California As the birthplace of the modern food truck craze, one would expect Los Angeles to top the list of the best cities for food trucks in America. If you’re wondering where to get the best food truck food, Los Angeles may still be the answer. However, if you want to know where food trucks are most profitable, the outlandish expense of operating a food truck in Los Angeles prevents the city from topping the list of the best cities for food trucks. Operating a Food Truck in Los Angeles Restrictions: Los Angeles doesn’t impose a lot of restrictions on where food trucks can operate. While food trucks cannot vend on public property, private lots are prevalent and there are few proximity restrictions for operating around schools and public parks. On the whole, Los Angeles has embraced the food truck market as a key element in its culture. Permitting Expenses: The biggest challenge Los Angeles food truck operators face is that their permit doesn't allow them to operate across the entire county. Obtaining multiple permits to operate across the metro area is extremely costly. 7. Austin, Texas Thanks to their food truck friendly regulations, the capital of live music seems to be sharing another title these days: food truck capital of America. While Austin may not have as many food trucks as other major cities, they make up for it by producing some of the tastiest eats and offering a profitable market for food truck owners. Operating a Food Truck in Austin One-Stop-Shop Permitting Process: On average, acquiring a food truck permit requires 20 steps and 14 trips to regulatory bodies, but Austin has eliminated this exhaustive process by creating a one-stop-shop for food truck licensing. Additionally license fees in Austin are comparatively lower than America’s other best food truck cities. Average Restrictions: While proximity limitations are in-line with national averages, each county surrounding Austin imposes different taxes and rules which add difficulties and expenses. Challenging Health Inspection Process: The most consistently reviled aspect of operating a food truck in Austin by food truck entrepreneurs is the city’s difficult health inspection process. A tight window for conducting your inspection is provided, and both the inspection itself and the ensuing approval process is lengthy. 6. Houston, Texas While food trucks may not be the most practical dining option in ‘The Bayou City’ (they receive 53 inches of rain per year.) Houston's international residents and strong local traditions of Tex-Mex and BBQ are well-suited to the food truck industry. Thankfully, from residents' tastes to regulatory terms, Houston is a city where food trucks are profitable. Operating a Food Truck in Houston Zoning: While Houston has no zoning code, Houston's food truck operators are prohibited from using street parking, cannot operate within 100 feet of a restaurant, and must remain 60 feet apart from fellow food trucks. Extra Commissary Fees: Commissary kitchens and storage spaces require food truck operators to visit daily whether they need to or not. Additionally, food truck owners must pay the commissary daily regardless of whether they operated their business on that day. Hidden Fines and Regulations: Houston food truck operators face additional and often unexpected fines such as an electronic monitoring fee. They are also required to submit notarized letters from the private properties where they operate stating that they have permission to use the location and that there are bathrooms on-site. 5. Indianapolis, Indiana Most people will tell you that the food truck scene is best on either the west or east coast. However, Indianapolis proves that the midwest offers equally delicious and unique food truck options. Due to its comparatively limited restrictions, Indianapolis surpasses many coastal cities as a destination where food trucks are most successful. Operating a Food Truck in Indianapolis Easy to Get Started: Its low food truck start-up fees and comparatively few required trips to regulatory offices make Indianapolis one of the best places to buy a food truck start a new food truck business. Simple Ongoing Compliance: It is easy to comply with Indianapolis’ food truck regulations since the majority of them are surrounding food safety and sanitation requirements. These safety and sanitation requirements are in line with the rest of Indiana’s standardized Administrative Code. Information Scarcity: While Indiapolis’s rules for starting a food truck help operators, information on how to start your business is not readily available on the city’s website. Finding the information requires scouring multiple websites and trudging through dense terminology. 4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Home to numerous colleges and universities and imposed with few restrictions, Philadelphia food trucks are highly profitable. See why the City of Brotherly Love is one of America's top food truck cities. Operating a Food Truck in Philadelphia Few Regulations: Food truck operators in Philadelphia enjoy an easy start-up process, few trips to licensing offices, and light regulatory procedures. Most of the regulations food truck operators must adhere to are universal safety and sanitation rules. Frequent Health Inspections: In addition to their annual review, food trucks must receive a health inspection for every large event they vend. On average, food truck operators in Philadelphia will receive between 10 and 30 inspections in a given calendar year. Difficult to Vend in Prime Locations: The Philadelphia food truck market is heavily saturated, so, acquiring approval to vend in the most profitable spots is difficult and can require years of waiting. Inconsistently Enforced Rules: Because Philadelphia's rules (such as the mandate that food trucks not park within 30 feet from each other and must not operate past midnight) are inconsistently enforced, food truck operators lose their competitive edge if they comply with rules and risk fines if they don’t. 3. Orlando, Florida While Orlando is known for its theme parks, this Florida city is home to a lively foodie scene, and its rules and regulations make it one of the best cities where food trucks are most profitable. Orlando is the US city with the most food trucks per capita due to its friendliness towards trucks, earning it the number three spot on the top 10 food truck cities in America. Operating a Food Truck in Orlando Most Affordable Operational and Permitting Fees: Orlando helps food truck vendors succeed by offering them unbeatable $50 permits, low on-going operational fees, and readily available compliance information on their local government’s FAQ page. Challenges and Limitations: Orlando food truck operators cannot sell food or merchandise on city streets or sidewalks. Additionally, vending across the metro area requires additional permits and inspections. 2. Denver, Colorado Consistently ranked as America's fittest city, Denver's residents are drawn to food trucks that offer local, organic, and healthy food menus while they walk the streets for exercise. Denver is also one of America's fastest-growing cities, attracting young professionals and families. Combining the two essential elements for a food truck's success: a strong clientele base and food truck friendly rules and regulations, Denver is it the second-best city for food trucks in America. Operating a Food Truck in Denver Straight Forward Startup Procedures: Denver aids food truck entrepreneurs by offering just 10 start-up procedures and requiring only a few trips to city offices to obtain approvals. Government permitting processes are transparent and easily navigated on government websites. On-going operational compliances are equally transparent and as easy to follow as start-up procedures. Altering Vehicles for Safety: To operate a food truck in Denver, owners must install fire suppression systems, change gas lines, and adjust propane tank sizes. Making mandated updates and repairs to comply with the rules can be costly. and requires a well-planned food truck layout. Complex Cross-Metro Operations: Operating your food truck across Denver’s metro area will incur additional regulatory costs and permitting fees. Additionally, you are required to file taxes in each city you operate within, which is both a hassle and an expense. 1. Portland, Oregon Portland Oregan is the city where food trucks are most profitable, reigning our list of the top 10 food truck cities in America. While they're commonly referred to as “food carts” in their neck of the woods, Portland boasts over 600 trucks and trailers serving up tantalizing treats. This “weird” city has so many carts that they have multiple food truck parks, like Cartlandia, Mississippi Marketplace, and Cartopia. The city of Portland embraces its food carts by making sure its food trucks are profitable so they can continue enriching the city's vibrant culture. Operating a Food Truck in Portland Easy to Get Started and Easy to Operate: Portland helps food truck operators thrive by making licenses easy to obtain and making vending processes clear and easy to follow. Portland imposes no proximity limitations on food trucks nor do they impose sales taxes. Portland is hands down the best city for food truck operators in America. Effortless Vending: Downtown Portland has set aside many parking lots exclusively for food trucks. Additionally, the government invests resources into creating easily navigable procedures for remaining operable. Expensive Permits: While straightforward to obtain and easy to come by, Portland’s food truck permits aren’t cheap. Additional expenses are incurred by the requirement that operators obtain a special permit to cater an event. Without this permit, food truck operators must use a separate commissary kitchen to cater events and weddings . Water Tank Requirement: Food trucks must have a 50-gallon water tank on hand. While not all cities require this specific measure, food truck operators should create a food truck equipment checklist to make sure they always have the supplies they need. How Did Food Trucks Get Their Start? Then and Now Now that you know the top 10 food truck cities in America where food trucks are most profitable, you may be wondering how food trucks got their start. We've broken down the fast facts of both food truck history and the modern food truck craze. We then explain how you can incorporate the tactics of the modern food truck craze's top entrepreneurs and make your food truck business more profitable. Food Truck History The first known food truck was created in 1872 by a man named Walter Scott. Scott cut windows into his wagon and parked in front of a Providence, R.I. newspaper office where he sold sandwiches, slices of pie, and coffee to journalists who worked long and odd hours. For this same reason, parking near a college campus to serve students is profitable for modern food trucks. While Scott created America's first food truck prototype, the New York City hot dog cart popularized America's street vending tradition. The history of the hot dog cart began in the 1860s with German immigrants serving sausages with milk rolls and sauerkraut from a cart in New York City's Bowery. In 1893, the first official hot dog cart was opened by Charles Feltment in Coney Island with tremendous success, 3,600 dachshund sausages were sold in Feltman’s first year. Since NYC is largely responsible for popularizing street food in America, it’s no surprise that it is a top food truck city in the modern food truck craze. We’ve examined three of NYC’s best food trucks and provided tips on how to run a successful food truck. Learning from the Best Food Trucks in New York City: The Cinnamon Snail: As the first vegan organic food truck in the US, The Cinnamon Snail set the industry standard for how to accommodate vegans and vegetarians and prove to meat-lovers that vegan food can be flavorful and delicious. Unfortunately, the Cinnamon Snail closed their food truck in 2020, but the legacy lives on in their cookbook, Street Vegan. The Halal Guys: The Halal Guys began serving a niche market in NYC and has since proven that a food truck can turn into a major franchise represented across the US. The secret to their success? They serve food that travels well and remains true to their roots by continuing to use certified halal meat even though approximately 95% of their current clientele is not Muslim. Perhaps the true secret is in their signature sauce. Having a signature sauce will draw customers to your establishment in even the most saturated market. Korilla BBQ: Korilla takes the spicy flavors of Korean barbecue and applies them to traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos and burritos. Korilla is an example of what a successful food truck marketing plan can do. Korilla has grown a social media platform of 28.6K Twitter followers and 18.3K Instagram followers by connecting with their client's values. Additionally, they've leveraged broadcasting exposure by appearing on TV shows such as Sesame Street and The Great Food Truck Race. They now boast several food trucks and a brick and mortar location. Modern Food Truck Craze The modern food truck craze began in LA circa 2008 with Kogi. Not only did Kogi kickstart the modern food truck craze, but they are also responsible for innovating the fusion food truck trend. Since Kogi's wild early success, LA has continued to pioneer America’s modern food truck craze. Follow top Los Angeles food trucks' patterns of success as you develop your own food truck business. Learning from the Best Food Trucks in Los Angeles: Kogi: Arguably the spark that started the modern food truck movement, Kogi has been serving up Korean-Mexican fusion food since 2008. Kogi was the first to harness the power of Twitter in the food truck industry, setting the standard for how to leverage social media. Prince of Venice: While pizza may be common to food trucks, Prince of Venice fills the void for pasta. Prince of Venice combines Italian imports and locally sourced ingredients to deliver from scratch noodles and sauces. Its name is not just a clever moniker, it is run by Prince Emanuele Filiberto, the grandson of the last King of Italy, Umberto II. While you may not have royalty to leverage, Prince of Venice shows how combining authenticity and loyalty to one's heritage with fresh local ingredients earns a loyal following and tremendous success. Coolhaus: Woman-founded and led Coolhaus uses responsibly sourced ingredients to create innovative twists on classic ice cream pints and cookie sandwiches. They are the perfect example of how you can turn a menu item into an easy to consume, handheld dish. They’ve continued to partner with other female-owned businesses and show the power of women supporting women to achieve feats of entrepreneurship. They now boast several food trucks, brick and mortar locations, offer on-demand delivery (including next day air delivery), and their products are sold at retail locations. Knowing where food trucks are most profitable and educating yourself on how pioneers of the modern food truck craze achieved success primes your food truck business for a lucrative future. We hope you use our guide to the top 10 food truck cities in America.to launch your food truck business with open eyes; ready to take advantage of the benefits your city provides and tackle the challenges it poses.
