The trendiest way to eat
JOBURG - Food trucks have quickly become the trendiest way to dine out, and they are popping up everywhere from Sandton to the artsy precinct of Maboneng.
These food trucks have created opportunities for entrepreneurs who have a passion for tasty eats. One such entrepreneur is Ali of Ali’s Kitchen in Benmore. She is known in the industry by one name only, Ali, and this is not only her nickname, but the name that she uses for her business. Although her set-up is informal, quite unlike the expensive restaurants down the road, her business is booming. Her innovative idea has also created employment for her little sister who is her protégée.
The team arrives with the fresh produce before 5am and prepares the food from scratch on their gas stove in the food truck. They keep the food truck open until about 4.30pm or until the food has run out. Ali said that some of her customers come so early that they have to wait for her to arrive.
It is, however, very tricky to open up a food truck and there are many rules and regulations that have to be followed. Ali explained that she had to register the caravan that she uses to run her business. She also had to obtain a valid disc for the caravan and needed both a licence for cooking and a licence to operate in that particular area. She explained that any food truck that does not abide by these rules, will be kicked out of the area.
Her most popular dish is pap and beef stew and she has a passion for cooking traditional South African dishes.
Charles Nel of Knead Bakery said that he supplies fresh breads to many food trucks, such as Cajun Joe’s. He explained that food trucks have become a new trend and that the key to doing well is to use the freshest produce possible. He also said that food trucks are a brilliant way for aspiring chefs with no training to find their feet and learn more about food and catering.
In one small region of Benmore, one can find something to eat from an informal stand, a fancy restaurant or a quick take-out franchise. Ali’s kitchen lies somewhere in between all of these. Food trucks have managed to bridge the gap between fine dining and relaxed casual eating. Ali is a true example of an authentic South African entrepreneur – just like the traditional fresh dishes that she serves.
Have you ever bought food from a food truck? Send us a message on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page.
