[Weekender] Swanky food trucks rejuvenating neighborhoods

Vibrant food trucks are popping up in neighborhoods around the globe, serving up cleverly prepared and succulent on-the-go grub.

Whether it is Korean fusion kimchi tacos, finger lickin’ good barbecue or one-of-a-kind gourmet sandwiches, food trucks have been slowly taking over the streets of major cities across the U.S. and other parts of the world. Some are even calling the States ― where the evolution of food vendors seems to be the most profound ― the “food truck nation.”

With a no-limits attitude to menus and a creative gusto that helps them stand out from the competition, modern food vehicles are no longer sporting plain white paint jobs; rather, these trucks are decked out in attractive designs that without a doubt add flavor to any street corner. 

The proliferation of these cuisine trucks are so significant that in fact they’re even taking the spotlight in Hollywood and on the big screen. Actor and comedian Jon Favreau wrote, directed, produced and starred in his most recent blockbuster film, “Chef,” which featured an all-star cast including Scarlett Johansson, Dustin Hoffman and Robert Downey Jr. The plot revolves around a highly revered chef leaving his head chef post and buying a food truck to allow himself free rein with his gastronomic creations. 

Aside from the obvious goal of selling meals in a convenient and affordable manner without being restricted to one location, these vendors are also serving countless neighborhoods and communities.

“(S)treet food vending particularly impacts urban neighborhoods undergoing change,” wrote Alex Howell from the University of Texas in his 2011 study on the proliferation of food vendors in Austin, Texas.

“By occupying underutilized lots, activating streetscapes, promoting commercial activity and disseminating culture, mobile food vendors represent an innovative and low-cost revitalization tool,” Howell added.

Creating a temporary haven for die-hard foodies and the lucky pedestrians who just happen to be walking past, food trucks have become culturally compelling and symbolic additions to many urban streets and are playing a role in reinventing and bringing new life to neighborhoods.

Popular food trucks can attract lines of people that one could mistake for tech-fans waiting to get their hands on the latest iPhone. One could argue that these crowds would otherwise be nonexistent in certain parts of town had it not been for these vendors.

As food trucks continue to take North America by storm, there are other parts of the world that are catching on to the food vendor fever. Belgium has recently seen an influx of American-style food. In September the city of Antwerp held a food truck festival, attracting hordes of locals who had their pick of barbecued meats, classic pizzas and ― on the more unconventional and adventurous side ― cricket on a stick.

By Julie Jackson (juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)