Starting a mobile food concession is an inexpensive way to break into the food business. If you can find a commissary where you can rent space for prep work, you may be able to start your business for only the cost of permits and the portable equipment that you will be using. A mobile food concession can involve hauling equipment from one location to another, but the variety in locations will enable you to meet different people and become familiar with new parts of town.
Purchase equipment that will fit in your vehicle. Choose items that you can easily load and unload, and avoid fragile gear that can be easily damaged in transport. Start your operation with the minimum amount of ingredients necessary to cook a handful of items, and add to your setup as your business evolves.
Plan your menu. Choose items that you can produce profitably and that you can cook quickly. If you can plan a menu that uses the same ingredients in multiple offerings, you will be able to minimize waste and save money.
Choose locations where you can operate your mobile food business. Check with your city or county regarding street use regulations as they relate to mobile food vending. A locatl Farmers' Market is an excellent place to start because they offer plenty of foot traffic and a clientele that is already interested in food.
Contact the health department in your area and ask about permits for mobile food concessions. You may be able to purchase one permit for a variety of locations, or you may need a separate permit for each location. You may be able to pay considerably less for permits if you invest in a food cart with a built-in hand washing sink. Some jurisdictions allow you to cook a variety of foods on a food cart while others are more restrictive.
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