Food Truck Favorites

During the summer months, food trucks are a wonderful alternative to restaurants, providing unique and diverse food options for all. A lot of food trucks specialize in certain types of cuisine allowing  access to new foods. Food trucks are also perfect for the warmer months because they typically offer outdoor seating, which makes for an excellent dining experience. 

For food business owners, food trucks offer a lot of benefits. Not only are fixed costs lower in a mobile venture, but costs such as staffing are also curtailed. Beyond that, because of the scale of a food truck, owners are able to effectively hone in on best menu items and explore options more easily.

Below are a few of our favorite Local Michigan food trucks to check out this summer: 

Waka by Baobab Fare

At Baobab Fare, owners Nadia Nijimbe and Hamissa Mamba bring some of their traditional dishes to Detroit to celebrate their birthplace of Burundi.  As a James Beard Award semi-finalist and co-owner Hamissi Mamba a recently crowned winner of Chopped, Baobab Fare is making waves in the culinary world. Their food truck, Waka, serves up delicious East African Street food. TLD member, Grace, said this, “My experience at Baobab Fare makes me so excited to check out their food truck this summer! Their food is vibrant, and flavorful, and the thoughtfulness that goes into each dish is so evident. Their passion fruit juice (Ji) is one of my favorites. It’s so refreshing on a warm day!” Emily, our Brand & Media Manager said “When friends and family visit, I always take them to Baobab Fare. You can’t go wrong with their menu – everything they make is divine.” Find the Waka food truck at all DCFC games, at the Eastern Market on Sundays and Tuesdays, and at the Detroit Institute of Arts where they’re serving the food from the food truck in the cafeteria every other Friday. 

Nu Deli 

Nu Deli has put an Indian spin on their deli sandwiches, making them stand out amongst the rest. Every bite of a Nu Deli sandwich is packed with new and exciting flavors! Grace, TLD’s Operations Manager, was excited to share her experience at the food truck “Nu Deli has been one of my favorite Detroit food trucks since 2019! You’ve got to try their reuben. As a lover of reuben sandwiches, I must say that with the unique flavors in their slaw and the masala spices on the bread, it takes it to another level!” she states. Paul, our Local Food Retail Specialist, also shared his love for Nu Deli. “Nu Deli has got to be one of the best food trucks in Detroit! The food is always flavorful and delicious, and I love to see the truck parked in front of farms to pick up produce,” he says. Don’t forget to save room for dessert; they also offer cheesecakes in their specialty own flavors. 

Happy’s Taco Shop

Happy’s Taco is ago-to for delicious tacos with all the fixings! Their menu offers a variety of offerings, from classic chips and salsa to a range of delectable tacos, including a full-blown vegan menu. Claire, TLD’s Content Strategy Specialist, said “The crunch wrap at Happy’s Tacos is my favorite thing – filled with all the best menu items! For a quick bite, the lamb cheeseburger taco is a classic.” You can find Happy’s Taco at The Little Fleet in Traverse City, The Back Lot in Petoskey and on M75 in Boyne City!

Tantay 

Experience the authentic flavors of Peruvian cuisine in Lansing, Michigan! Tantay is owned by Chef José Aste and his passion for his family, friends, and Peru shines through with every plate. Our area Local Food Coordinator, Karey, shared her experience. “It was a wonderful experience to try a cuisine that was new to me but the first bite was so comforting and familiar. The same can be said about José and his team! They always greet you with a warm smile. I can’t wait to explore more of their menu!” Whether seeking a delicious lunch or dinner option in the Lansing area or if planning a visit soon, be sure to check out all the wonderful dishes at Tantay!

To find more food trucks throughout Michigan, head to our Find Food and Farms Directory to find locally-sourcing food trucks in your neck of the woods!