What are the benefits of a food truck commissary?
There are a lot of advantages to commissaries. Here are a few perks:
Compliance with health codes and laws
For starters, your state’s health department or city laws may require that your food truck belong to a commissary. In some cities like Los Angeles, for example, food trucks must park at a commissary because parking is such a problem. Commissaries keep food trucks off the roads and in a safe spot.
In some cities like Boston, food truck operators have to work out of a licensed food establishment, like a commercial kitchen at a commissary that provides a clean environment.
You’ll want to check your state and local laws to make sure you’re in compliance.
Access to food storage
Buying and storing all of the ingredients to make your signature food is costly and takes up space. Commissaries often offer storage space, so you can buy in bulk and save some cash.
Access to food prep areas
It might be easier to make and prepare your food in an assembly-line fashion rather than in the confines of your truck. A commissary can provide that extra elbow room to make sure your food looks as good as it tastes.
Supplies available
The kitchen space inside commissaries offers access to cooking equipment and supplies. Ovens, refrigerators, utensils, cleaning supplies – they’re all on site and ready for you to use.
Networking opportunities
Whether you cook alongside fellow food truckers or just park next to them, you’ll be part of a unique community. It’s a great networking space, and gives you access to experienced food truckers that can answer questions and provide guidance. You might even learn a few things people wish they knew before starting a food truck.
Herbert Tinjaca, owner of Guacamoli Co. in Orlando, says “I can’t imagine conducting our business without [a commissary]. They provide so many amenities that facilitate our day to day business. Our commissary offers amenities such as gated parking, storage, refrigeration, prep kitchen, cooking oil disposal, potable water, grey water disposal, cardboard recycling, and trash disposal. They are working on getting an ice machine soon. I’m really looking forward to that. Not having to go out to fetch ice anymore? That is a game changer!”