Monday, June 13, 2016

Sooooo Where's The Much Touted Food Trucks ?

Has the market spoken??

Over this past week I have attended at one of my favourite Nanaimo spots, Maffeo Sutton Park. There I was taking in the new temporary art installations and checked out a busker or two performing for their supper and adding to the atmosphere.

Believe it or not the above photo does capture an image of the one and only food carts I came across in this favourite downtown waterfront park. Can you spot it??

Under the old arrangement, there was one food vendor in the park, and they were required to be open from May long weekend until Labour Day I believe. They had an exclusive agreement with the city which allowed them to be the only vendor except for times of special events in the park.

The much awaited city food truck licencing system was finally put in place this last year after years of struggling with the concept of allowing food trucks in the city.

Under the new system there are several designated spots around town where vendors may set up on a first come, first serve basis. Perhaps it is a bit early in the season to be coming to conclusions, but it would seem that food truck operators are staying away in droves.

allvoices

8 comments:

  1. The obvious is that the fees and regulations are too high and too strict. What else could it be? There are hundreds of tourists in town and thousands will come after school is out. Not to diminish the locals who frequent the area. Or is it that the types of food are not appealing? Nothing better than mini donuts and greasy burgers to showcase the culinary talents of Nanaimo.

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  2. Ahhh the Vietnamese truck......I was talking to the Samosa lady in parks illegally the other day and asked her if she would be coming to Nanaimo. She was surprised the fees were so reasonable compared to her current location at the tourist information Craig's crossing.

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  3. A month ago, when I did see a food truck or two, they were on the other side of the basketball court - far, too far away from strolling pedestrians on the walkway wanting a quick fix. If the city has regulated them to there now, I can see why none are coming.

    Kev

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  4. The Vietnamese truck has been there for over a month and for a while an Ice Cream vendor was as well. I'm guessing that as Summer progresses we will see more. I will say I am not impressed with where they have to locate at Maffeo.

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  5. If that is the only spot that food trucks can be located at Maffeo Sutton Park, then I understand why they are not setting up. That space is far away from foot traffic. I really looked forward to food trucks at Diana Krall Plaza, and Departure Bay.I had spring rolls at the food truck when I finally figured out where it was. Really good!

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  6. The way this city does things is so ridiculous! Was there not actually two food vendors in the park...Frank with his hotdog cart and then a food truck with fries and burgers and icecream etc?

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  7. amateurs :-(

    (the city, that is)

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  8. Maffeo-Sutton: Brick, Art...the comfy, relaxing green park is getting smaller, and cluttered.

    Kev

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