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Food Truck Court sizzles on opening night

Posted at 12:03 AM, Apr 04, 2012
and last updated 2012-04-04 11:01:04-04

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) --Food trucks have gotten so hot in Richmond, why not them gather together, as they do in other cities across the country and around the world?

That’s what happened on the oasis-like back lot of the Virginia Historical Society Tuesday evening.

But who knew the first food truck court was going to sizzle like it did?

Folks came in droves, many on foot, with kids and dogs, to dine under a splendid spring sky.

More than 300 strong made it like an instant food festival.

“Great idea,” said Rob Lenkowicz as he waited in one of the lines with his two children. “A beautiful night like tonight, get the kids out, run around in the grass.”

“I think it’s an amazing idea,” said Cindy Burke. “I called my son to come on and meet me up here.”

The lines stretched 20 to 50 people deep for two full hours for the five different food and dessert trucks.

Families spread out blankets. Couple sat on the grass. Children scampered together by the dozens. Dogs and puppies roamed on leashes.

It didn’t help that the Boka Tako truck, a legend at many Richmond workplaces, came a little late on a wrecker because of brake problems. But it was up and serving customers quickly.

The Dressed and Pressed gourmet truck was even tardier, and was instantly swamped.

Deveron Timberlake, the food editor for Style Weekly, was able to get to the front of that line.

“It’s great for local farmers,” she said. “It’s great for families because, if the kids are screaming, no one is paying attention. It’s affordable. This is definitely a trend that’s likely to be here for a long, long time.”

Richmond’s tough restrictions on these rolling restaurants made it virtually impossible to host something like this on city property – at least until its policies are changed.

But the Virginia Historical Society graciously offered its property for this culinary exhibition.

City leaders take note: Isn’t this the way you want your city to look?

If you missed out, the next food courts will be held again at the VHS:

  •  ·Friday, April 6
  • Tuesday, April 10
  • Friday, April 13

Food will be sold from 6 to 9 p.m. on these nights. The VHS won’t be open during these hours, but do encourage people to come back for a visit of their many exhibits.

According to a press release, participating food truck vendors include:

  • Boka Truck: Asian-Mexican-American fusion takos with French technique and seasonal menus
  • Sustenance Truck: Fresh, local, seasonal gourmet sandwiches, soups, and chef’s creations
  • Dressed & Pressed: Gourmet salads, truffled tater tots, gourmet paninis, and chef specialties
  • CrossRoads Truck: Hot and iced gourmet coffee drinks, fruit smoothies, and Italian sodas
  • Flynn’s Food Truck: Turkey burgers, veggies burgers, and vegan friendly fare
  • Habanero’s: Authentic Mexican tacos and burritos, chicken, steak, al pastor, and carnitas
  • Mister Softee Truck: Premium soft serve ice cream sundaes, cones, banana splits, shakes, and more

Follow the twitter feed updates @FoodTruckCourt and updates on the Richmond Food Truck Court Facebook page.

Location: Virginia Historical Society, 428 North Boulevard, Richmond.