Portland, Oregon, is known for its vibrant food cart scene, and now Vancouver, Washington, is joining the fun with a new food cart plaza. Ryan Biornstad, the plaza’s general manager, believes it’s the largest of its kind in the country.
The Vancouver Station Food Carts opened softly off Southeast 164th Avenue and features 44 food cart spots. It also includes an indoor area with a cocktail bar, ice cream, and coffee, along with space for events. Biornstad recognized that East Vancouver needed a community spot where people could gather and enjoy diverse food options.
The grand opening is expected this spring as more vendors set up shop. Biornstad mentioned that they are currently completing the necessary permits for new vendors, with plans to fill the plaza soon.
One of the first vendors is Clarence, who moved his Asian fusion cart, Flavors of Joy, from Portland. He’s optimistic about the new location. “This will be a great place for everyone to come visit,” he shared.
Local resident Deborah Stapleton is already excited about the plaza. After hearing about it from friends, she ordered Pad Thai and expressed hope that the plaza becomes a popular community space.
Biornstad finds it gratifying to see people enjoying the food and drinks. “It’s nice to see our hard work pay off,” he said.
Food cart culture has grown significantly in recent years. A report by the National Restaurant Association reveals that food trucks generated $1.2 billion in revenue in 2021, showing a strong appetite for this dining style. With its unique offerings and community focus, Vancouver Station Food Carts has the potential to become a local favorite.
For a deeper dive into food trends and statistics, check out the National Restaurant Association’s resources here.
