Discover the Flavorful Journey of a Coraopolis Couple’s Cuban Food Truck Passion

Food brought Carlos Milanes Jr. and Collyn Milanes together. Carlos would drive four hours from Michigan to Pittsburgh to spend time with Collyn. Their bond began on Instagram, where they liked each other’s food photos.

“I only posted pictures of my dishes at first,” Carlos shared. Their shared love for food quickly turned into romance. Collyn said, “I was excited to find someone who appreciated cooking.” Now, after five years of marriage, they live in Coraopolis, where they run a food truck, Milanes Mobile.

The food truck officially launched in January. They operate from a kitchen at the Valley Veterans Association in Glenfield, where Collyn’s mother is a member. Carlos and Collyn often plan vacations around food, frequently traveling to South Florida to bring a taste of Miami to Pittsburgh. Raised in Miami by Cuban parents, Carlos aims to share that culinary heritage with their community.

Creating their food truck was a labor of love. They spent two years fixing up a 1975 GMC Kurbmaster while juggling full-time jobs. Carlos rebuilt the engine and took on many challenges using online resources. “When I bought it, it was just an aluminum shell,” he explained. With every paycheck, they invested in parts and equipment, working together through late nights.

Collyn chose the truck’s color scheme, opting for vibrant shades to evoke a South Beach vibe. They’ve also introduced a buzzer system for orders, similar to sit-down restaurants. Both bring unique experiences to the business; Carlos managed parts at a local dealership, while Collyn worked at different restaurants.

They have six children whose ages range from 2 to 17. Balancing family and career has been a challenge. “We were tired of working long hours for someone else,” Collyn said. They decided to put in the effort for their own business instead. “I love working with him, but we’ve learned to balance our roles at work and at home.”

What sets Milanes Mobile apart is their commitment to quality ingredients. They make their own bread and prioritize fresh, high-quality meats. “Even if cheaper options are available, we choose the good stuff,” Carlos stated. Their menu is filled with traditional dishes from Carlos’s Cuban heritage. Collyn spent months perfecting these recipes, adding her own twist along the way.

Some popular items include flavorful empanadas and a Cuban sandwich layered with roast pork and Swiss cheese. They take pride in their fluffy bread with a crispy crust, claiming their fries can compete with fast-food favorites.

The food truck will be parked at Big Sewickley Creek Brewery on May 15 and at The Dog Penn in the Strip District on May 18. For updates and more information, check out their Instagram @MilanesMobile412.

Food trucks are increasingly popular in urban areas. According to a recent report by IBISWorld, the food truck industry is expected to grow by 3.7% this year. This trend shows the increasing demand for diverse and accessible food options. As food enthusiasts continue to explore new culinary experiences, businesses like Milanes Mobile not only thrive but also bring unique flavors to local communities.

This journey isn’t just about food for the Milanes. It’s a fulfilled dream that merges love, family, and tasty dishes, all rolling down the streets of Pittsburgh.

Michael DiVittorio covers news in Western Pennsylvania and enjoys exploring local festivals and food. Contact him at mdivittorio@triblive.com.

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