Food trucks have become a familiar sight at Ohio University. Students and faculty can find them throughout campus, from Morton Hill to Court Street.
Near Alumni Gateway, you’ll find two food trucks: Rise & Grind Coffee Truck and The Steakout. These vendors offer specialty items like the Caramel Kiss Latte and Philly-Style Cheesesteaks. They accept both cash and card payments.
OU Culinary Services operates two other food trucks: The Hungry Cat and Brick City Deli On The Go. These accept university dining currency, such as Flex Meal Plan Swipes, Flex Points, and Bobcat Cash.
Chito Trinidad, the assistant director of retail operations, explains that Hungry Cat launched in 2015. It was a response to renovations at Boyd Dining Hall. According to Trinidad, “Food trucks were a big trend back then, and we aimed to match that with new locations and services.”
Frank Pazzanese, the executive director of culinary services, points out a unique aspect of the university’s food truck model. The university doesn’t allow these vendors to accept currency from outside the campus. This ensures that profits stay within the university, funding scholarships and other essential activities.
Dan Harlett, owner of The Steakout, believes accepting campus currency could hike meal plan prices. “Parents might say, ‘Just use a credit card,’” he suggests. Meal swipe values differ by location: a swipe at a food truck costs about $15, while it’s only $6.75 at campus markets due to higher food and labor costs for mobile operations.
Trinidad emphasizes the quality of offerings at the food trucks. “We aim for fresh-cut fruit, avoiding canned options,” he says. “For Brick City Deli, we use Boar’s Head for quality meats and cheeses.”
Despite accepting only cash or card, outside vendors attract a large portion of their clientele from students. Harlett estimates that 90% to 95% of his customers are university-affiliated.
Pazzanese notes that while food trucks require a hefty investment, they can yield strong returns thanks to smaller staff sizes, seasonal hours, and less product waste. Plans are in the works for more food trucks to serve students living near the River Park Apartments and the upcoming McDavis Hall.
Food trends show a growing preference for mobile dining options nationwide. According to a recent survey, 60% of college students frequently choose food trucks for quick meals. This shift contrasts with traditional dining, indicating a demand for more diverse and accessible food choices on campus.
Overall, Ohio University’s food trucks have adapted to meet the needs of its community, while maintaining a focus on quality and sustainability.
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