1. DRIFT
Just because you can’t make a reservation doesn’t mean you shouldn’t arrive early to sample the sandwiches at Drift. If you don’t, you’ll be greeted by a line of lunch-goers that might just exceed the line of sandwiches inside. But whether you need to wait or not, it’s worth it. Nevin and Kara Fenske are a husband-and-wife team who decided to start the food truck when their dream of opening a restaurant fell apart. The large budget required and the amount of space needed exceeded the couple’s resources. So, starting a food truck was the perfect option – less space and money meant more time could be spent on what they really wanted to do: Create delicious food with local ingredients. In their small space, they craft a number of sandwiches that are known around the city for their ability to rival food at a sit-down restaurant. Drift’s pork belly sandwich is always a big hit – pickled carrot and daikon, chili mayo and fresh cilantro mix with a hearty portion of pork. And the fries have heft and are perfect for dipping in homemade ketchup. Drift starts serving in April, and the arrival of the food truck and the long lines, foreshadow the busy summer season full of people spending time outdoors. -C.B.
780-966-7328, driftfoodtruck.ca
Runner-Up: SAILIN’ ON
Edmonton’s only vegan food truck opened in 2013, but diners from all dietary walks of life took notice. Serving lunch goers at 108th Street and 100th Avenue, and shoppers at the 124th Street Grand Market, Sailin’ On dares carnivores to tell the difference between its menu and a regular diner. Owners Mike Brennan and Garret Kruger’s BLT is made with homemade “bacon,” which is really raw organic coconut, sliced and marinated in smoked maple. The Irish – fresh-cut crispy fries engulfed in a creamy homemade curry sauce, a mountain of vegan cheddar, shredded cabbage, carrots and green onion – gives even traditional poutine a run for its money. -Cory Haller
sailinon.ca