The Origin Of The Food Truck Started In The Pioneer Days

From Italian sandwiches in New York, to tacos in Los Angeles, and barbecue in Austin — it seems food truck popularity is at an all-time high. What was once difficult to track down or reserved for the rare late-night bite, food trucks, and street food in general, are having a renaissance with more accessibility and variety than ever. Michelin-starred chefs are even getting in on the action, offering elevated eats like foie gras and truffle burgers. But what many don't know is that the food truck itself has roots dating back to the pioneer days.

According to the History Channel, the first food "trucks" weren't actually automobiles — they were wagons in the Old West. Chuck wagons, introduced in the mid-1860s by a Texas rancher, were specifically designed to serve meals to cowboys and workers across the plains. In fact, the word "chuck" was once used colloquially to describe tasty, heartwarming food. Powered by mules, these early kitchens on wheels could store and cook food for an entire cattle driving crew. The best wagon foods were primarily goods that are easy to store, such as beans, cured meats, and biscuits.

With the advent of cars and trucks at the end of the 19th century, it's no surprise that an upgrade from the chuck wagon wasn't far behind. It could be argued that the first modern "food truck" came about in 1936 with none other than the infamous Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. The giant hot dog on wheels would tour the country promoting and selling their franks.

From there, in the 1950s, America was introduced to the ice cream truck — still beloved to this day. These trucks would record signature jingles and roam the streets, doling out nostalgic treats to kids. Then, with the ability to build larger, more modern vehicles that could house fully functioning kitchens, came what was known as the "roach coach." A somewhat derogatory name that was a nod to their once questionable health practices, these trucks were, and still are, a convenience store on wheels. Primarily serving large crews, like at a construction site, it has every meal and snack one could desire throughout a long work day.

Despite roots dating back more than a century — and a brief, unfortunate tenure being associated with the roach coach — the modern day food truck is a staple that isn't going anywhere. With everything from lobster rolls, to healthy options like protein shakes and grain bowls, the food truck has come a long way from biscuits on the frontier. 

Food trucks are offering patrons something they can't get at the traditional brick and mortar restaurant — a wide variety of diverse cuisines, on-demand, at a somewhat affordable price point. Seeking out food trucks can be a great way to find the best hidden gem restaurants when you visit a new place. Whether you're on the go during your work day and need a quick bite, or visiting a festival to sample tons of different noshes, you can safely bet there's a food truck that will satisfy your culinary needs. Now more than ever, it's clear the pioneers were onto something great.