Master the Omaha Food Truck Scene
Your step-by-step guide to bringing local flavors to your next event. We help residents and event planners understand the logistics of booking food trucks in Omaha with ease.
Where to Find Food Trucks Around Omaha
You can find Omaha's vibrant food truck community Rotating through downtown hubs, local neighborhood spots, breweries, and suburban business parks. They are common sights at festivals and community events throughout the week.
- T&T Trucks, Taps and Patio
- Downtown lunch spots like Gene Leahy Mall
- Local breweries & taprooms - Lovely Brewing, Kros Strain, Bearded Brewer
- Festivals & community events - Truck rally at T&T, Farmers Markets, Boomstock, etc
- Suburban business parks & neighborhoods - watch truck social media pages for public offerings
Common Questions About Booking Food Trucks
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular weekends and graduation season in Omaha. High-demand trucks fill their calendars quickly. Some trucks book thier busy season up to a year in advance. If you are closer to your event than 3 months, it is still worth reaching out but you may need to be ready for a longer process and reaching out to more trucks.
Why Book a food truck?
So many reasons! The are almost universally localloy owned and operated, and typically you are talking to the owners when you order from them or contact them. They are fun, convenient ways to feed a crowd. They love what they do and are able to focus on the food that they are passionate about. They are innovative, guest centered businesses that create a sense of excitement and an experience for your guests.
What local permits are required for events?
For events on private property, the truck typically only needs its standard health permit. Public property requires coordination with Omaha's park and public works departments for event permits.
Trucks need a wide variety of permits to operate, and have to pass MANY inspections to ensure they are operating safely. As a result they may need time to apply for new city permits if you are in one of the outlying cities, and they may refuse just based on the need for that permit due to the expense. Permits cost money and if they do not do much business in your town they may not come (unless you offer to pay for thier annual permit as part of the booking expense).
Are food trucks inspected? Are they safe?
Food trucks are held to a very rigorous standard for food safety. They are inspected at least as many times a year as a restaurant, and have even more regulations to ensure safe service. As a result, they are just as safe to eat at as a restaurant. Food trucks are fun, safe ways to enjoy amazing food. Whats more, they are almost all owned and operated locally, and you are usually seeing the owner when ordering from the truck wether they are cooking or in the window talking to you.
What are the typical booking minimums?
Most local trucks have a minimum sales requirement ranging from $800 to $1,500. This ensures their overhead and staffing costs are covered regardless of final guest count.
How much space does a food truck need?
A standard food truck needs 30-40 feet of flat, level parking space. Always ensure enough clearance for service windows and room for guest lines to stay safe. Also, keep in mind that most food trucks are taller than your car. Ensure you have enough vertical clearance as well. For instance, don't plan on them driving under or parking under tree branches. If this is unavoidable ask the truck how tall they are to ensure proper parking.
I am planning a large event. How many trucks should I book?
This one is a little more variable depending on many factors. Generally speaking you want 100-150 guests per food truck. Some trucks are happy to have less, some more. Also having savory dinner options combined with a dessert truck will impact this as guests may get both. If you are willing to pay minimums you can book many knowing you will be paying money for food you won't get, but providing your guests with lots of options.