Sydney food truck operators chosen

Sydneysiders will soon be able to access quality food at all hours following the announcement of the first 10 mobile food truck operators licensed to operate in Sydney, as part of a year-long trial. 

Chosen during a selection process that included a cook-off challenge (pictured), the 10 successful operators will serve up food options including modern Australian from a former Tetsuya's sous chef, steamed yum cha, and veggie burgers from a truck shaped like a barn - complete with herb garden on the roof.

 “When we asked people what they wanted to make Sydney's night-life more dynamic and diverse, they told us they wanted food trucks," said City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore.

 "Food trucks have taken off in LA, London and other major cities by offering good-quality food in a quick, affordable and fun way. We're taking it a step further by ensuring that Sydney's food truck operators serve high-quality food and meet the highest health and environmental standards.”

 More than 30 hopeful operators lodged applications when the City sought expressions of interest last year, undergoing rigorous testing that included looking at their business plans and background, and compliance with health and waste management codes. The last step was a taste test, where contenders had an hour to cook meals from their proposed truck menu and were judged on the taste, their overall concept and their complete menu.

 The operators can now fit out their trucks, which will start to hit the streets in coming weeks. Development applications for 13 sites across Sydney where the trucks can operate, including Belmore Park and Customs House Forecourt and Sydney Park, are currently being assessed. Opening hours will depend on the location and when existing restaurants and cafes close.