Wheeling is home to many food trucks, but on National Road in the heart of Woodsdale, there’s a TrifecTruck. In the same block, there is De Adi Hibachi, Two Flamingos, and The Gringos Tacos.
De Adi Hibachi is owned by Alysa and Putu Astana. Their food truck got its start when they had to make accommodations for their son.
“We have a son who is severely disabled from when he was born. He endured a traumatic birth injury. When he was younger, I had to stay at home with our son,” said Alysa.
Putu, better known as Dad, was working as a hibachi chef at Fusion when he and Alysa met.
Between their son needing 24-hour care and restaurants shutting down due to COVID, the Astana family began to face financial hardship.
“Anytime our son endured a long hospital stay, anywhere from two, three weeks, Dad had to stop working during that time. And since I wasn’t working either it really dampened our income,” said Alysa.
The Astana’s wanted to be available for their son 24/7. That’s when they had the idea of starting a food truck.
“It was a big risk, but we knew it would be better for our family situation,” said Alysa.
When their son needs any sort of help with overnight care, the Astana’s can make the decision to be closed.
A typical day at De Adi Hibachi includes lots of prep work for their food, a packed day of orders, and clean up. But, more than just hard work goes into their food.
“My husband makes all the teriyaki sauce and the yum yum sauce from our own homemade recipe. So that’s a big labor of love that takes about two to three hours per sauce,” said Alysa.
The Wheeling community has shown both the Astana’s and their food truck nothing but love.
They have shared their son’s story from the very beginning and have been open about how that could impact their schedule.
“I couldn’t imagine us having our food truck anywhere else … this is where our home is, where our heart is,” said Alysa.
Right next door to De Adi Hibachi is the Two Flamingos, serving up signature protein bites and some amazing drinks.
Two Flamingos is owned and operated by Jamie Vigil. Her truck came to be with the help of her career path.
“Since 2017, I have worked as a personal trainer, and a significant aspect of my job involved helping clients with their nutrition,” said Jamie.
She helped not only with macronutrient needs but meal planning. While preparing these meals, she got the chance to experiment with different recipes.
“I developed what became our signature ‘protein bites,’ which are now a popular item at Two Flamingos,” said Jamie.
Day-to-day operations for Jamie are a hands-on experience. The mornings start by checking stock and prepping and preparing food items.
“From coordinating with suppliers, to setting up our setting area, to greeting customers and taking orders, it’s a fast paced environment that keeps me on my toes,” said Jamie.
She spends a good portion of her day cooking food items as they run low. Everything she offers is housemade (except for a few syrups), so the process tends to be time-consuming.
The Wheeling community has treated Jamie and her truck wonderfully.
“I often share with others that we are fortunate to have the best people supporting our business, coming by regardless of the weather,” said Jamie.
Since the start of her business, many have encouraged others to stop by the truck or just spread the word.
“Serving food in this area truly feels like being part of a family,” said Jamie.
Although the truck’s relationship with other food trucks in Wheeling is still new, their neighbors at De Adi Hibachi have been nothing but kind!
“As we continue to grow, I anticipate that our network within the local food truck community will also expand,” said Jamie.
Across the street, by Saint Michael’s, is The Gringos Tacos.
Owned by Josh Broverman, his truck got its start when he was looking for a new business venture.
“I’m deeply passionate about Mexican food, and I was looking for a new business to get into after I sold a previous business I had owned,” said Josh.
The Gringos Tacos serves elevated Mexican cuisine.
A typical day running the food truck looks a little different for Josh, as he works more as an owner.
“I mostly focus on making sure my staff have everything they need to be successful,” said Josh.
How has the local community supported The Gringos Tacos? Easy.
“They buy food,” said Josh.
The best parts of running a food truck for Josh are getting the chance to go to local festivals and events, as well as serving people.
As for the community of food trucks in Wheeling, the culture is very strong.
“We’re all friends and we all support each other,” said Josh.
The Wheeling community has created an open and welcoming environment for food trucks–especially The TrifecTruck.
If you’re ever in the Woodsdale area and looking for some good hibachi, a great coffee or protein snack, or some amazing tacos, make sure to check out The TrifecTruck!
Make sure to stay up to date with De Adi Hibachi, Two Flamingos, and The Gringos Tacos by checking out their Facebook pages for hours and more!
