It’s the early 1980s, and Rutgers University students everywhere are rejoicing. Why, you might ask, is this particular group of college kids so excited? Well, local food trucks have just solved their two biggest problems — food and money — with the creation of the Fat Sandwich.
This deliciously deep-fried, gut-busting masterpiece brought together mozzarella sticks, chicken fingers, French fries, and marinara sauce on one roll for the low, low price of one sandwich. Yay, more money for acid-washed jeans and Members Only jackets!
Fast-forward three decades, and the Grease Trucks, now made famous by the Fat Sandwich, are a storied Rutgers tradition. They’re also a newly endangered species. In 2013, Rutgers rolled out plans to construct a school building in the lot that the Grease Trucks had called home and, so, it was time to move to the streets. This new phase of food truck culture at the school brought in enterprising trucks hoping to create a name for themselves among the students. But, with trucks scattered throughout the five campuses, it just wasn’t the same.
Now, the heyday of the food truck seems to be passing by, as the only original truck left at Rutgers, RU Hungry?, looks forward to a brick-and-mortar reincarnation to be housed in the building that now stands on the lot the truck called home for so many years. Still, owner Ayman Elnaggar says you can expect to see the RU Hungry? truck at key events, such as home football games. “I’m never done with the truck,” he said. “It’s an iconic truck. We will definitely be there for events.”
Time’s running out, so here are the four must-visit food trucks to check out … while they’re still around!
The Original Grease Truck: RU Hungry?
Location: 159 College Ave. Open 7 days a week, 7 a.m. – 2 a.m.
Why Should You Visit? If you’re looking for the traditional Grease Trucks experience, this is the place to go. As one of the original Grease trucks, RU Hungry? has been serving up Fat Sandwiches since the 1980s, has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Man v. Food — and was also named the No. 1 sandwich in America by Maxim. Beginning next summer, you can find RU Hungry? in their brand-new eatery on the corner of Hamilton St. and College Ave., where they’ll roll out a more extensive (and healthier) menu.
Must-Have Menu Item: The Fat Darrell. It’s the sandwich that started it all, and has chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, marinara sauce, and French fries, all piled on a roll.
More info: www.ruhungrynj.net or call 732-246-2177
The Healthy Option: Falafull
Location: Team Falafull is on the move! They can be found on Rutgers Campus Monday through Friday. Follow @FalaFullNYC on Twitter to track them down!
Why Should You Visit? Falafull has been a Rutgers Food Truck since the beginning of this year, and what a wonderful addition it is. Serving up a menu filled with homemade vegan and vegetarian options, Falafull is the place to get your fix of flavorful Mediterranean eats.
Must-Have Menu Item: Falafel Taco. It’s falafel in a soft taco shell, topped with cabbage salad and their signature, homemade Fiery Falafull Sauce (bottles of which are also available for purchase).
More Info: www.falafullnyc.com or call 917-728-2171
The Gourmet Option: Breaking Bread
Location: This a traveling truck! The best way to find Breaking Bread is to check their Twitter account @thebreadmobile.
Why Should You Visit? Breaking Bread is new to Rutgers this season, and brings a unique new flavor to the university. This truck offers health-minded comfort food that strives to combine different cultures in a single sandwich. It’s a taste bud rollercoaster — in the best way!
Must-Have Menu Item: The S.I.T.P. It’s basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, tomato, sweet roasted pepper, red onion, and topped with a unique gourmet mustard.
More info: www.thebreadmobile.com or call 864-663-3287
The Medieval Mascot: Knight Wagon
Location: The Knight Wagon can be found cruisin’ around Rutgers, as knights tend to do. Follow @KNIGHTWAGON on Twitter for daily location updates!
Why Should You Visit? Knight Wagon is the only campus food truck run by Rutgers University — meaning, students can use their meal plans to pay for their food. Serving up gourmet medieval-themed meals, this truck has some options you’ve probably never tried before, and the best way to remedy that is to get there. Now!
Must-Have Menu Item: The Twisted Gyro. It’s lamb with baby spinach & feta cheese.
More info: food.rutgers.edu
(Main image courtesy RU Hungry?)
