How it works
How a build works, start to keys
You are spending a lot of money with a shop you found online. The least we can do is tell you exactly what happens, in what order, and where you get a say.
- Custom food trucks & trailers
- Restaurant & kitchen build-outs
- Permit & design guidance
- Financing help
- Built in Chicago · clients nationwide
- 1
Consult
You tell us what you want to sell, where you want to sell it and what you are starting from — a truck you own, nothing yet, or somewhere in between. We ask a lot of questions at this stage on purpose. This is also when to raise financing, because it changes the shape of everything downstream.
- 2
Design & quote
We work out the equipment schedule and the layout around your menu, and check it against what your jurisdiction expects. Then you get a written quote for that build. No published price list, no ballpark that quietly moves — a quote for the unit we just designed with you.
- 3
Build
Fabrication and outfitting in the Chicago shop: framing and subfloor, the cooking line and its ventilation, water and waste, electrical, interior finishes, service window and exterior wrap. If you are local, come and see it on the floor — we would rather you did.
- 4
Permits & inspection
The unit is built to the health and fire standard from stage two onward, so this stage is about readiness rather than rescue: making sure what was drawn is what is installed, and that you know what your inspector will be looking at.
- 5
Delivery
You take the unit. Local clients collect from the shop; out-of-state clients get a delivery arrangement worked out during the quote, so it is settled long before the build is finished.
Note: Turnaround times are not published here because they depend on the spec, the equipment lead times and your jurisdiction. You will get a timeline with your written quote.
And then?
A mobile kitchen is a working vehicle and a working kitchen at the same time, which means it wears in two directions at once. If something needs attention after delivery, call us — we would rather hear about it than read about it.
If the unit works and the business grows, the second build is a much shorter conversation than the first.
Process questions
How long does a build take?
It depends on the spec, on equipment lead times and on what your jurisdiction requires. We will give you a timeline with your written quote rather than a number on a web page that would be wrong half the time.
Can I visit while it's being built?
If you are in or near Chicago, yes, and we recommend it. Seeing your unit on the floor is worth more than any amount of reassurance from us.
What do you need from me to start?
Your concept or menu, where you intend to operate, what you are starting from, and your timeline. All four are on the quote form.
Do I pay everything up front?
No. Payment structure is set out in the written quote and agreed before any work begins. If anything in it is unclear, ask before you sign — that is what it is for.
Start here
Tell us what you want to build
Send over your concept, your timeline and where you're located. We'll come back to you with questions, a layout direction and a written quote — no price guessing, no pressure.