BY JESSICA STEELEY
Clarkston News Staff Writer

A new food truck series has started up in Clarkston and the next is Thursday, Aug. 31, 5- 8 p.m.
“There’ll be different vendors every week, some of them will be the same,” said event sponsor Tara Hansen at the Aug. 16 rally. “We’re hoping to have around six trucks going forward. Tonight’s just three because it’s our first one.”
Hansen wanted to bring a food truck event to Clarkston after seeing their prominence in other Metro-Detroit cities. She hopes to have around six trucks every week, always including a vegetarian option and a dessert truck.
Last week’s sweet treats option was brought by Suzanne Wilson, owner of Motor City Pops. Residents enjoyed her all natural, gourmet ice pops in seasonal flavors.
“Most of our pops are dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free, a healthy option for a dessert” Wilson explained.
It was the first food truck rally Wilson has served at. Her company is also found at farmers markets, special events and catered parties.
One food option was The Philzone, which owners Abby and Phil Fabi described as a restaurant on the road.
Their specialty is a Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich with a menu reminiscent of city street food. They also include a vegetarian option with their quinoa and kale wrap.
Squeals on Wheels was the other entrée option, specializing in signature smoked meats.
Marketing Manager Ryan Pendleton said the food truck is an extension on Concho Pearl, a new restaurant set to open up in Oxford in mid-September.
“This food truck gives people a taste of the restaurant,” he said.
Hansen wants to grow the food truck series into a mainstay here in Clarkston, hopefully starting earlier in the season next year.
Through September, the event is Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 5- 8 p.m. in the parking lot plaza across from Depot Park. Stop by and see what new food trucks there are to choose from.