Today we’d like to introduce you to Natasha Salas.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Natasha. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
With a passion for cooking and a love for serving others, I was always fascinated by food trucks and thought it would be amazing to have one. The idea of being able to work my own hours, cook delicious food, and serve the amazing people in my city is what fueled my dream. I learned to cook from my Mom and my grandmother. The first thing my grandma Helen taught me was to make was salsa. I have fond memories of making tamales with my GREAT grandmother Rico and all my family. Cooking food has always been a happy memory for me.
You can find us feeding someone who is hungry with no money often… We feel privileged to do so. Sometimes after being at the hospital all day people come out hungry no money and need another little bite to eat to be able to take medication that was prescribed to them.
Growing up, my Dad was creative in the kitchen, we always had a themed night. Meatloaf, Fish sticks, sloppy Joe’s, spaghetti, baked cornish Hens, Dad always liked dinner to be fun!
A fun foundation for SERVING came from my Dad having a snow cone truck when I was in early elementary school. I LOVED working on the truck! Seeing people smile when I handed them a snow come was pure JOY.
An idea of owning a food truck became reality, Sept 2012.
I looked at a food truck that was listed for sale in 2011 and thought, yeah right… just a dream. Then in 2012, when I financially COULD purchase one, I went back to see if it was still for sale… it was! The couple who had ran it shut down because it was too much work for them.
So I bought it, and the adventure began!
Our first serving was at Unity park off Lancaster here in Fort Worth. We served the homeless and hungry. It was exactly what I ever dreamed of.
We then connected to our County Hospital and served late-night underground to the staff. I have a heart for the Hospital employees as my Mom worked in the ER, her sister is an L&D nurse, and my Mom’s baby sister is a Physician, and was an intern on a budget at one time here at JPS.
I love serving the people that serve my city.
So for the past six years, we have served Hospitals, Schools, Churches, Bars, Music events… Leon Bridges was and still is a favorite customer of ours. We’ve been in Rap videos, served at Strip Clubs, local Benefits, small humble homes in the Northside,.5 million-dollar mansions, and pretty much everything in between
We currently serve late night at local hospitals and annual events. Private parties are a common request, weddings baby showers and birthdays.
We have won Best food truck three years in a row, voted by the people of this City, Fort Worth Magazine.
We also won Best Food Truck 2017 with Star Telegram and City Favorite 2018.
We’re going to keep on trucking as long as we can.
My son David is my Sous chef and right-hand partner. My husband David makes sure the truck is cleaned and.ready for the next run. Elizabeth Ruiz is my other right hand. Funky Town Food Truck would not be possible without them!!
After a bad accident April 2019, my hand detached from my arm, I’m hoping to regain full use of my dominant hand…I’m still in recovery for it.
My Mom and Dad have both passed away… Screw Cancer! I know they are looking down and would be very proud. I think of both of them everytime I run the truck.
I do what I do unto God. I thank HIM for every opportunity.
Can you please talk to us a bit about some of the challenges with the business?
Weather can be an issue. Finding food help was an issue. Finding the right spot to serve…
What else should our readers know?
Family owned and operated. We only serve in Fort Worth are two things I’m proud of.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
It’s been good for me… Kept me young.
Pricing:
- Private Tacos party $500
- School and Church we donate 10% back
- Non profit discount
Contact Info:
- Phone: 8175003957
Image Credit:
@foodtrucker817, @funkytowntash, The food truck was painted by Jo Dufo an outstanding local artist
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