It is 7 am and I am cruising down Strickland Cct in Deakin, looking for a food truck. The GPS directs me to turn left, but a glance to the right reveals a flash of ‘Canva’ green’ and a glowing neon sign that declares: ‘Streat Toast’. Found it!
Workers have already gathered around, waiting for their breakfast orders, coffees and more are striding across the street.
Streat Toast is set up on a grassy section off the curb. Under the shade of spreading branches overhead, several cushion-topped crates invite customers to linger. A large all-day menu leans against the truck, advertising toasted wrap and burger options.
Owner Hakan Demir hails from Sydney and only moved to Canberra a few years ago.
After high school, he opened his first cafe, loved it and never looked back. Hakan has owned several successful cafes in both Sydney and Canberra, one of them being the very popular Milk Crate in Civic.
“I sold Milk Crate because I was looking for my next venture,” Hakan says.
“When I watched the movie Chef – which is now my favourite movie! – that’s where I first got the idea and concept for a food truck. I absolutely loved the idea! The toasties idea came when I saw a toastie stand over in Milan. I combined the two ideas, which quickly became the cool food truck that people know as Streat Toast. Our vibe is chill, simple and tasty.”
The menu reads like a quick voyage around the Mediterranean, exotic ingredients spicing up classic cafe staples. Although I am a carnivore, the vegetarian options make my mouth water just reading their descriptions. The grilled halloumi burger paired with fried egg and fresh salad; the Mediterranean toastie full of marinated vegetables, pesto and truffled mayo; and the Smashy, Streat Toast’s take on smashed avo, which includes whipped Persian feta. Yes, please!
“I’m Turkish, so you’ll definitely find the Turkish influence in the menu as well as the classic toasties,” Hakan says.
“Along with great tasting coffee, anyone can find something when they come down to see us. If you want to try something you might not usually find elsewhere, I recommend the Istanbul. Or, if you’re hungry, try a Cheeseburger and chips.”
I begin with a latte, and it is a great cup of coffee – smooth and rich. My breakfast is a Turco Burrito. Soft fried flatbread generously stuffed with Turkish-spiced lamb mince, egg and cheese. You can’t see the egg; rather, its addition brings a delicate, almost pillowy texture to the savoury mince. It is delicious and hits the spot.
What is the spelling of Streat Toast about? Hakan’s spelling of ‘streat’ is deliberate, a nod to all the treats on offer within! Streat Toast proudly supports local small business. You will find delectable baked goodies from @edible_favours and @homesliceco and fresh juices from @emmaandtoms.
One of the best things about Streat Toast is that there are three of them. But Hakan’s not done yet.
“We have another three trucks popping up very soon around Canberra, so keep your eye out!”
The three current food trucks are located at Deakin on Strickland Cres, Hume on Sawmill Cct and Darling St at Barton.
They are open and serving food Monday to Friday from 6:45 am until 2 pm.
“If you need that afternoon pick me up, we are still serving coffee until 2:30 pm – rain, hail or shine!” Hakan says.
Follow Streat Toast on Facebook and Instagram to learn where their new locations pop up.
Original Article published by Michelle Taylor on The RiotACT.