People are sometimes hesitant to get into the food business because of the long hours and hectic lifestyle that comes with managing and operating it. But isn’t this contrary to why one decides to be self-employed in the first place, which is to have more time for other important things in life? Well this is exactly why young chef Nikos Mantis started Pine Tree catering and the Local Motion food truck in Thunder Bay, Ontario simultaneously with planning to start a family.

Chef Nikos operates the truck daily and also does events and catering. “I wanted more flexibility in managing my time as well as less stress.”

Nikos shares how Used Vending helped in purchasing the truck. “It took quite a process on my end on finding a truck. I did have an idea in mind on what I wanted with regards to equipment and lay-out, as well as price range. So I followed Used Vending for probably three months, before I finally found the truck that was in line with what I was looking for. I got it from Florida and drove it across the US to Ontario.”

They were even personally visited by Eat St. host James Cunningham.

Local Motion was the first food truck in the area so getting licensed and permitted took a couple of months since this was new to both Nikos and the city. Though there are certain restrictions in operating near restaurants and schools, Local Motion have still been able to find good spots to operate in. Through this they have been able to create new dining spaces in the area.

Nikos takes pride in sourcing his products and ingredients locally while infusing the Northern flavor to the world’s best food traditions. Since the caterings tagline is “You dream it…we’ll cater it”, they have a wide range and selection of food choices (see it here). They are also able to do special catering events, such as weddings at remote locations because of the truck. “We can make our food fresh on-site and after the sit down meal we could come up with a late-night food truck menu once the people start drinking and dancing”.

Local Motion has adopted certain items from the Pine Tree menu and gave it a food truck twist, like a Berkshire pork burger, confit duck & chicken spring roll, smoked ham grilled cheese sandwich, and even a veggie burger.

The truck has also recently launched an app for mobile users and this has helped them tremendously. Aside from getting instant feedback from customers, they are also able to reach those in offices that have restrictions in accessing social media.

Rhubarb BBQ Berkshire Burger

“Before deciding this business is for you, do your homework and do your research. It may seem an easy business to run, but it definitely is a labor of love. If you’re not willing to put in long hours and lots of commitment, it may not be worth it. But if this is something you love to do, it’s the best job in the world.”

Check out pinecatering.com and locomotion-eats.com. Or follow them @Localmotioneats or facebook.com/pinetreecatering.