This is a very common question from hot dog vendors: what brand of condiments should I use on the hot dog cart?
Ketchup or Mustard or Mayo…
So you probably know there is always debate over whether ketchup should be allowed on a hot dog. Some people are in the “only mustard — never ketchup” camp, and others defend ketchup as a legitimate topping. I'm not getting into that here. 🙂
This goes beyond the ketchup or mustard debate. What I'm talking about is, which TYPE or BRAND of condiments should you offer on your hot dog cart or food truck. It doesn't matter whether you're selling hot dogs, sausages, hamburgers, breakfast muffins, or even PB&Js. Here's my advice.
Use the same kind of condiments on your food cart that people in your area prefer on their food! If you have a popular local brand of ketchup and mustard, you can go with that. If your region is known for special toppings, like a blend of condiments, get that. If you want to be known for a great variety, get 20 kinds of sauce! Yellow mustard, brown mustard, sriracha, barbecue, etc!
If you don't have anything that's special to your location, go with a good national brand. Heinz makes good stuff. Stick with good quality products. Hellman's, Gulden's, French's, Kraft, etc. Some warehouse stores sell multiple packs with ketchup, mustard, and relish. If that's a good deal for you, go for it.
What you should NOT do?
Do NOT find the absolute cheapest stuff and give it to your customers on your food. Why mess up a delicious, fresh, hot lunch, with some bargain condiment that doesn't add value and flavor to the meal? Don't do it. Use good stuff.
For more information, check out my answers to the Top 40 New Vendor Questions. If you have other questions, be sure to leave a comment or get in touch! I'm happy to help you find the information you need to be successful in your street food and catering business!
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