Fabio Diu, festivals and market manager for Real Food Festivals in London, worked closely with the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority to bring 10 food trucks to the capital. He tells The National that while it was not easy to accomplish, it was worth the impetus it will give to street food locally.
What do food trucks and street food offer a city?
The street food movement is about great food of a quality that you would expect to find in a restaurant. Unburdened by the massive overheads of running a restaurant, street food traders can offer the same food but at excellent value for money. Also street food brings people together in a way that restaurants don’t.
What did it take to bring 10 trucks from the UK to Abu Dhabi’s Street Feast?
We shipped 10 of the best food trucks from the UK, which does feel a bit crazy. The traders we brought are extremely good at what they do. They all make delicious food and many have been real trailblazers in the UK.
Why is it important for trucks from the UK to come to a food festival in Abu Dhabi?
We are thrilled to showcase the best of British street food. It’s great to fly the flag for the fantastic things happening around food in thes UK today and demonstrate this internationally. Who knows, Abu Dhabi could also be an opportunity to explore a potential new market.
What is it about street food that people love?
It’s a fun and economic way to enjoy food made with passion. We have seen that people value and appreciate food a lot in this country. Hopefully we can help create more buzz around street food that helps foster the street-food scene here.
