The city of Port Orange is set to unveil an innovative food truck court, poised to transform the local dining and entertainment scene. Located just south of Riverwalk Park and Tiki Docks restaurant, this dynamic culinary hub promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with diverse food options, live music, and community engagement. Spearheaded by Bristol Development Group, this interim project could become a permanent fixture, enhancing the area's appeal as a family-friendly destination.

Discover the Future of Dining and Entertainment in Port Orange

A Strategic Location for Community Engagement

Nestled on the northwest corner of Herbert Street and Halifax Drive, the new food truck court is strategically positioned to draw visitors from all over. This prime location offers easy access and stunning views of the river, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists. The facility will feature a half-dozen food trucks, each offering unique culinary experiences, complemented by live music performances on weekends. Patrons can enjoy outdoor seating, a covered stage, and modern public restrooms. Additionally, Beach Bros Coffee, a local favorite, will serve not only coffee but also beer and wine, adding to the diverse offerings.Beach Bros Coffee, founded by Brian Shleifer and Paul Hartley in January 2024, has quickly become a beloved part of the community. Originally debuting as a pop-up outdoor cafe at Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach, Beach Bros has now found a permanent home in Port Orange. Operating out of a historic 3,120-square-foot building built in 1973, Beach Bros brings a rich history and a fresh perspective to the food truck court. This establishment serves as a testament to the revitalization of underutilized spaces and the power of local entrepreneurship.

A Culinary Extravaganza Awaits

The food truck court is expected to open its doors either at the end of February or early March, bringing a variety of delectable options to the table. Michael Benedict, president of Benedict Advertising in Daytona Beach, is leading the charge in overseeing the creation of this exciting new venue. Benedict’s involvement extends beyond advertising; he is also a partner in ParkerStark, which will operate four of the six food trucks.These four trucks—Chicken Spit, La Pinsa, Spagato, and MoPho—are set to be regular fixtures at the food truck court. Chicken Spit specializes in rotisserie chicken dishes crafted by Chef Jason Goodenough, while La Pinsa offers Roman-style pizza. Spagato introduces gelato frozen desserts in spaghetti form, a delightful twist on traditional treats. MoPho, helmed by multiple James Beard Award-nominated chef Michael Gulotta, serves up French/Vietnamese/Cajun fusion cuisine. Local food truck operators have already expressed interest in participating, ensuring a rotating lineup of culinary delights.

The Genesis of a Community Hub

The concept for the food truck court originated when Tim Burman, Port Orange Community Development Director, approached Benedict about collaborating with Bristol Development Group. The goal was to create a temporary solution that would provide the community with dining and entertainment options along the Halifax River. Benedict, a seasoned entrepreneur known for revitalizing Port Orange’s Down Under area, saw the potential in this project. His commitment to opening new ventures has been instrumental in transforming underutilized spaces into thriving community hubs.Bristol Development Group plans to develop a mixed-use complex called Riveryard on the 13-acre property. This ambitious project includes two riverfront restaurants, four retail buildings, luxury apartments, and a parking garage. Construction is slated to begin in late 2026 or early 2027, starting from the south end of the property. During this period, the food truck court will continue to operate, ensuring uninterrupted enjoyment for the community.

Vision for a Family-Friendly Destination

Mayor Scott Stiltner envisions the food truck court as a key component in creating more family-friendly destinations along the river. Riverwalk Park and Tiki Docks restaurant have already proven to be popular gathering spots, and the addition of the food truck court will further enhance the area’s appeal. Stiltner, once skeptical of food trucks, has come to appreciate their role in fostering community engagement. He believes that these venues offer a unique blend of culinary innovation and social interaction, making them indispensable assets to any city.In conclusion, the new food truck court in Port Orange represents a significant step towards revitalizing the community. By combining diverse food options, live entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere, this project promises to become a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike. As Bristol Development Group moves forward with its long-term plans, the food truck court stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of urban spaces.