British Street Food Awards 2012

With their menu of Mexican classics, served from an Airstream trailer, Flaming Cactus were one of the first of the new breed. They understood that style was as important as substance. Which is why there’s a big fat “Mobile Caterer of the Year Award” stuck up where everybody can see it. “We understood that visual appeal could not only add to the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of host events,” says Roland Hewes, “but also act as a shining beacon for our delicious nutritious food. And it seems to work. A lot of customers are intrigued by the Airstream, get a bit closer, and then see what wonderful food we serve. Best of all, most of them end up buying.”

What is your signature dish?

The burrito.

Favourite street food memory.

Eating fresh fish from a stall on a river bank in Laos. Great food, people and atmosphere.

What’s the best street food you’ve had in this country?

The street food scene isn’t encouraged in this country. As a result, the impression is one of illegal hot dog stalls frying frozen sausages and onions late at night outside a tube station. But there is hope, that can be best illustrated by Borough Market where an amazing array of enthusiastic  stall holders can be found serving up great grub  to wide-eyed Londoners and tourists alike. Every town needs a Borough Market!

Are you all mates?

I have a close circle of friends through the festivals and there are surprisingly few Mexican stand-offs!

Which is better – street food or restaurant food?

For me, seeing it all being rustled up in front of you on the street can’t be beaten.

What’s unusual about your food cart?

It’s no ‘cart’.

How big is the kitchen area on board?

We have a shiny stainless steel prep marquee where all the cooking is done, fresh, at each event.

Any secret ingredients?

Yeah, but they’re secret.

Do you get pushed around by the authorities? Any examples?

On the whole the authorities are fine, and doing a great job. The one thing I would say is that it can be frustrating when they don’t always sing from the same hymn sheet, so interpret things differently.

How have things changed in the world of British street food since you started?

In the past six years the changes in festival food have been nothing short of revolutionary. The quality and choice has gone through the roof, and organisers are really realising that the food is a big part of the festival goer’s experience.