This is: Mambo Food Truck
Chef Ozzy is the mastermind behind the Mambo Sandwich Co. Food Truck. With over 20 years of experience, he specializes in big flavors; he brings his Cuban seasoning to every plate he makes!
10 Questions with Chef Ozzy, owner of MAMBO! Sandwich Co. Food Truck.
1. Tell us about your background.
Ozzy: I’m Cuban American, went to Johnson and Wales university for culinary arts. Have worked for Marriott, Seminole casinos and currently owned and operate my own catering company as well as MAMBO! Sandwich Co. food trailer.
2. What led you to the food industry?
O: I originally wanted to be a commercial pilot, but my eye sight was not good enough to peruse that dream. Food has always interested me. How it grows, how it’s prepared, how it makes people feel. So I knew it was for me.
3. What made you want to go independent?
O: The work life balance was extremely challenging and unfair to my family while working in the corporate world. The food trailer allows me to do what I love while being fair and making time for those I love, my family.
4. Why a food truck over a restaurant?
O: Unfortunately at this point in the history of our country and the world. Restaurants are struggling. With the food trailer we are able to bring service right to you. Safely and with quality in product and service.
5. What is the thing you like to cook the most?
O: I’ve always loved Cuban sandwiches. They have to be authentic and done absolutely perfectly. I’ve yet to find that. So the trailer started as just a Cuban sandwich trailer and has grown from there!
6. What is you favorite thing to eat?
O: I love flavor. That’s why our slogan is tiny trailer big flavor. As along as it is fresh and full of great flavor and made with passion. It’s my favorite
7. What do you love about SWFL?
O: I love the people of SWFL. Always friendly and looking for a great time
8. How are you creating a sense of community in SWFL?
O: I always give my all and offer my best to everyone. This includes those that visit MAMBO!, my fellow food truckers and anyone else I interact with. Networking is the best tool to great business and life long friendships
9. Which is your favorite venue to work?
O: The ones where people are excited for great food and good fun! I’ve yet to setup anywhere that I haven’t been greeting with great hungry smiles.
10. Any advise for young entrepreneurs wanting to open a food truck?
O: No short cuts! Be kind and respectful and do your homework. Always have a support system. If you take care of your guests and those that work with or around you, blessing and prosperity will always come.
You can listen to the full interview below. Follow us on our Gulfshore Local The Podcast on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts from.
Video taken by the very talented Jesi Cason.
