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Fancy the idea of a food truck but find it challenging to do so in Singapore? Then why not open a home-based business and sell hotdogs, nachos and drinks from your HDB living room window? That’s what 49-year-old Rafeek ended up doing in his ground floor unit at 834 Tampines Street 82.
Previously working as a director of events, Rafeek decided to resign and focus on his passion — operating a food truck-style concept. One of his favourite cuisines is Mexican, and since he often makes chilli con carne for his hotdogs when he’s hungry, he thought — why not share it with more people?
His wife, a full-time teacher, helps him out after work in the evenings and on weekends. Here’s a quick view of their operational hours:
- Mon to Thu — 6am – 2pm & 6pm – 9pm
- Fri — 6am – 11am & 6pm – 9pm
- Sat & Sun — 8am – 2pm & 6pm – 9pm
We were greeted by the cutest, quirkiest little setup — think 2 cosy sofas, a lone deck chair holding court, a couple of tables, and even a ‘grass’ carpet thrown in for extra vibes.
There are even 2 benches with a roadside view, located directly opposite St Hilda’s Secondary School and the Chapel of Christ the Redeemer. They make perfect waiting spots while Rafeek prepares your food — or simply a place to sit, eat, and watch the world go by.
When asked whether his neighbours were unhappy or minded his setup, he replied, ‘I’ve had nothing but love and support from all of them. They even supported me and bought my hotdogs!’ Awww — that’s the kind of sweet, heartwarming vibe I’d call true kampung spirit!
You can get the Classic HotDog (S$3) — a simple yet familiar combo of bun and chicken sausage, generously drizzled with chilli sauce and tangy American mustard. (Ignore the nacho chips, Mr Rafeek just tossed them in to make our photos ‘prettier’!)
Satisfy your coney dog cravings with the Chilli Beef & Cheese HotDog (S$7), an upgrade from the Classic Hotdog with chilli con carne (chilli beef), diced onions, sliced cheese and mushrooms.
My honest review? It tastes so much better than a certain fast food chain (ahem!). The spiced minced beef is perfectly-spiced with a satisfying crunch coming from the onions.
For something with more heft, give the Hotdog & Nachos Chilli Beef (S$11) a go. It features the Chilli Beef & Cheese HotDog, paired with nacho chips drenched in cheese sauce, barbeque sauce, and chilli.
Feeling parched? No need to run to the nearby kopitiam! Rafeek also sells beverages with hot or iced options like Black Coffee (S$3), Cappuccino (S$4), Latte (S$4), and Assorted Soft Drinks (S$2).
I wasn’t expecting the flavour of my S$4 Iced Latte to blow me away, but it did. The taste was well-balanced and not overly sweet — 2 thumbs up!
Head down to 834 Tampines Street 82 for a food truck experience — minus the wheels. Simply swing by and ring the bell, or WhatsApp the ever-friendly Rafeek at +65 8947 1204 to pre-order.
Rafeek’s future plan is to get involved in catering and corporate events, we wish him only the best!
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