Popular Food Truck The Rambler Bids Farewell After 12 Years

UPDATE: The beloved food truck, The Rambler, has officially rolled to a stop, concluding its final season on October 30, 2023. This iconic mobile kitchen, a staple in the Twin Ports for over 12 years, celebrated its legacy with a farewell event at The Tasting Room in Duluth.

Owner Jonathan Reznick described The Rambler as “his baby,” and it has served popular dishes like mahi mahi tacos and bacon-wrapped slaw dogs. The event marked the end of an era, as The Rambler has been a vital part of local culture, appearing at major venues like Bayfront Festival Park and corporate locations including Cirrus and various health care systems.

The decision to close the food truck stems from a desire to focus on Midcoast Catering, which now accounts for a staggering 70% of the business. The transition also reflects the growing saturation of food trucks in the area, as confirmed by Kelsey Auran, kitchen manager. “We feel as though it’s in good hands,” she stated, highlighting the vibrant evolution of the local food truck scene.

During the winter months, Midcoast Catering will shift its focus from weddings to private and public tasting events, including unique wine and beer pairings. Auran emphasized the excitement of customizing menus for events, stating, “Nothing is too silly or too goofy. We’re happy to make it happen.”

The Rambler’s impact on the community is undeniable. It has been a cornerstone for local gatherings and events, with Auran recalling her first major experience at a Trampled By Turtles concert, where the food truck was bustling with customers. “It was very hot and it was very tiring, but just being able to get through it, and looking back and being like, ‘We did that!’ It’s a great memory,” she reflected.

As for the future of The Rambler, the fate of the truck itself remains uncertain. The company is contemplating whether to sell it to an aspiring entrepreneur or retain it for future uses. Auran noted that the decision was influenced by the desire for a more manageable operation and the physical demands of running a food truck.

The community response has been overwhelmingly positive as locals express their gratitude for the years of delicious food and memorable experiences. The Rambler’s legacy will undoubtedly be felt throughout the Twin Ports, and as it bows out, the focus will now shift to how Midcoast Catering will continue to innovate and serve its loyal clientele.

As the food truck scene evolves in Duluth, The Rambler’s closure marks a significant moment in the area’s culinary history. Keep an eye on Midcoast Catering for upcoming events and new opportunities as they embrace this new chapter.