Retired at 52, Randy Wolken, a former stock broker and seasoned restaurant industry pro, needed a hobby. His roots in restaurants had him yearning to get back into the industry and so he began researching restaurant franchise opportunities, mainly delis, to open in Dallas.
After almost two years of research, Randy chose Gandolfos New York Deli, a true New York-style deli that offers a variety of homemade deli salads, premium meats, freshly baked breads and, of course, sandwiches.
“It was a pretty simple choice actually. I used to live and work in New York and always loved that style of sandwich. I happened to run across Gandolfos and after just one taste my mind was made up. One bite brought me back to my time in New York and I knew there was nothing like it in Dallas.” He bought the master franchise for the region and got to work!
Instead of starting with a sticks and bricks establishment, Randy made a strategic decision to set up his first venture in food truck form. “Operating a food truck allows us to test different locations and markets. We can set up shop almost anywhere and see which locations do best at different times of day. This will help us eventually decide on locations for our permanent restaurants,” Randy explained. “A food truck is also a fun way to start building the Gandolfo’s brand in the area before opening a physical store.”
I got a taste of Gandolfo’s last week and can recommend their food wholeheartedly. I had the Brooklyn Bridge sub, which features turkey, bacon, provolone, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on a hero roll. The bread was super fresh (as were all the ingredients) and the sandwich had the perfect proportion of filling to bread. A solid quick-lunch choice!
And I can’t wait to try out their breakfast menu soon!
Gandolfo’s Food Truck will be in Lower Oak Lawn tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. to serve breakfast and will stay through lunch until 2:00 pm. You can find them at 1616 Hi Line Drive, at the intersection of Hi Line Drive and Slocum Street.
Gandolfo’s plans to make the Dallas Design District their regular Wednesday destination so put it on your calendar!
Gandolfo’s New York Deli
Intersection of Slocum & Hi Line Drive, just across from Decorative Center Dallas
1616 Hi Line Drive
Dallas, TX 75207
See more: Food Trucks, Gandolfos
