Pizza Truck and Hot Dog Cart Take to the Streets

Savannah Durocher and Max Durocher prepare to make pizzas at their food truck set up next to Lean Rocket Lab. JTV photo.

(April 18, 2020 12:45 PM) Tiki Sam’s Pizza and The Junkyard Dog are two food vendors taking advantage of this afternoon’s sunshine in Downtown Jackson.

Observing protocols to keep customers and employees safe, both businesses have adapted to keep operating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tiki Sam’s Pizza owner Sam Durocher typically makes pizza at community events, weddings and private parties.  Without large gatherings this spring, Durocher decided to open as a pop-up, securing a location at the former Finley’s restaurant.  Because of flooding at the site as a result of utility work, Durocher relocated today to a downtown parking lot.  On Thursday, the first day of operation, he completely sold out within two hours.  Friday, Durocher was “snowed out” and today, he completely sold out via online-only ordering in the first seven minutes.

Tiki Sam’s Pizza was offering online ordering and payment so customers only needed to pull up and get their order.  Disappointed Tiki Sam’s Pizza fans can look forward to future dates of operation.  Durocher said to keep an eye out on his website, tikisamspizza.com for upcoming dates and locations.

Junkyard Dog owners Mike and Amy Carrigan have been operating their Junkyard Dog Hot Dog Cart on Fridays over the past few weeks.  Today, the Carrigans decided to operate the cart and will likely be doing it more often with nicer weather.  The cart is stationed in front of their restaurant at 128 West Michigan Avenue.  The restaurant has remained open for take-out only and operates regular hours.  Mike Carrigan said today the cart will be serving until 5 PM.  Junkyard Dog’s hours and menu here.