West Chester Favorites: The Food Trucks

Photo by William Lamm

Serving up gyros, pizza and connection : get to know WCU’s favorite food trucks

For years now, food trucks have been lining up on Church Street to serve West Chester students delicious food and a taste of culture ranging from Mediterranean to Thai. Although some food trucks did not return post-pandemic, new additions have sprouted, offering variety to the campus. And one thing remains the same: students can’t get enough of them!  

I interviewed workers at Greek Express and Sabatino’s, two food trucks that have been working with West Chester University for over a decade. I couldn’t help but wonder not only what made them choose to work with West Chester out of all the nearby schools, but also what made them return to campus after the pandemic. 

“I like working here because of the students! Engaging one-on-one with them is the greatest moment of the day for me,” Edward, a worker at Greek Express, said with a smile.

Greek Express, a family-owned business, has been on campus since 2012. I asked Edward, who works at Greek Express, what he likes most about working at West Chester.

Sabatino, who owns the Sabatino’s food truck, shared similar feelings.“It’s very close to my house, but really, this is a great university with great kids too!” He remarked. 

The Sabatino’s food truck has been at the university for 12 years and plans to stay for many more. They offer a wide range of Italian cuisine, and when asked what he would recommend, Sabatino grinned and exclaimed, “Everything on the menu! It’s all delicious.” A student picking up their order couldn’t help but agree with him, adding that he gets lunch at Sabatino’s every day.  

Sabatino shared that he owns a restaurant on 1316 West Chester Pike and another chain on 901 Boot Road. When asked what he believes sets his food truck apart as a favorite amongst West Chester University students, he replied, “The food is incredible; everyone says it’s the best food in West Chester!” 

Sabatino states that although he cannot pinpoint specific dishes that the majority of students favor, most students usually order from the breakfast side of the menu.

On the other hand, Edward believes it’s the student connection that sets Greek Express apart as a favorite among West Chester students. “We’re on [a] first name basis with a lot of students because having a good relationship with the students is important to Greek Express. A lot of them love coming here to engage with us.” 

When you spend your days around college students, it’s likely hard not to have their influence rub off on you. I asked him how the students have influenced their menu choices or inspired new dishes. Edward explained they’re always open to feedback and recommendations on how to best serve the student community.  

I asked third-year West Chester student Audrey what she liked about Greek Express, and she stated that they had delicious breakfast choices, which she highly recommends. While Edward agrees most students favor breakfast options or rice platters, he highly recommends the chicken gyros. 

“My grandmother makes them!” he exclaimed, pointing to his waving grandmother. “So, of course, it’s the best thing on the menu. Very delicious!” 

Two West Chester students who had ordered from both food trucks expressed their elation for them and the great additions they bring to campus, but felt as though West Chester needed more. They shared ideas about adding a fruit truck or one that offers halal options. 

Third-year West Chester student Winston agreed, saying, “They are a good staple in the community, and they get a lot of attention among students. But I do think we need a larger variety of food trucks. Like perhaps an African food truck!”  

All in all, I believe there’s a beautiful and heartwarming pattern among all of these replies. The West Chester community doesn’t love and appreciate the food trucks solely for the delicious blends they serve, but also because of the personal connections they have formed with the community over time. These food trucks are more than just restaurants on wheels, and West Chester students are more than just customers. Through every friendly conversation with Edward and Sabatino and every bite of a delicious meal made with care, we as a community sow the seeds of enduring friendships and nurture a bond of togetherness.   

Perpetual Kahindo is a third-year Political Science major. PK973548@wcupa.edu.