One of Toronto’s favourite Italian spots just bought a funky food truck

Chef Craig Harding and executive chef Julian D’ippolito, the duo behind Trinity Bellwood’s California-inspired Italian spot, La Palma, is reimagining the dining experience for the community, launching a food truck that will take their signature cuisine on the road.

The airy Italian eatery known for its daytime café and sleek evening dining experience is now offering private catering on wheels. Think weddings, backyard parties, corporate events and public festivals – with the option of choose from three different menu styles like canape, family style, and plated seated dinners. 

 

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The idea came to the team during lockdown, after they did a takeover of the Cheese Boutique food truck. 

“We had so much fun with it and felt inspired to pursue that goal ourselves. Our team is able to get creative and have a new challenge while still working for La Palma which we are already super passionate about,” says Chef Harding.

As with La Palma’s brick-and-mortar, the food available focuses on local, seasonal ingredients ranging from small plates to entrees and desserts. You can even score a bite-size version of La Palma’s signature dish, the Insta-famous 100-layer lasagna.

You can get a tinier version of the 100-layer lasagna at La Palma’s new food truck.

Once you select the food package that suits your special occasion best, the catering and events team will help you mix and match menu offerings to create the perfect custom food truck experience for you and your guests. 

Diehard La Palma fans will also have the opportunity to try out new menu items as the food truck is a collaborative project between La Palma, Constantine and Mercatto

“All three brands are going to have the opportunity to translate their own unique menus to the Food Truck and showcase the talents of their respective culinary teams,” says Bailey Singer, Director of Special Events & Experiences for Mercatto, La Palma and Constantine.

La Palma’s fig pizza.

The food truck venture is just another way the team is working on reinventing the event experience at La Palma. 

“One of the positive things that came out of the pandemic was the opportunities restaurants provided to people looking to bring restaurant quality items into their personal and professional spheres. For example, we now offer gift baskets, meal kits, cooking classes, catering, chef dinners and a food truck all year round,” Bailey adds.

For Craig and his team, a commitment to quality, community and happiness has always guided the dining experience. This food truck is just another way to bring this experience to the community beyond its restaurant walls.