Plántate Café

Burbank, CA

https://www.plantatecafe.la/

Plántate Café is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Burbank. This vegan coffee sanctuary, set amidst a verdant garden, celebrates authentic Mexican flavors, sustainable practices, and the spirit of diversity. Owned with pride by women of color, Plántate Café embodies a commitment to community, environment, and exquisite taste.

24k

WATT-HOURS

12k/24k

WATTS/PEAK WATTS

33,570

ANNUAL CO2 EMISSIONS SAVED

$30,822

5-Year Savings

$61,644

10-year Savings

OWNER(S)

Nadia Marina

YEAR FOUNDED

2023

WHY DID YOU START A FOOD TRUCK?

I started my coffee trailer because it was an affordable way to expand my business from a fold out table pop up to a full cafe. I already had an offer from a local plant store to share their garden space and create an outdoor cafe so it felt like it was the most natural fit given the nature of the space.

WHAT'S ON YOUR FOOD TRUCK MENU? WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS CUISINE?

I offer a variety of espresso and cold brew drinks that can be paired with specialty syrups that I make myself. I also offer homemade agua frescas, traditional Mexican drinks, and Cafe de Olla, traditional Mexican coffee. I offer an assortment of teas from a local provider and have a rotation pastry menu featuring local bakers. All of my pastries are vegan and all my cookies are vegan and gluten-free.

WHAT'S THE BEST PART OF BEING A FOOD TRUCK OPERATOR?

The best part of being a food truck owner is the creativity and risks you can take with your menu without worrying too much about it affecting your bottom line. You can adjust and pivot on a small scale and the customer will always be excited about being a part of your creative process by taste testing and giving feedback.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH JOULE CASE AND YOUR NEW BATTERY SYSTEM?

Using Joule Case has been the best experience. They were always happy to take my calls and were proactive about checking in with me, always empathizing on the nightmare that can sometimes be the start up process given the complications of SBA loans and permits. When it came time for installation they were there every step of the way. The ease of use is incredible and having one less thing to worry about is such a relief. I couldn't be happier!

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR TRUCK/MENU?

My menu is completely Mexican inspired and the flavor profiles are reflected in every drink we serve. I make everything from scratch with the intention of educating our community on our culture through taste. With the intention of being a safe and inclusive space, I decided to keep my menu vegan and offer a variety of gluten free cookies. I also wanted to pay it forward by giving local cottage bakers an opportunity to sell their pastries through my business.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ANOTHER FOOD TRUCK OWNER/OPERATOR?

My advice to other food truck owners and operators is to include your customers and audience in the development of the menu. Creating a connection and giving them a chance to be a part of it gives them a sense of ownership and loyalty. They will get to know you and better understand the brand. The more we understand each other, the more we love each other.

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE TO USE JOULE CASE AND A BATTERY SYSTEM TO POWER YOUR OPERATION?

I knew I wanted to use a battery system over a gas generator because running a loud and stinky gas guzzler felt in conflict with the paradise that is our garden, where my trailer was going to be parked. I chose Joule Case ultimately because of their customer service. I don't understand electricity or wattage or amps or any of that and I was feeling incredibly overwhelmed until I talked to the team. They guided me through what I needed to get started given my budget and gave me confidence that I could scale up and add on as I went. It was so comforting to know that they would have my back if I ever needed it.