We’ve been hard at work getting the waffle wagon ready for service — and it’s been a lot more involved than we expected. Progress is steady, though, and every step brings us closer to flipping our first waffle for you.
Generator and installation Power was our first big purchase: a Westinghouse 12,500 ECO Gen from Amazon. It’s a heavy-duty unit with excellent reviews and cost $1,079. We also picked up a cover, locks, and filled it with five gallons of gas ($20). Big thanks to a friend who spent time showing me how to operate it — that hands-on help made all the difference.
To keep the generator secure and safely mounted, we hired HDZ Mobile Welding and Fab (Gustavo Hernandez — (256) 616-5751, Se habla español). Gustavo did an excellent job securing the unit to the front of the trailer; very professional work. Cost: $500.
Paperwork and inspections The regulatory side has taken some time. We filled out additional applications for both the Commissary Kitchen Inspection and the Food Trailer Inspection, then delivered the documents to ADPH along with a $100 fee. Our inspection is scheduled for April 22, 2026. If you’re doing this yourself, allow extra time for paperwork and scheduling — it’s not quick, but it’s necessary.
Food manager certification ADPH requires an ANAB-CFP accredited food manager course. I completed the course through AAA Trainers Inc. and attached the certificate to the application. The course was time-intensive, so plan accordingly. Cost: $119.95.
Equipment and final touches We’ve purchased all the mandatory items for the trailer interior: soap, towels, a “wash your hands” sign, thermometers, pH strips, bleach, and other essentials. We also ordered an exterior sign listing the commissary/commercial kitchen address and phone number, plus steps and a license plate holder. Cost $225)
What’s next This process is taking longer than expected, but every completed task feels like progress. Once inspections are passed and the last checks are done, we’ll be ready to open — and we can’t wait to share waffles with you. Stay tuned for opening details and more behind-the-scenes updates.