Decades before food trucks became a serious trend on Mainland, USA, the creative culinary enterprises were a common sight all through St. Thomas. 

To this day, everything from local favorites such as beef and salt fish pâté to classic barbecue ribs and chicken is readily available for pick-up at strategically-positioned, kitchen-fitted vehicles around the island. But one particularly intriguing truck stands in a category all its own — PlantTastic. 

Aptly named, the PlantTastic food truck rolled up by the water’s edge at Gregerie Channel behind Frenchtown in the summer of 2020. It began offering plant-based alternative menu options — a fresh angle on typical truck fare. Despite being situated off the beaten path, PlantTastic instantly took a tasty slice of the spotlight.

PlantTastic was established by Alex Treml. Many islanders got to know the seasoned chef/ entrepreneur when he owned Alexander’s in Frenchtown. His landmark eatery operated from 1981 to 2005. After selling the namesake restaurant, Alex maintained a catering service in the territory while traveling regularly between St. Thomas and Austria — his native land.

Two years ago, inspired by his newfound appreciation for healthier eating and coupled with the desire to spend more quality time in the tropics, he created PlantTastic.

Just recently, the Coconut Post discovered the brightly-colored food truck is under new management and now specializes in poke bowls.