Ted Bergstrom’s B Concessions and Tommy’s Tacos were serving food during the lunch hour. The lot officially opened May 1. Friday was the first day the two businesses were open for the season.

Tom Johnson of Tommy’s Tacos said a was a great first day. “You can’t beat this weather,” he said.

There was a brief rain shower that occurred earlier in the day, but by the lunch rush conditions were perfect for those who wanted to eat outside.

Johnson was also fortunate because his opening day was Cinco De Mayo and many people were excited about Mexican food. He said the loaded nachos were the most popular item on his first day back.

food trucks are parked in the North Broadway parking lot.

Johnson said tries to bring his truck to the lot at least once a week. His truck usually travels within an hour’s drive of New Ulm. This is the second year Tommy’s Tacos has rented space in the 326. N. Broadway lot. He intends to visit the lot more often this year.

Johnson believed food trucks are increasing in popularity. The trucks offer a variety for customers. The brick and motor restaurants are always available, but his taco truck is a special occasion.

Ted Bergstrom of B Concession said business Friday was great. His most popular item was the Philly sandwich, but many came for the popcorn as well.

Bergstrom said the secret was to switch up the food and keep the menu fresh. If the menu never changes, people will get bored.

Bergstrom was the first food vendor to operate on the lot. In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bergstrom started renting space on the corner. He said with all the traditional outdoor events being canceled, he needed an alternative place to sell food. Now, he continues to rent the lot because it’s close to home, cutting down on travel. He too, plans to use the lot more often this season.

The lot at 326 N. Broadway is owned by New Ulm’s Economic Development Authority (EDA). In 2023, the EDA began renting space in the lot for food vendors. The decision proved very popular.

Downtown visitors routinely flock to the lot during the lunch hour. The line was always several customers deep.

Ann Seifert waited in line at Bergstrom for a Philly sandwich during her lunch break. She’s a fan of Bergstrom’s Concession and tried to support him whenever his stand was open.

There were fans of both vendors. Kelly Dalton stopped at Bergstrom’s for the caramel kettle corn, then got in line at Tommy’s Tacos for the loaded nachos.

Tommy’s Tacos and Bergstrom Concessions lease lot space monthly through October. Currently, only two food vendors have rented space for the season. The lot is large enough to accommodate four food trucks a season.