Australia’s food truck boom has taken the country by storm in recent years – transforming how people eat, celebrate and gather.

What was once a novelty option is now a thriving part of the dining landscape, bringing authentic global flavours straight to local events, festivals and gatherings.

Gone are the days when choices were limited to fairy floss, soft serve or a greasy pie. Today, food trucks offer everything from smoky Southern BBQ and Hong Kong-style dumplings to fresh Mediterranean feasts – all served curbside.

A Step Ahead

Among the early pioneers of this fast-moving industry is Nick Khouri, the driving force behind Shorty’s Food Truck, a Sydney-based business now operating a fleet of three trucks.

Nick’s background in hospitality meant he understood the ingredients needed for success from day one. Five years on, Shorty’s has carved out a reputation for quality and consistency, catering to events of all sizes across the city.

For Nick, standing out wasn’t just about great food – it was about creating a polished, professional experience that customers could rely on.

Taking It to the Streets

To support his expanding menu and customer base, Nick recently added an Isuzu NQR 87-190 LWB AMT to his fleet – one of the standouts from Isuzu’s light-duty truck range.

“First and foremost, the truck needed to match the size of the body we wanted on it, so that played a key part in selecting the model of truck we ultimately went with.

“We talked to Matt McKenna from Suttons Isuzu in Arncliffe, and he came up with the perfect truck for our needs,” Nick enthused.

Although the truck is still relatively new, Nick says he’s not taking chances with servicing.

“Given the nature of the business, the truck is obviously vital. It’s the livelihood of the business, so when it’s due for a service, I’m definitely taking it back to Suttons.

“Suttons have been fantastic. The guys down in Arncliffe are great. Anything I needed, they are there for me. Right up to this day they’re still in contact regularly.”

Heavy Lifter

With a custom-built body and full commercial kitchen, Shorty’s NQR tips the scales at roughly 6,000 kilograms before being stocked – making payload capacity a critical consideration.

Thankfully, the Isuzu NQR 87-190 is engineered to handle the job with ease. With a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of 8,700 kg, there’s ample room to carry food, equipment and supplies.

The model is powered by Isuzu’s dependable four-cylinder 4HK1-TCC turbo-diesel, generating 140 kW (190PS) @ 2,600 rpm and torque of 513 Nm between 1,600 – 2,600 rpm.

Paired with Isuzu’s MZZ-6F automated manual transmission, the truck offers smooth operation in Sydney’s stop-start traffic, while also helping keep fuel use efficient on longer runs.

Crafted to Order

The body fit-out was delivered by GSA Fabrication in Sydney’s west, who worked closely with Nick to perfect the layout.

“We went backwards and forwards for about two months until we got it just right for the job at hand. Probably about 30 different sketches, and then we finally got there,” he added.

“Everything is a custom fabrication. Custom fridges, custom benches, storage everything.

The truck houses fryers, cooktops, stainless steel benches and all the kit needed to serve at full capacity on the move.

“We’ve got a big generator in there that feeds off the fuel tank to supply electrical power, ensuring we’re completely self-sufficient, regardless of the location,” Nick added.

Safe and Sound

Like all new Isuzu models, the NQR comes standard with Isuzu’s Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and a full suite of active and passive safety features.

Nick added a Genuine Isuzu bulbar and reverse camera for extra protection.

“We’re constantly on the move from job to job, so safety is very important to us,” said Nick.

“The truck’s out every week and we have different staff operating it, so we have to keep them safe. The safety features of the Isuzu were a big plus for us,” he added.

“It makes all the noises and lets you know if you’re doing something wrong,” Nick laughed. “But seriously, it’s a nice, safe truck.”

Behind the Wheel

Nick has been impressed with how the Isuzu performs across different conditions.

“I like way it drives, the brakes - the comfort and drivability - it’s a great truck,” he says.

“The furthest I’ve been in this one is up to Newcastle and it was terrific on the highway.

“It’s fantastic in the traffic, everywhere really,” he said.

“Later in the year we’ll be taking it interstate, and I’m confident it’ll be fine with that longer range trip.”

Inside, the driver’s suspension seat makes longer trips easier, while the bench seat provides space for two additional crew members when needed.

Comfort and Connectivity

With a 10.1-inch HD touchscreen offering AM/FM/DAB+ radio, smartphone integration and air conditioning, the truck keeps both driver and passengers connected and comfortable.

“It’s a very comfortable truck on the longer trips,” says Nick.

And the business is already looking to expand further.

“I actually spoke to Matt at Suttons recently.

“It’s early days, but we will be definitely getting another Isuzu from Matt and the team at Arncliffe Isuzu in the not-too-distant future,” he concluded.


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