In a city where late-night dining options are few and far between, a creative food truck is stepping up to fill the void, serving hungry customers after 9 PM. Enter 2nd Ave. Sandwich, a food truck stationed at Beechwood Lounge that has quickly become the go-to spot for Des Moines' restaurant staff looking for a unique bite after their shifts end.
Why It Matters: Des Moines’ late-night scene has long been dominated by the usual greasy fare, leaving those craving something different with limited choices. 2nd Ave. Sandwich is changing the game by offering an eclectic menu that resonates with industry professionals tired of their own kitchens. According to owner Matt Linford, restaurant workers often seek something fresh and innovative after clocking out, and his truck provides just that.
The State of Play: Linford's culinary approach is anything but ordinary. Instead of leaning into the typical late-night indulgences, he crafts dishes that range from playful takes on a "fancy" kids menu for adults to a classic yet refined Cuban sandwich. His offerings are designed to surprise and delight, catering to the sophisticated palates of his peers in the restaurant industry.
The Intrigue: 2nd Ave. Sandwich has garnered a loyal following among staff from nearby eateries such as Aposto, Oak Park, and Harbinger. These culinary professionals not only enjoy the food but also contribute valuable feedback. Linford welcomes their critiques, constantly refining his menu to keep it exciting and innovative. He also collaborates with other local businesses for desserts and beverages, featuring treats like Musa's Lemonade, Crème, and Pints by Beth, adding a community-driven element to his offerings.
How It Started: Linford’s journey into the culinary world began in high school when he needed extra credits to graduate. He enrolled in DMACC's Iowa Culinary Institute, splitting his time between school and hands-on training in Ankeny. What started as a way to earn credits quickly turned into a passion. Now 26, Linford has built a career in the kitchen, with experience at prestigious venues like the Embassy Club and RoCA, as well as hosting private dinners.
Zoom In: The idea for 2nd Ave. Sandwich was born out of the 2020 pandemic when Linford found himself with time on his hands. Determined to take a risk and make the most of his love for cooking, he decided to launch a food truck. His one rule? Keep it fun and entertaining. This philosophy has driven the success of 2nd Ave. Sandwich, which has become known for its dynamic, rotating menu that changes every two weeks. Linford often dreams up new dishes late at night, just before the truck opens for the week on Tuesday.
What They’re Saying: "I kind of operate on chaos a lot, and that's when I work best," Linford admits. His spontaneous approach to menu creation keeps things fresh, ensuring that there's always something new for customers to try.
What’s Next: As the seasons change, so does the food truck’s schedule. 2nd Ave. Sandwich closes for the winter with the first snowfall, but Linford stays busy during the off-season. He works as a restaurant consultant and continues to offer his culinary expertise through private dinners, always on the lookout for new clients who want a personalized dining experience.
If You Go: For those in Des Moines looking for a late-night culinary adventure, 2nd Ave. Sandwich food truck is open from 9 PM to 1 AM, Tuesday through Friday. Whether you're a restaurant worker craving something different or simply a night owl in search of great food, this truck offers a unique and memorable experience.