pickleball community , and many people recognize that they play their best when they fuel their bodies well .
Having options that are light and easy to digest is key for players , should they need to munch between matches .
Suggestions and favorites included :
• Real fruit smoothies and protein shakes
• Fresh fruit , especially bananas and melon
• Acai bowls
• Rice bowls like poke , or Asian fusion
• Various sandwiches and salads
• Hearty dips like guacamole and hummus
• Vegan and vegetarian options
• Gluten-free foods for those with sensitivities
• Drinks with electrolytes
Breakfast for all
An early start time means players ( and their supporters ) scoot to the tournament before sunrise . This makes planning for breakfast tricky , and a food truck is a welcomed sight for early-bird arrivals .
Many players hope to see :
• Coffee and tea
• Lighter options like granola , yogurt , fruit , and oatmeal
• High-carb , grab-and-go options like muffins and pastries
• Hot breakfast sandwiches
Fun , fun , fun !
You may be surprised to learn that most dietitians believe in enjoying fun foods in moderation . Having delicious food available after a long ( or , ahem , short ) day of play can make the tournament special .
These are some player suggestions :
• Cheeseburgers
• Pizza
• Ice cream
• Tacos and burritos
• Local cuisine unique to the area
• Ethnic favorites
• BBQ
• Corn dogs and hot dogs
• Specialty macaroni and cheese
• Beer and other alcoholic drinks
Are food trucks safe ?
Food safety is always a legitimate concern , and many people often worry about mobile restaurants . Food trucks are required by law to have the same licensure and impromptu health department inspections as any other restaurant , and tournament organizers should check records before hiring a vendor .
If you don ’ t see a license or recent inspection grade posted on the truck , you can always ask the vendor directly . Other things to watch for are appropriate food temperatures ( hot foods should be hot when served , not lukewarm ), and general cleanliness of the truck and staff .
Why don ’ t we see more food trucks ?
I spoke with a food truck owner who explained some of the barriers vendors experience . In addition to typical restaurant challenges , mobile eateries must :
• Find adequate power supply at the venue to meet their trucks ’ needs .
• Obtain an expensive county license wherever they sell food , which may limit where they go .
• Get permission from each city to park at the location , and hope the parking spot is visible and has foot traffic .
• Remind directors to announce the trucks ’ schedule so players can make time to stop by .
In other words , showing up and providing food isn ’ t easy or cheap . If we want to see our favorite trucks at more tournaments , it ’ s up to us to give them the business needed to keep them coming back . In addition , give your tournament organizers kudos when you love the vendors they chose . See you in the coffee line , pickleball friends ! •
Brandi Givens has been a registered dietitian since 2010 . Questions or comments can be posted to her blog at
brandigivensrd . com .
MARCH / APRIL 2022 | MAGAZINE 85