By Maddie Sievers
The University of Illinois campus has a vibrant and growing food truck scene, and among the most popular options is the Cracked truck. Founded by UIUC graduates in 2012, this all-day breakfast option has become a staple for students.
Credit: Cracked Truck
The two bright-yellow trucks decorated with breakfast food ingredients regularly park Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mathews & Springfield and on Goodwin & Oregon. A truck also parks on Saturdays during the Urbana Farmer’s Market from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Recently, however, Cracked announced an exciting new experience for its customers! In December 2016, the owners purchased a more permanent location than their two trucks: a storefront on Green Street! The former Antonio’s Pizza, a popular drunk-food option for students due its proximity to many campus bars, became the perfect opportunity for Cracked to expand its franchise. The Cracked truck is also known as a drunk-food favorite because of its late hours and ability to park very close to bars, especially Joe’s. The restaurant’s storefront makes it even more convenient for students to get their fix, as it’s just a few doors down from Brothers and open from 8 a.m. until 3 a.m. Monday through Saturday!
Credit: Yelp
The restaurant officially opened on March 27, 2017 after a complete interior remodel. The mix of bright yellow paint, natural wood and metal accents, and breakfast-themed wall art contribute to an overall look that perfectly complements the original Cracked trucks.
Whether you visit one of the trucks or the new restaurant, you can count on a delicious breakfast experience any time of day! You can also expect the same sunny aesthetic, clever menu item titles, and great service. While you can expect to find the same delicious tots, breakfast sandwiches, and wraps no matter where you dine, there are two slight menu differences between the trucks and the restaurant.
The “Underdog” is the only item exclusive to the food truck, and it is described on Cracked’s website as “a grilled, all-beef hot dog, topped w/ grilled onions & scrambled eggs.” Available only at the Green Street restaurant is the “Breakfast Bowl,” which includes “scrambled eggs, hash browns, shredded white cheddar cheese, two veggies & one spread.”
Readers, make sure to try both the restaurant and the food truck (if you haven’t already!) and decide which you like better!
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The Spread 