By Dylan Bailey
Food trucks have been steadily gaining popularity for their unique offerings and the convenience they bring. First Coast Crepes & Coffee is one such mobile eatery based in Nassau County, that has been making waves with its delectable selection of crepes. Owned and operated by a local veteran, Christopher Ballard, it’s one of those gems that you stumble upon and can’t help but keep coming back to.
In an area where brick-and-mortar restaurants are abundant, the sight of a food truck always piques my curiosity. And the concept of a food truck specializing in crepes is indeed a novel one. The truck’s name, First Coast Crepes & Coffee, was what initially lured me in.
Christopher Ballard, a Marine veteran, is the mastermind behind the operation. His passion for crepes was ignited by The Patio, which was known for its own offering of crepes. When The Patio changed owners and went in a new direction, Ballard decided to step in and fill the void.
The menu at First Coast Crepes & Coffee is limited, but that doesn’t mean it lacks variety. With a selection of eight dishes, divided between sweet and savory, there’s something here for every palate. The truck also offers beverages including soda, water, and coffee, although the clear focus here is on the crepes.
Speaking of crepes, here’s what I ordered. For my savory selection, I chose the Moulin Rouge ($14), a blend of blackened turkey, Monterey cheese, mushrooms, tomatoes, and sweet basil. The crepe was nice and light and housed a generous serving of ingredients. Each bite was filled with flavor–the seasoned turkey being a standout component. The spicy undertones make it a must-try for those who enjoy a bit of kick.
For my sweet course, I went with the Nutella crepe and added sliced bananas ($10). The crepe was satisfying, with the sweetness of the Nutella beautifully complemented by the creaminess of the bananas. And the sweetness level was just right, making it a perfect dessert option.
Since coffee is part of the truck’s name, I decided to give it a shot. The iced coffee with sweetened almond milk ($4) was smooth and palatable and complemented the sweet crepe very well. Definitely good, but the crepes are what will keep calling me back.
What made the overall experience even more enjoyable was the warm and friendly service. Ballard’s hospitable nature and love for his craft shine through in his interactions with customers. The swift preparation of the food is another plus, especially if you’re stopping here before work.
First Coast Crepes & Coffee offers a unique and enjoyable experience. The crepes, both savory and sweet, are excellent, and the service is top-notch. The truck may be a bit hard to find at times, but the search is well worth it. So, whether you catch Chris outside of Driftwood Surf Shop or Wildlight, be sure to snag one of his tasty crepes!
First Coast Crepes & Coffee
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I tried the crepes. They were great and esp the breakfast crepe. Service and attitude both beyond excellent