The dining scene at Yardville’s Dover Park Plaza has enjoyed a welcome revitalization in the last couple of years.
First came the grand opening of Yogi’s Diner at the end of 2019. Then in August, long-time Chinese food favorite Sun Lok Garden reopened after several months of renovation.
The latest shot in the arm involves a young chef who grew up in Yardville, went away to culinary school, then returned home to start up his own food truck business, called Mama Dude’s, in 2016.
On Dec. 3, that chef — Steinert High grad Andrew Dudich — opened a bricks-and-mortar restaurant with the same name, serving up dishes that will remind his loyal followers of the meals they have enjoyed from his truck.
With the restaurant, Dudich is introducing an intriguing, seasonal, build-your-own-bowl concept that marries his kitchen skills with a commitment to sourcing ingredients and products locally whenever possible.
Fans who have come to look forward to seeing the Mama Dude’s truck at the West Windsor and Bordentown farmers markets need not despair. Though the truck is in the garage for the winter, Dudich has every intention of turning up regularly at the markets in the spring.
But now that he’s opened a storefront, Dudich will be able to offer his dishes all winter long — pandemic or no pandemic. And he’s excited to utilize his skills in a kitchen of his own, and win over a whole new legion of fans right there in his hometown.
When Dudich was a culinary arts student at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, he often imagined that he would find a job in a Los Angeles or New York City restaurant upon graduation.
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SEE WHAT PEOPLE THINK
"Mama Dude’s is the healthy restaurant Yardville has been missing!! Everything from the food to the service and cleanliness is 10/10. This is a must try spot! You WON'T disappointed! Owner is local and is a fantastic chef!"
- Robert Y.
“Great for on the go, corporate lunches, or a tasty treat to bring to a friend. Can’t wait to come back for another bowl with “The Sauce!””
“Great brand new spot with create your own rice or greens bowls. I had Thai beef with jasmine rice and a couple toppings, all very fresh and delicious. Everything is in front of you to pick and it all looks great. I’ll definitely be back, its a perfect spot to grab dinner on the way home when you’re not going to cook. Inexpensive and very good, infinitely better and healthier choice than fast food.”
“Ordered tonight for the second time this week. Absolutely delicious!!”
