Lunch Wagons: The Business of Mobile Food

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In the 1890s, night lunch wagons became popular in cities nationwide. These horse-drawn “restaurants on wheels” offered simple, affordable food after regular restaurants closed for the night.

Lunch Wagon, the "Way-Side Inn," 1890-1915

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Street Scenes, Lunch Cart on New Street, 1890-1915

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Owl Night Lunch Wagon Used by Henry Ford, circa 1890 - 1

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Lunch Wagon by the Railroad Depot, Fitchburg, Massachusetts, circa 1916

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Business Card for J. M. Colquhoun, Central Night Lunch Wagon, Detroit, Michigan, 1901-1927

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