Aiko’s Food Truck in Montana: Meet the Chef

Jul 27

We sat down with Executive Chef Katie Webber of Aiko’s Food Truck in Montana. Aiko’s isn’t just a food truck—it’s a close-knit team that feels like family. They are passionate about what they do and enjoy connecting with new faces even more. Having served people from around the globe, every interaction brings a unique joy to their day. Here, you’ll experience delicious food alongside the genuine spirit of Missoula’s vibrant local community. Arrive hungry and leave satisfied!

Aiko’s Food Truck in Montana: Meet the Chef

Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?

I’m usually up between 5 and 5:30AM—coffee in hand, heading out the door for a run or hitting the gym. Starting my day with movement keeps me grounded and energized, especially in a job that demands so much from the body and mind. Most kitchen folks will understand the chaos of working in the food industry—long hours, high stress, and the constant hustle—so carving out that time for myself in the morning is non-negotiable.

By the end of the day, I’m brushing my teeth and face-planting into bed. If I have any energy left in the tank, my husband and I will wind down with an episode of our latest favorite—Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman. But honestly, during the work week, it’s a blur of early mornings and late nights with not much room for anything else!

Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?

I do! Back in college, I competed in a few culinary competitions and took 1st place at an ACF event in Bellingham, Washington. I also placed 2nd at the ACF Regionals in Chicago in the Student Chef of the Year competition. More recently, I was incredibly honored (and surprised!) to be voted Best Chef of Missoula for 2025. That one still hasn’t fully sunk in.

Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?

I’ve always been fascinated by Grant Achatz. The creativity in his cooking is mesmerizing— especially his work with gastronomy. It’s not the kind of food I’m drawn to making myself, but I love watching it come to life.

As for advice... I still hesitate to even call myself a “chef,” but if I had to say something, it’s this: you really have to love it. Not the idea of it, but the day-to-day, gritty, hard work of being in a kitchen. It’s not always glamorous—there are highs and lows—but if you truly love it, that passion will carry you through. Having a team that supports you in the kitchen is also a major factor. You can move mountains when you’ve got a crew that has your back through thick and thin.

What do you typically cook at home?

Lately, I’ve been on a Korean BBQ kick—with a Japanese twist (though let’s be honest, “JBBQ” doesn’t quite roll off the tongue). In the summer, it’s perfect—grilled meat, refreshing sides, and minimal dishes. In the colder months, I’m all about Japanese curry or a cozy pot of shabu shabu. It’s comfort food that feels like home.

What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?

I wouldn’t call it a trend necessarily, but pork belly has had a hold on me lately. That fatty, melt- in-your-mouth richness? Nothing beats it—especially grilled and served over rice. It’s simple, satisfying, and ridiculously good. We actually just rolled out a candied pork belly special served with our Japanese potato patties and gravy. It’s basically our version of biscuits and gravy, but we call it “Potatoes and Gravy”—and let me tell you, it’s comfort food on a whole new level.

What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?

We once made a strawberry matcha glaze for a donut special and, in a moment of questionable decision-making, tried it on our fried chicken. The result? Horrifying. 10/10 do not recommend. But hey, you don’t know until you try!

What drink do you enjoy most?

Tough one! If we’re talking alcohol, a Japanese Lemon Sour is my go-to—especially with fried food. It’s a match made in heaven and honestly, a little life-changing. Non-alcoholic? I’m fully bonded to my morning coffee. Can’t function without it.

Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?

Hank Green! He lives here in Missoula and drops by once in a while. Super kind guy and always really chill. As far as I know, he’s the only celeb who’s tried our food—but hey, there’s still time!

What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?

You can find me at @aikosmt for all things food truck and @katiewebber_ for more behind-the-scenes life and chaos.

Why should readers visit Aiko’s Food Truck in Montana?

At Aiko’s, we’re more than just a food truck—we’re a tight-knit team that feels like family. We love what we do and love meeting new people even more. We’ve served folks from all over the world, and every conversation adds a little something special to our day. You’ll get delicious food and a true taste of Missoula’s amazing local community. Come hungry and leave happy!

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