Smiley's Soup and Sandwiches in Iowa: Meet the Chef
We sat down with Nick Fitzgerald of Smiley's Soup and Sandwiches in Iowa. Smiley's Soup and Sandwiches offers a comforting and delicious menu and friendly service. Their commitment to quality ingredients and classic flavors makes it a local favorite for satisfying, hearty meals.
Smiley's Soup and Sandwiches in Iowa: Meet the Chef
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
Most days start with a stop at my local wholesaler, or loading the smokers if I'm not prepping the food truck for that day's service. I like to end my day with nothing left on my to-do list.
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
We haven't attempted to compete as of yet. I won a few awards as a top salesman in my previous career but I gave that up to pursue something I'm more passionate about.
Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
Favorite celebrity chef? Maybe Gordon Ramsey for the entertainment, I enjoy his no excuses/no BS attitude. Locally, my friend Tito Francisco who owns Poimen Bosko, his native Filipino cuisine and fusions are full of flavors I've never tasted anywhere else.
Smiley's Soup and Sandwiches in Iowa: Meet the Chef
My advice is to pay attention to every detail. Make sure each ingredient and method has a purpose that contributes to the ideal version of whatever you're making.
What do you typically cook at home?
At home I like to fire up the grill. Steaks, burgers, chicken, chops, anything. Nothing beats grilling outside on a beautiful day with my kids playing in the backyard.
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
I don't know if I follow a lot of trends. It's cool seeing some of the nostalgic snacks coming back to the market. I'm a sucker for a spicy chicken sandwich, those seem to be trendy lately. In general I love how the public is more and more aware and knowledgeable of what they eat and that people look more for kitchens that prioritize using fresh high quality ingredients.
What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?
Hmmmm... I had turtle once, breaded, seasoned and fried crispy. Very chewy though, it was like a 6 oz. chicken gizzard.
What drink do you enjoy most?
I'm not much of a drinker, Coors light or maybe a long island iced tea. Usually I'm sipping on a diet mountain dew or chugging water to stay hydrated in the summer heat on the food truck.
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
Once had a band manager and the event organizer who booked me for the concert order 20 meals for the band and crew backstage. Said they'd be right back with a check/card but I couldn't ever find them after that, just totally ghosted me. I won't say which band, I don't think they had anything to do with skipping the bill.
What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?
@smileysiowa on Facebook and Instagram.
Smiley's Soup and Sandwiches in Iowa: Meet the Chef
Why should readers visit Smiley's Soup and Sandwiches in Iowa?
Visit us at Newbo City Market in Cedar Rapids, Iowa or on the food truck for one of the best cheesesteaks you'll ever have, superb brisket, and tons more. In business 5 years with a 100% 5 star review rate, at Smiley's everyone leaves happy!