Taste of Chicago-2010CHICAGO, IL – Another incentive to get hungry residents to Taste of Chicago, the mayor’s office announced Friday food trucks will be included at this year’s festival.

Before and during evening concerts at the Petrillo Music Shell, attendees can purchase food from trucks parked just east of the lawn at the pavilion. The mayor’s office said food trucks will start serving an hour before each concert and serve for the duration of the show.

Trucks will serve three or four regular-size portions and two “taste” portions and will accept the same food and beverage tickets as other Taste booths.

“The food truck industry continues to build in strength and numbers, and my administration is committed to creating the conditions and opportunities that will allow this industry to thrive, create jobs and support a vibrant food culture across Chicago.” -Mayor Rahm Emanuel

Licensed food trucks owners will receive applications beginning next week to participate in the festival. There is no fee but trucks will be charged a 25 percent commission. The deadline is May 15. Applications also are available on the Taste website.

Tickets for Taste concerts go on sale in May. Seating is $25 per person, and lawn seating is free.

Emanuel also announced seven new food trucks will begin serving Chicago this summer, including the first cook-on-board trucks, Porkchop and Jerk Truck.

He also said the Food Network’s “Great Food Truck Race” will tape an episode in Chicago this June.

Find the original article by Lisa Balde and Michelle Relerford at nbcchicago.com <here>