TWIS Asks: Croz's Surf Shack

There's not much about Croz's Surf Shack that isn't unique. From its solar panel roof that provides 40% of its power to its unusual dishes that center on gourmet hot dogs, the island-themed food truck certainly stands out.

We met up with owner and operator David Crosmer to talk about work ethic, living his dream and how in the world he comes up with his gourmet hot dog recipes.

How did Croz's Surf Shack come about?

I had moved to Sarasota for a job, and the company I was working for was bought out. I ended up only working for them one day a week. I'd always wanted to own a restaurant someday, and I thought I had to find a way to make my dream come true.

How did you get started?

I felt like I was always meant to own my own business. I bought the truck in 2013. I found a motor home that already fit the theme I wanted, and I decided to convert it into a trailer. I really wanted an island style, so I redid the graphics and interior and started perfecting my recipes. I first started setting up at Darwin Brewing Co., and I still set up there on days their food truck isn't there.

Your specialty is hot dogs. It's a bit unconventional. What kind of reactions do you typically get?

A lot of people are pretty surprised. They say, "You put that stuff on a hot dog?" I think a lot of people think I'm insane for putting Thai ingredients on a hot dog. But these days, people are excited to try new and different things. Most of the time, they're pleasantly surprised, and they tell me this is something they never would've thought to order.

Aside from your menu, what makes Croz's unique?

My grandpa told me, "You can always make a dollar, but that's never the most important thing." I believe that if you work hard, do the right thing and treat people right, you'll find success. When people come to my food truck, they get the full experience. Hospitality is key. When I see the look on someone's face when they realize that my recipes actually work, it's incredible. That's worth more than money to me.

What are some of your more unique menu items?

The most popular are the Croz Dawg and the Thai Dawg. The Croz Dawg has pineapple-infused mustard, mango chutney, coconut, cilantro and a peach sauce. The Thai Dawg has a coconut peanut sauce, pickled carrots, Sriracha, cilantro and crispy noodles. I also have sandwiches, tacos, bowls and other rotating specials.

What can people expect when they come to your food truck?

They can always expect that I'm going to bring something unique and a little bit crazy to the table — something they might not normally try. But every time I see someone's face light up, or they tell me how much they enjoyed it, it's an amazing feeling.

For truck locations and special events, follow Croz's Surf Shack on Facebook.