Open AccessFood Trucks Driving Gentrification in Austin, Texas
Author(s) -
Petra Lütke,
Robert Lemon
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
border crossing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2046-4444
pISSN - 2046-4436
DOI - 10.33182/bc.v11i1.1427
Subject(s) - gentrification , truck , neighbourhood (mathematics) , capital (architecture) , sociology , economic geography , geography , economic growth , economics , engineering , archaeology , mathematics , aerospace engineering , mathematical analysis
The text explores the implicit relationship between food practices and gentrification processes in a neoliberal city. Based on Bourdieu’s capital types, the text explores the ways in which one’s personal taste in food and urban space can lead to the transformation of whole neighbourhoods. In particular, it looks at the role food trucks played in the ways in which an East Austin neighbourhood gentrified from 2012-2020. The research finds that food trucks turn fallow lots into bustling urban spaces and places. Such convivial and vibrant urban settings attract the creative class and drive up property values. We argue that culinary practices, and food trucks in particular, are critical vehicles of the gentrification process.