Nationwide, food trucks have increased in popularity and are considered a vibrant part of many culinary scenes. The unique fare and atmosphere offered with food trucks attract a loyal and growing base of patrons. Those within the local community who appreciate this mobile dining experience will enjoy the latest addition: Steak N Bake.
Steak N Bake was recently launched by Whitestown residents Lucas and Elizabeth Copeland. Their business operates out of a mobile food unit that features a 6-foot Santa Maria grill. Steak N Bake uses a live-fire cooking technique to prepare the food offerings, which include rib eye steaks, brats and tri-tips.
Lucas says that he runs his business the “hard way.” The manner in which he purchases his ingredients and prepares his food requires intentionality and forethought. The result is what he calls a “unique culinary experience that produces the best steaks in the Midwest.”
“Steak N Bake is unlike any other mobile eats business out there,” adds Elizabeth. “We bring a forgotten cooking technique, using live fire, that allows us to provide our community with an unforgettable taste and experience. You can watch us as we cook our food right there.”
Along with their unique cooking methods, the Copelands say their commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients contributes to their ability to serve high-quality entrées. The pair aims to purchase everything local with the hopes of supporting other community businesses. Currently, Steak N Bake uses Saint Adrian Meats & Sausage in Lebanon to provide their local, fresh products.
Along with meat dishes, guests can order sides that include sautéed mushrooms, onions and fire-roasted potatoes.
Steak N Bake offers catering services too and hopes to bolster that portion of their business in the coming months. Guests can also place orders online and bring dishes home for dinner.
The Copelands are fairly new to Boone County, but their family already feels like a part of the community.
“We fell in love with the area,” says Lucas. “We feel like we fit in here, and we can envision ourselves being here for a long time.”
Lucas is a native Hoosier and a retired Army veteran. He served as a combat engineer in the Army and completed a 12-month tour in Afghanistan from 2011 to 2012. Elizabeth is a clinical nurse and educator. The couple has three children who range in age from 8 to less than a year old.
“Being a family business is one of the most important things about Steak N Bake,” says Elizabeth. “We are trying to teach our children that with hard work, lots of dedication and a positive attitude, that they can accomplish anything. It’s important that they see mom and dad working together to build their dream.”
To schedule a visit to Steak N Bake, check their website at steaknbake.shop for their location and event schedule. During the months of November and December, a portion of their proceeds are helping local toy drives and holiday meals.
