THOMASTON — Town officials and community members gathered on Tuesday, June 10 to celebrate the ribbon cutting for YOIKI Japanese Express, a new food truck offering Japanese cuisine at 218 New County Road in Thomaston. The location, formerly home to Plants Unlimited’s Big Tree Lot, is now a destination for fresh hibachi, sushi, and boba tea.

YOIKI Japanese Express is owned and operated by Chef Rei Nugraha, who brings years of culinary experience to the business. After completing culinary school and working as a sous chef and hibachi chef, Nugraha opened a successful Japanese express operation in the Bangor area before deciding to launch a food truck in Thomaston. His brother Yoshi Yustofa, also an experienced chef, serves as  Nugraha’s business partner, and friend Ang Setiawan contributes his food preparation expertise to the team.

"The food truck has already drawn rave reviews on social media, with standout menu items including filet mignon and chicken hibachi, chicken bento boxes, crunchy crab rolls, and brown sugar boba," said the Town of Thomaston, in a news release. "Chef Rei takes pride in using fresh ingredients and house-made sauces to create each dish."

The team chose Thomaston after visiting and finding a welcoming community and an opportunity to offer something new to local diners.

In addition to the main truck, the team plans to open a second trailer on site in the coming months. The new venture, PAK PHO, will feature a variety of authentic Japanese ramen and noodle dishes.

Tuesday’s ribbon cutting was attended by Town Manager Kara George, Selectboard Chair Chris Rector, Selectboard Members Bill Hahn and Sandy Moore, Economic and Community Development Committee Member Alan Blake, and Community and Economic Development Coordinator Kendray Rodriguez.

For hours and menu updates, call (207) 354-4979 or search for YOIKI Japanese Express on Facebook.