Miller’s Dutch Kitch’n property transformed into an events venue and food truck park
The former Miller’s Dutch Kitch’n property now has a new owner and a new life.
Kourosh Attari, who has owned several local Shell fuel stations, bought the 2.46-acre property at 3401 14th St. W. in January 2022 for $1.945 million.
During its 36-year run, Miller’s was known for its all-you-can-eat buffet and for its fresh-baked pies, selling tens of thousands annually. Miller’s busiest time was Thanksgiving, when 3,500 pies were typically sold.
The 17,594-square-foot building along 14th Street West, which served as Miller’s Dutch Kitch’n from 1981 until its shuttering in 2017, is now an events venue: Gala Banquet and Events.
And the back side of the property has been set aside for the El Patio food truck park.
“Each one of them has outstanding food,” Attari said of the food trucks.
Among the trucks parked at El Patio this week were Miss Empanadas, Tropi Coco (coconut smoothies, coconut water and whole coconuts), Botalon Grill (hamburgers, barbecue and more) and Opita Burgers.
Attari says he has room for a couple more food trucks, but he doesn’t want the park to get too big.
In addition to Miss Empanadas’ food truck, the brand also has a brick-and-mortar restaurant in the Sarasota Commons shopping center, 935 N. Beneva Road, Suite 613.
Attari anticipates soon beginning to franchise Miss Empanadas.
“Miss Empanadas is really growing its business and has super-tasty food,” Attari said.
Among those who came for lunch at Miss Empanadas this week were Nolbin Alnarenga, who ordered the beef and beans lunch, and Felix Fong, who ordered empanadas.
Both were returning customers.
“The empanadas are very good,” Fong said.
Empanadas, turnovers filled with savory or sweet ingredients, originated in Spain and Portugal and are found throughout Latin America. They are growing in popularity in the United States as well.
The El Patio Miss Empanadas is open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day.
The other food trucks at El Patio are open 3 p.m. to midnight Wednesday through Sunday, and are closed Monday and Tuesday, Attari said.
This story was originally published October 6, 2023 at 5:50 AM.
