April 7, 2022

A traveling food stand that specializes in smoked meat sandwiches is expanding its presence this year.

Anthony Withers started selling his original FadeAways sandwiches midway through last year’s food truck season, appearing at bars and breweries, and catering private events.

This year, he’s planning to be out more, building the business toward a full-time career.

“The goal is to move into where I can own my own shop,” said Withers, who also works as an Amazon delivery driver.

Friday, he’ll be at PleasureLand RV Center at 4705 N. Northview Ave. from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and then at WoodGrain Brewing Co. at Ninth and Phillips from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

The name FadeAways represents “getting lost in your food,” he said.

His signature sandwiches are named after family members.

The Joker Taco uses the nickname of his aunt Jackie Joyner-Kersee – yes, the Olympic medal track and field athlete – that she had growing up. It’s smoked pulled pork on a grilled tortilla that’s topped with spicy coleslaw and barbecue sauce. Withers said she hasn’t gotten to try it yet.

The Hip Hog uses the nickname of his mom, Debra Joyner. It’s the same ingredients as the Joker but on a Hawaiian bun.

The Jo Bird is the nickname of his significant other, Heather Clause, and includes slow-cooked chicken, Velveeta cheese, special seasoning and pickles on a Hawaiian bun.

The Aujudkahn – named after a Street Fighter video game character – has slow-cooked roast beef, pepper jack cheese, onions and pickles on a English muffin-type bread with a side of au jus.

All sandwiches come with a bag of chips and a drink.

Sometimes, he makes a grilled peanut butter and jelly sandwich that’s coated with Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal.

“We’re working on having a rotating sandwich, a Cuban or Reuben, or whatever I’m feeling.”

Over the years, Withers, who grew up in Sioux Falls, has worked in call centers and as a server and bartender.

“I’ve always just loved to cook,” he said, but had no interest in working in someone else’s kitchen.

“I’d rather cook the things I want to cook.”

To start the season, he plans to be at Love That Look hair salon in Brandon every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Most Saturdays, he’ll be at the new 5 Star Cutz near 49th Street and Western Avenue from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

He has other dates set at businesses, bars and breweries, and is taking bookings for public and private events.

FadeAways keeps an updated schedule on its Facebook page.