Getting Started

What do you need to operate in a commercial kitchen?

• Business License
• Food manager or Food Handler’s Certification
• Insurance

1. Complete online Application or Contact us

2. We will establish a service plan based on your business needs

3. Receive and Review service agreement.

4.  Sign and submit along with a copy of food handlers, copy of insurance (naming Wonky Kitchen LLC as additional insured).

5. Once a member, you will receive an orientation on kitchen protocol.

6. Book tables and equipment thru our online reservation system

California law requires that at least one employee of a food business holds and maintains a Food Safety Manager’s Certification. Additionally, all individuals involved in food preparation, storage, or service must have a Food Handler’s Certification.

Food Handler’s Certifications can be obtained through local County Health Departments or various private education organizations. It is recommended to choose courses that are accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

The Alameda County Department of Environmental Health (ACDEH) offers a 6-hour, instructor-led course, followed by an accredited food safety certification examination that fulfills this requirement. For more information:

Alameda County Food Safety Course

ACDEH Registration 2024 English

ACDEH Registration 2023 Spanish

Additional list of course offerings:

Read More

Food business product liability insurance can be secured through a number of insurance brokers.
We have listed options offering competitive pricing.

Request Insurance provider add Wonky Kitchen LLC, DBA The Prep Station as additionally insured under policy.

Provide us with a copy of insurance

The Prep Station is an incubator for food start-ups. We can provide information and guidance on various steps to formation, development and operation of a food business. Here is a list of items that may be required to start your food business.

• Business License
• Employer Identification Number (EIN) for IRS identity
• Fire Permit
• Food Handler’s Permit
• General Liability Insurance
• Health Department Certification
• Motor Vehicle Insurance for your food truck
• Seller’s Permit
• Vehicle License
• Zoning & Parking Permits

Alameda County: Mobile Food Facility Info

Alameda County: MFF Guidelines (2013)

Alameda County: Part D Commissary Form

At The Prep Station, you join a community of Mobile food operators that can help you with information, advice and introductions.   First Time Food Truck Owner

We assist with scheduling events, filing permits with city and county agencies. The primary goal is to build a network of businesses and event planners,  connecting our food vendors to Alameda.

admin@theprepstation.com  (925) 298-2558

Licenses, permits and certifications are dependent on the type of food produced, type of sale (retail or farmers market) and type of business (caterer, product development, food truck, packaged foods).

California Dept Public Health, Food and Drug Info

Alameda County Environmental Health

Alameda County Permit: Caterers

Alameda County Permit: Mobile Food

Alameda County Permit: Events

Vendors must apply for a separate permit for each county in which they operate.  Each county has their version of a commissary form.  Your commissary signs off on each county commissary form.

Alameda County: Part D Commissary Form

The Prep Station-2400 Monarch Street-

Alameda, CA, 94501