What the fuck is a cartivore? Someone who eats carts? Stupid word; please consult with your inhouse style-guide to see that you shouldn't use it.

Ugh.

Also, carts can get in serious trouble with Multnomah County Health for allowing customers to use their own containers: http://www.foodcartsportland.com/2010/01/2…

However, the huge and I mean FUCKING HUGE problem with the Go Boxes is the general lack of drop-off points for the containers after they've been used. Last time I checked, there were only two places you could return them (and both of those had limited hours). You can't take the containers back to the cart you got your food from. I like the idea of not using a whole shit-ton of paper products; but the current logistical situation makes Go Boxes completely impractical right now.

I was hoping that someone would blog about this. It's a great idea. Although, I'm not completely sold on the system. I'd most likely lose that token in less than an hours time and then be out $8.50. Maybe something that could be stored in a wallet might be better? Like a "Go Box Membership Card"?

What about this "styrofoam" wonder I keep hearing so much about? Maybe that could help!

I like it. Much better experience in general.

@Graham +1

"Many downtown [people] already bring their own reusable plateware from their offices."

Exactly. Wouldn't it make more sense for each patron to buy one/two/three of these reusable boxes and then take it and wash it at home, and then use it again? Bring your own utensils, too.

@SC: The problem is still that the FDA and Multnomah County Health strongly, strongly frown upon patrons providing their own containers. Carts could receive fines or be shut down for allowing this practice to continue. The Go Boxes work in theory because it's not the patron's providing the container, but instead a licensed provider.

People should totally bring their own containers and silverware. Plus a recipe, ingredients, and a portable stove.

We used to bring our own containers, but the cart owners started getting anxious. We're stocking up on a bunch of tokens for the office -- I suspect there will be some challenges since we constantly lose our bathroom keys.

That being said, we eat at Built to Grill a LOT, so this should work well for us.

There are plenty of restaurants with plates and stuff. Chairs even. This idea won't last till the end of the year.

@Graham- common problem for early adopters. Gotta work out the kinks. Once they scale up and have lots of drop off locations, I think this idea could really work!