New Bedford Mom of Three Opens Food Truck in Memory of Her Late Brother

There's a new food truck rolling into New Bedford, and the story behind it is just as special as the food being served.

New Bedford's Chelsea Santos, 37, is getting ready to open her very first business, Dajee's Delights, on Saturday, October 24. The grand opening will take place from noon to 6 p.m. in the empty lot outside the Elks Lodge, near the corner of Cottage and Mill Streets in New Bedford.

For Santos, this has been five years in the making. What started with cooking and selling meals on a much smaller level eventually grew into something much bigger. After saving up enough money, the former Dunkin' manager purchased a food truck in December, but getting it road-ready came with some unexpected and expensive repairs.

A Little Something for Everyone

Now that the permits are approved and the truck is ready to roll, Santos is bringing a little bit of everything to the table.

Her menu features mostly Spanish food, along with Portuguese, Italian and fried favorites. Two items already getting attention are her Hot Cheeto Balls and soul food egg rolls stuffed with mac and cheese, collard greens and candied yams, served with homemade cranberry dipping sauce.

New Bedford Mom of Three Opens Food Truck Dajees Delights in Memory of Her Late Brother

As a self-proclaimed foodie, I can tell you this menu has my attention.

The Heart Behind Dajee's Delights

Perhaps the most touching part of this story is where the name originated. Sadly, Santos lost her brother, Dajee, in 2020. He was also a chef, and naming her business after him was her way of keeping his memory and passion for cooking alive.

"I know he's out there. He's probably looking down happy as well," Santos told me. "We finally did it."

READ MORE: New Bedford Food Truck Known for Gourmet Grilled Cheese Is Up for Sale After Just One Year

As a mother of three, Santos also hopes to set an example for her children, who are watching her hard work pay off. She's nervous, excited and admittedly overwhelmed, but more than anything, she's grateful for the community that's supported her.

"It's been five long years, but we did it. We made it," she said.

New Bedford Mom of Three Opens Food Truck Dajees Delights in Memory of Her Late Brother

Welcome to the New Bedford food scene, Chelsea. Here's to a successful grand opening and making your brother proud.