Shipping Container Offers Service With A Solar-Enhanced Smile

We continually hear about new innovations in recycling and though Quebec's MuvBox isn't the most outlandish thing out there, it certainly is one of the more unique examples of turning something practical into, well...something really practical and maybe even a little edgy, to boot. First, take a run-of-the mill shipping container -- this one certainly won't be winning any beauty contests anytime soon.

Then, give it a nice, fresh coat of white paint. You know what? Don't stop there...how about adding a whole bunch of black and red accents all over it? Go ahead, just get funky with your bad artsy self. There, much better.

Now, add a state-of-the-art kitchen inside along with retractable insta-seating for patrons on the outside and what have you got? A mobile kitschy-meets-cool pop-up dining spot that can cater to the short attention span diner with plenty of novelty to spare.

Liberated from the chains of monthly rent and the ever-escalating cost of power (thanks to roof-mounted solar panels and propane), Muvbox's 25-year restaurant veteran, Daniel Noiseux, seems to be on the pulse of a highly enviable concept that will certainly be copied (or franchised) in the months and years ahead. In keeping with Muvbox's Canadian location, the resident chef-preneur plans to offer such local sea delights as seafood pizza, steamed mussels and lobster rolls throughout the summer in Montreal's Old Port.

Considering the state of the global economy and the challenges that restauranteurs face attempting to serve up eats to a cash-strapped society, this eatery cleverly sidesteps the harsh fiscal realities that other competitors presently face. Additionally, it does so with a lovely little angelic green sheen. The MuvBox could, in effect, be transported to any port of call -- tourist destinations would be a definite plus -- in order to capitalize on vacationers who are more liberal with their spending. One can't help but wonder how Noiseux will accomodate the inevitable popularity of his MuvBox concept -- have fork, will travel?