media & press kit

The Duck & Cat is a family-owned, chef-driven food truck based in Vermillion, South Dakota, serving a seasonal smörgåsbord of Danish-inspired street food. Led by Owner and Chef Dana Christensen, the truck brings nostalgic flavors with a modern twist to local events and pop-ups.

In addition to the food truck, The Duck & Cat offers catering services and can be hired for plated meals at special events, creating customized dining experiences beyond the truck window.

The name honors Dana’s late father, John (“The Duck”), and his brother, Anders, who loved fishing for catfish. It’s a nod to family traditions—fishing trips and home-cooked Danish meals—while carrying those memories forward with every bite.

At its heart, The Duck & Cat is about connection: to food, to place, and to the stories that shape us.

Dana Christensen is the chef and founder of The Duck & Cat. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, Dana earned his B.A. in English with a minor in Psychology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha before training at the Institute of Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College.

His culinary path has taken him through community kitchens like No More Empty Pots, fine dining at Heirloom Fine Foods, and years as a private chef and caterer. In April 2023, Dana cooked for James Beard Award winner Chef Sean Sherman at a special dinner for USD’s Native Student Services—an experience that reflects his commitment to food as cultural connection.

Dana’s cooking is grounded in storytelling, seasonality, and a love for the land and water. With The Duck & Cat, he’s building something deeply personal. His food honors the memory of his father and brother, while strengthening his relationships with his spouse (Jackie Wilber) and their family, friends, and community.

Dana volunteers at the Welcome Table every Monday to provide a free meal for the community members of Vermillion, SD and he is the chef for Doorstep Dining, a meal delivery service program for those who are house-bound.