We’ve all been there—standing on-site, stomach rumbling, dreaming about the midday smoko and the delicious packed lunch the missus has prepared… only to realise you’ve gone and left it at home.
Sure, there’s plenty of fast food around, but with so many options and so little time, how does a tradie know where to turn for a quick, filling feed that’ll fuel them for the rest of their shift?
Thankfully, there are plenty of food options perfect for tradespeople that won’t break the bank and will still keep you going until knock-off time.
From classic snags to healthy pies—here are Build-it’s best five tradie smoko snacks that promise to power you through the rest of the day.
1. Carl’s Jr. Tradies Deal – $13.95
After a long morning on the tools, a flame-grilled feed at Carl’s Jr is the perfect way to fire up your afternoon. Their Tradies Deal delivers just that, and is perfect if you’re craving a classic burger combo.
For just $13.95, you get their signature Famous Star with Cheese, loaded with a chargrilled 100% beef patty, American cheese, tomatoes, onions, pickles, lettuce, mayo, and Carl’s signature special sauce on a seeded bun.
Plus, you’ll score a double cheeseburger and medium fries to top it all off. And if you’re feeling thirsty, just add a refillable drink for just $2!
2. Harry’s Café de Wheels’ Tradie Pie – $7.90
Synonymous with tradies around the nation, a meat pie is perhaps the foundation of all traditional tradie fast food snacks.
And Australia’s first-ever Tradie Pie might be the go-to for you if you’re after something to fill you up.
Created by the legendary pie shop Harry’s Café de Wheels, this healthier take on the iconic meat pie promises to keep you full and fuelled.
“We know tradies love a meat pie,” says Daniel Beuthner, Owner & CEO of Harry’s.
“They are among our most popular customers, and we see hundreds in our stores every day.”
The Tradie Pie offers a protein-rich twist on the classic pie, boasting 20g of protein, one serving of vegetables, and almost half your daily intake of dietary fibre.
Available for just $7.90 across Harry’s NSW stores, this pie is not only kind on your wallet but also your health—perfect for when you’re looking for a balanced smoko.
3. Microwavable meals with Makita – $9.95
Ever stood in a petrol station staring longingly at those protein-packed microwave meals but realised there’s no microwave in sight?
Well, Makita has your back. Their new 40V Max Cordless 8L Microwave is a game-changer for tradies on the go.
This microwave is portable, cordless, and runs for up to 35 minutes on two 8.0Ah batteries.
It’s perfect for heating up My Muscle Chef or YouFoodz meals from any service station, so you no longer have to settle for cold lunches.
Plus, it comes with a bonus Microwave Toastie Maker for that ideal toasted sanga.
4. Four’N Twenty Red Rooster Chicken & Gravy Pie – $4.60
In one of the tastiest collaborations ever seen, Four’N Twenty and Red Rooster teamed up to create their Chicken & Gravy Pie.
Filled with Red Rooster’s signature chicken and gravy, the Four’N Twenty–Red Rooster Chicken & Gravy Pie is available in a four-pack or single purchase.
Available at Coles and Woolies, this signature snack is perfect for those craving something warm and hearty.
And at just $4.60 each, it’s the ultimate tradie grab-and-go option for those looking for a quick, hot feed.
5. The Classic Bunnings Sausage Sizzle – $3.50
No list of tradie snacks would be complete without mentioning the legendary Bunnings sausage sizzle.
For more than 25 years, the Bunnings snag has been a favourite, and at $3.50, it’s a budget-friendly hunger-buster for construction workers across Australia.
Available at most stores on weekends, it’s also available during the week at some locations, making it a great go-to all year round.
Bunnings sausage sizzles aren’t just a quick bite—they’re also a way to support local community groups, with all proceeds going to a good cause, whether it’s a disability group, cancer research, or a local sports club.
And it’s a win-win for tradies too, as nothing beats the smell of snags on the BBQ while you grab a couple of tools for the job.
