Honk if You Love Local Cuisine! Top Cities for Food Trucks Around the World Javier Peinado June 23, 2024 Food & Drink Once an exclusively American part of street food culture, food trucks have taken the world by storm, becoming a fixture of the culinary scene of every major city across the globe. The growth of the food truck industry in the last decade has been hard to miss, becoming a multi-billion-dollar business that shows no signs of slowing down. With this rise, food trucks have also elevated the dining experience, moving beyond the perception of cheap carts selling mystery meat. Today, they offer increasingly fine culinary experiences, transforming street food into a sophisticated and diverse option for diners. It’s no surprise then that food trucks are becoming particularly popular among travelers hoping to get to know a destination at its culinary core. Along with introducing visitors to regional specialties and lesser-known favorites, food truck culture encourages people to get out of their hotel rooms and resorts and really explore a community by traversing its streets and interacting with local residents. So let’s take a look at the some of the best cities in the United States and across the world for food truck culture and some of the local delicacies offered in each spot. Austin, Texas Austin’s food truck scene embraces all the culinary experiences that you expect from the Lone Star State. While home to some of the most diverse culinary offerings in the South, visitors with a passion for good food can look forward to enjoying amazing tacos and barbecue, traditional staples of Texas cooking that reflect the state’s history and culture. Among the city’s most popular food trucks is Torchy’s Tacos, an eatery that has delighted patrons with high quality meals made with sustainably sourced ingredients for almost 20 years. While serving traditional beef and chicken tacos, Torchy’s has also made a name for itself with their more creative dishes such as the spicy Brushfire Taco and their signature Fried Avocado Taco. Of course, barbecue lovers can enjoy the savory and sensational creations of Micklethwait Craft Meats. Not only regarded as one of the best food trucks in Austin but also as one of the best overall eating establishments in the city, Micklethwait is known for its award-winning brisket and sausage, served with traditional Southern sides like mac and cheese, grits, and chili beans. Portland, Oregon Portland’s street food culture is second to none, and is a remarkable reflection of the great variety of international cultures and customs present in the Beaver State’s most populous city. With over 500 vendors to choose from, food trucks — called “food carts” by the locals — are one of the most popular dining options in Portland. Dining at food trucks is so popular in the city that local leaders have taken steps to organize the industry, creating specially designed areas known as pods where food trucks can permanently set up shop and diners can explore a wide array of eating options.International cuisine truly dominates Portland’s food truck scene. Among the city’s best vendors is Nong’s Khao Man Gai, a food cart that specializes in Thai chicken rice prepared with the establishment’s signature sauce. Also of note is Koi Fusion, a truck specializing in combining traditional Korean and Mexican cuisine for delectable and original dishes like kimchi quesadillas and burritos served with Korean seasoned rice. Los Angeles Ask any Angeleno what the best place to eat in Los Angeles is and many will count off a few well-chosen food trucks as their favorite spots. Ever since the early 2000s, the food scene in the City of Angels has been driven by the finesse and hard work of humble street food vendors. A mirror of the city’s diverse culture and a persistent backdrop of any well-traveled thoroughfare, food trucks are as much a part of Los Angeles as its famed beaches and iconic Hollywood sign. What separates Los Angeles’ food truck scene is the creative recipes that are specific to the Golden State. Here, chefs aspire to create gourmet and fusion menus, a concept pioneered by the Korean-Mexican fusion vendor Kogi BBQ. Led by the world-famous chef Roy Choi, Kogi is best known for its short rib taco, a staple of the city’s culinary landscape. The Lobos Truck is another top food vendor in the city and welcomes diners distinctive sandwiches, burgers, and many other traditional American dishes infused with international spices. New York City We all know that New York’s culinary scene is the stuff of legend. The city attracts the best chefs from across the globe. Whether you’re looking for a Reuben made with sustainably sourced cheese and organic beef, pulled pork nachos served with homemade guacamole, or any other dish from across the globe, you’re guaranteed to find a food truck that will satisfy your craving in New York City.When you’re visiting the city, plan on hitting up The Halal Guys to enjoy authentic Middle Eastern street food. One of the pioneers of New York City’s street food scene, these guys have been serving up classic gyros and falafels since 1990. If European comfort food is more your speed, check out Wafels & Dinges for tasty Belgian waffles. A celebrated institution that has earned the praise of national media outlets like The Today Show, Wafels and Dinges wows visitors with house-made syrups and tops off some of their creations with decadent ice cream and hot fudge. Bangkok, Thailand Devoted foodies herald Bangkok as the beating heart of Asia’s burgeoning street food scene. While Bangkok has always been known as a haven for chefs working out of street carts and hole-in-the-wall roadside cafes, food trucks are relatively new to the city, becoming a prominent part of Bangkok’s street food culture in the mid-2010s. While food trucks can be found on any street in Bangkok, most chefs prefer to do business in groups adjacent to popular tourist destinations and local markets, making finding your perfect meal much less of a hassle. Many visitors to Bangkok hoping to enjoy traditional Pad Thai head to Pad Thai Mae Am, a location known for making the country’s signature dish with local ingredients and some of the best tasting noodles in the city. For dessert, head to Mae Varee Fruit Shop for a heaping serving of mango sticky rice, one of Thailand’s most iconic sweet treats. Mexico City Mexico City is one of the largest and most vibrant cities in North America, and a dream destination for foodies hoping to sample traditional Mexican street food. Food trucks, however, are relatively new here. Spearheaded by the latest generation of gourmet chefs, the food truck culture in Mexico City combines the laid-back ambiance of traditional late-night taco stands with the culinary achievement of the city’s best restaurants. The result is a veritable smorgasbord of dishes and flavors that bring visitors back to the city’s roots without the need for making a reservation. Traditional Mexican street food comes in many forms, from tasty tacos and tamales to fresh churros for visitors with a sweet tooth. Most globetrotters on a food tour of the city begin their day with a tlacoyo, corn tortillas stuffed with beans, cheese, and pork cracklings and then topped with salsa. Late night chowhounds will also not want to miss tacos al pastor. Mexico City’s signature dish and the undisputed king of Mexican street food, this delicacy consists of spit-roasted pork and marinated pineapples served in a fresh corn taco. Berlin, Germany Currywurst The food truck scene in Berlin is a reflection of its centralized location in the heart of Europe. Germany’s capital boasts a vibrant culinary scene that mirrors the diverse palates of the people that call the city home. Featuring everything from Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine to experimental fusions original to the city’s most inventive chefs, Berlin’s street food is unrivaled in its sheer diversity. Experiencing Berlin’s food truck culture is made all the easier by the weekly street festivals hosted by the city, gatherings that attract a myriad of food truck vendors from across the sprawling metropolis. Ranked among the top food trucks in the city is Curry 61, a location that offers vegan and gourmet interpretations of traditional currywurst — smoked sausage served with spiced curry and tomato sauce — Berlin’s signature delicacy and a must-try dish for anyone visiting the city. Meanwhile, visitors looking for a traditional fast-food experience should head to Vöner for vegan takes on burgers and pitas. You Might Also Enjoy: Want to Experience Cultures Abroad Like a Local? Find Food Markets! Singapore Singapore’s very own chili crab dish. Singapore offers one of the most exciting food truck experiences you can find in the world. Most food trucks in the island city-state can be found at hawker centers, massive open-air markets that are home to dozens of food trucks and street vendors. More than just great places to grab a bite to eat, hawker centers have been recognized as important cultural gathering sites by UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Patrons of hawker centers also get to delight in a variety of different types of entertainment, including live music and displays of local art. Food trucks in Singapore run the gamut of everything from traditional Singaporean dishes to Chinese, Indian, and Malay cuisine. Ah Tan Wings remains a perennial favorite among native Singaporeans and visitors alike, who adore the vendor’s crispy chicken and rice dishes. Also of note is The Traveling C.O.W., Singapore’s first food truck, which has been operating since 2012. Known for their artisanal creations, chefs at The Traveling C.O.W. have made a name for themselves with their take on chili crab, Singapore’s national dish that is served with fresh-caught crabs and aromatic spices. FAQs: Q: Do food trucks typically accept credit cards or only cash? A: Most food trucks today accept credit cards and mobile payments in addition to cash. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash just in case. Q: What is the best time of day to visit food trucks? A: Food trucks are generally busiest during lunch and dinner hours. Visiting slightly before or after peak times can help avoid long lines and get a quicker service. Q: How can I find food trucks in a new city? A: Many cities have websites or apps dedicated to tracking food trucks. Social media platforms are also great resources to find and follow your favorite trucks. Q: Are there dietary options available at food trucks, such as vegetarian or gluten-free? A: Yes, many food trucks offer plenty of dietary options including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. It’s best to check the menu or ask the vendor directly, though. Q: How do food trucks handle health and safety regulations? A: Food trucks are subject to health and safety regulations just like traditional restaurants. They must pass regular inspections and comply with local health department standards to operate. Q: Can I book a food truck for a private event? A: Yes, many food trucks are available for private events such as weddings, parties, and corporate functions. It’s best to contact the truck directly to inquire about availability and pricing. Q: What should I do if a food truck has a long line? A: If a food truck has a long line, it often means the food is worth the wait. However, you can also explore nearby trucks with shorter lines or plan to visit during off-peak hours. Know of any other beloved food truck you love to visit on your travels? Let us know in our comments section below!
