Hawaii Food Trucks - Where To Find Great Food on the Islands
Aloha! If you’re wandering the beautiful islands of Hawaii, get your taste buds ready for an exceptional culinary adventure like no other. Well, yes, even if the place is known for the traditional luaus and high-end restaurants, there’s something Hawaii is also well known for, and that is its variety of food trucks.
These local food trucks serve delightful flavors reflecting Hawaiian culture’s diversity and richness. But wait! You won’t just get local Hawaiian delicacies to taste but also food options from around the world. So, buckle up as we take you on a journey to discover some of the best food you can find across the islands.
Favourite Hawaiian Food You Shouldn’t Miss Out On!
Food in Hawaii is all about sharing its unique culture through its food. Each dish you taste in the Hawaiian islands is packed with history and culture. You can find everything here, from fish sandwiches as snacks to hamburger steak as a delicious meal and shave ice as dessert.
However, there are a few dishes that you just can’t miss tasting. First off is that famous Loco Moco—a satisfying mix of white rice topped with a delicious juicy hamburger patty on the top, along with fried egg and loads of gravy.
Then, poke bowls are a common sight across all the islands in various locations. Compared to other dishes, you’ll find almost all local food trucks serving them. It is a local cuisine that’s a bowl with diced tuna, covered with various flavorings and toppings and served with rice and fresh veggies. And let’s not forget Musubi, where grilled Spam meets rice and nori seaweed—it’s a real treat!
Then there’s Kalua Pig, cooked slow and tender, practically melting in your mouth. It’s smoky and salty, and each bite will not only fill you up but also give you a taste of Hawaiian tradition.
While diving into these popular dishes, your mouth will burst with flavors while you capture the essence of Hawaii’s food truck.
Famous Islands To Find The Top Food Trucks
In the bustling streets of Hawaii, there’s this awesome food truck culture serving up tasty treats for everyone from tourists to locals on the move. Now, where can you find the absolute best of the best? Well, we’ve got you covered with all the must-know spots so you can soak in Hawaii’s beauty and flavors at the same time!
Oahu
Let’s start with Oahu. We all know it as the most populous island. This is not just to discover the most scenic views but also because of its unique food culture. Every food option here is satisfying not only for tourists but also for us locals.
After living in Hawaii for a long time, I noticed that some of the best food trucks are located in Oahu. If you have time to travel to the North Shore, you’ll find many food trucks parked along Kamehameha Highway.
North Shore Tacos is on this highway. They offer delicious tacos with a Mexican touch. They also add a tropical twist and innovative touch to the tacos, offering a great blend of flavors.
Among all of Oahu’s food trucks, one of the best and most amazing food you can find is from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck. This food truck offers several shrimp items, making it a haven for all shrimp lovers. Don’t forget to try their hot and spicy shrimp, tasting which you’ll definitely go “Ono.” They offer other culinary delights and shrimp dishes, each having a unique touch with their own family recipes.
Apart from shrimp, if you want authentic Hawaiian food, you can stop by Mike’s Huli Huli Chicken. Their tender, wood-fired rotisserie chicken, marinated in a blend of Hawaiian spices, is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Pair it with a side of macaroni salad and rice for the ultimate island meal.
Maui
Yes! You heard that right. Maui is not only home to stunning beaches and lush landscapes but also to some incredible food trucks that cater to hungry travelers. Here, too, you can find some tasty shrimp delights at the Geste Shrimp Truck, where you can have local favorites and their signature coconut shrimp served with a side of tangy pineapple salsa.
For some taco treats, you can visit the famous Jawz Tacos. This beachside taco truck serves fresh, flavorful tacos filled with local fish, shrimp, or kalua pork. You can also try their homemade salsas and toppings for a customized culinary experience.
Kauai
For tourists and locals alike, Kauau offers a laid-back vibe to try food from some of the best food trucks on the island. When you are here, I suggest you start your day at Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. You can indulge in traditional Hawaiian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss their famous taro pancakes served with coconut syrup for a delicious and authentic breakfast.
For poke bowls, visit Kickshaws, which offers a unique twist on classic Hawaiian favorites. These are served over a bed of seasoned rice or crispy taro chips.
When in Kauai, you surely can’t miss out on having their pork dishes. Head to Porky’s for a delicious and diverse range of pork dishes. This food truck is best known for its mouthwatering barbecue, featuring tender pork ribs slathered in a tangy pineapple glaze. You can pair it with a side of grilled corn on the cob for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Big Island
The Big Island is not just known for its famous black sand beaches but also its conveniently located mobile eateries. Throughout the island, you’ll find several food trucks offering delicious meals to the people.
Among many, you can start your day in Kona at Da Poke Shack. This mobile kitchen is a local favorite and a must-visit known for its flavorful poke bowls made with fresh ingredients. You can choose from various fresh seafood options, including ahi tuna, octopus, and salmon, all marinated in a delicious blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices.
Don’t forget to visit What’s Shakin’ at Hilo, a charming roadside family owned stand offering a wide array of delightful smoothies and fresh fruit bowls made with exotic tropical fruits. This is definitely one of the perfect ways to cool off on a hot day while indulging in the flavors of Hawaii.
Finally, satiate your tummy with the Island Brewhaus Food Truck, a Hawaiian food truck that prepares burgers with locally sourced beef and tops them with fresh island produce.
FAQs
Are Hawaii food trucks open year-round?
Most Hawaii food trucks operate year-round, although their schedules may vary depending on weather conditions, special events, or local regulations. I suggest you always check the operating hours and locations of specific trucks before visiting.
Where can I find Hawaii food trucks?
Hawaii food trucks can be found in various locations across the islands, including popular beaches, parks, and urban areas.
Do Hawaii food trucks have seating areas?
Some food trucks provide seating areas, such as picnic tables or benches nearby, while others may only offer standing room or no designated seating.
Try Hawaiian Food Trucks Now!
Hawaii’s food trucks offer great flavors that make up the islands’ culinary landscape. It doesn’t matter if you are craving something savory or sweet; each bite is a celebration of Hawaii’s diverse cultural heritage and natural bounty. So, the next time you find yourself in Aloha State, be sure to hit the road and embark on your own food truck adventure, and I’m sure your taste buds will thank you for it!