9 Unique Food Trucks in Austin You Won't Find Anywhere Else
A Foodie’s Guide
The food truck scene in Austin, Texas, is a vibrant tapestry of diverse cuisines and innovative culinary creations. With over 1,000 food trucks dotted around the city, Austin has become a mecca for food enthusiasts looking to explore and enjoy unique and delectable offerings. What sets Austin apart is its unparalleled ability to merge traditional flavors with modern twists, creating an experience that truly stands out.
Austin's food trucks are not just a means to get a quick bite; they are a reflection of the city's culture and creativity. Whether one craves classic Tex-Mex, vegan delights, or inventive fusion dishes, the food trucks here deliver exceptional taste and variety. Exploring these mobile eateries provides a taste of Austin's local flair and unlimited possibilities for memorable meals.
1) La Barbecue
La Barbecue ranks high among Austin’s must-try food trucks. Located at 2401 E Cesar Chavez, this spot is known for its mouth-watering barbecue that keeps locals and tourists coming back. The ribs are particularly praised for their flavor and tenderness.
They serve a variety of meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and sausage, all prepared with meticulous care. The sides, like the potato salad and mac 'n cheese, complement the smoky flavors perfectly.
Operational hours are consistent, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm Wednesday through Sunday. This makes it easier for customers to plan a visit. It's recommended to arrive early to avoid long lines, a testament to its popularity.
Contact Details:
Address: 2401 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
Website: LA Barbecue
2) Hey Cupcake!
Hey Cupcake! stands out as one of Austin's original and most beloved food trucks. Founded by Wes Hurt in 2007, this popular spot serves up cupcakes that are big enough to share, though you'll want one all to yourself.
The truck, easily spotted thanks to a giant cupcake sculpture on its roof, is currently located at 4209 Airport Blvd and Mueller Trailer Eats. It has gained fame for its whimsical design and delicious offerings.
Their "Tuxedo" cupcake is a must-try, featuring a rich, moist base topped with creamy frosting. With a variety of flavors, there's something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Even if you make a wrong turn, as some visitors have reported, it's worth stopping if you spot this iconic truck.
Contact Details:
Address: 4209 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX
Website: heycupcake.com
3) The Peached Tortilla
The Peached Tortilla started as a food truck in 2010 and has since become an icon in Austin's food scene. Known for its unique Southern and Asian fusion cuisine, it offers a variety of gourmet tacos, sliders, and other flavorful dishes.
Their food truck is often seen at private events, providing a mobile option for catering that adds a touch of "Austin-cool" to any gathering. Popular for weddings, corporate events, and luncheons, The Peached Tortilla brings innovative dishes and high-quality service.
In addition to the roaming food truck, The Peached Tortilla has established several stationary locations. These include a spot on Burnet Road and a location within Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, making it easy to enjoy their inventive menu whether you're grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a meal.
Their Burnet Road establishment also features themed dining experiences throughout the week, such as Taco Tuesday and Ramen Thursday. This location provides a modern, fun setting to enjoy their Asian comfort foods infused with Southern flair.
Contact:
1915 E Whitestone Blvd #105, Cedar Park, TX 78613
512.456.7120
Website: Peached Tortilla
4) The Mighty Cone
The Mighty Cone is a celebrated food truck in Austin, known for its unique and delicious offerings. Originating from the Austin City Limits Music Festival in 2002, it was created under the guidance of Chef Jeff Blank. Today, it serves some of the city’s finest street food.
Their signature dish, the Hot 'n' Crunchy Cone, features chicken, shrimp, or avocado crusted in almonds, sesame seeds, corn flakes, chili flakes, and sugar. This is "deep sautéed" and served in a tortilla-lined paper cone, complemented by a jalapeño and mango slaw.
Beyond their iconic cones, The Mighty Cone also offers Cone Dogs made with venison sausage from Hudson’s on the Bend, as well as beef sliders and guajillo chili-dusted fries. These inventive and tasty dishes make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Located conveniently on South Congress, The Mighty Cone is perfect for both locals and tourists looking to taste Austin's unique culinary scene.
Contact Details:
1720 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704-1085
Phone: +1 512-553-5148
Website: The Mighty Cone
5) Via 313
Via 313 is renowned for its authentic Detroit-style pizza. This food truck captures the essence of the Motor City's pizza scene with its thick, square-cut slices. The crispy, caramelized cheese edge is a standout feature.
Located on Rainey Street, Via 313 offers a unique atmosphere. The food truck sits behind Craft Pride, providing a laid-back vibe on a spacious patio.
Via 313's inventive toppings elevate the traditional recipe. From classic pepperoni to creative combinations like prosciutto and fig, the menu offers something for every palate.
Contact Details:
Address: 61 Rainey Street, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: +1 512-580-3730
Website: via313.com
6) Chi'Lantro BBQ
Chi'Lantro BBQ started in 2010 with a food truck and a vision to revolutionize Korean BBQ. Known for their Original Kimchi Fries, they combine Korean and Tex-Mex flavors to create a unique culinary experience. Their menu includes Korean BBQ tacos, bowls, and ssäms, offering a diverse selection of dishes.
The food truck concept quickly gained popularity, inspiring the growth of their business into multiple locations. Chi'Lantro also offers catering services and a rewards program for frequent customers. This makes it easy for fans to enjoy their favorite dishes on the go or at events.
Based in Austin, Texas, Chi'Lantro BBQ has garnered a dedicated following over the years. They continue to innovate with their Korean BBQ Inspired® cuisine, providing a memorable dining experience.
Contact Details:
Address: Various Locations, Austin, TX
Website: Chi'Lantro BBQ
7) Garbo's Lobster Truck
Garbo's Lobster Truck brings the flavors of New England to the heart of Austin. Established in 2013, it sources fresh lobster directly from Connecticut and Maine, ensuring top-notch quality.
Their signature dish features butter-poached Maine lobster in a New England top-split bun, seasoned with house spices, fresh lemon juice, and scallions.
Besides their regular menu, Garbo's offers catering services and neighborhood pop-ups, making it a versatile choice for any event. To stay updated on their location, follow their social media accounts.
Find Garbo's Lobster Truck roaming around Austin, delivering a unique culinary experience.
Contact Details:
Garbo's Lobster Truck
Austin, TX
Website
8) East Side King
East Side King offers unique, globally-inspired Japanese cuisine with an Austin twist. Originating from notable chefs Paul Qui and Moto Utsunomiya, this food truck brings a blend of Asian flavors and local vibes.
The menu features a variety of colorful and flavorful dishes, including the highly praised Chicken Karaage. Quality ingredients are a key focus, utilizing all-natural pork and vegetarian-fed pigs.
Inspired by Asian cultures, rock bands, and Austin's laid-back atmosphere, East Side King has a distinct vibe. This combination makes each visit a memorable experience for food lovers.
For more details, visit:
Address: Contact directly for current locations
Website: East Side King
9) Gourdough's Big. Fat. Donuts.
Gourdough's Big. Fat. Donuts stands out as a staple in Austin's food truck scene. Located in a vintage Airstream Trailer, this food truck serves up unique and indulgent donut creations that have captured the hearts and taste buds of many.
Visitors can enjoy inventive combinations like the Mother Clucker, a donut topped with fried chicken and honey butter. Another popular option is the Funky Monkey, featuring grilled bananas and brown sugar on a fluffy donut base.
This food truck offers outdoor seating, take-out, and delivery through GrubHub and DoorDash, making it convenient for any kind of visit. Whether it's a quick bite or a place to hang out with friends, Gourdough's delivers on both flavor and experience.
For more information, you can visit them at 1503 S. 1st Street, Austin, TX 78704. They are open Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 12 AM, and on weekends from 8 AM to 12 AM. Contact details: 512-912-9070. More details can be found at their website.
The Rise of Food Trucks in Austin
Austin's food truck culture has deep roots influenced by historical developments and cultural dynamics. This section explores how the mobile dining scene evolved and why it became such a significant part of Austin's identity.
Historical Context
The food truck movement in Austin began modestly in the late 20th century. Initially, taco carts served factory workers and local communities.
A pivotal moment occurred in the early 2000s when economic changes and a burgeoning culinary scene spurred growth. Over the next decade, the trend expanded as entrepreneurs utilized food trucks to test culinary concepts affordably.
By 2010, food trucks had become an integral part of Austin's dining landscape. Events like the South by Southwest festival further propelled their popularity, attracting diverse crowds eager to experience innovative street food.
Cultural Influence
Austin's open-minded and creative atmosphere has elevated food trucks into cultural icons. The city's emphasis on individuality and innovation resonates in the variety of cuisines offered by local food trucks.
Food trucks serve more than just meals; they are hubs of social interaction and local culture. From traditional Tex-Mex to global fusion, these mobile kitchens reflect the city's diverse culinary influences.
The local government's supportive policies have also played a crucial role. Regulations favor small business operations, helping food trucks thrive in a competitive market. This supportive environment fosters a unique gastronomic experience emblematic of Austin's vibrant culture.
Benefits of Choosing Food Trucks Over Traditional Restaurants
Food trucks offer a range of benefits that can be particularly appealing to both entrepreneurs and food lovers. From cost efficiency to fostering innovation and enhancing community engagement, the advantages are significant.
Cost Efficiency
Operating a food truck is notably less expensive compared to running a traditional restaurant. Start-up costs for food trucks include the purchase or rental of the vehicle and kitchen equipment, which are generally more affordable than leasing or buying a restaurant space. Additionally, food trucks have lower ongoing expenses such as utilities and staffing.
Maintaining a food truck involves fewer costs related to space and utilities. The smaller size means lower energy and maintenance costs. These financial advantages make food trucks an attractive option for new business owners.
Variety and Innovation
Food trucks often serve inventive and diverse menus that can adapt quickly to trends and customer preferences. They provide a platform for chefs to experiment with creative recipes without the constraints of a traditional restaurant setup.
This flexibility allows food trucks to offer seasonal dishes, fusion cuisines, and unique flavors that may not be viable in a brick-and-mortar restaurant. Food trucks can quickly change their offerings based on customer feedback, making them a dynamic presence in the culinary scene.
Community Engagement
Food trucks often become integral parts of the communities they serve by participating in local events, markets, and festivals. Their mobility allows them to reach different neighborhoods and demographic groups, creating connections with a diverse customer base.
Engagement in community events helps build strong local support and brand loyalty. As food trucks frequently rotate their locations, they foster a sense of discovery and excitement, encouraging customers to follow them from one spot to another.
By embedding themselves in local events, food trucks contribute to a vibrant community atmosphere and enhance the cultural dynamics of the area. This strategic community involvement is beneficial for both the business owners and the neighborhoods they serve.
How to Find the Best Food Trucks in Austin
To uncover the most unique and delicious food trucks in Austin, there are several resources and methods. Utilizing local apps and actively engaging on social media can help you stay on top of the latest food truck openings and popular spots.
Local Resources and Apps
In Austin, local apps and websites are essential tools for finding quality food trucks. Food truck locator apps like Trucklandia, Roaming Hunger, and Street Food Finder provide real-time tracking and user reviews. These apps help users locate trucks based on current location, cuisine preference, and operating hours.
Local culinary websites, such as Eater Austin and Austin Food Magazine, frequently feature articles and updates on new food trucks and special events. Weekly roundups and food truck maps can enhance your search.
Subscribing to email newsletters from these blogs offers another layer of benefit, providing up-to-date info straight to your inbox. This strategy ensures you won’t miss out on limited-time menus or special events.
Social Media Engagement
Food trucks in Austin frequently use social media to connect with their customers and announce their locations and menu updates. Following food trucks on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook gives direct access to the latest information. Some trucks regularly post Instagram Stories and live updates to keep followers informed.
Using hashtags such as #AustinFoodTrucks or #ATXFoodScene can lead you to the most current discussions and popular trucks. Engaging with posts by liking and commenting can sometimes result in special deals or insider tips.
Additionally, Facebook groups and community pages focused on Austin's food scene can be a gold mine for recommendations and reviews from fellow food lovers.
