Austin's Best Food Trucks for Breakfast
Top Morning Eats on Wheels
Austin, Texas, boasts a vibrant food scene that extends well beyond traditional restaurants. With an array of innovative food trucks, the city provides a unique opportunity to savor breakfast on the go.
Curious about where to find the best breakfast options in Austin's food trucks? This article will guide you through the top picks, showcasing a variety of offerings from classic breakfast staples to inventive, fusion-inspired dishes.
1) Veracruz All Natural
Veracruz All Natural, founded by two sisters from Mexico, has become a cornerstone of Austin's food truck scene. Known for its authentic and flavorful breakfast tacos, this food truck started from humble beginnings and has grown into a local favorite.
The menu features a variety of breakfast options, but the migas tacos stand out. Made with crunched-up tortilla chips, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, beaten eggs, cheese, and salsa, all wrapped in a fresh, homemade corn tortilla, they are a must-try.
Veracruz All Natural has expanded beyond its original truck, now operating in multiple locations including the Line hotel in downtown Austin. Each location consistently offers high-quality and delicious tacos.
The sisters behind Veracruz All Natural have maintained their commitment to fresh ingredients, which is evident in every bite. Their dedication has earned them a loyal following and numerous accolades.
Address: 4905 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
Contact: (512) 555-1234
Website: veracruzallnatural.com
2) Paperboy
Paperboy emerged as a standout in Austin's breakfast scene from its origins as a food truck. Known for its creative breakfast and lunch dishes, it uses locally sourced ingredients to craft flavorful meals.
The food truck gained popularity quickly, leading to its establishment as a brick-and-mortar restaurant at the original food truck site. This location offers a cozy atmosphere and maintains the high-quality standards that made the food truck famous.
Menu highlights include inventive dishes featuring scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese wrapped in warm tortillas. The migas taco, a Tex-Mex favorite filled with scrambled eggs, tortilla strips, and pico de gallo, is a must-try.
The restaurant not only serves breakfast but also offers an impressive coffee and bar program, making it a versatile spot for any time of the day.
Location: 1203 E 11th St, Austin, Texas 78702
Contact: 512.270.9980
Hours: Mon-Thurs: 8am-2pm Fri-Sun: 8am-3pm
3) Valentina's Tex Mex
Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ in Austin offers an exceptional breakfast experience with a blend of Texas BBQ and Tex Mex cuisine. Founded in 2013 by two friends, this food truck has gained popularity for its unique fusion dishes.
One of the highlights at Valentina's is their fresh breakfast tacos, available daily from 8 am to 11 am. They are generously filled with slow-smoked BBQ meats and wrapped in scratch-made flour tortillas.
The use of Hartley Ranch beef and pork ensures high-quality, flavorful meat in every bite. This commitment to quality and flavor has made Valentina’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Valentina's Tex Mex is currently located at 11500 Manchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748. For more information, visit their website at www.valentinastexmexbbq.com or call +1 512-221-4248.
4) Kerlin BBQ
Kerlin BBQ is a standout in Austin's breakfast food truck scene, known for its American Barbecue dishes. This food truck transforms traditional BBQ into delicious breakfast options.
The brisket kolache is a favorite among locals and visitors. It's a pastry filled with tender, smoked brisket, and is a filling and flavorful way to start the day.
Their breakfast tacos are also a must-try. Filled with freshly smoked meats, fluffy scrambled eggs, and a variety of toppings, these tacos are a testament to the rich BBQ tradition of Texas.
Kerlin BBQ prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and traditional smoking techniques, ensuring that every dish is perfectly prepared and packed with flavor.
For BBQ enthusiasts or those looking to try a unique breakfast option, Kerlin BBQ offers an authentic, Texan breakfast experience that is hard to match.
Address: 2209 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702-4601
Contact: +1 512-412-5588
Website: Kerlin BBQ
5) The Vegan Nom
The Vegan Nom is a key player in Austin's breakfast food truck scene. Located at E Cesar Chavez, this spot is renowned for its inventive and delicious vegan tacos.
Their menu features a variety of options, including vegan breakfast tacos and burritos. The queso, claimed by many to be among the best in Austin, is a highlight.
Fans appreciate the variety and quality of the food. The Birdie Sanders Taco and KBBQ Taco are crowd favorites. With options that cater to all-day eating, The Vegan Nom ensures that vegan cuisine doesn't compromise on taste.
Address: E Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX
Current Hours: 9AM-11PM
Website: thevegannom.com
6) Gourdough's Big. Fat. Donuts.
Gourdough's Big. Fat. Donuts is a celebrated food truck in Austin known for its inventive and hearty donut creations. Situated in a vintage Airstream Trailer on South Lamar, it has become a local favorite. Their donuts are renowned for their size and the unique toppings and fillings that elevate them to a whole new level.
Signature offerings include the Mother Clucker, which features fried chicken and honey butter, and the Funky Monkey, topped with grilled bananas and brown sugar. These combinations cater to both traditional and adventurous palates, making it a must-visit spot for breakfast in Austin.
Gourdough's has a dedicated following, and its quirky donut recipes make each visit an exciting experience. The truck remains a staple for those looking to indulge in a fun and satisfying breakfast option.
Address:
1503 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Contact:
(512) 531-9400
Website:
gourdoughs.com
7) The Peached Tortilla
The Peached Tortilla is a standout in Austin’s food truck scene. Known for its modern Asian comfort food with a Southern twist, it offers a unique breakfast experience.
Chef Ryan Rosen started with a single food truck and expanded to include restaurants and catering services. The breakfast menu includes standout items like brisket hash and house-made buns.
Located at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, The Peached Tortilla provides a convenient spot for travelers to grab a quick and satisfying meal. The breakfast options here are fresh, flavorful, and diverse.
Find The Peached Tortilla at:
1915 E Whitestone Blvd #105, Cedar Park, TX 78613
(512) 456-7120
Website: The Peached Tortilla
8) East Side King
East Side King is a must-visit breakfast food truck in Austin known for its innovative and flavorful menu. Located in the dynamic East Austin area, it stands out with its unique blend of Asian-inspired dishes.
Among the favorites, the fried chicken karaage is a standout. This dish features tender, juicy chicken pieces, expertly fried to achieve a perfect crunch.
Additionally, their breakfast bao buns are a hit, offering a delightful combination of fluffy buns filled with savory ingredients. Each bite reflects the flavors of both traditional and contemporary Asian cuisine.
The kimchi fries also draw significant attention. These crispy fries, topped with house-made kimchi and a special sauce, offer a tangy, spicy kick that’s hard to resist.
Address: 1618 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
Contact: (512) 407-8166
Website: eastsideking.com
9) The Mighty Cone
The Mighty Cone brings a unique twist to breakfast in Austin. Known for their Hot 'n' Crunchy cones, they serve a selection of breakfast options featuring chicken, shrimp, or avocado. These ingredients are crusted in a mix of almonds, sesame seeds, corn flakes, and chili flakes then "deep sautéed" and placed in a tortilla-lined paper cone.
Topped with a jalapeño and mango slaw, The Mighty Cone offers a combination of flavors that create a memorable breakfast experience. This food truck originally gained popularity at the Austin City Limits Music Festival and has since become a staple in the local food scene.
The Mighty Cone caters to those looking for a gourmet, eclectic breakfast choice. They focus on offering a unique, tasty experience that stands out among Austin's numerous food trucks.
Address:
Contact:
Website: The Mighty Cone
10) Patrizi's
Patrizi's is a staple among Austin's food truck scene, offering authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on hand-pulled noodles and homemade sauces. Located at The Vortex on Manor Road and in Cuernavaca, Patrizi's blends family tradition with modern outdoor dining.
Starting as a restaurant in Beaumont, TX, in 1948, Patrizi's transitioned into a beloved food truck in Austin in 2013. Patrizi's stands out for its use of fresh ingredients and its dedication to quality.
The food truck features items like garlic bread, salads, and various pasta dishes. The dinner for two special is a popular choice, offering a well-rounded meal with multiple sides.
Patrizi's is known for fast and friendly service, although the lines can be long due to its popularity. The combination of great food and standout service makes it a must-visit.
Address and Contact Information
Locations:
2307 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722 (The Vortex)
1705 Cuernavaca Dr N, Austin, TX 78733 (Cuernavaca)
Phone:
The Vortex: (512) 522-4834
Cuernavaca: (346) 241-1350
Website: Patrizi's
Why Austin Is A Food Truck Hub
Austin's emergence as a food truck paradise ties deeply into its innovative spirit and vibrant cultural scene. Distinct historical developments and diverse influences have shaped its culinary landscape.
The Rise Of Food Trucks In Austin
In the late 2000s, Austin saw a significant surge in food trucks. At first, it was a cost-effective entry for budding chefs and entrepreneurs. The affordability of setting up a food truck compared to a brick-and-mortar restaurant enabled more culinary experiments.
Technology Communities and live music events have further bolstered this rise. Festivals like SXSW attract crowds eager to sample a variety of foods. The flexibility and local feel of food trucks cater perfectly to these dynamic events.
Food truck parks, such as Arbor Food Park and others, provided designated spaces, making it easier for trucks to station and for patrons to find them. These parks created a communal atmosphere enhancing the food truck culture in Austin.
Cultural Influences
Austin’s cultural diversity has profoundly shaped its food truck offerings. The city’s sizable Latino population ensures a strong presence of tacos, tamales, and other Mexican delicacies. These traditional flavors blend with modern twists creating unique culinary fusions.
Vegetarian and vegan options are also prominent, driven by the city's eco-conscious and health-aware community. Food trucks offering vegan Vietnamese dishes or plant-based BBQ cater to these preferences, highlighting the city's inclusive food culture.
The constant influx of international students and tech workers also adds to the mix. This influx introduces a range of global flavors, making Austin’s food truck scene exceptionally eclectic and reflective of its cosmopolitan population.
Health And Safety Standards
Food trucks in Austin must adhere to strict health and safety regulations to ensure consumer well-being. These standards include regular inspections by health officials to check for cleanliness, proper food handling, and safe preparation methods.
Permitting and Licensing:
All food truck operators must obtain the necessary permits and licenses. This involves submitting to health inspections and demonstrating sanitation practices.
Operational Standards:
Vendors must maintain clean cooking environments, proper waste disposal, and food storage at safe temperatures. These practices help prevent contamination and spoilage.
Employee Hygiene:
Staff must follow personal hygiene practices, such as frequent hand washing and using gloves while handling food. This minimizes the risk of foodborne illnesses.
The city mandates that all mobile food vendors clearly display their health inspection scores. This transparency helps consumers make informed choices about where they eat.
Food trucks are also required to have functioning handwashing stations and readily available sanitizers. This ensures continuous hygiene maintenance during operations.
