Texas is renowned for its vibrant food scene, with food trucks playing a significant role in shaping the state’s culinary landscape. These mobile eateries offer a diverse array of flavors, from traditional Tex-Mex to innovative fusion cuisine, all served with a side of Southern hospitality.
Food trucks in Texas have gained immense popularity for their ability to deliver high-quality, creative dishes at affordable prices. From Austin to Houston, Dallas to San Antonio, these rolling kitchens have become local favorites and tourist attractions alike. They offer a unique dining experience that combines the convenience of street food with the quality and innovation often associated with upscale restaurants.
1) Tacotopia
Tacotopia offers a unique taco-centric experience in Corpus Christi, Texas. This food truck serves up a variety of creative and flavorful tacos that have gained local popularity.
Located at 5945 Greenwood Drive, Tacotopia attracts taco enthusiasts with its innovative menu. The truck’s offerings showcase a blend of traditional and modern taco preparations.
Visitors can expect a casual outdoor dining atmosphere typical of food truck culture. Tacotopia’s menu features a rotating selection of tacos, allowing patrons to explore different flavor combinations.
The food truck’s commitment to quality ingredients and culinary creativity has helped establish its reputation in the local food scene. Tacotopia provides a tasty option for those seeking a quick, satisfying meal in a laid-back setting.
Contact: 361-225-4088
Address: 5945 Greenwood Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78417
2) The Peached Tortilla
The Peached Tortilla has become an Austin staple since its inception as a food truck in 2010. Founded by Eric Silverstein, this mobile eatery specializes in Southern and Asian fusion cuisine.
The truck’s menu features creative tacos and sliders that blend flavors from different culinary traditions. Their signature Banh Mi Taco puts a unique spin on the classic Vietnamese sandwich.
Starting as a single food truck, The Peached Tortilla has expanded into a successful business. It now includes a full-service catering company and multiple restaurant locations.
The Peached Tortilla’s innovative approach to fusion cuisine has earned it a dedicated following. Its growth from a food truck to a multi-faceted culinary enterprise showcases its popularity among Austin diners.
Visitors can experience The Peached Tortilla’s distinctive flavors at various locations around Austin. The original food truck continues to operate, bringing its unique brand of fusion cuisine to events and street corners.
Contact: (512) 330-4439
Address: 5520 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78756
Website: thepeachedtortilla.com
3) Chi’lantro BBQ
Chi’lantro BBQ has revolutionized the Austin food truck scene with its unique Korean-Mexican fusion cuisine. Founded by Jae Kim in 2010, this mobile eatery quickly gained a devoted following for its innovative dishes.
The truck’s signature item is the Kimchi Fries, a mouthwatering combination of crispy french fries topped with caramelized kimchi, cheese, and a choice of protein. Other popular menu offerings include Korean BBQ tacos and bowls filled with flavorful meats and fresh vegetables.
Chi’lantro’s success led to rapid expansion. What started as a single food truck has grown into a thriving business with multiple brick-and-mortar locations across Texas. The company now operates a fleet of food trucks, restaurants, and catering services.
Despite its growth, Chi’lantro remains committed to delivering high-quality, flavorful food that keeps customers coming back for more. The brand’s popularity even earned it a spot on the hit TV show “Shark Tank” in 2017.
Chi’lantro BBQ
Website: www.chilantrobbq.com
Address: Multiple locations in Austin and Houston, Texas
Contact: (512) 827-1770
4) The Mighty Cone
The Mighty Cone is a popular food truck in Austin, Texas that offers a unique twist on traditional street food. Their signature dish is the “Hot ‘n’ Crunchy” cone, a creative take on tacos and wraps.
The cone consists of a tortilla-lined paper cone filled with a choice of chicken, shrimp, or avocado. The fillings are coated in a crunchy mixture of almonds, sesame seeds, corn flakes, chili flakes, and sugar before being deep-sautéed.
A zesty jalapeño and mango slaw tops off the cone, adding a fresh and spicy kick to the dish. This combination of flavors and textures has made The Mighty Cone a standout among Austin’s food truck scene.
The Mighty Cone originated as a popular food option at the Austin City Limits Music Festival. Its success led to the creation of a permanent food truck, allowing locals and visitors to enjoy these tasty cones year-round.
The Mighty Cone – Food Truck and Events
Facebook: facebook.com/TheMightyCone
Location: Various locations in Austin, TX (Check social media for current locations)
5) Arlo’s
Arlo’s stands out as a vegan food truck that has won over even devoted meat-eaters in Austin. This popular spot serves up plant-based comfort food that satisfies late-night cravings and daytime hunger alike.
Their signature item is the double bacon cheeseburger, which many customers are shocked to learn contains no animal products. The burger’s flavor and texture rival traditional beef patties, fooling even discerning palates.
Beyond burgers, Arlo’s menu offers vegan versions of other comfort food classics like mac and cheese and chicken sandwiches. They use local, organic, and non-GMO ingredients whenever possible.
Originally starting on East 6th Street, Arlo’s has since expanded to multiple locations around Austin. Their food truck at 900 Red River Street caters to the nightlife crowd, providing a healthier alternative to typical late-night fare.
Arlo’s, 900 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: www.arloscurbside.com
6) Hey Cupcake!
Hey Cupcake! has become an Austin institution since its inception. This beloved food truck specializes in delectable cupcakes that have captivated locals and visitors alike.
Founded with a simple mission to bring joy through sweet treats, Hey Cupcake! quickly gained popularity for its moist, flavorful cupcakes. The truck’s signature silver Airstream trailer is a familiar sight around Austin.
Their menu features classic flavors alongside creative variations. The “Michael Jackson” cupcake, a chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting, is a perennial favorite among customers.
Hey Cupcake! has expanded beyond its original food truck roots. They now operate multiple locations throughout Austin, including a brick-and-mortar store.
The food truck’s success has earned it recognition from local and national media. It has been featured on various “best of” lists, cementing its status as a must-try Austin food experience.
Hey Cupcake!
4209 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78722
Website: www.heycupcake.com
7) Rollin’ Smoke BBQ
Rollin’ Smoke BBQ brings together the best of East and Central Texas barbecue styles in Austin. This food truck has gained a reputation for its massive sandwiches and innovative vegetable dishes.
Chef-owner Matty Stallings crafts an eclectic menu featuring succulent ribs, barbecued chicken, and pulled pork. The truck’s creative approach to traditional barbecue keeps customers coming back for more.
Originally catering to late-night crowds, Rollin’ Smoke has evolved into a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts. Its fusion of barbecue techniques results in unique flavor profiles that set it apart from other Austin food trucks.
Vegetarians aren’t left out at Rollin’ Smoke. The truck offers inventive plant-based options alongside its meaty fare, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Rollin’ Smoke BBQ: 1108 E 12th St, Austin, TX. Phone: 512-705-5499. Hours: Wednesday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday 11am-10pm, Saturday hours vary.
8) Gourdough’s Big. Fat. Donuts.
Gourdough’s Big. Fat. Donuts. serves up indulgent donut creations from a vintage Airstream trailer in Austin. This food truck has gained a loyal following for its over-the-top sweet and savory combinations.
The menu features unique donuts with creative toppings like fried chicken, grilled bananas, and candied bacon. Popular options include the Mother Clucker, topped with fried chicken and honey butter, and the Funky Monkey, featuring grilled bananas and brown sugar.
Each massive donut is made to order, ensuring a fresh and warm treat every time. The portions are generous, making Gourdough’s a perfect spot for sharing or satisfying a serious sugar craving.
Located on South 1st Street, Gourdough’s often attracts long lines of eager customers. The charming trailer setting adds to the casual, quintessentially Austin vibe of this beloved food truck.
Gourdough’s Big. Fat. Donuts.
Address: 1503 South 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
Website: gourdoughs.com
9) Wunder Pig Barbecue Co.
Wunder Pig Barbecue Co. brings authentic Texas-style barbecue to the streets of Austin. This food trailer has gained a loyal following for its expertly smoked meats and mouthwatering sides.
The menu features classic barbecue staples like brisket, pulled pork, and jalapeño cheddar sausage. Wunder Pig’s pitmasters take pride in their slow-smoked meats, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Chicken and pork ribs round out the protein options, satisfying a variety of barbecue preferences. The attention to detail in preparation and smoking techniques sets Wunder Pig apart from other mobile barbecue vendors.
This food truck has become a popular choice for events and corporate catering in Austin. Its reputation for quality and consistency has helped it grow from a single trailer to a sought-after catering option.
Wunder Pig Barbecue Co. can be found at various locations around Austin. For the latest updates on their whereabouts and menu offerings, visit their Facebook page: Wünder Pig Barbecue Co., Austin, Texas.
10) Austin’s Best Burger
Austin’s burger scene is elevated by food trucks serving up mouthwatering patties. NADC Burger stands out as a top contender for the city’s best burger.
Located in various spots around Austin, NADC Burger offers a menu of classic and creative burgers. Their patties are made from high-quality beef, grilled to perfection.
The signature NADC Burger features a juicy patty topped with fresh ingredients and a secret sauce. Vegetarian options are also available for non-meat eaters.
Customers praise the truck’s friendly service and consistently delicious burgers. The portions are generous, ensuring satisfied appetites.
NADC Burger can be found at different locations throughout Austin. Check their social media for current whereabouts and operating hours. Website: www.nadcburger.com
History of Texas Food Trucks
Texas food trucks have a rich heritage deeply rooted in the state’s culinary traditions. These mobile eateries trace their origins back to the 19th century and have since evolved into a vibrant part of Texas’ food culture.
Origins and Evolution
The concept of mobile food service in Texas began with chuck wagons in the 1860s. Charles Goodnight, a Texas cattle rancher, invented the first mobile kitchen by converting a sturdy wagon into a cooking station on wheels. This innovation allowed cowboys on cattle drives to have hot meals during their long journeys.
As cities grew, food trucks adapted to urban environments. In the early 20th century, canteen trucks emerged to serve workers at construction sites and factories. These early food trucks laid the foundation for today’s diverse mobile dining scene.
The modern food truck boom in Texas started in the early 2000s. Austin played a pivotal role, becoming a hub for innovative food truck concepts. The city now boasts the fastest-growing food truck industry in the nation.
Influence on Local Cuisine
Texas food trucks have significantly impacted the state’s culinary landscape. They serve as incubators for new flavors and fusion concepts, blending influences from various cultures.
Many food trucks specialize in regional Texas cuisines:
- BBQ trucks offer smoked meats and classic sides
- Tex-Mex trucks serve tacos, burritos, and quesadillas
- Gulf Coast-inspired trucks feature fresh seafood dishes
Food trucks have made gourmet cuisine more accessible to the public. They allow chefs to experiment with new ideas without the overhead of a traditional restaurant. This flexibility has led to unique flavor combinations and innovative dishes.
Several successful brick-and-mortar restaurants in Texas started as food trucks. This trend has helped diversify the state’s dining options and support local entrepreneurs.
Popular Dishes and Cuisines
Texas food trucks offer an exciting array of flavors, from traditional Texan fare to innovative fusion creations. These mobile eateries showcase the state’s culinary diversity and creativity, delighting locals and visitors alike.
Traditional Texan Flavors
Texas food trucks excel at serving up classic regional dishes. Barbecue reigns supreme, with trucks offering tender brisket, pulled pork, and smoky sausages. Tacos are another staple, featuring fillings like carne asada, al pastor, and fish.
Tex-Mex favorites also make frequent appearances. Trucks serve up hearty portions of nachos, quesadillas, and enchiladas. Chili con carne, the official state dish, is a popular menu item.
Comfort foods like chicken-fried steak, fried okra, and pecan pie satisfy cravings for down-home cooking. Many trucks put their own spin on these classics, using locally-sourced ingredients or family recipes.
Fusion and Innovation
Texas food trucks are at the forefront of culinary innovation, blending diverse influences to create unique dishes. Asian-Texan fusion is particularly popular, with trucks combining flavors from Korea, Vietnam, and Japan with Texan staples.
The Peached Tortilla in Austin exemplifies this trend. Their Banh Mi Taco merges Vietnamese sandwich flavors with a traditional taco format. Other trucks experiment with global cuisines, offering dishes like Indian-spiced brisket tacos or Thai-inspired barbecue.
Vegan and vegetarian options are increasingly common, with trucks reimagining Texan classics using plant-based ingredients. Creative dessert trucks push boundaries with unconventional flavor combinations and presentation styles.