10 Best Food Trucks in Austin
Culinary Gems to Seek Out
Austin's food truck scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions, presenting an exciting dining experience for locals and tourists alike. Whether it's savory tacos, spicy fried chicken, or vegan treats, the diversity of options ensures there's something for everyone's palate. Exploring the best food trucks in Austin allows enthusiasts to enjoy some of the city's finest meals in a casual, outdoor setting.
The vibrant and eclectic food truck culture in Austin reflects the city's spirit and creativity, making it an essential part of the local dining landscape. From pop-up locations to dedicated food truck parks, these mobile kitchens serve up innovative and delicious dishes that leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
1) Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue stands out as a must-try food truck in Austin, known for its remarkable brisket and expertly smoked meats. It has become a local legend, drawing in barbecue enthusiasts from all over.
The menu features a range of delicious items including tender brisket, flavorful pork ribs, and juicy turkey. Each dish is prepared with a meticulous attention to detail, ensuring consistently high quality.
One of the unique aspects of Franklin Barbecue is the long lines it attracts. Patrons often queue for hours, a testament to its popularity and the quality of its food.
In addition to the classic barbecue offerings, sides like potato salad and coleslaw complement the main dishes perfectly. The flavors are rich and satisfying, making it a memorable dining experience.
For those planning a visit, it's recommended to arrive early to secure a spot in line. Despite the wait, the food at Franklin Barbecue is well worth the time and effort.
Contact details and further information:
Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: Not provided
Website: Franklin Barbecue
2) Veracruz All Natural
Veracruz All Natural is renowned for serving authentic Mexican cuisine in the greater Austin area. Their menus feature a range of dishes including breakfast tacos, fish tacos, veggie tacos, homemade mole tacos, tortas, and quesadillas.
The migas tacos, in particular, have garnered attention, even being featured by the Food Network. This truck takes pride in its commitment to freshness, with tortillas and chips made in-house and daily shopping for the freshest ingredients.
Their offerings aren't limited to food; they also serve organic juices, smoothies, and aguas frescas. This enhances the dining experience with fresh, flavorful beverages.
The truck operates at various locations and has extended hours to accommodate various schedules. Diners looking to avoid long wait times can visit their food truck locations spread throughout the city.
A visit to Veracruz All Natural promises a taste of traditional Mexican flavors, presented in a casual yet vibrant food truck setting.
Contact Details:
Address: 111 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: [Insert Phone Number]
Website: [Insert Website URL]
3) Chi'Lantro
Chi'Lantro is a popular food truck turned brick-and-mortar sensation in Austin, known for its innovative fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisines. The bold flavors and creative dishes have earned it a dedicated following.
The menu features items like the Original Kimchi Fries, a perfect combination of savory and tangy, topped with marinated meats, sriracha, and their signature magic sauce. Tacos, burritos, and rice bowls round out the offerings, each packed with vibrant and fresh ingredients.
Chi'Lantro operates multiple locations in Austin, including a food truck and a sit-down restaurant. The food truck offers a more casual, quick-bite experience.
The Congress Avenue location is open weekdays for lunch, attracting a robust lunch crowd with its accessible downtown spot. The Colorado Street location provides extended evening hours, allowing patrons to enjoy a relaxed dinner setting.
Patrons appreciate the inventive use of kimchi in various dishes, highlighting the fusion concept that makes Chi'Lantro unique.
Contact Details:
Address: 823 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Address: 303 Colorado St, Ste 100, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 800-9098
Website: chilantrobbq.com
4) Peached Tortilla
Peached Tortilla stands out in Austin's food truck scene for its unique blend of modern Asian comfort food with Southern influences. Starting as a food truck, it quickly built a loyal following, allowing it to expand into brick-and-mortar locations.
This food truck is known for creative dishes like banh mi tacos and BBQ sliders, offering a delicious twist on traditional flavors. They also serve other popular items such as kimchi arancini and their signature taco trio.
The food truck frequently appears at various locations around Austin, including popular events like SXSW, Trailer Food Tuesdays, and Sound & Cinema. This flexible mobility allows them to reach a wider audience, providing their fusion cuisine across the city.
In addition to their roaming truck, Peached Tortilla has established permanent spots at Burnet Road and the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. These locations ensure that fans can always find access to their beloved dishes, whether they prefer dining in or grabbing a bite on the go.
Hours for the food truck vary but typically include lunchtime and evening hours to cater to different crowds. Their presence across Austin makes it easier for residents and visitors alike to experience their culinary offerings.
Contact details:
Website: thepeachedtortilla.com
Address: Burnet Road Location, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Phone: Check the website for specific contact numbers for each location.
5) East Side King
East Side King offers a unique blend of globally-inspired Japanese street food, created by renowned chefs Paul Qui and Moto Utsunomiya. Known for their bold flavors and creative dishes, this food truck has become a staple in Austin's diverse food scene.
The menu includes standout items like the Thai Chicken Karaage and the Pork Belly Bun. Each dish is carefully crafted with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
East Side King operates at multiple locations throughout Austin, with each spot maintaining its own distinct vibe. The original East Side location is tucked behind Liberty Bar, creating a cozy and laid-back atmosphere.
In addition to their food trucks, East Side King has expanded into brick-and-mortar spaces, including one in South Austin. This expansion allows them to reach even more fans while maintaining their high standards.
For those planning an event, East Side King also offers catering services. They provide food for various occasions, from corporate events to weddings, making them a versatile choice for any gathering.
Contact details:
Address: 1618 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: (512) 407-8166
Website: EastSideKing.com
6) Torchy's Tacos
Torchy's Tacos began as a humble food truck on South First Street in Austin, founded by Mike Rypka. Today, it has expanded into a well-known taco chain with numerous locations, but its food truck roots are still celebrated.
Known for inventive tacos, Torchy's offers unique options like the 'Trailer Park' taco and the 'Green Chile Pork' taco. Each creation utilizes bold flavors and inventive combinations that attract both locals and tourists alike.
The green chile queso is highly recommended as a starter, featuring a rich and creamy blend that's become a signature item. Torchy's is noted for its innovation in Tex-Mex cuisine, continually introducing new and exciting menu items while maintaining quality and taste.
The atmosphere remains laid-back and friendly, capturing the essence of Austin's vibrant food truck scene. With its wide selection of delicious, approachable dishes, everyone can find something to enjoy at Torchy's Tacos.
Contact Details:
Address: Various locations across Austin
Website: Torchy's Tacos
7) Micklethwait Craft Meats
Micklethwait Craft Meats is a notable fixture in Austin's food truck scene, renowned for its dedication to high-quality barbecue.
Founded by pitmaster Tom Micklethwait, this Central Texas barbecue trailer opened in December 2012. Their menu showcases a variety of meats, including brisket, beef ribs, pork ribs, sausage, pulled pork, smoked turkey, and barbacoa.
One of their standout offerings is the Tex-Czech sausage, known for its coarse grind and unique flavor. Additionally, they offer rotating specials like lamb and wild boar sausages.
Complementing the meats are scratch-made sides such as jalapeño cheese grits and lemon poppy slaw.
Micklethwait Craft Meats is located in East Austin and provides covered outdoor seating along with off-street parking. The establishment is appreciated for its friendly atmosphere and commitment to quality.
For more information or to plan your visit:
Address: 1309 Rosewood Ave, Austin, TX 78702
Website: micklethwaitcraftmeats.com
Phone: (512) 791-5961
8) The Mighty Cone
The Mighty Cone made its debut at the Austin City Limits Music Festival. This food truck offers a unique twist on typical festival fare. Chef Jeff Blank's creation features "hot 'n' crunchy" fried foods like chicken and avocado, all served in a tortilla cone with mango-jalapeño slaw and ancho chile sauce.
Located conveniently on South Congress, The Mighty Cone is ideal for both locals and tourists. The truck also offers Cone Dogs made with venison sausage and sliders made from natural beef. Visitors can enjoy guajillo chili-dusted fries and hand-dipped shakes.
For those interested in visiting, The Mighty Cone can be found at 1720 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704-1085. Their phone number is +1 512-553-5148, and more information is available on their website.
9) La Barbecue
La Barbecue is a staple among Austin's thriving food truck scene. Known for its dedication to traditional Texas barbecue, it has garnered a loyal following. Frequently cited as one of the best barbecue joints in the city, it stands out for its flavorful meats and well-executed sides.
The brisket is a must-try, often praised for its perfect balance of smoke and tenderness. Pork spare ribs and beef kielbasa are other standout items on their menu. La Barbecue's commitment to quality is evident in every bite, making it a top choice for barbecue enthusiasts.
Operating with a straightforward schedule, La Barbecue is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This limited window ensures that everything served is fresh and cooked to perfection. The truck is conveniently located at 2401 E Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78702.
Anyone visiting Austin should consider making a trip to La Barbecue. Whether you're a local or just passing through, the food here is bound to leave a lasting impression. With a reputation built on authenticity and flavor, it continues to be a standout in a city known for its food trucks.
For more details or to get a glimpse of their offerings, visit their website or contact them directly.
Address: 2401 E Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78702
Contact: (512) 696-1807
Website: La Barbecue
10) Burro Cheese Kitchen
Burro Cheese Kitchen is a standout food truck in Austin, Texas, known for its inventive takes on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. They use small-batch cheeses from Texas, ensuring quality and rich flavors in every bite.
The food truck offers a variety of gourmet grilled cheese options, each crafted with a unique blend of cheeses and custom-made dips. Their commitment to quality is evident in every sandwich they serve.
Located at 1221 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704, it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists. They also have another location at 75 Rainey Street, Austin, TX, 78701.
Their creative menu includes sandwiches like the "Waylon & Willie," featuring cheddar, gouda, and caramelized onions, and the "Burning Mac," which adds a spicy kick with its jalapeño-spiked mac 'n' cheese filling.
For those interested in visiting, their hours are as follows: Mon - Closed, Tue - Closed, Wed - 5 pm to 12 am, Thu - 11:30 am to 8:30 pm, Fri - 11:30 am to 8:30 pm, Sat - 11:30 am to 8:30 pm, and Sun - 11:30 am to 4 pm.
Burro Cheese Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone craving a gourmet twist on a comfort food favorite.
Contact details:
Phone: 512-865-7730
Email: info@burrocheese.com
Website: Burro Cheese Kitchen
Understanding the Food Truck Culture
Food trucks have emerged as significant culinary players in Austin, offering a convenient, diverse, and vibrant dining experience that draws both locals and visitors.
The Rise of Food Trucks
Food trucks began to gain popularity in Austin around the early 2000s. Initially, they served as an innovative solution for chefs looking to launch their businesses without the overhead costs of a traditional restaurant. This mobile model allowed for creative culinary expressions, with chefs experimenting with various cuisines and concepts.
The trend quickly picked up momentum, supported by Austin's thriving cultural scene and festivals like SXSW. These events provided an ideal platform for food trucks to showcase their offerings to a larger audience. Additionally, Austin's relatively mild climate made it perfect for outdoor dining year-round, further fueling the food truck boom.
Why Austin Loves Food Trucks
Austin's food truck culture is celebrated for its diversity and accessibility. The city’s residents appreciate the unique flavors and dishes from various culinary traditions, all available in a casual, street-food setting. Whether it's mouth-watering Tex-Mex, authentic Thai curry, or innovative American fusion, there’s something for everyone.
Food trucks also foster a sense of community. They often cluster in popular areas like East Austin and South Congress, creating lively spots for socializing and eating. Furthermore, the informal nature of food truck dining allows for a relaxed and enjoyable experience, free from the constraints of typical dining establishments.
By embracing food trucks, Austin showcases its love for innovation, diversity, and community-driven culinary experiences, ensuring that each meal is a unique gastronomic adventure.
Unique Food Truck Experiences
Austin's food truck scene offers distinctive experiences, from curated food truck parks to vibrant events and festivals. Each provides visitors with a unique way to explore the city's diverse culinary offerings.
Food Truck Parks
Food truck parks in Austin offer a centralized location where multiple food trucks gather, providing a variety of cuisines in one spot. South First Food Court is a key destination, featuring Ira and Bev's Food Truck Park known for halal options like Halal Wing Kingz.
Another notable location is The Picnic, where visitors can enjoy tacos, barbecue, and vegan delights. These parks often include shaded seating areas, making them comfortable places to dine alfresco. 1311 S. 1st St. Park is another excellent spot, featuring tables with umbrellas, adding to the charm of outdoor dining.
Events and Festivals Featuring Food Trucks
Austin's food trucks can often be found at various events and festivals, making them accessible to larger crowds. Austin Food & Wine Festival is a premier event where top food trucks showcase culinary innovations. The festival features live music, cooking demonstrations, and a wide array of food choices.
Trucklandia is another event that highlights the best food trucks Austin has to offer. This food truck festival not only provides diverse food options but also includes competitions and people's choice awards, adding a layer of excitement. These events make it easy for attendees to sample from multiple trucks, ensuring a rich and varied food experience.
