Austin, Texas, is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and a significant part of that scene is its thriving food truck culture. From gourmet burgers to authentic tacos, Austin's food trucks offer a diverse and delicious culinary experience. This article dives into the best of the best, showcasing 22 exceptional food trucks that deserve a spot on your Austin food adventure itinerary. Finding the best food trucks in Austin can be a delicious challenge, but this guide makes it easier.
Taco Titans: A Fiesta of Flavor
Austin's love affair with tacos is undeniable, and these food trucks perfectly capture the city's taco obsession:
Veracruz All Natural
-
What makes them special: This iconic Austin food truck serves up authentic, delicious tacos with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Their migas tacos are a must-try. They've expanded to brick-and-mortar locations, but the original food truck holds a special place in Austin food history.
-
Why it's on this list: Veracruz All Natural consistently ranks among the top food trucks in Austin, praised for its authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. The long lines are a testament to its popularity.
Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ
-
What makes them special: A unique fusion of Tex-Mex and BBQ, Valentina's offers a mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures. Their brisket tacos are a fan favorite.
-
Why it's on this list: This truck's innovative approach to BBQ and Tex-Mex is a refreshing take on classic Austin cuisine. They've cleverly blended two beloved food styles into something truly unique.
La Barbecue
-
What makes them special: Known for its incredibly tender and flavorful smoked meats, La Barbecue is a must-visit for BBQ lovers. Their burnt ends are legendary.
-
Why it's on this list: While La Barbecue has expanded to a brick-and-mortar location, their food truck origins remain a significant part of their story and their food continues to be amazing. The quality of the meat is consistently exceptional.
Beyond Tacos: A Diverse Culinary Landscape
Austin's food truck scene is far more diverse than just tacos. Here are some other top contenders representing a range of cuisines:
Micklethwait Craft Meats
-
What makes them special: Another BBQ powerhouse, Micklethwait is famous for its long lines and even longer waits, but the result is worth it. Their brisket is legendary.
-
Why it's on this list: The dedication to quality and the sheer deliciousness of the meat make this a must-try for any Austin visitor.
Odd Duck Food Truck (Now Brick-and-Mortar)
-
What makes them special: While now a brick-and-mortar restaurant, Odd Duck started as a food truck, and its innovative and farm-to-table approach to cuisine remains a cornerstone of Austin's food scene.
-
Why it's on this list: Their influence on Austin's food culture is undeniable. Even if the truck is gone, the legacy remains.
Food trucks offering other cuisines:
| Food Truck Name | Cuisine Type | Specialty Dish | Why it's Great |
|---|---|---|---|
| Torchy's Tacos | Tacos | Trailer Park Tacos | Creative taco combinations, always popular. |
| Hopdoddy Burger Bar | Burgers | Classic Burger | High-quality ingredients, gourmet burgers. |
| The Peached Tortilla | Asian-fusion | Korean Fried Chicken Tacos | Unique and delicious fusion cuisine. |
| Austin Pizza Truck | Pizza | Pepperoni Pizza | Classic pizza done right. |
| Polvos | Mexican/Tex-Mex | Enchiladas | Delicious and traditional Mexican dishes. |
(Note: This table showcases a small sample; many more food trucks with varied cuisines exist in Austin.)
Finding Your Perfect Food Truck Feast: Tips & Tricks
Navigating Austin's food truck scene can be exciting but requires some strategy:
- Check online reviews: Sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and TripAdvisor offer valuable insights into food truck quality and popularity.
- Use food truck finder apps: Apps like Roaming Hunger can help you locate food trucks in real-time.
- Be prepared for lines: Popular food trucks often have long lines, especially during peak hours.
- Explore different neighborhoods: Austin's food trucks are spread across the city, so explore different areas to find hidden gems.
- Consider the weather: Austin weather can be unpredictable, so dress accordingly and be prepared for potential delays.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Austin Food Truck Adventure
This list provides a starting point for your Austin food truck journey. From the classic tacos of Veracruz All Natural to the innovative creations of Odd Duck, Austin's food trucks offer an incredible variety of culinary experiences. So, grab your friends, explore the city, and get ready for a delicious adventure! Don't forget to share your favorite Austin food truck experiences in the comments below!
