The Ultimate Kauai Food Truck Guide 2023: Discover the Best Cheap Eats

Are you planning a trip to Kauai and looking for the ultimate dining experience? Well, look no further! In this guide, we will take you on a mouthwatering journey through the vibrant and diverse food truck scene on the island. From experimental chefs to the freshest ingredients, Kauai's food trucks have it all.

Why Are Kauai Food Trucks So Good?

Kauai's food trucks are known for their innovative and mouthwatering creations. Whether you're craving Hawaiian-grown taro donuts or the freshest ahi poke, Kauai's food truck scene has something to satisfy every palate. The chefs behind these trucks are constantly pushing the boundaries and surprising visitors with their culinary delights.

But it's not just about the food. When our family visits Kauai, 75% of our meals are at food trucks. Why? Because aside from the delectable dishes, there are several reasons why Kauai food trucks are a must-try:

1. Quality ingredients and delicious food: Each food truck takes pride in using the freshest and highest quality ingredients to create their mouthwatering dishes.

2. Support local companies: By dining at Kauai's food trucks, you're supporting local businesses and contributing to the island's vibrant food scene.

3. Affordable prices: One of the best things about food trucks is that they offer incredible value for money. You can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

4. Variety: Craving noodles, burgers, Mexican food, or poke? You'll find it all and more at Kauai's food trucks. The variety is truly astounding.

5. Easy to find: Food trucks are scattered throughout the island, making them conveniently accessible. When you spot a food truck, make sure to stop and indulge in a culinary adventure.

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A Word of Caution on Kauai Food Trucks

While Kauai's food truck scene is undoubtedly incredible, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Food trucks can be unpredictable when it comes to their operating hours, so it's advisable to head to food truck parks where you'll have a higher chance of finding trucks open for business.

It's also worth noting that some food trucks may occasionally run out of certain dishes due to popularity or availability of ingredients. To avoid disappointment, we recommend calling in your order ahead of time, especially if you have a hungry family in tow.

Kauai Food Truck Prices

Contrary to what you might expect, cheap eats doesn't mean compromising on quality in Kauai. Food trucks offer a wide range of cuisines and price points, ensuring there's something to suit every budget. You can expect to spend around $15 to $20 per plate, which is incredibly reasonable considering the generous portion sizes.

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Do Kauai Food Trucks Take Credit Cards?

Most of Kauai's food trucks accept credit cards, making it easy and convenient to indulge in their delectable offerings. However, it's worth noting that some trucks still operate on a cash-only basis. If you're planning to visit a specific food truck, it's best to have cash on hand, just in case.

The Best Kauai Food Trucks

Now that you know why Kauai's food trucks are a must-try, let's delve into the top food trucks you should add to your culinary adventure. These trucks have been carefully selected based on their reputation, quality, and uniqueness. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience!

Kapaa Food Truck Parks

Kapaa is known for having the most food trucks per capita on the island. Here are two food truck parks in Kapaa that you shouldn't miss:

All Saints Food Truck Park in Kapaa, Kauai

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• Location: 4-1065 Kuhio Hwy, Kapa'a, HI 96746

• Best Time to Visit: Lunch

• Facilities: Clean picnic tables under a big shade tree and bathrooms in the gym/community center

At All Saints Food Truck Park, you'll find a rotating selection of food trucks serving up delicious meals. Here are some notable options:

• Filo's Kauai: Indulge in fresh and flavorful Mexican food with good-sized portions.

• Nana's Snack Shack: Enjoy fresh salads, wraps, and sandwiches, along with delectable treats like acai bowls and chocolate-dipped frozen bananas.

• 3 Girls Local Grill: Savor the flavors of Filipino cuisine with their pork adobo, teriyaki chicken and beef, and more.

Kapa'a Beach Park Food Truck Park

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• Location: 4-1620 Kuhio Hwy, Kapa'a, HI 96746

• Best Time to Visit: Lunch and Dinner

• Facilities: Port-o-potties and umbrella-shaded picnic tables

Located near Kapa'a Beach Park, this food truck park offers a wide variety of culinary delights. Here are some of the trucks you shouldn't miss:

• BB's Kauai: Treat yourself to gourmet burgers, delicious fries, and homemade white pineapple ice cream.

• Happy Snacks: Indulge in Thai cuisine with their garlic shrimp, curries, and noodles.

• Pita's Kauai: Enjoy authentic Mediterranean dishes like gyro wraps, falafel wraps, and Greek salads.

• Al Pastor Tacos: Savor Mexican flavors with their fish tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and more.

Don't miss out on the additional food trucks located across the street, including 808 Grill, The Musubi Truck, El Rey Del Mar, and Anatta's Thai Street Food.

Hanalei Food Truck Park

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• Location: 5-5100 Kuhio Hwy, Kapa'a, HI 96714

• Best Time to Visit: Lunch and Dinner

• Facilities: Port-o-potties and umbrella-shaded picnic tables

If you find yourself in Hanalei, make sure to visit the food truck park in the heart of town. Here are some trucks you'll find there:

• Holey Grail Donuts: Indulge in delicious taro donuts and excellent coffee at this must-visit food truck.

• Cafe Turmeric: Experience flavorful and authentic Indian cuisine, including seafood, meat, and curries.

• Fresh Bite Kauai: Enjoy organic, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, including sandwiches, wraps, salads, and bowls.

• Thai Elephant: Delight your taste buds with authentic Thai curries, pad thai, and more.

• Da Fazenda: Discover the fusion of Brazilian and local cuisine, including shrimp plates, chicken skewers, and more.

Don't forget to visit Trucking Delicious, now known as Wake Up Delicious, which relocated from the Hanalei food truck park to a brick-and-mortar cafe. Their kalua burritos, poke, and other island favorites are definitely worth a try.

Koloa Food Truck Parks

Koloa Town is home to two fantastic food truck parks. If you're in the area, don't miss out on these culinary gems:

Old Sugar Mill Food Truck Park

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• Location: 5371 Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

• Best Time to Visit: Lunch and Dinner

• Facilities: Port-o-potties and picnic tables under the banyan trees

Located in the heart of Koloa Town, this food truck park offers a delightful dining experience. Here are some trucks you'll find there:

• Kickshaws: Treat yourself to classic burgers, locally caught fish sandwiches, and unique creations like camel burgers.

• Taco Libre: Indulge in flavorful tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites at this popular truck.

• Naruto Noodles: Satisfy your ramen cravings with their selection of organic bone broths and delicious toppings.

• Dim 'N' Den Sum: Experience the fusion of Japanese and Hawaiian cuisine with their musubi, seafood platters, and more.

• D Green's BBQ: Enjoy classic BBQ dishes like brisket, pulled pork, and tangy BBQ sauce at this fan-favorite truck.

Koloa Zipline Food Truck Park

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• Location: 3477 Weliweli Road, Koloa, HI 96756

• Best Time to Visit: Lunch and Dinner

• Facilities: Picnic tables with shade canopies

Located near Koloa Zipline, this food truck park offers a unique dining experience. Here are some trucks you shouldn't miss:

• Chalupa's: Indulge in authentic Mexican flavors with fish tacos, rice bowls, and more.

• Eden Coffee: Start your day with a cup of delightful coffee, pastries, and delicious coffee cake at this cozy coffee shop.

• Craving Thai Kauai: Enjoy traditional Thai curries, noodles, and rolls at this delightful food truck.

• Big Monster Sushi Food Truck: Satisfy your sushi cravings with their wide selection of sushi rolls and poke bowls.

Lihue's Harbor Mall Food Truck Park

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• Location: 3501 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766

• Best Time to Visit: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

• Facilities: Paved area with picnic tables and umbrellas

Located at Harbor Mall in Lihue, this food truck park offers a delightful culinary experience. Here are some trucks you won't want to miss:

• Aloha Liege Waffles and Espresso: Indulge in Belgian waffles with a variety of toppings, perfect for breakfast or lunch.

• Smitty's Smash Burgers: Savor juicy burgers with delicious toppings and a flavorful bun at this popular food truck.

• Kauai Boba and Barbeque: Delight your taste buds with BBQ classics and boba drinks at this unique food truck.

These are just a few of the amazing food trucks you'll find on Kauai. They offer a variety of cuisines, unique flavors, and unforgettable dining experiences.

The Lone Wolves: Best Kauai Food Trucks Worth Seeking Out

While the food truck parks are not to be missed, there are also some fantastic lone wolf food trucks that are worth seeking out during your stay on the island. Here are a few of our favorites:

Best Kauai Food Trucks in Hanalei

• Pat's Taqueria: Enjoy delicious Mexican dishes like fish tacos and burritos at this landmark food truck in Hanalei.

• Wishing Well Shave Ice: Treat yourself to the best shave ice on Kauai and relax at their wooden tables under the shade tree.

• Hanalei Taro & Juice Co: Sample traditional dishes made with fresh taro, including lau lau and kalua pork.

Best Kauai Food Trucks in Kapaa

• Small Town Coffee: Start your day with excellent coffee, pastries, and more at this cozy coffee house with a little red bus.

• Scorpacciata Neapolitan Pizza Kauai: Indulge in delicious Neapolitan pizzas with fresh ingredients and a chewy crust.

• 808 Grill: Experience Pacific-Rim cuisine with a fusion of Pacific flavors, French, and Asian cooking techniques.

• The Musubi Truck: Try the famous Hawaiian staple, musubi, along with poke and fruit slushies at this convenient downtown Kapaa truck.

Best Kauai Food Trucks in South Kauai (Koloa and Poipu)

• Kauai Poke Co. Food Truck: Savor award-winning poke bowls, tempura shrimp plates, and more at this orange trailer.

• Waikomo Shave Ice: Refresh yourself with fluffy shave ice packed with flavors and bits of fruit, located near Da Crack Mexican take-out window.

Best Kauai Food Trucks on the West Side

• Japanese Grandma's Cafe: Indulge in authentic and quality sushi, sashimi, and poke from this award-winning food truck.

• Porky's Kauai: Satisfy your cravings with their delicious pineapple sausage, beef hot dog, grilled cheese, and rice bowl creations.

• Hokus Food Truck: Treat yourself to Korean plate lunches bursting with flavor and generous portions.

Best Kauai Food Trucks in Lihue

• Manna on Wheels: Sample authentic Filipino cuisine, including vegan and vegetarian options, at this friendly food truck.

• Anatta's Thai Street Food: Enjoy authentic Thai dishes, including curries and rolls, at this delightful food truck.

• Aloha Liege Waffle & Espresso: Start your day off right with delicious Belgian waffles and a cup of coffee.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Kauai Food Truck Guide

With this comprehensive guide, you're ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant food truck scene on Kauai. From experimental chefs to unique flavors and affordable prices, Kauai's food trucks offer an incredible dining experience.

Remember to be adventurous, call ahead to confirm hours, and follow our recommended itinerary to make the most of your food truck journey. With these tips in mind, you're guaranteed to discover the best cheap eats on the island.

Mahalo and enjoy your gastronomic adventure on Kauai!