Austin, Texas, is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and a significant part of that scene is its incredible collection of food trucks. From gourmet burgers to authentic tacos, the city boasts a diverse and delicious array of mobile eateries. This article explores 22 of the best food trucks in Austin, offering a taste of the culinary adventures that await. Finding the best food truck in Austin is a quest many undertake, and this list aims to guide you to some truly exceptional options.
Top Taco Trucks: A Taste of Tradition
Austin's taco scene is legendary, and these food trucks elevate the experience:
Veracruz All Natural
- What makes it special: This truck is a classic, known for its authentic, delicious tacos. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional recipes is evident in every bite. Expect long lines, but the wait is absolutely worth it.
- Must-try: The migas taco is a standout, a breakfast staple redefined.
- Location: Multiple locations around Austin, check their website for current locations.
Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ
- What makes it special: A unique fusion of Tex-Mex and BBQ, Valentina's offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. The smoked meats are incredible, and the creative taco combinations are inspired.
- Must-try: Their brisket taco with a spicy chipotle sauce is a must-have.
- Location: Check their social media for up-to-date locations.
Taco Deli
While technically a brick-and-mortar with a food truck presence, Taco Deli deserves a mention. They consistently deliver high-quality, innovative tacos using fresh, local ingredients. They are a great example of how Austin food trucks elevate the typical taco experience.
Beyond Tacos: Exploring Austin's Diverse Food Truck Scene
Austin's food truck scene goes far beyond tacos. Here are some notable examples:
Odd Duck
- What makes it special: Odd Duck is known for its farm-to-table approach, using seasonal ingredients to create innovative and delicious dishes. The menu changes frequently, but expect creative plates and exceptional flavor combinations.
- Must-try: Whatever seasonal special they are featuring – their creativity makes each visit a surprise.
- Location: While they have a brick-and-mortar, their food truck beginnings were legendary. Check their website for occasional pop-ups.
Micklethwait Craft Meats
- What makes it special: This is BBQ royalty in Austin. Micklethwait is known for its incredibly tender brisket, slow-smoked to perfection. Expect long lines, but the incredible BBQ is worth the wait.
- Must-try: The brisket is the star, but the sausage is also a standout.
- Location: They are primarily a brick-and-mortar, but their origins in the food truck world are significant and their quality consistently exceptional.
Food Trucks by Cuisine Type
To help you navigate the sheer variety, here's a breakdown by cuisine type:
| Cuisine Type | Food Truck Examples | Notable Dishes |
|---|---|---|
| Burgers | Frank, Hopdoddy Burger Bar (brick and mortar with truck history) | Gourmet burgers with unique toppings |
| BBQ | La Barbecue, Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ | Brisket, ribs, sausage |
| Asian | Various rotating trucks – Check Austin Food Truck websites | Ramen, pho, Korean BBQ |
| Pizza | Via 313, Home Slice Pizza (brick-and-mortar with truck legacy) | Deep-dish and New York-style pizzas |
| Sandwiches | Numerous options, often featuring local ingredients | Gourmet sandwiches with creative combinations |
| Dessert | Various rotating trucks offering ice cream, cupcakes, etc | A huge variety depending on the truck |
Note: This table represents a small sample, and many more fantastic food trucks exist in Austin.
Finding the Best Food Truck for You
Navigating Austin's food truck scene can be overwhelming, but with a little research, you're sure to find hidden culinary gems. Use online resources like Austin Food Truck Tracker to find trucks in your area and check out their menus before you go. Reading online reviews can also be very helpful.
Remember to check the hours of operation and location before heading out, as food truck locations can change. Many use social media to announce their daily locations. Enjoy your Austin food truck adventure!
Conclusion: An Unending Culinary Journey
The best food trucks in Austin offer a diverse and delicious culinary experience, reflecting the city's unique character and creativity. From classic tacos to innovative fusion cuisine, there's something for everyone to enjoy. This list serves as a starting point for your exploration of Austin's exciting mobile food scene. So grab your friends, explore the city, and savor the incredible food that awaits. Remember to follow your favorite trucks on social media to stay up-to-date on their location and daily specials! The Austin food truck scene is constantly evolving, so continue to explore and discover your new favorite food truck.
