15 Best Food Trucks in Kauai for Every Foodie
Kauai is home to some of the best food Hawaii has to offer, and what better way to experience it than through the many incredible food trucks?
From tasty poke bowls to savory loco moco bites, we guarantee you won’t go hungry!
No need to find the hidden gems, we’ve done the homework for you – here are the 15 of the best food trucks in Kauai you need to try:
1. Chalupa’s
If you’re looking for the best food truck in Kauai, then Chalupa’s is your go-to.
Sure, their fish tacos are to die for, but don’t let that stop you from exploring their other offerings like burritos, tacos, quesadillas and more.
Who said Mexican food has to be boring anyway? This place takes traditional flavors and spices and turns them into something truly special.
Just give it a try – the juicy and succulent meats are braised for hours on end, so it’s sure to surpass anyone’s expectations of what a ‘food truck meal’ can be.
No wonder there’s never a break in the line at this legendary food truck!
Address: 3477 Weliweli Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
2. 808 Grill
Hawaiian vibes meet epicurean tastes; 808 Grill has got the whole package. This food truck’s no slouch when it comes to giving you some serious deliciousness!
Under the lead of Chef Jenna Kerr-Michaels, this delectable eatery blends Island-style family dining with French-Asian cooking.
And connoisseurs of both food and fashion need look no further; you can conveniently grab lunch before or after a shopping trip at NoKa Fair.
As if you needed more incentive to head over there, their signature dish, pan-seared mahi mahi served with jasmine coconut rice, sautéed green beans, and Thai chile butter is sure to be a winner every time.
Now, this is what eating in paradise looks like!
Address: 4-1613 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States
3. Waikomo Shave Ice
At Waikomo Shave Ice, you’ll get more than just a great shave ice experience – you’ll get a scenic journey to deliciousness!
It’s conveniently located just a short drive from Poipu Beach, giving you the perfect opportunity for an afternoon pitstop before exploring the shoreline.
They’ve perfected their recipe of fluffy and oh-so-soft shave ice frosted with natural fruit syrups made from organic cane sugar (none of that high fructose stuff).
Then they top it off with fresh fruit and swoon-worthy coconut cream sauce – but wait, it’s not over yet – they complete the masterpiece with a drizzle of local honey.
For dessert aficionados who like to go all out, they can add a scoop of vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream to the bottom of your order. Delicious deluxe!
Address: 2827 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
4. The Musubi Truck
If you’re in Kauai and you’re looking for some true local eats, make your way to The Musubi Truck in downtown Kapaa.
They don’t just serve any ordinary musubi either; whether you’re a fan of Spam Musubi or branching out and trying something unique, they have tons of options here.
So forget the salads, don’t bother with the smoothies and head straight over to The Musubi Truck – your stomach will thank you later!
Address: 4548 Kukui St, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States
5. D Green’s BBQ
If you’re looking to get your hands on some delicious, heavenly BBQ while in Kauai, you won’t want to miss out on D Green’s BBQ.
Chef Darren Green is passionate about his craft, and it shows in the scrumptious smoked ribs that literally fall off the bone.
You’ll also find succulent brisket and savory pulled pork marinated just right. Once you try D Green’s BBQ, you won’t want to share.
Make sure you follow them on Instagram or Facebook to find out when they’re open (usually lunchtime on weekends).
Address: 5371 Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
6. Al Pastor Tacos
If you’re looking for a taste of Mexico in Kauai, check out Al Pastor Tacos, one of the best food truck in town.
Found inside the Kapaa Food Truck Court, this husband and wife team are serving up authentic Mexican dishes that’ll make your mouth water.
Enjoy their classics like fish, shrimp, steak and chicken tacos. But it doesn’t stop there.
Their namesake Al Pastor taco is considered a must-try by locals; with its marinated pork, pico de gallo, and guacamole combo – you can’t help but fall in love.
And don’t forget to try their garlic shrimp tacos or ahi fish burritos too!
Address: 4-1620 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States
7. Holey Grail Donuts
You won’t find a better sweet treat to indulge your Hawaiian cravings than at Holey Grail Donuts.
These unique donuts were founded by Nile and Hana Dreiling, who use only taro, the Hawaii-grown canoe crop, as the starch for their delicious dough base.
Every donut is then fried in coconut oil – mmmm! While they taste oh so scrumptious, what really sets these donuts apart are their stunning decorations.
Decked out with local botanicals and all-natural ingredients, these mouthwatering treats are too cute to resist.
Our top two picks? The Purple Haze and the Miso Honey donut. If you’re drooling already, we can’t blame you – get over to Holey Grail Donuts to satisfy that sweet tooth!
Address: 5-5100 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, United States
8. Anattas Thai Street Food
If you’re looking to satisfy your Thai food cravings, look no further than Anattas Thai Street Food.
Whether you feel like trying something new and exotic or indulging in some comforting favorites, there is something for everyone on their delicious menu.
Sample a combo plate of Thai curry served with a scoop of rice and your choice of Pad Thai or Papaya Salad.
A surefire way to transport your taste buds to the streets of Thailand without ever leaving Kauai!
Address: 4100 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766, United States
9. Hanalei Taro & Juice Co
Located at the entrance to Hanalei near Wishing Well Shave Ice, Hanalei Taro & Juice Co‘s farm-fresh dishes will definitely hit the spot.
With plate lunches like lau lau and kalua pork alongside some mouthwatering deli sandwiches, it’s clear why this place is known as the best food truck in Kauai.
As if that wasn’t enough reason to check them out, they’ve got plenty of thirst-quenching juices to choose from too.
Address: 5-5070 Kuhio Hwy # B, Hanalei, HI 96714, United States
10. Thai Elephant
Craving a meal from the other side of the Pacific? Make your way to Thai Elephant, a food truck that’s mastered making mouth-watering dishes bursting with flavor.
From classic curries to other delicious options like coconut chicken soup, you won’t be able to resist their unique menu items.
And don’t forget to order a refreshing glass of Thai tea to quench your thirst!
Address: 5-5100 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, United States
11. Small Town Coffee
Come early, come often – Small Town Coffee is the place to be for all things delicious and caffeine-related on Kauai’s east side.
This cute little red bus of a cafe opens bright and early at 6am, so grab a mug and get ready to kickstart your day with their amazing brewed coffees, teas, lattes… you name it.
But let’s talk coffee here – their Kevlar blend gives quite a ‘bang’ back for its buck.
For something sweet to go with it, they offer heavenly pastries like blueberry muffins. Bonus points if you can manage not to eat it all before you leave!
And for even more of an added bonus: enjoy stunning ocean views from the outdoor patio as you sip away! Nothing like the perfect setting with that perfectly made cup of joe!
Address: 4-1543 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States
12. Japanese Grandma’s
Japanese Grandma’s has done it again! After delighting customers with their popular cafe in Hanapepe Town, they’ve now taken the food truck experience to a whole new level.
With hearty menu favorites like fresh sushi and a People’s Choice Award under their belt, Japanese Grandma is sure to be a hit in your books.
Make sure to follow them on Instagram to stay up-to-date on where their truck is going – sometimes, you’ll find it parked right outside their restaurant.
13. Kickshaws
Kickshaws is definitely not your run-of-the-mill street food truck.
Chef Seth Peterson turned his background in biology into an unparalleled culinary experience with unique scientific elements, proving that one can whip up a rockin’ burger from more than just an ordinary grill and some roadside condiments.
But nothing speaks for itself quite like the 100% Awesome Burger! A 30-hour cured beef patty combined with pineapple-black pepper marmalade, cheddar cheese, arugula, tomato and Seth’s special aioli.
Now that’s kickin’ it up a notch. Or two.
Address: 5371 Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
14. Mama Bear’s Kitchen
Satisfy your stomach’s craving for the best food truck in Kauai at Mama Bear’s Kitchen.
A comfort food haven boasting a menu filled with everything from roast pork moco and wagyu beef sliders, to their specialized smash burger, Mama Bear’s is sure to delight even the pickiest of palates.
Hurry down to Mama Bear’s if you’re ready to put your taste buds on overdrive!
Address: 9935 Kaumualii Hwy Waimea, HI 96796, United States
15. Fresh Bite Kauai
Fresh Bite Kauai is your go-to if you’re looking for an island-style eatery with a side of delicious, nutritious food.
This local favorite is like nothing else around – they serve farm-to-beach food that’s made with only the freshest ingredients (and organic when possible).
Using seasonal fruits and vegetables to support local farms and vendors, Fresh Bite Kauai is the perfect spot for guilt-free gluttony!
