Why Asheville Loves Food Trucks
Asheville, North Carolina, is celebrated for its innovative restaurants and breweries, but its culinary delights aren’t confined to traditional establishments. Tucked amidst the brick-and-mortar wonders is a thriving community of food trucks, offering a diverse and delicious way to experience the city’s culinary creativity. Forget the white tablecloths; some of the best and most exciting eats in Asheville come on four wheels. This guide explores the vibrant Asheville food truck scene, highlighting some of the must-try trucks and where to find them, giving you an insider’s look at the best mobile culinary experiences this mountain city has to offer.
The popularity of food trucks in Asheville isn’t a mystery; it’s a perfect storm of affordability, variety, and the city’s unique culture. For both residents and visitors, food trucks offer a wallet-friendly alternative to sit-down restaurants, making it easier to sample the city’s diverse culinary offerings without breaking the bank.
But it’s not just about the price point. Asheville’s food truck scene is remarkably diverse, showcasing a range of cuisines as varied as the city itself. Whether you’re craving savory Southern barbecue, authentic Mexican tacos, globally inspired fusion dishes, or decadent desserts, you’re sure to find a food truck that satisfies your appetite. This incredible variety means that you can have a different culinary experience every day of the week, all while supporting local entrepreneurs.
Accessibility is another key factor. Unlike restaurants that are anchored to specific locations, food trucks are mobile, popping up in different spots throughout the city. This means you can often find them at breweries, festivals, community events, and even office parks during lunchtime. This flexibility makes them incredibly convenient for grabbing a quick and tasty meal on the go.
Beyond practicality, Asheville’s food trucks offer a unique culinary adventure. Chefs often use these mobile kitchens as incubators for innovative and experimental dishes, pushing the boundaries of flavor and creativity. You’re likely to find dishes you won’t see anywhere else, showcasing the chef’s passion and individual style. The freedom of a food truck allows chefs to experiment, offering unique menu items that you simply can’t find anywhere else.
Finally, food trucks contribute to Asheville’s strong sense of community. They create gathering spaces where people can come together, enjoy delicious food in an open-air setting, and connect with their neighbors. They are more than just places to grab a bite to eat; they are hubs of social interaction and local pride.
Must-Try Food Trucks in Asheville
Now, let’s dive into some specific food trucks that embody the spirit and flavors of Asheville. These trucks consistently deliver exceptional food and have earned a devoted following in the city.
Root Down
If you’re craving farm-to-table goodness on wheels, look no further than Root Down. This food truck prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to create innovative and globally inspired dishes. Their menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest available produce, ensuring a vibrant and flavorful experience.
Standout dishes include their Korean BBQ tacos, packed with tender, marinated beef, kimchi slaw, and a drizzle of spicy gochujang mayo. Another popular choice is their crispy Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze and toasted almonds. These dishes offer a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that will leave you wanting more.
What makes Root Down special is their commitment to supporting local farmers and producers. They believe in building strong relationships with the community and showcasing the region’s bounty in their dishes. You can typically find Root Down at breweries in the South Slope district and various community events. Keep an eye on their social media for their updated schedule and location.
El Kimchi
El Kimchi provides an incredible fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors. They create a unique and surprisingly delicious menu that satisfies a wide range of tastes. They offer a unique blend of Korean and Mexican food.
Their signature dish, the kimchi fries, are a must-try. Imagine crispy, golden fries topped with savory Korean bulgogi, melted cheese, kimchi, gochujang mayo, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite. Their kimchi quesadillas are also a hit, featuring a tangy kimchi filling combined with melted cheese and your choice of protein.
El Kimchi stands out for its bold flavor combinations and its ability to seamlessly blend two distinct cuisines. They are frequently parked at local breweries and festivals. Follow their social media to find their current location.
Bun Intended
For gourmet burger lovers, Bun Intended is a must-visit. This food truck takes the classic American burger to a whole new level with high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
Their most popular burger is the “Big Mac Daddy” that has two patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions – on a sesame seed bun. Another favorite is the “Carolina Reaper,” featuring pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, and a fiery Carolina Reaper sauce.
What makes Bun Intended special is their commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Their beef is grass-fed and hormone-free, and their buns are baked fresh daily. They also offer a variety of vegetarian options, including a delicious black bean burger. You can often find Bun Intended at breweries and events throughout Asheville.
Mountain View BBQ
No Asheville food truck guide would be complete without mentioning a barbecue option, and Mountain View BBQ definitely delivers. They offer classic Southern barbecue with a focus on slow-smoked meats and flavorful sides.
Their pulled pork sandwich is a crowd-pleaser, featuring tender, smoky pork piled high on a toasted bun with their signature barbecue sauce. Their ribs are equally impressive, boasting a rich, smoky flavor and a tender, fall-off-the-bone texture.
Mountain View BBQ stands out for their authentic barbecue flavors and their dedication to using traditional smoking techniques. They use local hickory wood to smoke their meats for hours, resulting in a truly unforgettable barbecue experience. They are frequently found at festivals and community events.
Sunshine Sammies
Sunshine Sammies is a local favorite that specializes in homemade ice cream sandwiches. These aren’t your average grocery store ice cream sandwiches; these are made with fresh-baked cookies and creamy, handcrafted ice cream in a variety of inventive flavors.
Their most popular sandwich features two chocolate chip cookies stuffed with salted caramel ice cream. They also offer seasonal flavors like peach cobbler ice cream with cinnamon sugar cookies and lavender honey ice cream with shortbread cookies.
Sunshine Sammies stands out for their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and their playful, creative flavor combinations. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their delicious treats. They are often found at parks, festivals, and community events.
Finding the Asheville Food Truck Scene
Tracking down Asheville’s food trucks can be an adventure in itself. Fortunately, there are several ways to discover where these mobile culinary gems are located.
Breweries are reliable hubs for food trucks. Many breweries, such as Sierra Nevada, Highland Brewing, and Burial Beer Co., regularly host food trucks, providing a rotating selection of culinary options for their patrons. Checking the brewery’s schedule or social media pages is a great way to see which food trucks will be on-site.
Keep an eye out for specific food truck gathering spots or courts. These designated areas are becoming increasingly popular in Asheville, offering a central location for several food trucks to set up shop. These spots are usually active during lunch and dinner hours, providing a convenient way to sample multiple cuisines in one location.
Asheville hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, and these events are often a hotbed for food trucks. The LEAF Festival, Downtown After Five, and various street fairs all feature a diverse array of food trucks, offering a tasty way to experience the local culture.
Consider utilizing food truck finder apps or websites to track down your favorite trucks in real-time. Services like Street Food Finder allow you to see the current location of food trucks in the area, making it easier to satisfy your cravings on the go.
Tips for the Best Asheville Food Truck Experience
To make the most of your food truck adventure in Asheville, keep these tips in mind:
Always check social media. The most reliable way to find a food truck’s current location, hours, and menu is to check their Facebook or Instagram page. Food trucks often update their social media with any changes to their schedule or location, ensuring you don’t miss out.
While many food trucks accept cards, it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand. Some trucks may have limited card processing capabilities, especially in areas with spotty internet connectivity.
Be prepared for lines, especially during peak hours. Popular food trucks can draw crowds, so plan to arrive a bit early or be patient if there’s a wait. The delicious food is usually worth it.
Embrace the outdoor setting. Food trucks often provide outdoor seating, so be prepared to enjoy your meal in the open air. Bring a blanket or chair if you want to set up a picnic in a nearby park.
Step outside your comfort zone and try something new. The variety of cuisines available at Asheville’s food trucks is a perfect opportunity to expand your culinary horizons. Don’t be afraid to try a dish you’ve never heard of; you might just discover your new favorite food.
Check for vegetarian or vegan options. Many food trucks in Asheville offer vegetarian and vegan options, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. Some trucks even specialize in plant-based cuisine.
Conclusion
The Asheville food truck scene is a dynamic and exciting part of the city’s culinary landscape. It’s an affordable, accessible, and delicious way to experience the creativity and passion of local chefs. The next time you’re in Asheville, ditch the traditional restaurant and hit the streets. Explore the diverse food truck offerings and discover the unique flavors that make this city so special. Share your food truck adventures on social media using #AshevilleFoodTrucks and let the world know about the incredible mobile cuisine scene in this mountain paradise. The future of food trucks in Asheville looks bright, promising even more innovation, collaboration, and deliciousness in the years to come. The wheels are turning, and the flavors are flowing – come join the ride!
