During our recent trip to Lihue and Poipu, we had the pleasure of exploring some of the best Kauai food trucks! We were lucky enough to catch the annual Block Party on Rice Street, a lively celebration where locals and visitors alike gathered to enjoy live music and indulge in delicious Hawaiian cuisine. This event provided the perfect opportunity to sample a variety of dishes from some of the best food trucks in Kauai.
We were also able to discover other delicious spots while exploring the island, each truck offering its unique take on local and international cuisine. From gourmet burgers and fresh seafood to authentic Hawaiian dishes and innovative fusion cuisine, Kauai’s food trucks have something to satisfy every palate.
Here’s a guide to some of the best:
Kickshaws: A Gourmet Food Truck Experience
Kickshaws, a unique food truck in Koloa, Kauai, offers a culinary experience like no other. Owned and operated by Seth Peterson, a self-taught chef with a scientific approach to cooking, Kickshaws is one of the Kauai food trucks known for its gourmet diner food with a modern twist.
Peterson’s innovative cooking techniques, including sous vide, elevate simple dishes into extraordinary culinary creations. The menu features a range of mouthwatering options, from the 100% Awesome Burger, a juicy blend of chuck-short rib, brisket, and bacon, to the Rightfully Righteous Pulled Pork Sandwich, smothered in a flavorful pepper-jack cheese sauce.
For seafood lovers, the Flippin’ Phenomenal Fish Sandwich is a must-try. This sandwich features locally line-caught fish, grilled to perfection and topped with a refreshing blend of cilantro, mint, shallots, garlic, lemongrass, and a zesty sambal aioli.
And for meat lovers, the Bitchin’ Burger, topped with a house-made gouda and manchego cheese sauce, red wine sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and shallots, is a must-try.
Don’t miss out on their sides, including the addictive Hot Totty waffle fries smothered in a cheesy sauce. And for a sweet ending, keep an eye out for their decadent Crème Brûlée.
Kickshaws 5371 Koloa Road, Koloa. Call (808) 651-6750 Wednesday – Friday, 11 AM – 3 PM
Musubi Truck: A Taste of Hawaii
The Musubi Truck is a local gem on Kauai, elevating the classic musubi to new heights. With locations in Koloa and Kapa’a, they offer a diverse menu that caters to all tastes.
For those who crave tradition, the OG Spam Musubi is a must-try. This classic combination of baked spam, steamed rice, kabayaki sauce, and furikake, wrapped in nori, is a timeless favorite. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Deep Fried OG, a panko-crusted, deep-fried version topped with g-sauce, kabayaki, and furikake.
The Da Bomb Musubi is a flavor explosion, featuring kalbi-marinated Wailua beef, kimchi cucumbers, carrots, and a side of spicy aioli. For a more balanced meal, the Lifeguard Bento is a popular choice. It combines fresh poke over rice, sea salted tater tots, and their legendary deep-fried musubi, topped with a garlic aioli.
If you’re a poke lover, their poke bowls are a must-try. Choose from a variety of options, including Hawaiian salted ahi, spicy mayo, and shoyu ginger. The Hapa Poke allows you to mix and match two of your favorite poke flavors.
No meal is complete without a side of their famous truffle tots. These crispy golden tater tots are topped with truffle parmesan, roasted garlic mayo, and sweet soy drizzle, then finished with a sprinkle of furikake.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Musubi Truck is one of the Kauai food trucks we recommend for delicious and authentic Hawaiian food.
Da Melting Pot Kauai: A Taste of Local Flavor
Craving a taste of Hawaii’s local cuisine? Look no further than Da Melting Pot Kauai! This food truck, located at 4-1602 Kuhio Hwy in Kapaa, offers a delicious array of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Seafood lovers will delight in their famous Ahi Katsu, featuring crispy panko-crusted tuna drizzled with house sauces. The Kaua’i Shrimp Plate showcases locally grown shrimp cooked in a flavorful lemon butter garlic sauce. For a versatile option, try the Fresh Fish of the Day, available panko-crusted or cooked in lemon butter garlic style.
The Soft Shell Crab Sandwich is a crispy delight drizzled with sweet soy sauce. Plant-based options include the Taro Burger, featuring a locally sourced taro patty with sweet soy sauce, sriracha aioli, cucumber, and avocado.
To see more of their mouthwatering creations, follow them on Instagram @dameltingpot_kauai.
Shrimp Paradise: Hawaiian Flavor on the Go
Craving a taste of paradise? Look no further than Shrimp Paradise, a Kauai food truck based in Princeville, Hawaii. Located at 4970 Pepelani Loop, they’re open Monday-Friday from 9am to 7:30pm and Saturdays from 9am to 5:30pm, offering a delicious escape for lunch or dinner.
Indulge in their signature Aloha Shrimp Boil, a feast for two to three people featuring juicy shrimp, mussels, clams, corn, and potato bathed in their signature “Paradise Homemac Sauce.” Served with rice and garlic edamame, it’s a perfect way to experience the bounty of the Pacific.
For a more portable option, their tacos and plates come in a variety of flavors. Choose from classic Garlic Shrimp, sweet and spicy Pineapple Shrimp, or exotic Coconut Shrimp. Craving something heartier? Opt for the Spicy Tuna Poke or slow-cooked Hawaiian staple Kalua Pork. They even offer traditional Lau Lau, featuring fatty pork and salted butterfish wrapped in fragrant lu’au leaves.
Don’t miss their Musubi selections! These bite-sized delights come in classic Spam, savory Garlic Shrimp, Hawaiian-style Kalua Pork, and even a tropical Coconut Shrimp version. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a taste of Hawaiian culinary traditions, Shrimp Paradise offers a delicious and satisfying experience. Follow them on Instagram @shrimpparadisekauai for a glimpse of their mouthwatering food!
Pineapple in Paradise: A Taste of Tropical Bliss on Kauai
Craving a refreshing and tropical treat? Look no further than Pineapple in Paradise, one of the sweetest and most refreshing of all the Kauai food trucks.
Their signature Pineapple Whip is a classic, made vegan-friendly with its gluten-free, dairy-free, and lactose-free ingredients. But Pineapple in Paradise goes beyond the ordinary. They rotate specialty flavors throughout the week. Explore their custom tropical flavors made with fresh, local ingredients like coconut, guava, passion orange guava (POG), taro, papaya, melon, and more, these unique whips capture the essence of Kauai. They even offer options like azuki bean, lychee, dragonfruit, ube, and white chocolate macadamia nut, all made with live active yogurt cultures and low glycemic sweeteners.
Pineapple in Paradise offers a variety of ways to enjoy their delicious whips. Cool down with a classic Li Hing Mui Cone, featuring pineapple whip drizzled with sweet plum sauce and dusted with tangy li hing mui powder. For a longer-lasting treat, grab a PIP Pop, a frozen solid paradise cone perfect for kids on the go. And for a truly decadent experience, indulge in the PIPwich, a double waffle cone sandwich filled with their creamy whip.
Don’t forget to check their Instagram (@PIPKauai) to see their daily location and featured flavors. With its commitment to fresh ingredients and creative twists, Pineapple in Paradise is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of tropical paradise on Kauai.
Aunty Manapua: A Taste of Local Flavor
Aunty Manapua’s lunch wagon at Gather Kukui Grove in Lihue offers a delicious taste of Hawaii. Their menu features a variety of local favorites, including hearty dishes like Pork Hash, Dioja (Pastele Stew) & Gandule, Oxtail Soup, and Chili Peppa Chicken.
For a taste of island classics, try their Baked Manapua (Mini Char Siu or Okinawa Sweet Potato) or Hawaiian Plate (Kalua Pig, rice, long rice, lomi salmon, mac salad). Lighter options include Butter Caper Mahi Mahi and Garlic Fried Chicken, while their Ube Pancakes are a sweet treat.
You can reach them at 808-265-9277 or follow them on Instagram @auntymanapua.
Kauai’s Coffee Gem: Eden Coffee Truck
Don’t be fooled by its size! Eden Coffee, a family-owned gem on Kauai’s south side, packs a powerful punch in a cozy truck. Their expertly crafted espressos and beautifully adorned lattes are legendary, all made with locally roasted Kauai Roastery beans.
For the adventurous, Eden Coffee boasts a unique selection of specialty drinks. Indulge in the “Island Bliss” with its creamy coconut and chocolate combo, or embrace the nutty goodness of the “Hawaiian Dream” featuring macadamia and chocolate.
But Eden Coffee is more than just a caffeine haven. They offer a tempting selection of smoothies, shakes, and iced teas to quench your thirst on a hot Hawaiian day. Need a quick pick-me-up? Grab a freshly baked muffin alongside your favorite drink.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Eden Coffee is the perfect spot to fuel your Kauai adventures. Located at 3477 Weliweli Rd, Koloa, they open their doors (well, windows!) daily at 6:30 am (closed Sundays). Start your day right with a taste of paradise at Eden Coffee!
J’s BBQ: Savor the Smoke
J’s BBQ brings authentic barbecue flavors to Kauai. Their slow-cooked, smoked meats are a crowd-pleaser, with the 18-hour smoked brisket being a standout. Other mouthwatering options include smoked pulled pork, ribs, and smoked sausage. Don’t miss their Signature Spicy BBQ sauce made with homegrown Hawaiian chili peppers!
To complement the meats, they offer a variety of tasty sides like J’s Famous Baked Beans, Potato Mac Salad, Creamy Mac n Cheese, and Homestyle Cornbread. For a unique twist, try the Super Dog Pulled Pork Sandwich, featuring a smoked and beer-braised sausage topped with smoked pulled pork and a drizzle of their signature Whiskey Mango sauce.
Catch them at the Hanapepe Art Walk on Fridays and the Downtown Lihue Night Market on the second Saturday of the month from 4-8 PM. You can also reach them at 808-353-1651.
Shaka Burgers: A Gourmet Burger Experience
Shaka Burgers is Kauai’s premier gourmet burger food truck, serving up juicy, flavorful burgers made with 100% locally sourced, grass-fed beef. Their menu features a variety of mouthwatering options, including the Hawaii 5-0, a 7 oz. patty glazed in yaki sauce and topped with cheddar cheese, caramelized pineapple, and crispy onions.
For a double dose of flavor, try the Akuza, featuring two smashed-style patties glazed in yaki sauce and topped with cheddar cheese, grilled onions, a fried egg, and crispy garlic.
The Da Shaka Burger is a local favorite, featuring a seasoned Makaweli Ranch beef patty, cheddar cheese, local lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, and onions (both crispy and raw), all topped with bacon jam and Shaka sauce.
In addition to their burgers, Shaka Burgers offers other delicious Hawaiian fare like the Loco Moco Bowl, a classic comfort food dish featuring a perfectly cooked beef patty, two fried eggs, and brown gravy over a bed of rice.
Their Ti-NoNo is a refreshing take on a Hawaiian favorite, with tender and crispy pork belly tossed in a citrus soy vinaigrette and served over rice. Pair your meal with their perfectly seasoned French fries for a complete dining experience.
Shaka Burger is located at 2403 Ulu Maika St, Lihue. Call them at (808) 388-4290.
Kanak Attack Kaua’i: Local Hawaiian Food Truck
Kanak Attack Kaua’i is a food truck serving up delicious local Hawaiian cuisine in Kapa’a. They are known for their traditional Hawaiian plate lunches, featuring favorites like guava smoked meat, shoyu chicken, and laulau.
Other popular items include ahi katsu with spicy aioli and unagi sauce, Kaua’i beef stew with sweet potatoes, and spicy ahi poke nachos. You can find them at All Saints Church in Kapa’a on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 5 PM. For more information, follow them on Instagram @kanakattackkauai or call 808-651-4802.
Big Monster Sushi Food Truck: Fresh & Bold Flavor
Big Monster Sushi Food Truck, located at 3477 Weliweli Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, is a culinary powerhouse that’s taken the island by storm. This inventive food truck offers a unique twist on classic sushi rolls, burritos, and poke bowls, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
One of their signature dishes is the Monster Donburi, a towering masterpiece featuring a mountain of assorted fish (ahi tuna, salmon, and hamachi) served over a bed of sushi rice and mixed greens. For those who prefer their sushi on the go, the Super Man Sushi Burrito is a must-try. This colossal burrito is packed with shrimp tempura, crab mix, avocado, cucumber, mixed greens, spicy mayo, and unagi sauce, all wrapped in seaweed.
If you’re a poke bowl enthusiast, the Monster Poke Bowl is a must-try. Customize your bowl with fresh ahi tuna and salmon, then add your favorite toppings like sushi rice, mixed greens, avocado, cucumber, masago, edamame, and their homemade ponzu sauce.
For a taste of something truly unique, try the Aloha Roll, a delightful combination of crispy unagi, cilantro, jalapeno, cucumber, and fried asparagus, topped with mayo, unagi sauce, and sriracha. Or, if you prefer a little heat, the Volcano Roll is the perfect choice, featuring spicy salmon, avocado, cucumber, and seared spicy crab.
Follow them on Instagram @bigmonstersushifoodtruck for updates and mouthwatering photos.
Al Pastor Tacos: A Taste of Mexico in Kauai
Craving authentic Mexican flavors? Look no further than Al Pastor Tacos, a local favorite food truck located in the Kapaa Food Truck Court next to Ostuka’s. Run by the husband-and-wife duo, Paulino and Faun Hernandez, this truck serves up delicious dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Their signature Al Pastor Tacos are renowned for their perfectly roasted, marinated pork, combined with house-made pico de gallo and creamy guacamole. But the menu doesn’t stop there. Fresh fish tacos, grilled fish burritos, and shrimp tacos offer a variety of seafood options, all prepared with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Mexican cuisine or looking to try something new, Al Pastor Tacos is a must-visit for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Call them at 808-652-6953.
The Village Kauai: A Taste of Global Flavors
The Village Kauai is a unique food truck bringing a fusion of flavors to the island. From the vibrant streets of Colombia to the tropical paradise of Hawaii, their menu offers a delightful culinary journey.
Indulge in their Colombian Empanadas, filled with savory beef, potatoes, and vegetables, served with a fiery aji sauce. For a sweet treat, try their Sweet Empanadas, filled with strawberry jam and cream cheese, then topped with powdered sugar and rich local honey.
Craving something savory? The L.A. Street Dog is a must-try. This bacon-wrapped hot dog is topped with grilled onions, bell peppers, fresh tomatoes, a special sauce, pineapple relish, and crispy potato crumbs.
To quench your thirst, sip on their refreshing Horchata, a creamy rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon. You can also choose to add a matcha or coffee foam for an extra boost. Their Fresh Local Lemonade is another popular choice, made with hand-squeezed lemons and sweetened with local honey. Flavors include butterfly pea strawberry, lilikoi, and mango.
For a healthy and delicious treat, try their Fruit Smoothies, made with a blend of coconut milk, acai, strawberries, bananas, blueberries, and local honey. Or opt for a lighter option with coconut water, orange juice, lime, pineapple, and mango.
Call The Village Kauai at 1 (808) 635-1175 or visit them @thevillagekauai on Instagram.
Super Hero Sushi & Thai Food Truck: A Flavorful Fusion
Super Hero Sushi & Thai Food Truck, located in Kapaa and Lihue, offers a delicious fusion of Thai and Japanese cuisine. Their extensive menu features a variety of dishes, from classic Thai curries to innovative sushi rolls.
Highlights include their flavorful Panang Curry, a beloved Thai dish known for its nutty, mellow flavor. For those who prefer a spicy kick, their Tom Yum Noodle Soup is a must-try. This spicy rice noodle soup is packed with lime, ground chicken, shrimp, ground peanut, and fresh herbs.
If you’re a fan of Thai salads, their Papaya Salad is a refreshing and spicy option. Made with shredded green papaya, carrots, garlic, chili, tomato, peanut, tamarind sauce, and fish sauce, it’s a classic Thai dish that’s both flavorful and healthy.
For sushi lovers, the Lava Flow Roll is a popular choice. This indulgent roll features cream cheese, coconut shrimp, avocado, cucumber, topped with spicy tuna, spicy mayo, and unagi sauce.
With their diverse menu and commitment to quality, Super Hero Sushi & Thai Food Truck is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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