Forget white tablecloths; in Asheville, the real culinary adventure often rolls on four wheels. From globally inspired flavors that transport you to distant lands to Southern comfort food classics that evoke childhood memories, the city’s food truck scene is a vibrant and essential part of its nationally-renowned foodie culture. Asheville, North Carolina, has long been celebrated for its independent spirit and dedication to innovative cuisine, and its food trucks are a shining example of this ethos.
Asheville’s food scene, known for its farm-to-table approach and focus on locally sourced ingredients, has cultivated an environment where creativity thrives. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this vibrant city is home to a thriving community of chefs, artisans, and food enthusiasts who appreciate unique culinary experiences. Traditional restaurants play a big role, but food trucks have carved out a niche, offering diverse and delicious options for locals and tourists alike. With their ever-changing menus and casual, inviting atmospheres, food trucks add another layer of excitement to Asheville’s already dynamic dining landscape. This guide explores Asheville’s diverse and dynamic food truck scene, highlighting some of the best trucks, their unique offerings, and where to find them, so you can start your own delicious journey today.
Why Food Trucks Thrive in Asheville
Several factors contribute to the popularity and success of food trucks in Asheville. The city’s deeply rooted foodie culture is perhaps the most significant. Ashevilleans have a discerning palate and a genuine appreciation for quality ingredients, unique flavors, and thoughtfully prepared meals. This makes them eager to try new things, and food trucks, with their often experimental and innovative menus, are a perfect fit. The commitment to supporting local businesses is also a hallmark of Asheville’s culture. Food trucks are often small, owner-operated enterprises, and the community is eager to support these entrepreneurs in their endeavors.
Then there’s the vibe. Asheville’s laid-back, outdoor-loving atmosphere perfectly complements the casual nature of food trucks. The city is known for its vibrant breweries, parks, and outdoor events, all of which provide ideal settings for enjoying a delicious meal from a food truck. Grabbing a bite from a food truck and enjoying it al fresco is a quintessential Asheville experience, blending the city’s love of good food with its appreciation for the great outdoors.
Affordability is another key factor. Food trucks often offer a more budget-friendly option than traditional restaurants, making them accessible to a wider range of diners. In a city where dining out can sometimes be expensive, food trucks provide a delicious and affordable way to experience Asheville’s culinary scene. This is particularly appealing to students, young professionals, and families looking for a tasty meal without breaking the bank.
Finally, the very structure of food trucks fosters innovation and experimentation. Food trucks allow chefs to test new concepts, cuisines, and dishes without the overhead of a brick-and-mortar restaurant. This creates a dynamic and ever-evolving culinary landscape, with food trucks constantly pushing boundaries and offering unique and exciting options. This culture of experimentation also fosters a sense of community, as chefs often collaborate and support one another, creating a vibrant and collaborative culinary ecosystem.
Featured Food Trucks: A Taste of Asheville on Wheels
Let’s delve into some specific food trucks that embody the spirit of Asheville’s mobile culinary scene.
Cecilia’s Kitchen: Authentic Venezuelan Flavors
Cecilia’s Kitchen brings the vibrant flavors of Venezuela to the streets of Asheville. Cecilia herself is the heart and soul of this operation, crafting each arepa with love and attention to detail. An arepa, for the uninitiated, is a cornmeal cake that’s grilled to perfection and then stuffed with a variety of savory fillings. Cecilia’s arepas are made from scratch using traditional Venezuelan techniques, ensuring an authentic and delicious experience.
Their signature dish is the “Reina Pepiada” arepa, filled with creamy avocado chicken salad. The contrast between the warm, slightly sweet arepa and the cool, savory filling is simply divine. Another must-try is the “Pabellon” arepa, stuffed with shredded beef, black beans, sweet plantains, and cheese. Prices are very reasonable, generally under fifteen dollars, making Cecilia’s Kitchen a great option for a quick and affordable lunch or dinner. You can usually find Cecilia’s Kitchen at local breweries and events around town. For the latest updates, follow them on social media to track their daily location.
Cecilia says, “I wanted to bring the taste of my home to Asheville. Seeing people enjoy my arepas and connect with Venezuelan culture is the most rewarding thing.”
The Smokin’ Onion: Elevated Southern BBQ
For those craving classic Southern BBQ with a gourmet twist, look no further than The Smokin’ Onion. This food truck takes barbecue to the next level, using high-quality meats, house-made sauces, and creative sides. Forget the typical gas-station BBQ; this is craft barbecue at its finest.
Their pulled pork sandwich is a standout, featuring tender, smoky pork piled high on a toasted bun with their signature Carolina vinegar sauce. The brisket is also exceptional, slow-cooked to perfection and boasting a rich, smoky flavor. Don’t forget to try their sides, which include creamy mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, and crispy sweet potato fries. Expect to spend between ten and twenty dollars for a satisfying meal. The Smokin’ Onion frequents many of the breweries in the South Slope district and can often be found at outdoor concerts. Check their social media for their weekly schedule.
The owner of The Smokin’ Onion shared, “We wanted to create BBQ that was both familiar and exciting. We use traditional techniques but aren’t afraid to experiment with new flavors and ingredients.”
Plant AVL: Vegan Delights
Asheville is known for its thriving vegetarian and vegan scene, and Plant AVL is a shining example of the deliciousness of plant-based cuisine. This food truck offers a creative and flavorful menu that will appeal to vegans and non-vegans alike. Plant AVL proves that vegan food can be both healthy and incredibly satisfying.
Their signature dish is the jackfruit BBQ sandwich, featuring tender jackfruit simmered in a smoky BBQ sauce and served on a toasted bun with coleslaw. It’s a vegan twist on a classic Southern favorite. Other popular items include their lentil burgers, vegan tacos, and a variety of creative salads. Prices are very competitive, offering a high-value meal. Plant AVL is a regular fixture at various farmers’ markets and festivals around Asheville. Follow their social media for their updated location.
According to the chef at Plant AVL, “We want to show people that vegan food can be delicious, satisfying, and accessible to everyone. We use fresh, local ingredients and put our heart into every dish.”
Dough Boys: Artisan Pizza on the Go
Dough Boys brings authentic, wood-fired pizza to the streets of Asheville. Using a mobile wood-fired oven, they create pizzas with crispy crusts and delicious toppings. The simplicity of great ingredients and expert execution make Dough Boys a local favorite.
Their Margherita pizza is a classic, featuring fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce. For those looking for something more adventurous, try their mushroom pizza with truffle oil or their pepperoni pizza with spicy peppers. Prices range from fifteen to twenty-five dollars, depending on the pizza. Dough Boys is often found at breweries and private events. For the most up-to-date location, it’s best to check their social media pages.
The team at Dough Boys says, “We love bringing the taste of authentic wood-fired pizza to the community. There is nothing like the simplicity of fresh dough and toppings cooked over a roaring fire.”
Where to Find Asheville’s Food Trucks: Following the Flavors
Tracking down these culinary gems is part of the fun. Asheville’s food trucks tend to gather in specific locations, creating impromptu food truck courts. Breweries are a prime location, as many local breweries partner with food trucks to provide food options for their patrons. You can often find a rotating cast of food trucks parked outside breweries in the South Slope district, known for its high concentration of craft breweries. Outdoor events and festivals, common throughout the year, are also a reliable place to find a variety of food trucks.
However, the most effective way to find your favorite food truck is through social media. Most food trucks actively update their location and hours on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Following them will allow you to stay informed about their daily schedule and any special events they may be participating in. Several apps dedicated to tracking food trucks are also available. Checking these sources before heading out will ensure you won’t miss out on your desired culinary experience.
Tips for Food Truck Dining in Asheville: Making the Most of Your Experience
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable food truck experience in Asheville, keep these tips in mind. First, always check the food truck’s social media before heading out. This will confirm their location and hours for the day. While most trucks accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, just in case. Be prepared to wait in line, especially during peak hours. Popular food trucks can attract a crowd, but the wait is usually worth it.
Embrace the outdoor setting. Food trucks are all about casual dining, so dress comfortably and be prepared to eat outdoors. Be adventurous and try something new. Food trucks are a great way to explore different cuisines and flavors. Most importantly, remember that by eating at food trucks, you’re supporting local entrepreneurs and contributing to Asheville’s vibrant food scene.
Check to see if the chef is promoting any specials or new items. Feel free to ask them about the ingredients or suggestions to help you decide on a great meal.
Conclusion: An Essential Part of Asheville’s Culinary Tapestry
Asheville’s food truck scene is more than just a collection of mobile kitchens; it’s an integral part of the city’s culinary tapestry. These on-wheels delights offer a diverse range of flavors, a casual and inviting atmosphere, and a unique way to experience Asheville’s vibrant food culture. They embody the city’s spirit of innovation, creativity, and community, offering a delicious and affordable way to explore the local culinary landscape.
So, the next time you’re in Asheville, skip the traditional restaurant and embark on a delicious food truck adventure. Explore the locations that we have provided. Follow some trucks online. Try something new. You won’t be disappointed! The friendly faces behind the window and the unique, delicious food will show you just how important food trucks are to the magic of the Asheville experience. And if you’re a local, keep supporting the small businesses that keep Asheville unique!
