Your Roadmap to Virginia’s Tastiest Food Trucks
Long ago, food trucks weren’t trucks at all, rather small carts outfitted with nothing but two wheels, a modest griddle and a singular umbrella for shade. Fast forward to 2021 and food trucks are now trailer-sized kitchens that can pick up and cook out every night of the week at venues far and wide. They have their own rodeos, their own competitions and their own grub-loving following from fairs and festivals to breweries and weddings.
One can argue that these mobile eateries now rival some of the nation’s most celebrated brick-and-mortar kitchens. The on-the-go gourmet movement has proved that award-winning eats don’t have to break the bank but are equally delicious wrapped in parchment paper and doled out curbside. In 2016, a cart in Singapore became the first Michelin-starred food truck.
Now, Virginia food trucks are well on their way to earning their time in the spotlight. As you travel throughout the Commonwealth, keep these route-side restaurants in mind. Savor hibachi by the Chesapeake, indulge in warm French crepes near our state’s capital, and when in the Blue Ridge, pair spicy Thai with sips from the region’s sprawling craft beverage scene.
Please be sure to check food truck websites and social media for the latest details on hours, locations and menu offerings.
Heart of Appalachia
The Shack
Get Your Steak On, say the grill masters at The Shack. With a menu built around juicy, four-ounce meats, getting your steak fix is easy. The three “Big” meals are the food truck’s most popular handhelds oozing with steak, chicken and Rueben, respectively, plus a tasty chipotle sauce, peppers, onions and more.
BASE: Wise BITES: Big Jack, Big Joe, Big Sam, Philly Steak, Philly Chicken, Italian Sausage Dog, Corn Dog, Ribbon Fries (plain or loaded), Isaiah Fries, Funnel Fries, Honey Bun with Ice Cream
It’s The Pits
It’s The Pits experiments with several different barbecue styles, but at the end of the day, the mission is to deliver simple foods done right. Check out the tender pulled pork, chicken and brisket on a bun, a platter or under a hearty drizzle of truck-made sauces like Alabama White, Carolina Mustard, Carolina Vinegar and Signature Sweet.
BASE: Bluefield BITES: Sandwich Combos, Platters, By the Pound, Chicken Leg Quarter, Pulled Pork Taco, Mac and Cheese Bowl, Baked Beans, Cole Slaw
Back of the Dragon
Parked in the lot of Appalachia’s premier destination for road enthusiasts is a decked out mobile kitchen fueling even the hungriest of thrill-seekers. Each plate is Dragon-inspired like The Dragon burger, Baby Dragon burger, The Prey chicken sandwich and The Side Car stuffed with sirloin, cheese, veggies and a fried “dragon” egg.
BASE: Tazewell BITES: Burgers, Chicken Sandwich (Grilled and Fried), Chicken Salad Sandwich, Hot Dog, Chili Dog, Pasta Salad, Appalachian Street Corn, Onion Rings, Side Salad, Grilled Cheese, Tenders, Weekly Specials BOOZE: Pair with warm sips from the on-site coffee bar or pints from their self-serve microbrewery.
BackOfTheDragon.com/Dragons-Tooth
Blue Ridge Highlands
Beast of the Streets
Feed your inner beast with the best in Italian eats including breadsticks, gelato and, of course, pizza. Specialty pies are served by the whole or by the slice, perfect for a family meal or after-work snack. Cheese lovers will likely devour The Hyde, crafted with beef, bacon, extra cheddar and extra mozzarella.
BASE: Radford BITES: Cheese, Pepperoni, Spinach & Tomato, The Carnivore, The Omnivore, The Herbivore, Wings (BBQ, Spicy Garlic, Hot, Inferno, Rotisserie), Italian Ice, Gelato
BOOZE: Pizza and beer is a match made in heaven. Pair a slice with a slug of brew from Moon Hollow Brewing.
Facebook.com/BeastOfTheStreets
Master Sergeant BBQ
This Master Sergeant honed more than just military expertise during his 30-year Army career. He mastered his barbecuing skills too, delivering South Carolina-style ‘cue to the Roanoke Valley. The massive black trailer is outfitted with a covered walk-up and attached deck stacked with wood for its multiple pit smokers.
BASE: Vinton BITES: Combo Plates with meat and sides: Baby Back Ribs, BBQ Chicken, Porky Dog, Pulled Pork, Pulled Chicken, Brisket, Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Slaw, Collards, Rice, Pulled Pork Nachos, Sandwiches
Hot Mess Express
Picture a miniature log cabin and a hulking smoker hitched to the back of a pick-up. The woodlands-inspired Hot Mess Express is all that and delicious smoked bites. Indulge in the Hot Mess Combo complete with all the fixing—a Hot Mess Sandwich, Slaw, Cowboy Beans, and a slice of Ooey Gooey Butter Cake or Southern-Style Sweet Tea.
BASE: Abingdon BITES: Hot Mess Nachos, Steak Tacos, Pork BBQ Sandwich/Nachos, Spicy Pork BBQ Tacos, Kickin’ Chicken Tacos, Slaw, Cowboy Beans BOOZE: Find at The Damascus Brewery, Abingdon Vineyards and Wolf Hills Brewing.
Facebook.com/HotMessExpressFoodTruck
Thai This Food Truck
Thai This? Don’t mind if we do! Pad Thai, Drunken Ramen and other international tastes await at this long running mobile kitchen. Looking beyond the plate, it also mixes authentic Thai sips. Pair your spicy eats with an equally flavorful bubble tea or infused Double-Berry Float. Menu rotates as Thai This develops more authentic eats.
BASE: Radford BITES: Tom Yum Soup, Veggie Spring Rolls, Pad Thai, Panang Curry, Spicy Tofu Bowl, Spicy Pork Bowl, Shrimp Noodle Bowl, Five Spice Pork with Egg, Thai Tea, Mellow Melon Bubble Tea, Mango Madness Bubble Tea BOOZE: Pair with an Amber Ale or Nitro Creation when Thai This stops by Moon Hollow Brewing.
Facebook.com/ThaiThisFoodTruck
Virginia Mountains
Bruno’s GastroTruck
The Landing Restaurant commissioned Bruno’s GastroTruck as a way to bring refined dining to the winding roads surrounding Smith Mountain Lake. Bruno’s menu goes beyond standard burgers and fried foods to present doctored up Brussels sprouts, Thai Chicken Curry, Peruvian Pork and a 10-layer lasagna dubbed Garfield’s Dream.
BASE: The Landing Restaurant, Moneta BITES: Rotating menu of elevated eats. BOOZE: Pulls up curbside at breweries and events throughout Roanoke, Lynchburg, Moneta and Blacksburg.
TheLandingSML.com/Brunos-Gastrotruck
Lazy Bulldog Food Truck
Chef Brandon’s bulldog, Buddha, might be lazy, but the cook’s approach to street eats is anything but. The Lazy Bulldog team brings international flavors to curbside plates in Roanoke. The truck takes pride in handmaking nearly all ingredients stuffed into its 12 signature patties including dry rubs, burger blends and unique sauces.
BASE: Roanoke BITES: Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Hawaiian Burger, Cheesy Portobella Mushroom Veggie Burger, Nach-O-Regular Burger, Surf n’ Turf Burger, Korean Style Popcorn Chicken, Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries
2Dye4Que
Decked out in roaring flames and emblazoned with an angry pig, the 2Dye4Que Smoker Trailer is one you can’t miss. The 2Dye4Que team smokes all of its meats on-site, bringing an authentic backyard barbecue to any parking lot, brewpub or office building. Depending on the event, menus are customizable too.
BASE: Lynchburg BITES: Whole/Half Hogs, Chicken Thighs, Gourmet Sausage, Wings, Salmon, Oysters, Pastrami, Prime Rib, Tenderloin, Ribs, Signature Sauces
Schult’s Dogs
Hot dog lovers, look no further—Schult’s Dogs has it all. The revered hot dog vendor grills up Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs in over a dozen mouthwatering varieties. All toppings, like jalapeño relish, chili and Schult’s Hot Sauce, are made from scratch and always draw a crowd, be it at a local festival or curbside during a brewery bingo night.
BASE: Roanoke BITES: Grilled Bratwurst, Cheddar Beef Sausage, Veggie Dog, Coney Dog, Long Island Dog, Detroit Dog, Chicken Sausage, Cookies, Chips BOOZE: Twins Creek Brewpub makes for a popular hot dog spot.
Rick’s Wrap It UP
Throw some meat, toppings and special sauces (like Mojito Chipotle Lime) into a tortilla, and it’s a wrap. This funky food truck thinks outside the bun by turning beloved handhelds into burrito-style eats. Cheesesteaks, Black Angus Burgers, Veggie Burgers and Chicken Sandwiches are all wrapped up and served with equally creative sides.
BASE: Salem BITES: Cheesesteaks, Burgers, Vegan options, Quesadillas, Nachos, Greek Tacos, Jamaican Jerk Tacos, Cheesy Bacon Fries, Buffalo Tots, Smoked Wings with dry rub or wet sauces BOOZE: Often found feeding the patrons of Parkway Brewing and Chaos Brewing Company.
Mountain Grille
Curbside kitchens may be small, but that hasn’t deterred Mountain Grille from designing a menu worthy of a sit-down dinner. Mountain Grille has been a staple in Roanoke for nearly five years and recently introduced its second fully equipped truck. Seek out the grille, wrapped in a picture of a rosy Appalachian landscape, for award-winning eats.
BASE: Roanoke BITES: Hamburger varieties, Cheeseburger varieties, Butter Burger, Angry Mama Burger, Cheese Fries, Fried Pickles, Cheesesteak Sub, Chicken Philly, Hot Dog, Onion Rings, Mini Cord Dogs, Mozzarella Cheese Sticks, Fried Apple Turnover BOOZE: Makes frequent stops at Parkway Brewing, Twins Creek Brewing, and other local watering holes and festivals.
Shenandoah Valley
LexMex Tacos
LexMex’s street-style tacos became the first food truck meal of Lexington. They have since been voted one of the best taco trailers in Virginia and continue to diversify their tortilla offerings to please loyal customers, whom they lovingly refer to as Taconauts. Snag a taco or two during your next drive through the Shenandoah Valley.
BASE: Lexington BITES: Chorizo Taco, Street Corn Taco, Chicken and Chorizo Tacos, Chilled Argentine Shrimp Taco, Pork Al Pastor, Chipotle Chicken, Big Ol’ 3 Cheese Quesadilla, Smoked Brisket BOOZE: Likely to return to Great Valley Farm Brewery this spring.
Strite’s Donuts
Strite’s Donuts work around the clock to deliver hot and fresh donuts to every corner of the Shenandoah Valley. Their sugary treats are uber creative, taking the traditional chocolate glazed to new heights by loading it with fresh Bavarian Cream or sprinkling with crumbled Oreo cookies. Dunk in your coffee or enjoy by the dozen.
BASE: Churchville, Waynesboro, Winchester and Front Royal BITES: Lemon Filled, Bavarian Crème, Glazed, Chocolate Dipped, Oreo Cookie (Vanilla or Chocolate Dipped), Apple Filled, Powdered, Weekly Specials BOOZE: Make your own coffee cocktail with a fresh brew from Greenberry’s Coffee Co.
Mashita
Mashita means “delicious” in Korean, so you can expect nothing less than five-star eats from Harrisonburg’s beloved food truck. Get your Korean food fix with an array of hot, crunchy and meat-stuffed selections. Mashita has a sit-down location too, so you can still savor steamed buns and lettuce wraps when the truck isn’t on a roll.
BASE: Harrisonburg BITES: Caramelized Kimchi Fries, Fried Mandu Dumplings, Steamed Buns, Kimbap, Korean Style Burrito, Fried Chicken Sandwich, Chicken Katsu, Bean Sprout Salad & Sweet Chili Dressing BOOZE: Select happy hour specials at Mashita’s brick-and-mortar location.
German Bratwurst Food Truck
The Bratwurst gang joined Staunton’s food truck community in 2019 and has since adopted a bigger and better truck to keep up with the hefty demand for brats. Chef Thomas grills his brats to perfection and serves ’em up German-style with sauerkraut or with an Italian slant complete with green peppers and onions.
BASE: Staunton BITES: German Bratwurst, Italian Bratwurst, Philly Cheesesteak, German Potato Salad, French Fries, Funnel Cake, Pumpkin Funnel Cake BOOZE: Enjoy brews and brats six days a week at the food truck’s permanent set-up at Skipping Rock Brewing.
The Hummingbird Bistro
Welcome to Broadway’s first food truck! No, not that Broadway. Broadway, Virginia of course. The menu at the family-owned and veteran-operated curbside bistro changes seasonally and includes locally sourced produce and home-grown vegetables. Stay tuned for details on major upgrades to the Hummingbird truck and fabulous food offerings.
BASE: Broadway BITES: Breakfast Sandwiches, Breakfast Burrito, Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, Crab Cake Sandwich, Chili Dog, Fried Bologna and Cheese, Fried Okra, Homemade Turkey Salad Sandwich BOOZE: BYOB, or enjoy a boozy cup of joe at home with Hummingbird’s Roasted Coffee.
Northern Virginia
The UFO Truck
These curbside bites are truly out of this world. The Ultimate Food Operation (UFO for short) is a Fredericksburg staple wowing locals and visitors with its other-worldly food creations. UFO’s menu runs the gambit of doctored up cheeseburgers and Caribbean-style tacos to crazy-shaped potatoes sides and s’mores.
BASE: Fredericksburg BITES: Boom Bang Pow Shrimp, Chupacabra Cheeseburger Sliders, Voodoo Jerk Chicken Tacos/Sliders, Big Foot Barbecue Tacos/Sliders, Koizilla Filet Tacos, Spiral Cut Potatoes BOOZE: The earthlings at Strangeways and Old Bust Head Brewing are accustomed to this UFO making frequent landings.
Fire Escape Food Truck
Picking up grub from Fire Escape is not only the perfect way to expand your burger horizons, but to support first responders and fire fighters. The FXBG food truck donates 10% of its proceeds from its Burger of the Month to a local station. With toppings like fried ham or sprinkle donuts for buns, you never know what’s coming from Fire Escape.
BASE: Fredericksburg BITES Spicy Mushroom Burger, Veggie Burger, The Spicy “Duck” Burger, The Frenchie Burger, Donut Burger, Double Queso Burger, Mac Fries, Queso Fries, Old Bay Seasoned Fries BOOZE: Cold beer and crazy burgers await at Adventure Brewing, Highmark Brewing, Barley Naked Brewing and more.
The Inside Scoop
Grab a spoon and dive into some of the bougiest ice cream Northern Virginia has to offer. This traveling ice cream parlor crafts small-batch flavors made entirely from natural ingredients and a base mix that is organic, grass fed and non-GMO. The health-conscious slant means you can have an extra scoop and a chocolate drizzle, right?
BASE: Fairfax BITES: Sundaes, Milkshakes, Malts, Root Beer Floats, Ice Cream Sandwiches; Notable Flavors: Java Chip, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter Ripple, Black Raspberry, Oreo BOOZE: Wine and waffle cones are well worth a try during The Inside Scoop’s visits to Breaux Vineyards and Tarara Winery.
Taco Tuesday
Calling all Tacoholics! At this food truck, every day is Taco Tuesday. Savor steaming fajita veggies topped with sour cream, layers of cheese melted into a quesadilla, or meats, beans and other fixings wrapped in a mouthwatering burrito. Taco Tuesday is committed to bringing authentic Mexican eats to Northern Virginia streets.
BASE: Fredericksburg BITES: Tacos, Fajitas, Shrimp Tacos, Tacodillas, Quesadillas, Burritos, Mexican Street Corn in a Cup, Pupusas, Tortas, Tamales, Cheese Fries, Carne Asada Fries BOOZE: Find tamales dished out street-side at Highmark Brewery and Maltese Brewing Company.
Red Bone Caribbean Fusion
Red Bone introduces a one-of-a-kind Caribbean cuisine that enhances its Jamaican flavors with Asian spices and Southern-style eats. Every plate is bursting with flavor and meats are juicy, seasoned and smoked to perfection. Experience the taste of Grilled Mahi-Mahi, sauced up ox tails and other Caribbean tastes.
BASE: Fairfax BITES: Fish Tacos, Jerk Chicken, Grilled Mahi-Mahi, Angus Burger with homemade jerk sauce, Sweet Plantains, Old Bay Fries, Curried Goat, Coco Bread, Mac and Cheese, Grilled Chicken Salad
King Street Oyster Truck
The swanky oyster bar with sit-down locations in Leesburg, Middleburg and D.C. is now on wheels delivering freshly shucked bites to the entire DMV community. Their raw offerings make for a refreshing summer snack as well as familiar favorite during the colder months. King Street Oyster Truck also has a sister truck—Lombardo’s Detroit Style Pizza.
BASE: Leesburg BITES: Grilled Oysters (Rockefeller; Chipotle Crusted), Raw Oysters (East Coast; West Coast), Spiced Shrimp, Crab Cake Sandwich, Lobster Roll BOOZE: Spot ‘em at Northern Virginia wineries for bivalves and bubbles.
Anita’s Frozen Cotton Candy
New Orleans-style snowballs were Anita’s favorite childhood treat. She’s now crafting and catering the delicious shaved ice to sweet tooths throughout Northern Virginia. Anita’s snowballs come in more than 25 flavors as well as several sugar-free alternatives. Frozen cotton candy is the perfect springtime pick-me-up.
BASE: Woodbridge BITES: Snowballs, Beef Hot Dogs, Sausages, French Fries BOOZE: Anita’s was spotted at Old Ox Brewery, Rocket Frog Brewing Company and G34.3 Brewing Company earlier this year.
Chesapeake Bay
Hancho’s Hibachi Box
The flaming red exterior of Hancho’s food stand emulates the sizzling, fresh-off-the-grill eats and spicy sushi creations doled out bayside. The Chesapeake Bay food truck is known for its weekly “2 for $20 specials” perfect for a casual date night or for the times you feel like you just can’t get enough of Hancho’s hibachi.
BASE: Colonial Beach; Oak Grove (Hancho’s Hibachi Box 2) BITES: Hibachi-style chicken, steak, shrimp, veggies and scallops; California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Shrimp Tempura Roll, Spicy Crab, Gyoza, Eggrolls; Fried Bananas, Pickles and Okra
Facebook.com/Hanchos-Hibachi-Box
Little Piggy’s Wurst Nightmare
This Little Piggy went straight from the market to its mobile kitchen, a go-to truck for NC-style barbecue. In addition to traditional barbecue laden with coleslaw, Little Piggy’s masters glutinous creations like a bacon-wrapped, deep-fried hot dog slathered with sauce and loaded fries loaded with jalapeno, cheese and pork.
BASE: Downtown Gloucester BITES: Bratwurst, Pig on Nachos, Family BBQ meals, BBQ Sandwich, Ultimate Dog, Grilled Chicken Gyro, Cheesesteak, Deep Fried Oreo, Cinnamon & Sugar Soft Pretzel, Cotton Candy BOOZE: Frequents Virginia Beer Company, Oozlefinch Beers & Blending, and other nearby breweries.
Facebook.com/LittlePiggysWurstNightmare/
2 Fish Bistro & Tackle
2 Fish Bistro’s silver trailer is the on-the-go partner to its brick-and-mortar seafood restaurant in downtown Montross. The modest food truck specializes in locally sourced eats enjoyed by local festival goers and brewery visitors alike. 2 Fish Bistro & Tackle also caters private events.
BASE: Montross BITES: Fried Oysters, Freshly Shucked Oysters, Northern Neck Sirloin Steak and Cheese, Crab Cake Sandwich, Chips BOOZE: Local breweries, wineries and festivals.
Sites.Google.com/View/TwoFishBistro/Food-Truck
Central Virginia
Wrapperz D-Lite
Funky fresh eats are Wrapperz D-Lite’s specialty. The selection of to-go plates are as creative and timeless as the legendary artists they are named after. Enjoy more than just standard wraps, but other rolled up eats too like Jo’s Mac and Cheese Egg Roll and the nostalgic flavors bursting from the warm Campfire Delight.
BASE: Mechanicsville BITES: Fat Joe, Slick Rick, Birdman, Sir Chix A Lot, Notorious BLT., Special D-Lite BOOZE: Follow the truck to Main Line Brewing, Stone Brewing and other Richmond breweries.
Monique’s Crepes
When you can’t eat a crepe at an intimate Parisian café, you can get the next best thing curbside at Monique’s, where sweet crepes and savory galettes are handcrafted with fresh, local ingredients. These tasty and nutritious take-away plates use authentic French batters, so you can savor international flavors in Virginia’s capital.
BASE: Richmond BITES: Alexander the Crepe, The Veg, Bon Appeturkey, Pisa Pizza, Banana Nutella, Campfire, Classique Citron, Peaches and Cream, L’Elvis Toasted Almond, The Great Pumpkin, Razzle Dazzle BOOZE: We suggest taking home to enjoy with a bottle of Thibaut-Janisson’s Virginia Fizz.
Arroz RVA
These Mexican street eats are simple and delicious. Arroz RVA packs all of your Mexican staples—rice, beans, organic meat and cheese—into three flavorful variations. Customize any bowl, burrito or salad, or pick up a quesadilla and classic beans and rice plate for the kids. Then snag a side of organic corn chips with fresh-made guac.
BASE: Richmond BITES: Bowl, Burrito, Salad with: Guacamole, Organic Chicken or Organic Steak; Mild Spiced Black Beans, Sauteed Fajita Bell Peppers, Tomato-Cilantro Salsa, Organic Corn-Poblano Salsa, and more BOOZE: Grab an IPA or Winter Stout at Starr Hill Brewery in Scott’s Addition when you pick up your to-go lunch order.
River City Wood Fire Pizza
Pizza Pies are a hot commodity at River City’s Big Red Trailer. Despite a small mobile kitchen, this wood-fired trailer hand tosses and bakes over 20 pie varieties. Like your slice extra cheesy, saucy or loaded with fresh pepperoni and salami? River City has you covered. Dip your slice into an extra side of ranch, hot honey or marinara.
BASE: Richmond BITES: Scott’s Addition BBQ Pizza, Maymont Pizza, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza, Sir Brussels Pizza, RVA Vegan Pizza, Wings, Calamari, Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls, Fried Pickles, Salad, Zeppoles
Good Waffles & Co.
Sweet, savory and everything waffle. Good Waffles & Co. specializes in novelty waffles that fill the air with sugary aromas and patrons’ stomachs with decadent eats. These takeaway treats are as gorgeous as they are flavorful. This one-of-a-kind food truck is certainly worth a pitstop during your next visit to Charlottesville.
BASE: Charlottesville BITES: Flavored Waffles: Classic Berry, German Chocolate, Birthday Cake, Peach Melba, Sea Salt Caramel, Banana Fosters; Chicken-N-Waffles, Loaded Waffle Fries, Waffle Pudding, Waffle Ice Cream Cones
Blue Ridge Pizza Co.
Want to witness the pizza making process from a Ford F450-turned-mobile wood-fired oven? Enjoy the spectacle with a fresh slice in hand at Blue Ridge Pizza Co. Handfuls of pies are tossed, baked and served faster than most sit-down joints. These pizza pros handle more than just dough; check out their seasonal salads and bite-size desserts.
BASE: Charlottesville BITES: Margherita, Quattro Formaggi, Triple Peppers, Asparagus and Feta, BBQ Chicken, The Meats, Cville Hot Honey, Prosciutto and Arugula BOOZE: Known to pop-up at Blenheim Winery and Cunningham Creek Winery for pizza and pinot.
Upper Crust Trailer
Upper Crust Trailer is the newest addition to the Upper Crust family. While its older sibling dishes out pizza, this trailer is handing out mile-high hoagies. Subs and fries go together like peanut butter and jelly, and Upper Crust serves both. Catering to meat lovers and vegetarians, you’ll find several sub varieties at this road kitchen.
BASE: Lynchburg BITES: Club Sub, Peddler, Steak & Cheese, BLT, Italian Sub, Chicken Bacon Ranch Hot Sub, Small and Large Fries
Facebook.com/UpperCrustPizzaCompany
106 Grilled
106 Grilled is the mobile sister of 106 Restaurant specializing in zesty pressed sandwiches. Each toasty handheld is loaded with unique combinations of savory meats, sauteed veggies, special sauces and layers of molten cheese. No sandwich is complete without a potato-centric side. Choose from hot tots or salted French fries.
BASE: Ruckersville BITES: Grilled Burger, Veggie Panini, Chipotle Chicken Pres, Cuban Press, Spicy Chicken Press, Roast Beef Press, Fries, Tots BOOZE: Frequents Elkton Brewing Company, Random Row Brewing Co. and Valley Road Vineyards.
Over the Top Chef
After leaving the restaurant Chicago scene, chef Ender Oktayuren returned to his hometown with a Michelin-star experience for Madison County. Over the Top Chef’s seasonal menu aims to give back to local farmers, foragers and the community. The ever-changing menu includes loaded fries, larger-than-life burgers and desserts to satisfy any sweet tooth.
BASE: Madison BITES: Constantly changing menu of salads, tacos, sandwiches, fries and more. BOOZE: Over the Top Chef rolls through several breweries and wineries in Central Virginia.
Southern Virginia
716 Wings
Formerly Get Buffaloed, 716 Wings delivers authentic New York fare to the Virginia-North Carolina border. Their selection of sauced up wings and Buffalo-style fries bring tailgate vibes to every venue they visit. 716 Wings wants you to savor the flavor too by offering 10 sauce options for their wings and two heat varieties on their subs and fries.
BASE: Danville BITES: Bone-In/Boneless Chicken Wings, Chicken Finger Sub, Stinger Sub, Philly Sub, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Roast Beef Sandwich, Notable Sauces: Lemon Pepper Dry Rub, Kickin’ Ginger Garlic, Mango Habanero, Garlic Parmesan, Jamaican Jerk
Southern Belle Food Truck
This Southern Belle knows a lot about down-South hospitality and cuisine. The royal purple kitchen can’t be missed. Chef Kiva honed her culinary craft at Johnson & Wales and has served the hungriest of patrons on NFL and NBA teams, as well as other notable diners. Her curbside cuisine rivals many a seasoned brick-and-mortar bistro.
BASE: Danville BITES: Chicken & Cornbread Waffle Sandwich, Shrimp & Grits, Rockfish Po Boy, Southern Belle Spring Rolls, Wings & Fries, Crab Cake Sandwich, Seafood Pasta Salad, Crab Fries BOOZE: Spotted at 2 Withes Winery & Brewing, Ballad Brewing and Springfield Distillery
Lumberjack Smokehouse
Lumberjack Smokehouse is a log cabin on wheels specializing in fall-of-the-bone meats. With a permanent parking spot at Mast Enterprises Equipment on Bill Tuck Highway, patrons can order smoked bites from the trailer window or order ahead online. Eat like a lumberjack too by ordering potato salad, chicken salad and coleslaw by the pint.
BASE: South Boston BITES: BBQ Sandwich, BBQ Plate, Hotdog, Smokehouse Sausage Dog, Chicken Salad Sandwich, BBQ Chicken Sandwich, Lumberjack Packs, Baked Beans, Banana Pudding, Cupcakes, Sweet Tea
Facebook.com/LumberjackSmokehouse
Coastal Virginia
A Bite of Maine
Inspired by the fresh catches of New England harbors, this red and white food truck delivers northeast cuisine to the Virginia coast. Sink your teeth into two celebrated Maine Rolls stuffed with your choice of crab or lobster and top off the buttery dish with an equally creamy whoopie pie for dessert.
BASE: Travels throughout the Southside. Locations updated weekly. BITES: Maine Lobster Roll, Maine Red Hot Dog, Whoopie Pie, Maine Crab Roll, Chips.
ABiteOfMaine.com/Virginia-Truck
DonnieFrys
For those that don’t know about permanent food truck at the Smartmouth Brewing Pilot House, the smoky aromas filling the Oceanfront beer garden will come as a pleasant surprise. Enjoy curbside eats six nights a week with a rotating menu of daily specials ranging from Taco Tuesdays to First Fry-Days Burger Night.
BASE: Smartmouth Brewing Pilot House, Virginia Beach BITES: (Rotating) BBQ Cheddar Shrimp & Grits, Chorizo & Jumbo Lump Crab Dip, D’s Smoked & Fried Wings, Blood Orange Pulled Pork, Old Bay Butter Shrimp Skewers, Don’s Classic Burger, Chimichurri Steak Taco BOOZE: Pints from Smartmouth Brewing; keep an eye out for pairing specials.
Capt’n Crabby
Virginia is for crab cake lovers, especially the Maryland-style patties prepared by Capt’n Crabby. The beloved food truck originated in Colorado, but now delivers its Greek- and Maryland-inspired fare to the Virginia coast using only the highest quality ingredients in its Souvlaki and lump crabmeat, many sourced locally from the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean.
BASE: Norfolk BITES: Crabby Fries, Canadian Poutine, Lobster Crabaroni & Cheese, Blackened Salmon BLT, Harvest Bowl, The CBLT, Cream of Crab Soup, The Authentic, Ahoy Ahi Tuna, Vegan Eggplant Soulvaki Gyro BOOZE: MoMac Brewing Company, O’Connor Brewing Co. and Back Bay’s Farmhouse Brewing Co. are only a few of the breweries where Capt’n Crabby drops anchor.
Prime757
Craft meat and seafood are Prime 757 specialties. The food truck visits every corner of Coastal Virginia to deliver its gourmet eats. Its menu runs the gambit of juicy prime rib and chicken wings drenched in Spicy Maple Sauce to lightly battered grouper and a heaping Jumbo Shrimp Boat. Getting your fried seafood fix is easy to do at Prime 757.
BASE: Travels throughout Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Hampton, Newport News and Williamsburg BITES: Philly Style USDA Prime Rib, Fish & Shrimp with Hushpuppies, Shrimp Po’ Boy, Fish Po’ Boy, Shrimp Basket, Seafood Platter, Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, Truffle Waffle Fries, She Crab Soup BOOZE: Spotted at COVA Brewing, Maker’s Craft Brewing, Commonwealth Brewing Company and more.
Flame and Pie
Mama Mia, Coastal Virginia is raving about Hampton’s mobile pizzeria! Flame and Pie spent years perfecting their wood-fired techniques and experimenting with topping combinations. They now share their craft in 10-inch tasty pizza pies that can conquer even the greatest of cheesy, crusty cravings. Order ahead to prevent your favorite slice from selling out.
BASE: Hampton BITES: Flaming Pie, Sausage Pie, Cheese Pie, Pickle Bacon Ranch Pie, Margherita Pie, Mediterranean Pie, Buffalo Chicken Pie, Hawaiian, Cheesy Garlic Sticks, Pretzels, Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches BOOZE: Catch them on the Peninsula at Capstan Bar Brewing Co., Oozlefinch Beers & Blending and Sly Clyde Ciderworks.
Smoked Biscuit
Buttermilk biscuits are the star of the plate at Smoked Biscuit. This culinary cart promotes sustainable food sources and rotates its menu to feature seasonal Virginia Beach produce. More 10 varieties of scratched made biscuits (buttermilk and sweet potato) are embellished with smoked veggies, seasonal greens, pork belly, chicken and more.
BASE: Virginia Beach BITES: The Belly and Jam, Shrimp and Grits, The Smokey Veggie, French Toast Biscuit, Toasty Nuts and Fruits, The Pig and the Chicken, The BGT, Bene-Scuit BOOZE: Enjoy beer and biscuits at Traditions Brewing Company, Benchtop Brewing Company, The Virginia Beer Company and more.
Saté Kitchen
Saté is self-proclaimed “the roaming new American kitchen, with Southern and Asian influence.” The colorful kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner at various locations in Newport News. Each uniquely crafted dish leaves diners wanting more. With both sweet and savory options, Saté street eats are hard to resist.
BASE: Newport News BITES: Hot Honey Chicken Biscuit, Smoked Sausage Bowl, Peach Cobbler, Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks, Nana’s Original Chicken Sandwich, Crab Cake Sandwich, Mac and Cheese Egg Rolls, Saté du jour BOOZE: Oozlefinch Brewing & Blending and Traditions Brewing Company are popular mainstays.
Chesapeake Concessions
Think late-night festival foods and sugary aromas at summer fairs and you’ve just about summed up Chesapeake Concessions. While the owner is in the works of revamping her curbside menu, patrons have raved about her comfort food choices like the Spicy Pig Sandwich, Butterflied Shrimp, French-style Grilled Cheese and Fried Oreos.
BASE: Chesapeake BITES: New menu to be revealed BOOZE: Chesapeake Concessions made its seasonal debut at COVA Brewing on March 4.
Facebook.com/TastesOfHome.Virginia
Eastern Shore
Sandy Pony Donuts
Chincoteague Island is the birthplace of Sandy Pony’s island-centric donut shop. The food truck made such a splash with island visitors that the donut operations have expanded to Annapolis, Maryland and Bethany Beach, Delaware. These seasonal treats will return in April with The Aw Shucks sprinkle donut, Big Pearl powdered donut and other fan favorites.
BASE: Chincoteague Island BITES: 24 unique donut creations with beach-inspired names like Surfer Dude, Sea Foam, Ms. Sandy, Sand Dune and Blue Moon, as well as Bubble Tea, Smoothies, Acai Bowls
SandyPonyDonut.com/Chincoteague
Lily’s Little Mexico
Lily’s Little Mexico gained such a following among Eastern Shore foodies that the truck set up a permanent parking spot in Chincoteague. Just outside the red trailer is a makeshift al fresco dining room complete with brightly colored tables and décor. Lily’s boasts some of the most authentic Mexican eats on the Island and reopens for business this spring.
BASE Chincoteague BITES: Tacos (Barbacoa, Asada, Carnitas, Pollo, Chorizo, Tinga), Cajun Shrimp Taco, Fajitas, Lily’s Special Burrito, Sopes, Shrimp Quesadilla, Tostadas de Tinga, Veggie Fajitas, Sopes de Quinoa, Choco Flan
Having a Meltdown
New to the Eastern Shore, Having a Meltdown is making waves with its warm and imaginative grilled cheeses. The sandwich makers craft handhelds for all kind of snackers including grilled cheese stacked with meat, oozing with a spoonful of mac and cheese or upgraded with fresh-caught seafood. Delve into a selection of fried sides too.
BASE: Chincoteague BITES: The Pickled Porker, Crabby Mac and Cheese, Cream of Broccoli Soup, Don’t Pesto Me, Mother Clucker, Honey I’m Ham, Loaded Waffle Fries, Crabadilla, Savage Reuben BOOZE: Pair your sammie with a cold one from Black Narrows Brewing Company.
Facebook.com/GourmetGrilledCheese
Build Your Own Cookie
Chincoteague Island is busy with one-of-a-kind food trucks, but at this sweet establishment, you are in charge of your one-of-a-kind cookie sundae. Pick from eight warm homemade cookies as your base, then top with your choice of 15 Hershey’s Ice Cream flavors and add everything from hot fudge and marshmallow whip to Sour Gummy Worms and Fruity Pebbles.
BASE: Chincoteague BITES: Sundaes, Ice Cream Cones and Cups, Cookie Sandwiches, Cookies, Milkshakes, Malts, Edible Cookie Dough
Cosa Pizza
Since Cosa Pizza joined the Food Truck Avenue on Chincoteague’s bustling Maddox Boulevard, the wood-fired oven has attracted thousands of pizza-craving patrons to its mobile restaurant. Cosa Pizza is excited to reopen for the season and pair the island’s breezy weather with fresh spins on their most popular pies.
BASE: Chincoteague BITES: Margherita, Pollo du Bufala, Truffle Shuffle, Spicy Pepperpony, Meat Za, Shrimp Fra Divolo, Sausage Estate, Lemon Song, Americano, Launchpad, Pizza of the Day
Author: Grace Silipigni
