Best Food Trucks in Oahu: Top Places to Eat You Can’t Miss!
Welcome fellow foodie adventurers!
During our last Hawaiian vacation, my boyfriend and I had a mission: to uncover the tastiest, most authentic food trucks scattered around Oahu. We embarked on an epic journey through the bustling streets of Honolulu, strolled along sunny Waikiki Beach, and ventured towards Haleiwa in search of scrumptious street-style cuisine that wouldn’t break the bank.
I must admit; it was quite a challenge to sift through all of Oahu’s hidden culinary gems! We sampled exquisite seafood dishes, mouthwatering Mexican meals, and flavorful vegan creations – oh, not to mention those delectable desserts that never failed to leave us wanting more! After some heated debates between two passionate (and highly opinionated) lovers about what really deserves a top spot on the list – here we are!
Now you’re probably wondering how we managed to narrow down such an incredible array of choices. Well, folks, it wasn’t easy! But after analyzing factors like quality ingredients, and safety measures for serving up excellence even during these challenging times – as well as getting comfy with fellow diners at each location – we’ve come up with our definitive ranking.
Warning: You may find yourself daydreaming about delicious bites from these six fabulous food trucks. Just remember they’re only in Oahu and wait for your next visit!
So come with me as we embark on this drool-worthy gastronomic adventure together because let’s face it – life is just too short for mediocre eats right? Friends don’t let friends miss out on memorable dining experiences! Am I right? Now pull up your sleeves (or stretchy pants), and get ready for one unforgettable culinary odyssey across beautiful Oahu!
North Shore Oahu
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – Best North Shore Food Truck in Oahu
When you’re on Oahu’s North shore and spot a large white van with graffiti, and a big crowd, stop there – that’s Giovanni’s, aka a local favorite spot for fantastic shrimp. They made garlic shrimp an island-favorite food, with their finger-licking shrimp plates.
You must try their famous Shrimp Scampi, marinated in garlic, and served over scoops of white rice and a delicious lemon butter sauce. My boyfriend and I had this after a beach trip, and it filled us up for the rest of the day!
Their menu only has three items, so try the other two, Hot & Spicy Shrimp (hint: it’s spicy) and Lemon Butter Shrimp, both delicious and packed with flavor.
We’re fans of Giovanni’s and always stop by here, and you should, too, as they’re the best food truck in Oahu.
- The plates cost $15 for huge servings, and you can also get a half plate.
- There’s always a crowd here, so you’ll have to wait a while.
- They’re conveniently parked on the Kamehameha Highway.
Address: 66-472 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI.
Mike’s Huli Huli Chicken – Best Local Food Truck in Oahu
When it comes to food trucks in Oahu, Mike’s Huli Huli Chicken is an institution – with their delicious chicken plates served in a big yellow bus for dining. The food truck’s owner, Mike, manages the orders himself and whips up terrific meals on their menu. This food truck has the best huli huli chicken oahu.
You want to try their famous chicken plate with rice, salad, and pineapples, a mouth-watering combo, especially the well-seasoned grilled chicken piece. Their Char Siu BBQ Pork, Teriyaki, Garlic Shrimp, and Huli Chicken Stir fry plates are just as good and loaded with Mike’s special sauce.
If you can’t decide which protein to get (they’re all amazing), try a combo plate with two meat options that are super filling.
Mike’s Huli Huli Chicken is unmissable for its lively dining and excellent food; undoubtedly one of the best food trucks in Oahu.
- You can get half and full chicken to-go from their menu.
- The plates cost between $11-15 for big portions.
- They sell their chicken spice rub and Mike’s special sauce by the bottle.
Address: 56-565 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, Oahu, HI.
Impossibles Pizza – Best Pizza Food Truck in Haleiwa North Shore
If there’s one thing I crave on vacation, it’s pizza. And you can find the best (and only) pizza food truck in Haleiwa at Impossibles Pizza. They use a wood-fire oven inside the truck to make delicious charred-crust pizzas with lots of toppings.
However, the truck moves from Haleiwa to the Kamehameha Highway, so look at both places, or call ahead.
Try their classic flavors like pepperoni, Kalua pig, Hawaiian, and Meat Lover, all made with the freshest ingredients and goat cheese. You can also make your own pizza with a choice of meat and a ton of toppings.
We loved the lip-smacking pizza at Impossibles and consider it one of the best food trucks in Oahu.
- They also serve an X-Large 20” pizza.
- They’re open Thursday to Saturday from 3 pm to 8 pm.
- You can pre-order the pizza for pickup and delivery.
Address: 59-719 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI.
Haleiwa Bowls Truck – Best Vegan Food Truck in Oahu
Located close to North Shore beaches, Haleiwa Bowls food truck is famous for its healthy vegan options, terrific acai bowls, and organic ingredients in every meal. Since parking here is tricky, leave your car on the driveway near their truck and walk to the stand.
Although their acai bowls are the most famous, made with fresh acai and seasonal fruits, we also loved their smoothies and breakfast options.
Try their Vanilla sundae with fresh fruit, Kona coffee gelato, and Belgian waffle plate, all made with healthy ingredients and super flavorful. My boyfriend loved their tasty savory breakfast crepes with eggs, bacon, and cheese.
Haleiwa Bowls is a great option for a quick breakfast on the North Shore, and with their variety of vegan options, they’re one of the best food trucks in Oahu.
- Their prices are low, at $7-15 for acai bowls and drinks.
- Toppings cost $1, ranging from fresh fruits, bee pollen, and cacao nibs.
- They have cozy open-air seating.
Address: 66-081 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI.
Waikiki
Gilligan’s Beach Shack – Best Waikiki Food Truck in Oahu
Head to Gilligan’s Beach Shack after a day at Waikiki Beach, or if you’re staying at the Hilton, as it’s close to both. They’re also famous for their terrific seafood, caught fresh daily and served in various tasty dishes.
Gilligan’s makes the best Coconut Shrimp in Oahu, with deep-fried coconut battered shrimp topped with guava sauce and shoestring fries. This plate was a full meal and so delicious we went for seconds.
You should also try their Garlic Shrimp plate, Teriyaki Steak bites, and the Surf n Turf plate, which is a hefty combo of the two. Have a side of the crispy garlic fries, and finish with Hawaiian shaved ice, which comes in lots of fruity flavors.
We loved eating at Gilligan’s for their quick service and terrific seafood, definitely the best food truck in Oahu.
- The plates cost $14 for big portions.
- They’re usually crowded, so you’ll have to wait a bit.
- Take the food to the beach and enjoy it with views of Diamond Head.
Address: 198 Paoa Pl Duke Kahanamoku Beach, near the Hilton Hawaiian Village Lagoon, Honolulu, Oahu, HI.
Honolulu
Leonard’s Malasada Mobile – Best Dessert Food Truck in Oahu
If you’ve tried the Oahu famous malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery, you’ll be happy to know they have Malasada-Mobiles around the island. You can find these dessert trucks outside famous shopping centers like the Koko Marina.
What makes getting malasadas from the truck better than the bakery? There are no long lines and waiting! Step in and order malasadas, which they fry on the spot, and enjoy them piping hot.
We always get a box of plain malasadas coated in powdered sugar and a box of custard filled – so soft and chewy it’s like biting into a cloud. Other great fillings include macadamia nut, guava, chocolate, and cinnamon sugar-coated.
They also have savory wraps and great fresh bread, so you can sample some alongside the malasadas.
We’re fans of Leonard’s Malasadas, and finding this food truck was a bonus as they’re the best dessert food truck in Oahu.
- The original malasadas cost $1.70 for one.
- The malasadas puffs (with filling) cost $2.
Address:7190 Kalanianaole Hwy Koko Marina Shopping Center, Hawaii Kai, Oahu, HI.
Elena’s Lunch Wagon – Best Food Truck in Honolulu
Elena’s has been around since the 70s in Honolulu, serving authentic Filipino food, and now has three food trucks around Oahu. This family-run business brings authentic Filipino recipes to the island that haven’t changed for decades and taste delicious.
Their most famous dish is the Pork Adobo Fried Rice Omelet, including a soft adobo in an egg crepe envelope. A great comfort food is the Sari Sari soup, with fresh veggies in shrimp and pork broth packed with flavor.
Other popular dishes include the Lechon Special fried pork, Pork Gisantes, and sauteed squid. The Shrimp Sarciado, which my boyfriend and I loved, includes tiger shrimp sauteed with veggies and a scrambled egg.
You’ll love the traditional cuisine at Elena’s and make it your go-to for Filipino food, as they’re the best food truck in Honolulu, Oahu.
- The prices are around $12-15 per plate.
- You can get a mixed plate with a combination of different meats.
- They’re open every day from 7 am – 8 pm.
Address: 1164 Bishop St Honolulu, HI.
Wrapping Up: The Best Food Trucks in Oahu
Oahu is the best place to sample Hawaii’s local and multicultural cuisines, as you can find a variety of food trucks serving them. From the best seafood, desserts, and fast food, Oahu’s food trucks have them all at pretty low prices.
Want to try the best shrimp plate in Oahu? Stop by Giovanni’s on the North Shore and Gilligan’s in Waikiki.
Craving a cheesy slice of pizza? Head to Impossibles Pizza on the North Shore.
Want to try piping hot malasadas and other great desserts? Try Leonard’s MalasadaMobile in Honolulu.
The best food trucks in Oahu have something for everyone!
FAQ
Where can I catch a bite on the North Shore of Oahu with a variety of food options?
You can catch a bite at the numerous North Shore food trucks offering diverse and appetizing meals ranging from spicy shrimp to homemade mac salad. Some popular choices include Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, Haleiwa Bowls Truck, and Impossibles Pizza.
Which North Shore food truck offers delicious fish tacos?
Gilligan’s Beach Shack in Waikiki is well-known for its terrific seafood dishes, including mouth-watering fish tacos that you must try while visiting the North Shore of Oahu.
Are there any Thai food options among North Shore Food Trucks?
While this article didn’t specifically mention a Thai food truck on the North Shore, exploring the area could lead you to discover some delicious Thai food being served at one of the many diverse and unique food trucks around.
If I’m craving spicy shrimp on Oahu’s North Shore, where should I go?
Head over to Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, famous for its hot and spicy shrimp packed with flavor. You won’t be disappointed by their amazing take on this tasty dish.
What makes Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck stand out among other very best food trucks in Hawaii?
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is renowned for offering island-favorite garlic butter shrimp scampi along with other scrumptious variations like hot and spicy shrimp – making it stand out as one of the very best food trucks in Hawaii.
Where can I find Hawaiian style barbecued chicken near the North Shore?
Mike’s Huli Huli Chicken is your go-to spot for Hawaiian-style barbecued chicken. With a half chicken plate option available, it serves up mouth-watering grilled chicken pieces seasoned to perfection.
Can I get a custom wood-fired pizza in Haleiwa on the North Shore of Oahu?
Yes, you can! Visit Impossibles Pizza in Haleiwa, where they use their custom wood-fired oven to make delicious charred-crust pizzas with various toppings to satisfy your cravings.
What is the specialty of Haleiwa Bowls Truck, and does it offer any unique sides?
Haleiwa Bowls Truck is famous for providing healthy vegan options like acai bowls. Unique sides offered include garlic hot dogs and homemade mac salad – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What makes fish tacos a popular choice among food truck visitors in Oahu?
Fish tacos are a popular choice due to their fresh and delicious taste, often filled with locally sourced ingredients and served alongside tangy sauces that reflect the flavors of Hawaiian cuisine.
Where can I find some Sweet Treats at an Oahu food truck?
Sweet treats like malasadas, shaved ice, and fruit smoothies can be found at various food trucks such as Leonard’s Malasada Mobile or Haleiwa Bowls Truck that specialize in desserts.
How does traditional Hawaiian Cuisine differ from other cuisines at Oahu’s Food Trucks?
Traditional Hawaiian Cuisine focuses on native ingredients, unique cooking methods, and island-inspired flavors, whereas other cuisines such as Mexican may feature different spices, proteins, and culinary techniques.
Why are Acai Bowls so popular among health-conscious foodies visiting Oahu’s food trucks?
Acai Bowls are sought after for their antioxidant-rich base of acai berries combined with fresh fruits; they’re nutrient-dense while being low-calorie options available at places like Haleiwa Bowls Truck.
Can I expect authentic Mexican Cuisine from Oahu’s Food Trucks?
Yes! Several top food trucks in Oahu offer genuine Mexican cuisine like North Shore tacos or other delicious dishes that capture the essence of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.
What makes garlic shrimp an unmissable dish from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Oahu?
Garlic shrimp is famous for its distinct flavor created by marinating shrimp in garlic butter before cooking; it offers customers a truly satisfying and mouthwatering experience when indulging in this favorite dish from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck.
If you’re looking for a garlicky alternative, you might want to try a garlic hot dog or perhaps a dish featuring garlic-infused sauces at one of Oahu’s top food trucks that specialize in various cuisines.
How can I find the best shrimp trucks and other top food trucks on Oahu’s North Shore?
To locate the best shrimp trucks and other food truck offerings, it’s helpful to explore popular areas such as Haleiwa and Waikiki, check social media for recommendations, or ask locals for their favorite spots like Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck.
Last Updated on August 15, 2023 by Brigitte