Are you tired of the same old lunch routine? Do you crave a culinary adventure that doesn’t break the bank? Then buckle up, because Spokane’s food truck scene is rolling in with flavor, offering a delicious alternative to traditional restaurants. From savory tacos to gourmet burgers and everything in between, the Lilac City’s mobile eateries are dishing out some seriously craveable cuisine. This guide will introduce you to some of the best and most unique food trucks Spokane has to offer, covering everything from authentic Mexican flavors to innovative fusion creations, and pointing you exactly where to find them. Prepare to embark on a delicious journey, one bite at a time.
Spokane’s Mobile Culinary Stars
Spokane’s food truck culture has exploded in recent years, transforming from a handful of vendors to a thriving community of culinary entrepreneurs. The appeal is undeniable. Food trucks offer a convenient, affordable, and exciting way to experience diverse flavors, support local businesses, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a quick and tasty lunch, Spokane’s food trucks have something to satisfy every palate. These aren’t just rolling kitchens; they are vibrant expressions of passion, culinary artistry, and a deep connection to the Spokane community. Let’s take a closer look at some of the stars of Spokane’s mobile culinary scene.
Spotlighting Beloved Local Favorites
These food trucks have become Spokane staples, known for their consistently delicious food and loyal followings. You’ll find them dishing out delectable eats at local events, bustling street corners, and community gatherings. They’ve proven their staying power and have established themselves as essential components of the Spokane food landscape.
Tacos El Sol
Cuisine Type: Authentic Mexican Tacos
Tacos El Sol is a family-owned and operated food truck that brings the authentic flavors of Mexico to the streets of Spokane. Forget your average taco; here, you’ll find traditional recipes passed down through generations, using only the freshest ingredients. They prepare their meats fresh daily. It’s this commitment to quality and tradition that makes Tacos El Sol a true Spokane favorite.
Popular Dishes: The Carne Asada tacos are an absolute must-try, featuring marinated grilled steak topped with cilantro and onions. Don’t miss the Al Pastor, succulent marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit. Pair either with their homemade salsa verde for an extra kick.
Location and Schedule: You can often find Tacos El Sol parked near the Gonzaga University campus during lunchtime, serving up their delicious tacos to hungry students and locals. Check their Facebook page for daily location updates and special offers.
Why People Love It: “Tacos El Sol is the real deal! The carne asada is perfectly seasoned, and the tortillas are so fresh. It’s like being transported to Mexico!” – says local student Sarah M.
The Bistro Box
Cuisine Type: Gourmet Burgers and Sandwiches
The Bistro Box elevates the humble burger to an art form. This food truck is known for its creative and gourmet burger creations, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. From classic cheeseburgers to innovative flavor combinations, The Bistro Box has something to satisfy every burger craving.
Popular Dishes: The “Bistro Burger,” with bacon, caramelized onions, and their signature sauce, is a consistent crowd-pleaser. Their pulled pork sandwich is another winner, featuring slow-cooked pork with a tangy BBQ sauce.
Location and Schedule: Keep an eye on their social media channels for their weekly schedule. They frequent Kendall Yards, local breweries, and community events.
Why People Love It: “The Bistro Box is my go-to for a delicious and satisfying lunch. The burgers are always perfectly cooked, and the ingredients are so fresh. Worth every penny!” – says Spokane resident, John L.
Mixed Plate
Cuisine Type: Hawaiian Fusion
Bringing the flavors of the islands to Spokane, Mixed Plate specializes in Hawaiian fusion cuisine. This food truck offers a unique and refreshing alternative to the usual food truck fare, with dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying.
Popular Dishes: Their signature Kalua Pig plate, featuring slow-roasted pork, is a taste of paradise. The Spam Musubi is another popular choice, a classic Hawaiian snack with a savory twist.
Location and Schedule: Check their social media pages to see where they are going to be!
Why People Love It: “Mixed Plate is amazing! The Kalua Pig is so tender and flavorful, and the macaroni salad is the perfect accompaniment. It’s like being on vacation!” – says Hawaiian enthusiast, Emily P.
Discovering Spokane’s Unique and Niche Offerings
Beyond the well-known favorites, Spokane’s food truck scene boasts some hidden gems offering unique and exciting culinary experiences. These trucks push the boundaries of mobile cuisine, delivering innovative flavors and concepts that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. They represent the adventurous and experimental spirit of Spokane’s culinary community.
Petunia’s Ice Cream Truck
Cuisine Type: Vegan Ice Cream
Petunia’s Ice Cream Truck is revolutionizing the dessert scene with its delectable vegan ice cream. Using plant-based ingredients and innovative techniques, Petunia’s creates creamy, flavorful ice cream that everyone can enjoy.
Popular Dishes: The Chocolate Coconut Almond is a rich and decadent treat, while the Strawberry Basil offers a refreshing and herbaceous flavor.
Location and Schedule: You can find Petunia’s at local farmers’ markets, community events, and parks throughout Spokane. Check their social media for up to date schedules and locations.
Why People Love It: “Petunia’s Ice Cream Truck is a game-changer! I can’t believe it’s vegan – it’s so creamy and delicious. The flavors are so creative and unique.” – says vegan foodie, Jessica K.
Wanderlust Delights
Cuisine Type: International Street Food
If you have a case of wanderlust, you can satisfy your desire for adventure with Wanderlust Delights! With exciting and unique street food, there is plenty to explore!
Popular Dishes: Their ramen is a great option to try! Also be sure to try their Bulgogi beef skewers.
Location and Schedule: You can find Wanderlust Delights at the various markets around Spokane. Be sure to check their website for a list of when and where they will be!
Why People Love It: “I love that Wanderlust Delights has exciting street food from all over the world! If I am looking for something different, I check out their locations!” – says Spokane local, Mike B.
The Mango Tree
Cuisine Type: South Asian
Bringing tastes of the East to Spokane, The Mango Tree specializes in South Asian cuisine. This food truck offers flavorful and spiced dishes that will tantalize your tastebuds.
Popular Dishes: Their samosas are a must-try!
Location and Schedule: The Mango Tree frequents the farmer’s markets and also has locations at food truck gatherings.
Why People Love It: “The Mango Tree has the best samosas! I get them anytime I see their truck at a gathering!” – says Spokane local, Julie R.
Navigating the Spokane Food Truck Scene: Expert Tips
Tracking down your favorite food trucks can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt, but with a little planning and these helpful tips, you’ll be chowing down on delicious street food in no time. Don’t let the moving targets discourage you – the payoff is well worth the effort.
Social Media is the Key
Food trucks are mobile businesses, and their locations can change daily. The best way to stay informed about their whereabouts is to follow them on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. They often post their daily schedules, location updates, and any special offers or promotions they might be running. Using relevant hashtags like #SpokaneFoodTrucks and #SpokaneEats can also help you discover new trucks and find updates from existing ones. Social media allows for direct interaction, often enabling you to ask about specific dietary needs or catering options.
Attend Local Food Truck Events and Rallies
Spokane hosts several food truck events and rallies throughout the year, bringing together a variety of vendors in one convenient location. These events are a great way to sample different cuisines, discover new favorites, and enjoy a festive atmosphere. Check local event calendars and websites for upcoming food truck events in Spokane. This is a great chance to try new flavors without hunting down a food truck.
Explore Food Truck Locator Apps
Several apps exist that are designed to help you locate food trucks in your area. These apps use GPS technology to track the real-time locations of participating trucks, making it easier than ever to find your next meal on wheels. While the adoption of such apps can vary, it’s worth exploring available options to see if they cover the Spokane area. They can provide you with a map and a list of trucks near you, saving you time and effort.
Harness the Power of Word of Mouth
Don’t underestimate the value of local knowledge. Ask your friends, neighbors, and coworkers for their favorite food truck recommendations. Word of mouth is often the best way to discover hidden gems and get insider tips on the best dishes to try. Tap into the collective culinary wisdom of the Spokane community.
Check Truck Business Websites
A lot of food trucks have taken to creating websites! Check them out for updated schedules or if they have a contact form for catering information.
The Future is Flavorful: Emerging Trends in Spokane’s Food Truck Scene
Spokane’s food truck scene is dynamic and constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging all the time. Understanding the current landscape and anticipating future directions can provide a glimpse into the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
The Current Landscape
Currently, Spokane’s food truck scene is characterized by its diversity and entrepreneurial spirit. A wide range of cuisines are represented, from classic American fare to international delicacies, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Food trucks are increasingly becoming a vital part of local events, festivals, and community gatherings, adding to the vibrant atmosphere and providing convenient food options. The food trucks are also using local resources like the farmer’s markets and breweries to partner for the highest quality local foods available.
Emerging Trends
Several trends are shaping the future of Spokane’s food truck scene. We can expect to see more specialized food trucks catering to niche dietary needs, such as vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly options. A focus on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients will likely continue, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental and ethical concerns. Collaboration between food trucks and local businesses is also on the rise, creating unique partnerships and cross-promotional opportunities. This also means even more unique food truck opportunities and choices.
A Culinary Adventure on Wheels Awaits
Spokane’s food truck scene is more than just a collection of mobile eateries; it’s a vibrant culinary ecosystem that reflects the city’s diverse flavors, entrepreneurial spirit, and community focus. From established favorites to hidden gems, there’s a food truck to satisfy every craving. So, get out there and explore Spokane’s culinary scene, one delicious bite at a time! Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the Lilac City, a delectable adventure on wheels awaits. Discover the passion, creativity, and deliciousness that define Spokane’s unique food truck culture. Your taste buds will thank you!
