5 Iconic NYC Food Trucks: Where to Find the Best Street Food

Photo credit: Faraway Worlds

New York City is a bustling metropolis renowned not just for its towering skyscrapers and vibrant culture but also for its incredible food scene. While fine dining and trendy restaurants have their place, some of the city’s best culinary experiences can be found on the streets, particularly from its iconic food trucks. These mobile kitchens serve everything from gourmet tacos to classic New York-style hot dogs, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary landscape. 

You can always grab a hot dog or a pretzel from one of the thousands, yes you heard us, THOUSANDS, of Sabrett Hot Dog Carts around the city. The convenience of stumbling upon one when you need a quick bite is unmatched. However, with prices on the rise, you should consider getting more bang for your buck at a specialty truck or cart next time you’re in town!  

As a general rule of thumb, long lines are a good thing (If you’re willing to wait), and show the locals’ stamp of approval. 

The Rise of the Food Truck Culture

The history of food trucks in New York City dates back to the early 20th century, when pushcarts and street vendors began selling food in various neighborhoods. These vendors became an integral part of the city’s street culture, offering affordable meals to busy commuters and locals.

Photo credit: Ephemeral New York

Want to learn more about the history of pushcarts and street vendors? Eat your way through the Lower East Side on our Immigrant Food NY Food Tour. 

In the 1980s, the rise of gourmet food trucks began, with vendors like The Halal Guys gaining popularity for their delicious street food. The trend continued to grow in the 2000s, fueled by a vibrant food scene and a desire for diverse culinary options on the go.

By the 2010s, the food truck phenomenon exploded, with trucks serving everything from tacos to cupcakes. NYC became known for its food truck festivals and social media-savvy vendors, allowing them to connect with customers and share their locations in real time.

Today, food trucks are a beloved part of the city’s culinary landscape, reflecting its rich diversity and innovative spirit while continuing to provide accessible, delicious meals to residents and visitors alike.

Our Recs

We surveyed friends and family. In this post, we’ll explore some of the locals’ most beloved food trucks in NYC and where you can find them.

In no particular order…

Photo credit: The New York Times

1. Birria-Landia

MANHATTAN
📍Upper West Side
📍Lower East Side
BROOKLYN
📍Williamsburg
QUEENS
📍Jackson Heights
BRONX
📍Fordham

Birria-Landia is a beloved food truck known for its authentic Mexican birria, a savory stew typically made with beef or goat. The standout dish here is the birria tacos, which are served crispy and filled with tender, flavorful meat, often accompanied by a rich consomé for dipping. The line can be intimidating if you arrive at peak times, but it’s worth the wait!

The truck has garnered a loyal following thanks to its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional recipes, making it a must-visit for taco enthusiasts. Whether you’re a birria aficionado or a newcomer to this delicious dish, Birria-Landia offers a memorable taste of Mexico in 4 out of 5 New York Boroughs. 

Photo credit: Roaming Hunger

2. Terry and Yaki 

MANHATTAN
📍Upper East Side
QUEENS
📍Long Island City
📍Dutch Kills

This vibrant NYC food truck brings the flavors of Japanese-inspired cuisine to the streets at two locations in Manhattan or Queens. With a menu that features a fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes, they are best known for their mouthwatering yakitori skewers, grilled to perfection and infused with savory marinades. Alongside their signature skewers, they offer a variety of delicious sides, including refreshing salads and unique rice bowls, all crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. 

The truck’s colorful design and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular spot for food lovers looking to experience the essence of Japanese street food in a bustling urban setting. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal, Terry and Yaki promises a culinary adventure that captures the spirit of New York City.

Photo credit: New York Food Truck Association

3. King Souvlaki

BROOKLYN
📍Bay Ridge
QUEENS
📍Astoria
📍Ditmars
📍Bayside
📍Forest Hills

King Souvlaki is a beloved NYC food truck that serves up delicious Greek street food, specializing in mouthwatering souvlaki and gyros. With a menu featuring succulent skewers of marinated meats—like tender chicken, juicy pork, and flavorful lamb—each dish is grilled to perfection and served with fresh pita, zesty tzatziki sauce, and vibrant toppings. The food truck’s warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with its commitment to using high-quality ingredients, has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. 

Photo credit: Tasting Table

4. Adel’s Famous Halal 

MANHATTAN
📍 Midtown

This popular spot in Midtown, Manhattan is known for its delicious halal food, particularly its chicken and lamb over rice. The restaurant is renowned for its flavorful dishes, generous portions, and quick service, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Line can be long, but worth it.

The menu typically features options like gyros, falafel, and a variety of salads, often served with their signature white sauce and hot sauce. It’s a great place for a casual meal, especially for those looking for late-night bites, as it’s open until 4 AM on weeknights and 5 AM on weekends. 

Photo credit: The Daily Meal

5. Bodega Truck

📍Location varies week to week. They post a weekly schedule on their website/social media!

This food truck travels all around the city throughout the week! They bring the classic charm of your favorite vintage new york bodega right to your street. With its vibrant neon exterior and nostalgic decor, it offers a menu centered around the beloved chop cheese, made fresh to order. The truck embodies the spirit of New York, serving up delicious comfort food while bringing a taste of community and warmth to the streets. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or indulging in a late-night snack, this food truck promises a genuine taste of the city’s rich food culture. Greasy, cheesy, ooey and gooey!

In conclusion…

New York City’s food truck scene is a vibrant and diverse landscape that reflects the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re in the mood for classics or something new, there’s a food truck waiting to satisfy your cravings. Exploring the streets of NYC and sampling its iconic food trucks is an experience that truly embodies the spirit of the city. So get out there and discover the best street food that New York has to offer!