Introduction
The tantalizing aroma of freshly grilled meats, the vibrant colors of globally inspired cuisines, and the lively hum of conversation – these are the hallmarks of Spokane’s rapidly evolving food truck scene. No longer just a quick lunch option, Spokane food trucks have become integral players in the city’s culinary landscape, offering unique and diverse flavors that rival traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants. From gourmet burgers to authentic tacos, from savory Asian street food to delectable desserts, these rolling restaurants are bringing excitement and innovation to the streets of the Lilac City. The food truck phenomenon began modestly, mirroring a national trend, with a few entrepreneurs seeking an accessible entry point into the competitive restaurant world. But Spokane embraced the concept with open arms, attracted by the affordability, the variety, and the opportunity to support local businesses.
Today, the Spokane food trucks are a testament to the city’s burgeoning foodie culture and the entrepreneurial spirit of its residents. This article will guide you through Spokane’s thriving food truck scene, highlighting some of the best mobile eateries and providing insider tips for discovering your next favorite street food indulgence. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that proves some of the best food in Spokane comes on wheels. Spokane is a great area for food trucks due to its growing population and the food scene generally. The community embraces new and exciting food options and loves supporting local businesses. The lower overhead of a truck versus a full restaurant makes it more accessible for chefs and entrepreneurs to create new dining experiences.
Spotlight on Top Food Trucks
Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout Spokane food trucks that are setting the standard for mobile cuisine:
Tacos El Sol
This vibrant truck brings the authentic taste of Mexico to Spokane. Run by the Rodriguez family, Tacos El Sol is a true labor of love. They’ve been serving up delicious tacos for several years and are a local favorite.
Tacos are their specialty, naturally, but they also serve up quesadillas, burritos, and other familiar favorites from Mexican cuisine. Everything is prepared fresh daily using authentic Mexican recipes passed down through generations.
Their signature dish is undoubtedly the carne asada taco, bursting with flavorful marinated beef, cilantro, onion, and a squeeze of lime. The al pastor taco is also a crowd-pleaser, with its sweet and savory pork filling. Many customers rave about the perfectly grilled tortillas and the homemade salsas.
What sets Tacos El Sol apart is its commitment to quality ingredients and its authentic, home-style cooking. The owners are passionate about sharing their culture through food, and it shows in every bite.
You can typically find Tacos El Sol parked near the Gonzaga University campus during lunchtime and at various community events throughout the week. They also post their location daily on their Facebook and Instagram pages.
“We want to bring a little piece of Mexico to Spokane,” says Maria Rodriguez, the owner of Tacos El Sol. “Our food is made with love, and we hope it brings a smile to everyone who tries it.”
The Burger Bus
The Burger Bus is more than just a food truck; it’s a mobile institution. This eye-catching vintage school bus has been converted into a fully functional kitchen, serving up gourmet burgers that are as creative as they are delicious.
Their menu features a rotating selection of specialty burgers, each crafted with unique toppings and flavor combinations. From the classic bacon cheeseburger to more adventurous creations like the “Spokane Stack” (featuring locally sourced beef, caramelized onions, and a signature sauce), there’s a burger for every taste. They also offer delicious hand-cut fries and milkshakes.
The “Bacon Me Crazy” burger is one of the most popular, piled high with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a tangy BBQ sauce. Many regulars call their burgers the best in the city.
The Burger Bus stands out for its commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The beef is sourced from a local farm, and the produce is always fresh. The bus itself is a conversation starter, and the friendly staff adds to the overall positive experience.
The Burger Bus regularly parks in downtown Spokane during the week and attends many local festivals and events on weekends. Follow them on social media for their daily schedule.
“We love being part of the Spokane community,” says owner, John Smith. “We’re committed to providing our customers with the best possible burgers and a fun, memorable experience.”
Spice Caravan
Spice Caravan offers a flavorful journey through the diverse culinary traditions of Southeast Asia. This popular truck specializes in authentic Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices.
The menu features classics like Pad Thai, Pho, and Curry Laksa, as well as lesser-known regional specialties. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options.
The Pad Thai is a perennial favorite, with its perfectly cooked noodles, tangy sauce, and generous portion of peanuts and bean sprouts. The Curry Laksa is another must-try, a rich and creamy coconut-based soup with noodles, vegetables, and your choice of protein.
Spice Caravan differentiates itself through its authenticity and its commitment to using traditional cooking techniques. The owners have traveled extensively throughout Southeast Asia and are passionate about sharing their culinary experiences with Spokane.
You can often find Spice Caravan at the South Perry Thursday Market and at various breweries around town. Check their website or social media pages for their updated location.
“Our goal is to introduce people to the amazing flavors of Southeast Asia,” says the owner, Mai Lee. “We use only the freshest ingredients and authentic recipes to create dishes that are both delicious and memorable.”
Sweet Surrender Desserts
Sweet Surrender Desserts is the perfect stop to satisfy your sweet tooth. They create unique and beautiful desserts that are delicious and instagramable.
The menu is constantly rotating, but you can almost always find some form of cupcake, macarons, cookies, and bars. Often they will also offer a small dessert in a jar. Everything is baked fresh and homemade.
While the menu changes frequently, the customer favorites are their chocolate cupcake with cookies and cream frosting, and the lavender honey macarons. The s’mores bar is also an instant classic.
Sweet Surrender is special because the owner has a natural talent for combining flavors. She’s extremely creative and always puts out a well-thought out and beautifully designed menu.
Sweet Surrender sets up shop at local vendor events and farmers markets. Be sure to check her social media for an updated weekly schedule.
“I love making people happy, and I do that by creating delicious desserts!” says the owner, Sarah.
Finding Food Trucks in Spokane
Tracking down your favorite Spokane food trucks can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt, but with a little know-how, you can easily satisfy your cravings.
Recurring Locations/Hotspots
Spokane boasts several locations where food trucks frequently congregate. During the lunch hour, the downtown core, particularly near Riverfront Park and the Spokane Convention Center, becomes a hub of mobile culinary activity. Many businesses also host food trucks on their premises, offering employees and customers a convenient lunch option. The South Perry District also has a rotation of food trucks throughout the week. Keep an eye out for gatherings near local breweries as well.
Social Media & Tracking
The best way to stay updated on food truck locations is to follow them on social media. Most food trucks actively use Facebook and Instagram to announce their daily schedules, special events, and menu updates. Searching hashtags like #SpokaneFoodTrucks, #SpokaneEats, and #FoodTrucksSpokane will also help you discover new trucks and find out where your favorites are parked.
Seasonal Considerations
Spokane’s food truck scene is heavily influenced by the seasons. During the warmer months, from spring through fall, the city comes alive with outdoor events and festivals, providing ample opportunities for food trucks to thrive. However, during the winter months, the number of operating food trucks decreases, and they often seek indoor venues, such as breweries or event spaces.
The Spokane Food Truck Community
The food trucks of Spokane don’t operate as isolated businesses. There’s a real sense of community and collaboration between them, benefiting the food scene and the patrons who love these mobile meals. Spokane boasts several community events that highlight the food truck scene such as Pig Out in the Park and Food Truck Fridays. These events bring many vendors together to create a one-stop shop for unique and diverse food options. Often you can find trucks cross-promoting each other, helping to further grow the Spokane Food Truck Community. It is also important to note the relationships built with local suppliers and farmers who help make the food trucks in Spokane so special by providing the highest quality ingredients possible.
Tips for Food Truck Dining
Before you embark on your food truck adventure, keep these helpful tips in mind:
Payment Options
Many food trucks accept credit cards and mobile payment options, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, just in case.
Hours of Operation
Food truck hours can vary depending on the day, the location, and the event. Be sure to check their social media pages or website for their current hours.
Menu Availability
Menus are subject to change based on ingredient availability and customer demand. Popular items can also sell out quickly, so it’s best to arrive early if you have your heart set on something specific.
Allergies/Dietary Restrictions
If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, don’t hesitate to ask the food truck staff about ingredients and options. Many food trucks are happy to accommodate special requests.
Support Local
Remember that you are supporting small business owners when you purchase food from a truck. Leave positive reviews, tag them in your social media posts, and spread the word about your favorite food trucks.
Conclusion
Spokane’s food truck scene is a testament to the city’s vibrant culinary creativity and the entrepreneurial spirit of its residents. With a diverse array of cuisines, innovative menus, and a strong sense of community, these rolling restaurants are transforming the way Spokane eats. From authentic tacos to gourmet burgers, from exotic Asian flavors to delectable desserts, the Spokane food truck scene offers something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Explore the food trucks mentioned in this article, discover your own hidden gems, and experience the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Spokane’s mobile culinary scene. Let your taste buds guide you, and you’re sure to find a food truck that will become your new favorite spot. Spokane’s street eats are waiting to be discovered, one delicious bite at a time. Support local business and find great meals on wheels.
