Introduction
Have you ever been driving through Nashville, the aroma of smoky barbecue or sizzling spices filling the air, and thought, “Where is that coming from?” Chances are, it’s emanating from one of the many fantastic food trucks that call Music City home. Nashville’s culinary scene extends far beyond its famed hot chicken joints and upscale restaurants. Rolling kitchens are taking the city by storm, offering diverse and delectable eats, showcasing a spirit of creativity and a love of food that permeates every corner of the city.
Food trucks are more than just a quick bite; they’re an experience. They represent a slice of Nashville culture, where innovative chefs and entrepreneurs are serving up their passions on wheels, one delicious dish at a time. From gourmet tacos to Southern comfort food and international flavors, the best food trucks in Nashville offer a culinary adventure that’s both accessible and unforgettable. This article will guide you through some of the most exciting Nashville food truck stops, showcasing a variety of cuisines and unforgettable flavors. We are going to guide you in the most popular routes, cuisines, and prices.
How We Selected These Rolling Restaurants
Navigating the world of Nashville food trucks can feel a bit overwhelming, with so many options vying for your attention and your appetite. To make your culinary journey a little easier, we’ve put together this list based on a blend of factors. First, we scoured local publications and blogs, paying close attention to those “best of” lists and reviews that consistently celebrated certain trucks. We also tapped into the knowledge of seasoned Nashville foodies, gathering recommendations from locals who are always in the know.
Beyond awards and accolades, we placed a significant emphasis on the quality and consistency of the food. The best food trucks use fresh, high-quality ingredients and take pride in crafting dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Finally, we considered the overall experience, from the friendliness of the staff to the ambiance of the truck itself. This list provides a blend of different cuisines to showcase the best of Nashville food truck culture.
The Best Food Trucks in Nashville
Retro Sno: Cool Down with Classic Shaved Ice
Imagine the scorching Nashville heat, a summer afternoon feeling unrelenting. What better way to find sweet, icy relief than with Retro Sno. This food truck provides classic, colorful, and delicious shaved ice.
Must-Try Item: With dozens of flavors to choose from, the flavor options are endless. You can create something unique and customize your flavors and toppings.
What Makes It Special: Retro Sno is a classic for a reason. It’s fun, family-friendly, and perfect for a hot day.
Location: You can often find them at local festivals and events, or in family-friendly neighborhoods. Check their social media for up-to-date locations.
Yayo’s OMG: A Taste of Oaxaca in Nashville
For an authentic taste of Oaxaca, Mexico, look no further than Yayo’s OMG. This vibrant truck brings the flavors of southern Mexico to the streets of Nashville, tantalizing taste buds with traditional recipes and bold spices.
Must-Try Item: The Tlayuda is a must-try. A large, crispy tortilla covered with beans, cheese, your choice of protein, and all the fixings.
What Makes It Special: Everything is made from scratch, using time-honored Oaxacan techniques and recipes passed down through generations. The bright colors and friendly service add to the overall experience.
Location: Check their social media for up-to-date locations, they pop up all around town.
Doxie’s Pizza: Pizza Perfection on Four Wheels
Pizza lovers, rejoice! Doxie’s Pizza is serving up some of the best pies in Nashville, all from the confines of their mobile kitchen. From classic margherita to creative specialty pizzas, there’s something for everyone.
Must-Try Item: Build your own pizza, but the Margarita is a fan favorite.
What Makes It Special: Doxie’s focuses on quality ingredients and expertly crafted dough, resulting in a pizza that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Location: Check their social media for up-to-date locations.
Tennessee Tater Company: Potato Paradise
Prepare for a potato party with Tennessee Tater Company. This food truck elevates the humble potato to gourmet status, offering a menu of loaded baked potatoes and crispy tater tots that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Must-Try Item: The BBQ Pulled Pork Tater Tot Bowl. Crispy tater tots smothered in tender pulled pork, cheese, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce.
What Makes It Special: They use high-quality potatoes and offer a wide array of toppings. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Location: They frequent local breweries and events. Check their social media for updates.
Bacon Nation: For the Love of Bacon
If you’re a bacon fanatic, Bacon Nation is your ultimate destination. This food truck celebrates everything bacon, offering a menu of bacon-infused delights that will leave you craving more.
Must-Try Item: The Bacon Grilled Cheese. Crispy bacon, melted cheese, and grilled to perfection.
What Makes It Special: They take bacon very seriously. They offer unique combinations and deliver big flavors.
Location: Keep an eye on their social media to see where they will be parked next.
Bare Bones Butcher: Meaty Masterpieces on Wheels
Meat lovers, rejoice! The Bare Bones Butcher food truck is delivering carnivorous delights straight to the streets of Nashville. Expect high-quality cuts, expertly prepared and served with a side of Southern hospitality.
Must-Try Item: Their smoked brisket sandwich is a must-try. Tender, flavorful brisket piled high on a toasted bun, topped with all the fixings.
What Makes It Special: The focus is on quality meats. They use traditional smoking techniques to create a flavor that is truly unforgettable.
Location: Check their social media. They are popular for festivals and events.
Funk Seoul Brother: A Fusion of Flavors
Prepare for a culinary adventure with Funk Seoul Brother, a food truck that seamlessly blends the flavors of Korean and Southern cuisines. The result is a menu of dishes that are both unique and delicious.
Must-Try Item: Their bulgogi cheesesteak is a standout. Thinly sliced bulgogi beef, grilled onions, peppers, and melted cheese served on a toasted roll.
What Makes It Special: The unique fusion concept and commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Location: They are often found at local breweries and events. Check their social media.
Lil Choo Choo BBQ: Smokin’ Good BBQ
No food truck roundup in Nashville would be complete without a nod to BBQ, and Lil Choo Choo BBQ delivers. Expect tender, smoky meats, flavorful sides, and that quintessential Southern BBQ experience.
Must-Try Item: Their pulled pork sandwich is a classic. Tender, smoky pulled pork piled high on a toasted bun, served with a side of coleslaw.
What Makes It Special: Lil Choo Choo BBQ uses traditional smoking techniques and high-quality meats to create a truly authentic BBQ experience.
Location: They often park in industrial areas and business districts. Follow them on social media.
Honorable Mentions: More Nashville Food Truck Delights
While the trucks listed above represent some of the best of Nashville’s food truck scene, there are many other worthwhile options to explore. Keep an eye out for The Grilled Cheeserie and King Tut’s. These trucks also offer unique and delicious dishes that are worth trying, and are becoming increasingly popular. The Nashville food truck scene is constantly evolving, so there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
Tips for Navigating the Nashville Food Truck Scene
Embarking on a food truck adventure in Nashville can be a thrilling experience, but it requires a little planning and know-how. The first, and perhaps most crucial, tip is to follow your favorite trucks on social media. Platforms like Instagram and Twitter are the primary way food trucks communicate their daily locations, hours, and any special events they might be participating in. Since trucks are mobile, their schedules can change, so relying on social media is essential.
Most food trucks in Nashville accept credit cards and mobile payments, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case. Lines at popular food trucks can sometimes be long, especially during peak hours. To avoid lengthy waits, try visiting during off-peak times, such as mid-afternoon. Also, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with the staff or other customers while you’re waiting in line. The food truck community in Nashville is friendly and welcoming, and you might discover some hidden gems or get insider tips.
Nashville also hosts several recurring food truck events and festivals throughout the year. These gatherings provide a great opportunity to sample a variety of cuisines and discover new favorite trucks all in one place. Many trucks are located in neighborhoods near shopping centers, parks, or entertainment venues.
Nashville Food Trucks: A Delicious Culinary Adventure
Nashville’s food truck scene is a vibrant and dynamic reflection of the city’s culinary spirit. From gourmet tacos to smoky barbecue and international fusion, the best food trucks in Nashville offer a diverse and unforgettable culinary experience. The affordability and accessibility of food trucks make them a perfect way to explore Nashville’s culinary landscape without breaking the bank.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your friends, hit the streets, and embark on your own food truck adventure in Nashville. With so many delicious options to choose from, you’re sure to discover some new favorites along the way. It’s a great way to experience the local culture, support small businesses, and enjoy some truly delicious food. What is your favorite Nashville food truck and why? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
