Looking for the best food trucks in Asheville, NC? Whether you’re exploring breweries, planning a casual night out, or booking a last-minute mountain getaway, Asheville’s food truck scene delivers some of the city’s most creative and satisfying meals—often just steps from your favorite craft beer.
From wood-fired pizza and hibachi bowls to vegan comfort food and international street eats, these local favorites represent the heart of Asheville’s casual dining culture.
Updated for 2026 | Rotating schedules—always check locations before heading out
🥟 1. Cecilia’s Kitchen (The Godmother of Asheville Food Trucks)
Long before food trucks became a staple of Asheville’s brewery scene, Cecilia’s Kitchen was helping pave the way.
Known by many locals as the “Godmother of Asheville Food Trucks,” Cecilia played a pivotal role in the growth of the city’s mobile food movement. Through years of persistence and advocacy, she helped influence changes to local regulations and requirements, opening doors for food trucks to operate more successfully throughout Asheville and Western North Carolina.
Today, Cecilia’s Kitchen remains one of the area’s most beloved food trucks, serving authentic Argentinian and Latin-inspired specialties that have earned a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
From handcrafted empanadas and crepes to tamales and breakfast specialties, every dish reflects the same passion and entrepreneurial spirit that helped shape Asheville’s food truck culture.
What to try: Traditional beef empanadas
Why it stands out: Authentic Argentinian flavors, a loyal local following, and a legacy that helped establish Asheville’s thriving food truck scene
You’ll often find them at:
- North Asheville Tailgate Market
- Highland Brewing Company
For more information on their hours and locations, check out their website.
🍕 2. Tin Can Pizzeria (Wood-Fired Pizza + Brewery Staple)
One of the most recognizable food trucks in Asheville, Tin Can Pizzeria serves up crispy, wood-fired pizzas that pair perfectly with local craft beer.
You’ll often find them parked at breweries like:
- Highland Brewing Company
- Wedge Brewing Company
- Pisgah Brewing Company
What to try: Classic margherita or pepperoni with a local IPA
Why it stands out: Consistency + perfect brewery pairing
🌱 3. The Smokin’ Onion (Plant-Based Comfort Food)
Even if you’re not vegan, The Smokin’ Onion is a must-try. Their buffalo cauliflower bites and loaded wraps have built a loyal following across Asheville.
What to try: Buffalo cauliflower wrap
Why it stands out: Big flavor, approachable vegan menu
🔥 4. Garage Barbecue (Slow-Smoked Asheville Favorite)
If there’s one cuisine that feels right at home in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s barbecue. Garage Barbecue has earned a reputation for serving authentic, slow-smoked meats and Southern-inspired comfort food from its distinctive mobile kitchen.
Whether you’re craving pulled pork, smoked chicken, sliders, tacos, or classic barbecue sides, Garage Barbecue delivers the kind of hearty meal that pairs perfectly with a local craft beer after a day of exploring Asheville.
What to try: Smoked pork sliders or the BBQ flight
Why it stands out: Authentic slow-smoked barbecue, creative menu options, and a loyal local following
🍚 5. Purple People Feeder (Hibachi Bowls + Local Favorite)
If you’re hungry, Purple People Feeder delivers. Their hibachi-style rice bowls are fast, flavorful, and known for generous portions.
What to try: Chicken or steak hibachi bowl
Why it stands out: Value + speed + consistently great portions
🍔 6. Smashville (Craft Smash Burgers Done Right)
If you’re searching for one of the best burgers on wheels in Western North Carolina, look no further than Smashville. This locally loved food truck takes a meticulous approach to every burger they serve.
Unlike many burger operations, Smashville hand-grinds its beef, creating a fresh, flavorful patty that delivers the perfect smash burger experience. Their attention to detail doesn’t stop there. The fries undergo a three-day preparation process before they ever reach your plate, resulting in a crispy exterior and fluffy interior that keeps guests coming back.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch at a brewery, attending a local event, or simply craving an exceptional burger, Smashville consistently earns its reputation as one of Asheville’s standout food trucks.
What to try: The classic smash burger with a side of their signature fries
Why it stands out: Hand-ground beef, a three-day fry preparation process, and an unwavering commitment to quality
For their schedule, please check out https://www.instagram.com/sm_asheville/
🍺 Where to Find Food Trucks in Asheville
One of the best things about Asheville’s food truck scene is how closely it’s tied to the brewery culture.
Top spots to explore include:
- Highland Brewing Company
- New Belgium Brewing Company
- Wedge Brewing Company
- North Asheville Tailgate Market
👉 Pro tip: Food trucks rotate daily—check brewery schedules or social media before heading out.
🧠Why Asheville Food Trucks Are Worth Exploring
Asheville’s food trucks aren’t just convenient—they’re part of the culture:
- ✔️ Perfect for casual, last-minute dining decisions
- ✔️ Often located at scenic outdoor breweries
- ✔️ Offer some of the most creative food in the city
- ✔️ Ideal for families, groups, and laid-back evenings
âť“ FAQs: Asheville Food Trucks
What are the best food trucks in Asheville, NC?
Some of the top-rated food trucks include Tin Can Pizzeria, The Smokin’ Onion, Mean Mandy’s, Cecilia’s Kitchen, Purple People Feeder, and Sabora Food Truck.
Where can I find food trucks in Asheville?
Most food trucks rotate between local breweries like Highland, New Belgium, and Wedge Brewing, as well as events and pop-ups.
Are Asheville food trucks open year-round?
Many operate year-round, but schedules vary by season, weather, and location—always check ahead.
Are there vegan food trucks in Asheville?
Yes—The Smokin’ Onion and Mean Mandy’s are two of the most popular vegan-friendly options.
🏡 Stay Close to Asheville’s Best Food + Breweries
The best way to experience Asheville’s food truck scene? Stay nearby and make it part of your daily plans.
Whether you’re heading out for a brewery afternoon or a casual dinner under the mountains, our local team can help you find the perfect home base.
👉 Explore our Asheville vacation rentals or reach out to our team at 888-699-2987 or [email protected] for personalized recommendations.
