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September 2024

Top-10 Food Trucks in Santa Barbara

We've selected the top 10 food trucks in Santa Barbara based on reviews, sales, requests and overall demand! From Tacos Pipeye to Kona Ice of Santa Barbara, there is something for everyone on this list. Unlike other top 10 food truck lists, we actually use real world metrics and first hand experience to determine the best food trucks today in Santa Barbara. These are some of the Best Food Trucks for Catering and daily service in Santa Barbara! Find them on BFT and don't miss out!

#10: Kona Ice of Santa Barbara

Shaved Ice

Kona Ice of Santa Barbara is a refreshing and fun addition to the local shaved ice truck scene, specializing in delicious, Hawaiian shave ice treats. This truck is often found at the Santa Barbara Zoo and during the Fourth of July celebrations at West Beach, providing a cool treat on warm days. Their vibrant presence and delicious offerings make them a hit among families.

Their menu features a variety of tropical shaved ice flavors, including their popular Blue Raspberry shaved ice. This bright blue treat is sweet and tangy, perfect for cooling down. The Tiger's Blood flavor, a mix of strawberry and coconut, is another favorite among customers. For a tropical twist, their Pina Colada ice, combining pineapple and coconut, is a refreshing choice. Plus, their Flavorwave self-serve system allows customers to create unique combinations of flavors.

Santa Barbara food trucks like Kona Ice bring a fun and delicious experience to the city's events. Whether you're visiting the zoo or celebrating the Fourth of July at West Beach, Kona Ice is there to provide a sweet, refreshing treat. Their gluten-free, allergen-free, and vegan options make them accessible to everyone, making their truck a favorite for all ages.

Kona Ice of Santa Barbara also offers mobile dessert truck catering for events such as school fundraisers, corporate gatherings, and parties. Their interactive Flavorwave system lets guests create their own flavorful shaved ice, adding a fun and engaging touch to any event. With vitamin-enriched options and gluten-free, vegan, and allergen-free desserts, Kona Ice ensures that everyone can enjoy a refreshing treat. Whether it's a summer party or a festive celebration, Kona Ice brings the joy of Hawaiian shaved ice to every occasion.

Kona Ice of Santa Barbara

#9: El Pastorcito Food Truck

Mexican Fusion

El Pastorcito Food Truck is a beloved part of the Santa Barbara food trucks scene, offering authentic Mexican street food. You can find them at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, serving up delicious meals to nature lovers and eco-enthusiasts. Their commitment to quality ingredients and traditional recipes has earned them a dedicated following.

Their menu features al pastor tacos, filled with marinated pork cooked on a spit, topped with pineapple, cilantro, and onions. The carne asada nachos, loaded with grilled steak, cheese, fresh guacamole, and salsa roja, are another popular choice. For a vegetarian option, their grilled vegetable burrito, filled with seasoned veggies, rice, and beans, is a flavorful choice wrapped in handmade tortillas.

Santa Barbara food trucks like El Pastorcito bring a taste of Mexico to the city's diverse culinary scene. Whether you're exploring the Botanic Garden or participating in the Earth Day Festival, El Pastorcito offers a delicious and authentic dining experience. Their flavorful dishes, like cilantro lime sauce and vegetarian Mexican options, and friendly service make them a top choice for Mexican food lovers.

El Pastorcito Food Truck also provides taco truck catering for events such as weddings, corporate gatherings, and community festivals. Their catering menu features popular items like al pastor tacos, carne asada nachos, and vegetarian options like the grilled vegetable burrito. With a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional flavors, their Mexican street food catering brings the vibrant tastes of Mexico directly to your event. Whether it's a casual gathering at the Botanic Garden or a lively festival, El Pastorcito delivers an authentic and flavorful experience.

El Pastorcito Food Truck

#8: Heat Culinary

Multi-cultural

Heat Culinary is a favorite among Santa Barbara food trucks, known for its spicy fried chicken sandwich and bold, flavorful dishes. This gourmet food truck can be frequently found at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club and during the California Wine Festival, serving delicious meals to food lovers. Their focus on high-quality ingredients and fire-roasted vegetables keeps locals coming back.

Their menu offers a range of spicy dishes, including their signature crispy chicken sliders. These sliders boast spicy fried chicken, slaw, and pickles, served on a toasted bun with Sriracha aioli. The chili-lime shrimp tacos, topped with cilantro and drizzled with Sriracha aioli, are another crowd favorite. For a lighter, vegetarian option, their cauliflower bites, tossed in a blend of spices and served with a cooling yogurt dip, are a hit. Meat lovers will enjoy their charred chicken wings with ghost pepper sauce for that extra heat.

Santa Barbara food trucks like Heat Culinary add a fiery twist to the local dining scene. Whether you're enjoying a polo match at the Polo Club or indulging at the California Wine Festival, Heat Culinary spices up your day with dishes like buffalo chicken tacos and grilled shrimp street tacos. Their bold flavors and friendly service make them a top choice for gourmet street food enthusiasts.

Heat Culinary offers street food catering for weddings, corporate events, and festivals. Their catering menu includes favorites like the spicy fried chicken sandwich, chili-lime shrimp tacos, and fire-roasted vegetables. With customizable options such as ghost pepper sauce for heat lovers and unique wine-pairing menus for events like the California Wine Festival, Heat Culinary ensures an unforgettable catering experience. Whether you're hosting a formal dinner at the Polo Club or a laid-back gathering, their gourmet street food adds a flavorful touch to any event.

Heat Culinary

#7: Elubia's Kitchen

Latin

Elubia's Kitchen is a delightful addition to the Santa Barbara food trucks community, offering traditional Guatemalan cuisine. You can often find them at the Santa Barbara Waterfront and during the Summer Solstice Celebration, bringing the rich flavors of Guatemalan street food to the city. Their dedication to authentic recipes and fresh ingredients sets them apart.

Their menu highlights include the pepian, a traditional Guatemalan stew made with chicken, tomatoes, and a blend of roasted seeds and spices, served with rice. The chiles rellenos, featuring bell peppers stuffed with beef, vegetables, and cheese, then battered and fried, are another standout. For dessert, the rellenitos, sweet plantains filled with black beans and chocolate, are a unique and delicious treat. Don't forget to try their flavorful Guatemalan tamales, another authentic dish packed with traditional Guatemalan flavors.

Santa Barbara food trucks like Elubia's Kitchen bring the vibrant flavors of Guatemala to the city's diverse food scene. Whether you're enjoying a day at the waterfront or celebrating the Summer Solstice, Elubia's Kitchen offers an authentic and flavorful dining experience. Their delicious menu, featuring dishes like stuffed bell peppers and plantain desserts, combined with their warm hospitality, make them a favorite among locals.

Elubia's Kitchen also offers Guatemalan food truck catering for private events, festivals, and corporate gatherings. Their catering menu features a wide variety of traditional dishes, including the flavorful pepian stew, chiles rellenos, and delicious rellenitos for dessert. Whether you're planning a wedding, a community event, or a family gathering, their Guatemalan food truck catering brings the best of authentic Guatemalan cuisine to your event. With fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, they ensure a memorable dining experience for all guests, adding a unique touch to any celebration in Santa Barbara.

Elubia's Kitchen

#6: Taqueria Mena

Mexican Food

Taqueria Mena is a beloved fixture in the Santa Barbara food trucks scene, offering authentic and flavorful Mexican cuisine. Frequently found at the Santa Barbara Farmers Market and outside the Santa Barbara City College, this truck is a favorite among locals. Their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes them stand out.

Their menu features classic Mexican dishes, including their carne asada burrito. This hearty burrito is filled with tender, marinated steak, rice, beans, and fresh pico de gallo, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. The shrimp tacos, with grilled shrimp topped with a zesty slaw and creamy chipotle sauce, are another popular choice. For a vegetarian option, their black bean quesadilla, stuffed with seasoned black beans and melted cheese, is a satisfying dish. Their handmade tortillas elevate the flavor and authenticity of every meal.

Santa Barbara food trucks like Taqueria Mena enhance the local culinary landscape with authentic Mexican flavors. Whether you're shopping at the Farmers Market or studying at Santa Barbara City College, Taqueria Mena offers a delicious taste of Mexico. Their flavorful dishes, such as street tacos and vegetarian Mexican options, and welcoming service make them a top pick for Mexican cuisine lovers.

Taqueria Mena also offers taco truck catering for private events, family gatherings, and corporate functions. Their catering menu includes fan favorites like the carne asada burrito, shrimp tacos, and black bean quesadilla. With customizable options and fresh ingredients, their catering service delivers an authentic Mexican feast to any event. Whether it’s for a large wedding or an intimate gathering, their taco truck catering brings the vibrant flavors of street tacos and handmade tortillas to your celebration, making Taqueria Mena a popular choice for catering in Santa Barbara.

Taqueria Mena

#5: Yummy Bird

Korean Fusion
American Comfort
Asian Fusion
Fried Chicken

Yummy Bird is a standout among Santa Barbara food trucks, specializing in mouthwatering chicken dishes. You can find them at the Santa Barbara Bowl and the Funk Zone, serving up delicious meals to concert-goers and art lovers alike. Their focus on quality ingredients and flavorful recipes has earned them a loyal following.

Their menu features a variety of chicken dishes, including their famous fried chicken sandwich. This sandwich boasts crispy, golden-fried chicken topped with fresh lettuce, pickles, and a tangy house sauce, all nestled in a soft brioche bun. The buffalo chicken wings, tossed in a spicy buffalo sauce and served with a side of cooling ranch, are a favorite among spice lovers. For a lighter option, their grilled chicken Caesar salad, with grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and creamy Caesar dressing, is a perfect choice. Other popular items include crispy chicken tenders and the spicy hot chicken sandwich for those who love extra heat.

Santa Barbara food trucks like Yummy Bird bring a savory and satisfying experience to the local food scene. Whether you're catching a show at the Santa Barbara Bowl or exploring the vibrant Funk Zone, Yummy Bird is there to satisfy your chicken cravings. Their delicious menu and friendly service, with items like chicken wings with ranch and artisanal chicken dishes, make them a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Yummy Bird also offers chicken food truck catering for events such as weddings, corporate gatherings, and private parties. Their catering menu includes fan favorites like the fried chicken sandwich, buffalo chicken wings, and crispy chicken tenders, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying meal for guests. Whether you're hosting an outdoor festival or a family celebration, Yummy Bird's catering brings the best of artisanal chicken dishes directly to your event, with customizable options like the hot chicken sandwich and lighter choices like the grilled chicken Caesar salad. Their professional service and dedication to quality make them a top choice for any catered event in Santa Barbara.

Yummy Bird
K-Bowl

K-Bowl

Yummy Fries

Yummy Fries

Korean tacos

Korean tacos

Yummy Bowl

Yummy Bowl

Spicy chicken sandwich

Spicy chicken sandwich

Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

#4: Nimita's Cuisine

Indian

Nimita's Cuisine adds a vibrant burst of Indian flavors to the Santa Barbara food trucks lineup. Regularly found at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and the Santa Barbara Arts and Crafts Show, this truck offers a unique and flavorful dining experience. Their use of traditional spices and fresh ingredients sets them apart.

Their menu is a celebration of authentic Indian food, featuring dishes like chicken tikka masala. This popular dish includes tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. The vegetable biryani, a fragrant rice dish mixed with assorted vegetables and aromatic spices, is a hit among vegetarians. For a sweet treat, their mango lassi, a creamy yogurt-based drink blended with ripe mangoes, is both refreshing and delicious. Other favorites include tandoori chicken and warm garlic naan to pair with any of their curry dishes.

Santa Barbara food trucks like Nimita's Cuisine bring the exotic flavors of Indian street food to the city's diverse culinary scene. Whether you're exploring the historic County Courthouse or enjoying the Arts and Crafts Show, Nimita's Cuisine provides a delightful taste of India. Their flavorful dishes, like chana masala and crispy samosas, along with their warm hospitality, make them a favorite among locals.

Nimita's Cuisine also provides Indian food truck catering for private events, corporate functions, and festivals. Their customizable catering menu includes popular dishes such as chicken tikka masala, vegetable biryani, and a variety of vegan Indian options. With offerings like samosas, garlic naan, and flavorful curry dishes, their catering service brings the rich taste of authentic Indian food directly to your event. Whether you’re hosting a wedding or a community gathering, Nimita's Cuisine adds a memorable and flavorful element to any occasion.

Nimita's Cuisine

#3: Gloria's Gourmet Kitchen

Tacos

Gloria's Gourmet Kitchen is a gem among Santa Barbara food trucks, known for its elegant and delicious offerings. Frequently found at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and the Old Mission Santa Barbara, this truck brings a touch of gourmet street food to the streets. Their sophisticated menu and use of fresh ingredients attract a loyal crowd seeking artisan cuisine.

Their menu features a range of gourmet dishes, including their standout truffle mac and cheese. This dish combines rich, creamy cheese with a hint of truffle oil, creating a decadent flavor. The lobster rolls, filled with succulent lobster meat lightly dressed with mayo and served in a toasted bun, are another favorite. For dessert, their chocolate lava cake, with a gooey, molten center, is a must-try for any chocolate lover.

Santa Barbara food trucks like Gloria's Gourmet Kitchen elevate the local dining scene with their handcrafted dishes and gourmet dessert options. Whether you're visiting the Museum of Natural History or enjoying the serene surroundings of the Old Mission Santa Barbara, Gloria's Gourmet Kitchen offers a gourmet food truck experience that is sure to impress. Their commitment to culinary excellence and elegant food truck dining makes them a top choice for food enthusiasts.

Gloria's Gourmet Kitchen also provides food truck catering services for private events, weddings, and corporate functions. Their customizable catering menu includes signature dishes like truffle mac and cheese, lobster rolls, and decadent chocolate lava cake. Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a large celebration, their catering for private events offers a gourmet dining experience directly at your venue. With a focus on elegant, handcrafted dishes and seafood delicacies, Gloria's ensures a memorable and sophisticated catering option that will delight your guests.

Gloria's Gourmet Kitchen

#2: Maravilla Latin Cuisine

Latin

Maravilla Latin Cuisine brings the rich and diverse flavors of Latin America to the Santa Barbara food trucks scene. This truck is frequently spotted at the Santa Barbara Public Market and the popular Fiesta events. Their dedication to quality and flavor has earned them a loyal following among locals who crave authentic Latin cuisine.

Their menu features a variety of Latin American street food dishes, including their famous handmade pupusas. These thick, grilled corn tortillas are stuffed with a blend of cheese, beans, and savory pork. The Venezuelan arepas, made from ground maize dough, are stuffed with a variety of fillings like shredded beef and black beans. For a lighter option, their fresh ceviche, made with fish marinated in citrus juices and mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, is a refreshing choice. Pair your meal with their crispy plantain chips and drizzle some chimichurri sauce or salsa roja for extra flavor.

Santa Barbara food trucks like Maravilla Latin Cuisine offer an authentic taste of Latin America, enriching the local food scene with vibrant flavors like empanadas and tropical salsas. Whether you're exploring the Santa Barbara Public Market or celebrating at Fiesta events, Maravilla Latin Cuisine provides a memorable dining experience. Their flavorful dishes, like the vegetarian pupusas and spicy shrimp ceviche, combined with friendly service, make them a standout choice for food lovers.

Maravilla Latin Cuisine also offers Latin food truck catering for private and corporate events, bringing the flavors of Caribbean and Latin cuisine to your special occasion. Their catering menu includes crowd-pleasers like grilled arepas, casamiento rice and beans, and empanadas, along with gluten-free and vegetarian options. Whether it's a wedding, corporate gathering, or outdoor festival, their Latin food truck catering ensures a flavorful and diverse spread that will leave your guests raving. Maravilla's fresh ingredients, authentic recipes, and vibrant dishes like ceviche and chimichurri make them a popular choice for event catering in Santa Barbara.

Maravilla Latin Cuisine
(Order of 3) Tacos

(Order of 3) Tacos

Ropa Vieja Plate

Ropa Vieja Plate

(Order of 3) Empanadas

(Order of 3) Empanadas

Picadillo de Pollo Plate

Picadillo de Pollo Plate

1 Empanada (A La Carte)

1 Empanada (A La Carte)

Maduros (Half Order)

Maduros (Half Order)

#1: Tacos Pipeye

Mexican Food

Tacos Pipeye is a vibrant addition to the Santa Barbara food trucks scene, offering authentic Mexican street food that locals rave about. You can often find them at Alameda Park and during the bustling Santa Barbara Night Market. Their friendly service and delicious street tacos make them a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine.

Their menu showcases the best of Mexican street food, including their signature carne asada tacos. These tacos feature tender, marinated steak grilled to perfection and topped with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime. Their al pastor tacos are another favorite, with spit-roasted pork marinated and served with pineapple, cilantro, and onions. For a vegetarian option, their grilled veggie tacos are packed with seasoned vegetables and topped with a zesty avocado sauce. Don’t forget to pair your meal with their fresh salsa verde or spicy salsas, and finish with a sweet treat like churros.

Santa Barbara food trucks like Tacos Pipeye bring a taste of Mexico to the heart of the city, enhancing the local culinary scene with rich and authentic tacos. Whether you're enjoying a sunny day at Alameda Park or exploring the bustling night market, Tacos Pipeye is ready to serve up a delicious meal with handmade tortillas and fresh guacamole. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes ensures a memorable dining experience for every customer.

In addition to their regular spots, Tacos Pipeye offers taco truck catering for private events, including weddings, corporate gatherings, and parties. Their taco bar catering service allows guests to enjoy a customized meal, featuring options like carne asada burritos, crispy carnitas, and quesadillas. The catering menu includes taco combos with a variety of fillings, as well as sides like pico de gallo and fresh guacamole. Whether you're planning a small get-together or a large celebration, Tacos Pipeye's catering brings the flavor and fun of authentic Mexican street food to your event.

Tacos Pipeye

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