Finding great food trucks Charleston has to offer can feel overwhelming when you face dozens of options scattered across the city. There are currently 135 food trucks, trailers, carts, and pop-ups operating in the Charleston area. Sorting through food trucks Charleston sc residents frequent versus tourist traps takes local knowledge. This piece explains 17 best food trucks Charleston sc locals eat at. You’ll find everything from food trucks north Charleston sc to food trucks mount pleasant SC, with pricing and must-try dishes that help any food truck finder Charleston sc explore the scene.
Cast Iron Food Truck
Image Source: Street Food Finder
What They Serve
Cast Iron Food Truck specializes in casual comfort food made from fresh ingredients sourced from local farms. The menu centers around gourmet burgers and what owner Victor Colbert calls comfort sandwiches, with offerings that change often. Once a burger-and-barbecue specialist, Cast Iron now serves a full menu that features low country cuisine with Armenian American influences. The truck accommodates various dietary needs, including gluten-free, lactose-free, vegan and vegetarian options.
Location and Hours
Cast Iron operates from North Charleston and appears at Celadon Warehouse, 2221 Noisette Blvd., every Tuesday. The truck serves lunch at this location every other Tuesday. Locals track this rotating schedule. Cast Iron focuses on catering for weddings, corporate events and special occasions, aside from regular street service.
Pricing
Meals range from $10.00 to $12.00, with the Carolina-style barbecue sandwich with slaw priced within this bracket. Catering services include delivery, setup, clean up and tastings as part of the full wedding catering package.
Why Charleston Locals Love It
Cast Iron earned a 100% recommendation rate from couples who used their catering services and maintains a 5.0 overall rating for quality, flexibility, value and professionalism. Victor Colbert opened the truck in 2012 after his son suggested the name, representing versatility on the grill. Chef Victor prepares every dish with care and focuses on quality ingredients that reflect authentic low country flavors.
Signature Dishes
The Notorious P.I.G. ranks as their biggest seller and features pulled pork, honey ham, bacon, house-made candy jalapenos and mojo sauce. The Carolina-style barbecue sandwich with slaw remains their signature dish. Their rotating gourmet burgers are popular as well and change often to keep the menu fresh.
Squeals On Wheels
Image Source: Roaming Hunger
What They Serve
Squeals On Wheels delivers authentic Southern BBQ with slow-smoked meats prepared by owner Anthony Sappe. The menu features pulled pork smoked for 15 hours, beef brisket cooked for 14 hours, pulled chicken, baby back ribs, and smoked sausage. Their signature Piggy Parfait layers smoked chicken, bacon mac and cheese, baked beans, pulled pork, and sweet coleslaw in a cup. Additional offerings include BBQ burritos, smoked chicken wings with homemade dry rub, and Redneck nachos topped with pork and nacho cheese on pork rinds.
Where to Find Them in Charleston SC
The truck operates on a rotating schedule throughout Charleston with regular appearances at various locations. Squeals On Wheels also provides catering services for weddings, birthday parties, and corporate events throughout the region. Customers can track their location through their social media channels to get daily updates.
Price Range
Menu items range from $3.00 to $12.00. The Piggy Parfait costs $9.00, while slow-smoked ribs run $12.00. Pulled pork and chicken sandwiches are priced at $10.00 and $9.00 respectively. Individual meal portions from the truck start at $7.00.
What Makes Them Popular
Everything arrives homemade. Chef Cindy prepares BBQ sauces and sides. The meat gets smoked with Vermont maple and oak wood, which creates distinct flavors. Customers choose between mustard-based or original red sauce on their sandwiches. The bacon mac and cheese features real bacon pieces in a creamy base.
Must-Try Items
The pulled pork sandwich stands out with generous meat portions and sauce options. Bacon mac and cheese remains the most requested side. Customers praise its creamy texture and authentic bacon flavor. Baby back ribs fall off the bone after the long smoking process.
Date night ideas in Charleston.
Diggity Doughnuts
Image Source: South Carolina Living
What They Serve
Ambergre Sloan launched Diggity Doughnuts in 2010 and started a mission to build a better doughnut. This vegan bakery produces organic, whole wheat, egg-free and dairy-free small batch doughnuts. The organic vanilla cake and whole wheat doughnut bases work as canvases for experimental flavors that change daily. Heat Seekers hosts Roger Mooking and Aaron Sanchez called the spicy peanut butter and Sriracha combo “spectacular”.
Menu offerings include The Nutty Rooster with creamy peanut butter and Sriracha hot sauce, The Starla with strawberry and jalapeño, and The Peppy Pappy featuring chocolate frosting with mint and pretzel bits. Additional flavors rotate through Key Lime Pie, Maple & Brown Sugar, Cappuccino, Summer Blues lemon blueberry, Dill Pickle and Roasted Garlic. Classic chocolate and sugar icing doughnuts remain available among the adventurous options. The shop serves coffee, tea, homemade chai tea, green juice and smoothies beyond doughnuts. Sunday brunch runs from 11am-3pm with items such as vegan Greek omelet, tempeh reuben and vegan French toast.
Location and Hours
The brick and mortar shop sits at 616 Meeting Street in Charleston. Hours run Thursday through Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm. What began as a food truck transformed into this permanent location and gave fans a consistent place to find their favorite flavors.
Pricing
Classic flavors like cinnamon and sugar cost $2.00 each. Specialty flavors such as key lime pie run $2.50.
Why Charleston Locals Love It
All doughnuts arrive egg and dairy-free, with a new gluten-free flavor added to the menu each day. Sloan uses whole-grain unbleached flours, cane sugar and organic soymilk with no preservatives or artificial ingredients. Flavors often sell out due to the small batch approach.
The King of Pops
Image Source: www.kingofpops.com
What They Serve
King of Pops creates all-natural, handcrafted popsicles using fresh and organic ingredients sourced locally when possible. The menu splits into two categories: cream popsicles and fruit popsicles. Brothers Nick and Steve started with $7,000 and a cart with a rainbow umbrella in Atlanta. They expanded through franchising to cities from Miami to D.C., including Charleston. The company has developed over 500 flavors since inception and offers options that span traditional and foodie categories. All popsicles accommodate various dietary needs, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
Where to Find Them in Charleston SC
The operation runs from North Charleston, with distinctive rainbow umbrellas marking their push cart locations throughout the city. Customers can track cart locations through social media or the Cartrepreneur page and cart map. King of Pops also appears in select grocery stores and restaurants across Charleston. The franchise serves through Full-Service Cart Catering for events and brings their signature setup to weddings and corporate functions.
Price Range
Individual popsicles cost $4.00 each. Multi-pop packages include a 6-pack for $24.00, a 12-pack for $48.00, and a 25-pack for $100.00. Catering events start at $4.00 per pop with an hour of full-service included. Wedding catering runs around $500.00 for couples.
What Makes Them Popular
The company operates with over 14 years of experience and has sold millions of pops at thousands of events. Each pop gets handcrafted with attention to quality ingredients. The Chocolate Sea Salt variety uses 65% cacao dark chocolate sourced from Colombia and blended with grass-fed dairy and sea salt. Orange Cream combines grass-fed dairy with 100% fresh Florida orange juice, never from concentrate.
Signature Flavors
Chocolate Sea Salt ranks as their number one seller. Birthday Cake and Thai Iced Tea remain favorite flavors among regular customers. Full-time classic options include Banana Puddin’, Cookies ‘n Cream, Orange Cream, Raspberry Lime, and Strawberry Lemonade. Mango Tangerine and Very Berry round out the popular fruit selections.
Best Time to Visit
Summer months see peak activity for their cooling treats, especially during outdoor events and hot Charleston afternoons.
Wich Cream
Image Source: Street Food Finder
What They Serve
Wich Cream lifts handcrafted ice cream sandwiches by combining premium ice creams with made-from-scratch bases. The ice cream gets snuggled between either rich chocolate butter brownies or soft graham sandwich cookies made with local heirloom cornmeal. Original flavors include salted caramel, mint chocolate chip, cookies & cream, chocolate cookies & cream, vanilla bean, and Vietnamese coffee. Seasonal specials rotate through options such as peanut butter honey, hot chocolate, apple pie, banana pudding, peaches & cream, pistachio, lemon custard, blueberry cheesecake, and pumpkin latte. The menu evolves constantly as new flavor combinations get tested for special events and venues.
Location and Hours
Wich Cream operates through retail partners across Charleston rather than a traditional truck schedule. Downtown locations include Veggie Bin and Goat.Sheep.Cow., while North Charleston spots feature Adrenaline Monkey, Odd Duck, and Benny Rinaldi’s. Mount Pleasant residents find them at Local Jo’s Natural Foods and Benny Palmetto’s. Summerville, Nexton, Folly Beach, James Island, and West Ashley areas have additional partners. The pickup location sits at 6185A Rivers Avenue in North Charleston.
Pricing
Individual sandwiches cost $4.00 per unit through the 6-sandwich monthly subscription. Bulk buyers pay $2.91 per unit with the 24-sandwich monthly option. Orders within zip codes 29401, 29403, 29405, 29406, 29407, 29414, 29464, and 29492 add $10.00 for delivery.
Why Charleston Locals Love It
They make every component from scratch using fresh local ingredients. The business caters events from baby showers to weddings and brings mobile ice cream service to private functions.
Must-Try Items
Mint chocolate chip sandwiched between homemade wafer-thin brownies delivers sweetness that refreshes. Salted caramel and vanilla bean represent core flavors available year-round.
Miracle’s Tasty Express Hotdogs
Image Source: Street Food Finder
What They Serve
Miracle’s Tasty Express specializes in Nathan’s all-beef jumbo hotdogs with creative topping combinations that go beyond standard condiments. The Fully Loaded Boss stacks chili, cheese, bacon, onions, and sauce on a quarter-pound hotdog. The Dirty Ranch Dog layers crispy chicken tenders, melted cheese, bacon crumbles, and ranch drizzle. The Triple Stacked Beast (BFC) tops the hotdog with french fries, bacon, and melted cheese. You can also try the Messy MIRACLE with chili and cheese, Bacon Me Wild with cheese and bacon, and The Honey Bird featuring chicken tenders with honey mustard. Homemade chili appears on many menu items.
Where to Find Them in Charleston SC
The truck operates on a mobile schedule around Charleston and appears at locations in Goose Creek, North Charleston, Summerville, and Moncks Corner. Regular stops include Scientific Research Corporation on Remount Road and various schools. Private event catering extends their reach around the region.
Price Range
Individual Nathan’s chili dogs cost $5.50, whereas chili cheese dogs run $6.00. Specialty dogs with bacon, cheese, and chili range from $8.00 to $10.99. Combo meals with fries and drinks cost $8.00 to $11.00.
What Makes Them Popular
The menu accommodates families with options for various tastes. Homemade chili and creative combinations set them apart from standard hotdog vendors.
Bits-n-bytes
Image Source: Best Food Trucks
What They Serve
Kevin runs the grill at bits-n-bytes and focuses on three items: cheeseburgers cooked to order, Sweet Heat Chicken Wings tossed in spicy BBQ sauce that balances smoky sweetness with heat, and crispy French fries. The Prime Angus Steak smash burgers get built the way burgers should be. Wings arrive award-winning and are available with or without the signature sauce. The menu accommodates appetizers with smaller portions and soda for drinks.
Location and Hours
The truck operates throughout Charleston and serves lunch and late bites in the area. Customers track locations through social media updates. Catering bookings bring the truck to private events and corporate functions.
Pricing
The Big Byte Burger costs $17.00 for a 2/3 lb Prime Angus patty with cheese and fries. The Byte Burger runs $15.00 for the 1/3 lb version. FireWall features five fried wings in signature sauce and costs $14.00. Side portions include wings at $5.00 for three pieces and fries at $5.00. Sodas add $3.00.
Why Charleston Locals Love It
Charleston Culinary Tours recognizes bits-n-bytes for outstanding fries and fire burgers. The truck maintains 6+ years of operation on Roaming Hunger.
Signature Dishes
The FireWall delivers award-winning wings. Sweet Heat wings represent Kevin’s signature creation.
Best Time to Visit
Lunch hours offer fresh preparation during peak service.
Smoke BBQ
Image Source: Destination BBQ
What They Serve
Smoke BBQ started in the food truck scene during Summer 2015 before establishing its brick-and-mortar presence. The menu features pulled pork, brisket, house-made pastrami and smoked chicken confit. Loaded Hash Fries arrive with hand-cut potatoes seasoned with black pepper flakes and topped with brisket hash, three sauces and pickled jalapeños. Sides include mac and cheese made with penne pasta and crunchy breadcrumb topping. Collards come prepared with carrots. Sauce options include red, mustard and house-made ketchup.
Where to Find Them in North Charleston SC
The restaurant operates from 487 King Street in the old Motobar location.
Price Range
Pulled pork costs $12.95 per pound. The pork platter runs $18.00. The Tommy B. Monster Meat Sampler that combines all four proteins costs $25.00.
What Makes Them Popular
The establishment offers a wide whiskey selection alongside barbecue. Mac and cheese ranks among the best encountered at South Carolina BBQ houses, with its creamy texture and penne pasta base. House-made ketchup sets them apart from competitors.
Must-Try Items
Smoked confit chicken delivers tender, juicy meat with strong smoky flavor. The pastrami arrives sliced with salty, smoky notes [381]. Loaded Hash Fries combine textures and flavors in one dish.
East Coast locations to visit.
Taco Spot Mobile
What They Serve
Johnson & Wales graduate Jason C. Vaughan and Dallas native Lindsey Collier Vaughan opened this neighborhood taco shop. They prepare daily menus using local and environmentally responsible ingredients. Options span fish, blackened fish, chicken, blackened chicken, steak, seasoned ground beef and vegetarian varieties. The menu extends beyond tacos to quesadillas, burritos and Dealer’s Choice specialty tacos. Breakfast tacos and burritos remain available throughout the day. BBQ fried shrimp tacos, beef tacos and Cuban tacos round out the offerings. Taco Tuesday brings special deals that draw regular crowds.
Location and Hours
The truck operates from 1301 Ashley River Rd, Ste B, Charleston, SC, 29407. Service runs Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The shop closes Saturday and Sunday.
Pricing
Specific pricing details vary by selection and daily specials. Tuesday promotions offer value-focused deals on taco orders.
Why Charleston Locals Love It
The shop maintains a 4.6 rating across 1,062 reviews. Customer feedback expresses appreciation for exceptional packaging that keeps nachos crisp and separates fish from chicken tacos to prevent flavor mixing. Staff accommodates late orders with courtesy and adds extra condiments in separate containers. The attention to detail extends from order accuracy to presentation.
The Rolling Bakehouse
What They Serve
Bakehouse Charleston operates as a brick-and-mortar bakery offering pastries, breakfast items and specialty coffee drinks. Morning options feature quiche varieties including bacon cheddar and spinach mozzarella at $5.95 each. They also serve parfaits layered with house granola and fruit. Lunch sandwiches range from pimento cheese at $7.95 to Italian mozzarella prosciutto at $11.95. Baked goods span scones at $2.75, muffins at $2.95 and sweet and salty brownies at $2.95. Specialty drinks include cinnamon bun latte and salted caramel latte, both priced at $4.45. The bakery also serves craft beer.
Where to Find Them in Mount Pleasant SC
The establishment sits at 160 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401 in the historic district between The Battery and The Market.
Price Range
Breakfast items run $5.95. Lunch sandwiches cost $7.95 to $11.95, and baked goods range from $2.55 to $4.95. Coffee starts at $2.35.
What Makes Them Popular
All pastries arrive baked on premises daily. Customers praise the chocolate espresso scones and coconut macaroons. The cozy seating area with exposed brick creates an inviting atmosphere.
Signature Items
Key lime pie at $4.95 and s’mores bars at $3.50 remain customer favorites.
Charleston Burger Co.
What They Serve
Charleston Burger Company builds its menu around smash burgers prepared with American classics. The Classic Burger features a juicy beef patty topped with fresh lettuce and tomato on a toasted bun. The BBQ Bacon Burger combines smoky barbecue sauce with crispy bacon and cheddar cheese. Vegetarians order the Veggie Burger, made from blended fresh vegetables and seasonings with sauce. The Crispy Chicken Sandwich delivers crunchy exterior with tender interior and comes with zesty mayo. Sweet Potato Fries arrive crispy and seasoned, whereas Onion Rings bring golden crunch. Salads provide lighter options with various protein additions.
Location and Hours
The establishment operates from 218 President Street, Charleston, SC 29403. Service runs daily from 11am to 8:30pm.
Pricing
Delivery adds USD 4.99 per order.
Why Charleston Locals Love It
The truck holds a 4.7 rating over 2000+ reviews. Customers praise the house burger sauce and consistent quality. The menu accommodates different priorities with salads among burgers.
Must-Try Burgers
The house burger sauce earns particular acclaim. Regular customers describe it as outstanding. BBQ Bacon Burger stands out with its smoky-sweet profile coupled with crispy bacon texture.
Lowcountry Street Food
What They Serve
Lowcountry Food Truck operates as an extension of Lowcountry Fish Camp in Summerville and brings the same quality to mobile service. The menu centers on American Seafood Southern cuisine with a focus on casual dining options. Appetizers provide quick bites to customers on the go. PoBoy Sandwiches serve as the main attraction. Seafood Platters round out the offerings and deliver complete meals from the truck.
Where to Find Them in Charleston SC
The truck serves the Charleston area with connections to its Summerville base location. Customers can track their schedule through social media updates of daily locations throughout the region.
Price Range
Pricing information varies by selection and daily specials. PoBoy sandwiches offer affordable options to lunch crowds. Seafood platters provide fuller meals at higher price points.
What Makes Them Popular
The connection to Lowcountry Fish Camp gives the truck credibility among locals who know the restaurant’s reputation. Authentic Southern seafood from a mobile platform makes their offerings available in multiple Charleston neighborhoods. The combination of sandwiches and full platters accommodates different hunger levels and budgets throughout the day.
Sweet Tooth Treats
What They Serve
Sweet Tooth Treats specializes in gourmet candied apples and creative dessert combinations. Candied Strawberries rank among their most popular items. They feature four Florida-grown strawberries dipped in traditional red candy. The Turtle Gourmet Apple delivers large Granny Smith apples dipped in signature creamy caramel and rolled in crushed pecans. Caramel and milk chocolate get drizzled on top. Other gourmet apple varieties include Cinnamon Roll with caramel and white confection rolled in cinnamon crumble. You can also get Cheesecake with graham cracker coating and Strawberry Shortcake options. Candied Grapes arrive with large seedless green grapes dipped in flavored hard candy. They’re rolled in crushed jolly rancher pieces. The Necks n’ Nuts Spicy Bowl is a savory alternative. It comes with homemade pickled eggs, boiled peanuts, smoked turkey neck, hot sausage, jalapeño peppers, banana peppers and signature seasoning. You can get it in 32oz or 16oz portions.
Location and Hours
They’re open Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm or until items sell out. The business stays closed Monday through Friday.
Pricing
Pricing varies by item selection and availability during service hours.
Why Charleston Locals Love It
Every handcrafted item uses fresh ingredients. Sweet and savory options mean different cravings get satisfied.
Signature Desserts
Turtle Gourmet Apple stands out with its multi-layered caramel and chocolate combination. Candied Strawberries provide bite-sized indulgence.
Best Time to Visit
Weekend afternoons have the freshest selections. Get there early so you don’t miss sold-out favorites.
The Grilled Cheese Factory
What They Serve
Texas toast serves as the foundation for every grilled cheese creation at this Mount Pleasant operation. The Classic delivers melty American cheese on grilled Texas toast for $9.99. The Croque raises the menu with Swiss, ham, fried egg and dijon mustard for $11.99. Bacon Avocado ranks as the #2 most liked item. It combines pepper jack, crispy bacon, tomato and avocado with signature mayo for $11.99. Rise & Shine adds pepper jack, crispy bacon and tomato with a fried egg and signature mayo at the same price point. The Breakfast keeps it simple with fried egg, crispy bacon and American cheese. Cuban rounds out sandwich options with Swiss cheese, ham and pickles with mustard.
Where to Find Them
The spot operates from 3008-B N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant, SC 29466. Service runs from 8:00 AM to 2:45 PM daily.
Price Range
Sandwiches cost $9.99 to $11.99. Frings (half fries, half onion rings) run $6.99 as the #1 most liked side. Side of Fries costs $5.99. Onion rings add $6.99.
What Makes Them Popular
Family ownership brings 60+ years of combined food industry experience. Homemade signature sauces accompany each sandwich.
Must-Try Combos
Bacon Avocado paired with Frings creates the most ordered combination.
Poke Paradise
What They Serve
A family owns and operates Poke Paradise, where customizable poke bowls are the menu’s foundation. Customers craft their bowls from a wide variety of protein options including fresh salmon, spicy tuna, yellowtail, crab mix, and spicy shrimp paired with fresh greens or sushi rice. The 901 Sushi Burrito packs salmon, spicy tuna, crab mix, cucumber, avocado, and greens into a portable format. Sashimi-grade quality fish arrives daily to ensure freshness. The menu also features premium teas brewed fresh each day, including Jasmine and Earl Gray varieties. Bubble tea rounds out the beverage selection.
Location and Hours
Specific Charleston location details vary, though the business maintains regular operating schedules for lunch and early dinner service.
Pricing
Build-your-own poke bowls start at $11.59, whereas specialty bowls featuring salmon or tuna run $13.79. Shrimp options cost $15.39, with deluxe seafood bowls at the same price point.
Why Charleston Locals Love It
The establishment holds a 4.8 rating across 500+ customer reviews. Catering services bring Hawaiian-inspired poke bowls to gatherings and events. Quality ingredients combined with excellent service reflect the family’s passion for their craft.
Wings on Wheels
What They Serve
Wings on Wheels builds its reputation around crispy bone-in traditional wings tossed in customer-selected WOW sauces. The 10-piece orders are the core menu item. Boneless wings provide an alternative for those who prefer breaded options. The truck serves a Hot Chicken Sandwich with crispy chicken on a toasted bun with pickles and zesty ranch. Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese combines creamy pasta with crispy chicken tossed in WOW sauce. Wing-Man Nachos arrive loaded with creamy white queso, lettuce, pico de gallo and sour cream. You can add chicken or beef. Kicking Tacos deliver mouth-watering beef or chicken topped with sauce, lettuce, pico de gallo and drizzled sour cream. Trailer Tots feature golden crispy tots covered in white creamy queso and topped with bacon, WOW sauce and zesty ranch.
Where to Find Them in Charleston SC
The truck operates on a mobile schedule throughout Charleston. They post locations on social media for surprise visits. Catering services bring the operation to company picnics and special events. Weekends book quickly.
Price Range
Traditional wings cost $11 for 10 pieces. Boneless wings run $9. Hot Chicken Sandwich is $7, and Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is $8. Wing-Man Nachos cost $5 base price. Meat additions are $3 extra. Kicking Tacos offer 2 for $5 or 4 for $8. Trailer Tots run $7.
What Makes Them Popular
The variety of WOW sauce options lets customers customize each order to their heat preference and flavor profile.
Signature Flavors
WOW sauce selections span multiple heat levels and flavor profiles for wing customization.
Coastal Catch Seafood
What They Serve
Coastal Catch specializes in private chef services and event catering rooted in coastal flavors, open-fire cooking, and the freshest oysters and seafood sourced from local and regional farmers. Chef Wade’s menus celebrate the seasons, the sea, and the art of gathering through flame-cooked preparations. The approach centers on using the finest locally sourced and environmentally responsible ingredients. This embodies Wade’s “Tide to Table” and “Farm to Fork” ethos. Ingredients span pasture-raised meats to line-caught seafood and organically grown vegetables.
Location and Hours
Operations focus on Charleston-area private events and catering services rather than traditional food truck scheduling.
Pricing
Pricing varies based on event type, guest count, and menu selections for private chef and catering services.
Why Charleston Locals Love It
Chef Wade demonstrates dedication to culinary excellence and environmental responsibility through careful ingredient sourcing. He partners with suppliers who prioritize humane and ethical farming practices. This dedication supports local economies and brings vibrant seasonal flavors to every dish. Fresh-from-dock seafood defines Charleston’s culinary identity, and Coastal Catch delivers this authenticity through green practices.
Must-Try Dishes
Freshest oysters and open-fire preparations showcase their signature style. Seasonal offerings change based on available catch and harvest.
Best Time to Visit
Book catering services during peak seafood seasons to optimize ingredient selection and coastal flavor profiles.
Comparison Table
| Food Truck Name | Specialty/Cuisine Type | Signature Dish(es) | Price Range | Location/Area | Operating Hours/Days | Notable Features |
| Cast Iron Food Truck | Comfort food, Low country cuisine with Armenian American influences | The Notorious P.I.G. (pulled pork, honey ham, bacon, candy jalapeños, mojo sauce); Carolina-style BBQ sandwich | $10.00-$12.00 | North Charleston, Celadon Warehouse (2221 Noisette Blvd.) | Every Tuesday (rotating every other Tuesday for lunch) | 100% recommendation rate, 5.0 rating; Gluten-free, lactose-free, vegan options; Catering services on offer |
| Squeals On Wheels | Southern BBQ | Piggy Parfait ($9.00); Pulled pork sandwich; Baby back ribs ($12.00) | $3.00-$12.00 | Rotating schedule throughout Charleston | Varies by location | 15-hour smoked pulled pork, 14-hour beef brisket; Homemade BBQ sauces; Smoked with Vermont maple, oak, and fruit wood |
| Diggity Doughnuts | Vegan bakery, organic doughnuts | The Nutty Rooster (peanut butter & Sriracha); The Starla (strawberry & jalapeño) | $2.00-$2.50 per doughnut | 616 Meeting Street, Charleston (brick & mortar) | Thursday-Sunday, 10:00am-4:00pm | Featured on Food Network’s Heat Seekers; Organic, vegan, egg-free, dairy-free; Sunday brunch 11am-3pm |
| The King of Pops | All-natural handcrafted popsicles | Chocolate Sea Salt; Birthday Cake; Thai Iced Tea | $4.00 each; 6-pack $24.00; 12-pack $48.00 | North Charleston, various cart locations with rainbow umbrellas | Varies by cart location | 14+ years experience; Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free options; 500+ flavors developed; Catering on offer |
| Wich Cream | Handcrafted ice cream sandwiches | Mint chocolate chip on brownies; Salted caramel; Vietnamese coffee | $4.00 per sandwich; $2.91 bulk rate | Multiple retail partners in Charleston (Downtown, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant); Pickup: 6185A Rivers Avenue | Varies by retail partner | Made-from-scratch bases with local heirloom cornmeal; Delivery on offer ($10.00); Monthly subscriptions |
| Miracle’s Tasty Express Hotdogs | Nathan’s all-beef jumbo hotdogs | Fully Loaded Boss; The Dirty Ranch Dog; Triple Stacked Beast (BFC) | $5.50-$10.99; Combos $8.00-$11.00 | Goose Creek, North Charleston, Summerville, Moncks Corner | Varies by location | Homemade chili; Creative topping combinations; Family-friendly menu |
| bits-n-bytes | Burgers, wings, fries | FireWall (award-winning wings); Big Byte Burger (2/3 lb, $17.00); Sweet Heat Chicken Wings | $14.00-$17.00 for entrees; Sides $5.00 | Throughout Charleston | Lunch and late bites | 6+ years operation; Prime Angus smash burgers; Recognized by Charleston Culinary Tours |
| Smoke BBQ | BBQ, smoked meats | Smoked confit chicken; House-made pastrami; Loaded Hash Fries | Pulled pork $12.95/lb; Platters $18.00-$25.00 | 487 King Street, Charleston (brick & mortar) | – | Started as food truck in 2015; Wide whiskey selection; House-made ketchup; Penne mac and cheese |
| Taco Spot Mobile | Mexican, tacos | Fish tacos, blackened fish, steak, chicken, vegetarian options | Varies by selection | 1301 Ashley River Rd, Ste B, Charleston, SC 29407 | Monday-Friday, 9:00am-6:00pm (Closed weekends) | 4.6 rating from 1,062 reviews; Johnson & Wales graduate chef; Taco Tuesday specials; Breakfast tacos all day |
| The Rolling Bakehouse | Bakery, pastries, sandwiches | Key lime pie ($4.95); Chocolate espresso scones; Quiche varieties ($5.95) | Breakfast $5.95; Lunch $7.95-$11.95; Baked goods $2.55-$4.95 | 160 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401 (brick & mortar) | – | Baked fresh on premises daily; Craft beer on offer; Cozy seating with exposed brick |
| Charleston Burger Co. | Smash burgers, American classics | Classic Burger; BBQ Bacon Burger; Crispy Chicken Sandwich | Delivery fee $4.99 | 218 President Street, Charleston, SC 29403 | Daily, 11am-8:30pm | 4.7 rating from 2000+ reviews; House burger sauce; Sweet potato fries and onion rings |
| Lowcountry Street Food | American Seafood Southern cuisine | PoBoy Sandwiches; Seafood Platters | Varies by selection | Charleston area (connected to Summerville base) | Varies by location | Extension of Lowcountry Fish Camp in Summerville; Casual dining options |
| Sweet Tooth Treats | Gourmet candied apples, desserts | Turtle Gourmet Apple; Candied Strawberries; Necks n’ Nuts Spicy Bowl | Varies by item | – | Saturday-Sunday, 12pm-5pm or until sold out (Closed Mon-Fri) | Handcrafted items; Florida-grown strawberries; Sweet and savory options |
| The Grilled Cheese Factory | Grilled cheese sandwiches | Bacon Avocado ($11.99); The Croque ($11.99); Frings (half fries, half onion rings, $6.99) | Sandwiches $9.99-$11.99; Sides $5.99-$6.99 | 3008-B N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant, SC 29466 | Daily, 8:00am-2:45pm | 60+ years combined food industry experience; Texas toast foundation; Homemade signature sauces |
| Poke Paradise | Hawaiian poke bowls, sushi burritos | Build-your-own poke bowls; 901 Sushi Burrito; Premium teas | Bowls $11.59-$15.39 | Charleston area | Lunch and early dinner | 4.8 rating from 500+ reviews; Sashimi-grade fish daily; Family-owned; Catering on offer |
| Wings on Wheels | Wings, chicken dishes | 10-piece traditional wings; Hot Chicken Sandwich ($7); Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ($8) | Wings $9-$11; Entrees $5-$8 | Mobile schedule throughout Charleston | Varies by location | WOW sauce customization; Catering services; Weekends book quickly |
| Coastal Catch Seafood | Coastal seafood, private chef services | Fresh oysters; Open-fire preparations; Seasonal seafood | Varies by event | Charleston area (private events/catering) | By appointment | “Tide to Table” and “Farm to Fork” ethos; Sustainable, sourced from local suppliers; Chef Wade’s flame-cooked preparations |
Enjoy Food Trucks in Charleston
Charleston’s food truck scene offers something for every craving, from slow-smoked BBQ to vegan doughnuts. These 17 trucks represent what locals eat at rather than tourist traps downtown. Prices remain reasonable, ranging from $2 doughnuts to $25 BBQ platters. Not every truck will become a personal favorite, and that’s fine. The beauty lies in trying different options until you find the ones that hit just right. Track their social media for daily locations. Arrive early for limited-batch items and don’t skip the signature dishes each vendor takes pride in serving.
FAQs
Q1. What makes Charleston’s food truck scene unique compared to other cities? Charleston’s food truck scene stands out with its diverse offerings ranging from authentic Southern BBQ and Low country cuisine to vegan doughnuts and handcrafted popsicles. With 135 food trucks, trailers, carts, and pop-ups currently operating in the area, the scene blends traditional Southern flavors with innovative fusion concepts, all while maintaining reasonable prices that typically range from $2 to $25 per meal.
Q2. How can I find food truck locations in Charleston? Most Charleston food trucks operate on rotating schedules and post their daily locations on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. You can also use the Street Food Finder app to track food trucks throughout the city. Many trucks have regular weekly spots, such as Cast Iron appearing at Celadon Warehouse every Tuesday, while others move between different neighborhoods in Charleston, North Charleston, and Mount Pleasant.
Q3. Are there food trucks in Charleston that accommodate dietary restrictions? Yes, many Charleston food trucks offer options for various dietary needs. Cast Iron provides gluten-free, lactose-free, nut-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Diggity Doughnuts specializes in vegan, organic, egg-free, and dairy-free doughnuts with daily gluten-free flavors. King of Pops offers vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free popsicles, while several trucks feature vegetarian and plant-based menu items.
Q4. What are the most popular food trucks among Charleston locals? Charleston locals frequently recommend Cast Iron for their Notorious P.I.G. sandwich, Squeals On Wheels for slow-smoked BBQ, and bits-n-bytes for award-winning wings and smash burgers. Other local favorites include Roti Rolls, Drunk Tony’s, Gorditas Locas, and Biscuit Shed. These trucks have earned strong reputations through consistent quality, fresh ingredients, and authentic flavors rather than catering primarily to tourists.
Q5. What price range should I expect when eating at Charleston food trucks? Charleston food trucks offer affordable options across the board. Individual items like doughnuts start at $2.00, while popsicles cost $4.00 each. Most main dishes including burgers, tacos, and sandwiches range from $7.00 to $15.00. Specialty items like BBQ platters can reach $18.00 to $25.00. Many trucks also offer combo meals with sides and drinks for $8.00 to $11.00, making food truck dining an economical choice for quality meals.
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