Chicago’s food trucks serve some of the finest street food in the nation, surpassing the city’s famous hot dogs. The Chicago area boasts 294 food trucks, trailers, carts, and pop-ups, giving hungry locals and visitors countless options to satisfy their cravings.

These mobile kitchens serve food of all types, from creative Latin-inspired dishes to classic American comfort food. Food enthusiasts can discover unique specialties like the double-decker Birria Pizzadilla that blends traditional flavors in creative ways. Chicago’s most popular food trucks focus on sandwiches, tacos, BBQ, desserts, and burgers. This piece highlights 25 must-try options that showcase the Windy City’s vibrant street food culture, perfect for your lunch break downtown or while discovering food truck spots throughout the city.

TACOMOTORA

TACOMOTORA, Chicago food trucks

Image Source: www.tacomotora.com

TACOMOTORA, a family-owned food truck, brings authentic Latin street food to Chicago’s bustling food scene. This creative mobile kitchen serves high-quality dishes at reasonable prices using local and natural ingredients. Their catchy motto “Eat Tacos Be Happy” makes them a favorite spot for taco lovers across the city.

TACOMOTORA specialties

TACOMOTORA’s menu shines with its expertly made tacos and diverse protein choices. Customers can pick from Al Pastor, Steak, Chicken Milanesa, Fish, Shrimp, and Vegetarian options. Each taco tells its own story – the Fish Taco comes with fresh coleslaw and cilantro, while the Chicken Taco pairs perfectly with guacamole, chipotle sauce and lettuce.

The menu has Mexican street corn that’s smothered in a smooth blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, and chipotle sauce, topped with Cotija cheese. Hungry customers can grab burritos and bowls packed with their choice of protein, rice, beans, and fresh toppings. The caramel syrup churros make a sweet ending to any meal.

TACOMOTORA pricing

TACOMOTORA’s prices reflect their dedication to quality ingredients:

ItemPrice
Vegetarian Taco$4.50
Regular Tacos (Asada, Pastor, Chicken)$4.95
Fish/Shrimp Tacos$5.35
Ribeye Taco$5.99
Burritos/Bowls$11.99
Special (3 Tacos with Rice & Beans)$11.99
Chips & Guacamole$6.99
Churros$3.00

TACOMOTORA location and hours

TACOMOTORA’s food truck serves various spots around Chicago, with a focus on downtown areas where office workers grab their lunch. They’re also part of the Summer Sounds Series at Roosevelt Collection Shops, serving food on Wednesdays from 5-7 pm through August.

TACOMOTORA Station sits at 7710 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60634. They welcome customers Tuesday through Saturday from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM but take a break on Sundays and Mondays. The truck caters private events too, from corporate functions to birthdays and fundraisers in Chicago and nearby areas.

CheSa’s Gourmet Food Truck

CheSa's Gourmet Food Truck, food trucks in Chicago

Image Source: Roaming Hunger

Chef Chesareé Rollins started CheSa’s Gourmet Food Truck in 2015. She created one of Chicago’s most distinctive mobile eateries with a 100% gluten-free menu that packs amazing flavor. The food truck stands out in Chicago’s competitive street food scene. It’s both a business venture and personal mission since Chef CheSa follows a gluten-free lifestyle herself.

CheSa’s Gourmet Food Truck menu

CheSa’s menu brings together flavors from Creole and Cajun cuisines among American and Mexican selections. This variety attracts people with dietary restrictions and food enthusiasts looking for bold flavors. The truck’s signature Lobster Belle Sandwich features butter-dipped lobster claws with coleslaw, a fried onion ring, and garlic aioli on a gluten-free garlic bun.

Other popular offerings include:

  • All Hale Kale salad with fresh ingredients and bold flavors
  • Tootin Beef Skewers marinated in Thai curry sauce
  • Flamingo Chicken with Latin-inspired seasoning
  • Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich (sweet or spicy)

Health-conscious customers love the innovative Picnic Pasta made with spiraled squash and zucchini. The truck also serves hearty soups by the quart, including Chicken Chili, Tomato Basil, and Lentil varieties.

CheSa’s Gourmet Food Truck pricing

The prices match the quality of their gluten-free gourmet offerings:

ItemPrice
Lobster Belle Sandwich with Truffle Fries$35.21
Deep Fried Catfish Sandwich with Fries$16.21
Family Meal Plan$35.00
Parmesan Fries$4.99
Pound of Jumbo Chicken Wings$11.50
Chicken Tenders with Fries$8.50
Soups (per quart)$11.00

CheSa’s Gourmet Food Truck best events

CheSa’s reputation as one of Chicago’s best food trucks shows in their impressive event portfolio. They serve birthdays, weddings, and corporate functions throughout the city. The truck has become a favorite at university events, serving groups from 40 to 400+ people.

The truck adapts perfectly to both small gatherings and large events. Some notable catering successes include:

  • School/University events with 300+ attendees (September 2021)
  • Corporate catering in Elk Grove Village (September 2019)
  • Graduation celebrations in Evanston (June 2019)

CheSa’s also provides traditional catering options. Their vegetable sides can feed 12-15 people per pan, making them a great choice for Chicago event planners.

Food trucks in Miami.

La Cocinita Chicago

La Cocinita Chicago, food trucks in Chicago

Image Source: www.lacocinita.com

La Cocinita brings authentic Latin American street food to Chicago’s bustling streets. Venezuelan food lovers Benoit and Rachel Angulo started this bright red food truck that has won many hearts. Their fresh take on traditional dishes with modern twists keeps customers coming back for more.

La Cocinita Chicago cuisine style

The truck serves Venezuelan-inspired street food that lets you create your perfect meal. You start by picking your base – traditional Venezuelan arepas (cornmeal patties), tacos on white corn tortillas, or a Caribbean bowl with rice and beans. The next step lets you pick proteins like “Pollo Estofado” (braised chicken), “Lechon” (braised pork), or sweet potatoes with black beans for plant-based eaters.

The menu works great for everyone with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. The authentic sauces make their food stand out – from Venezuelan guasacaca (like in guacamole) to chipotle crema and their famous “Stupid Hot” sauce that packs quite a punch.

La Cocinita Chicago pricing

The prices make Venezuelan cuisine available to Chicago food lovers:

Menu CategoryOptions Include
Vessel OptionsArepas, Tacos, Caribbean Bowl
Protein OptionsBraised Chicken, Braised Pork, Vegetarian Options
Add-onsRice & Beans, Chips & Salsa, Plantains (Sweet or Savory)
BeveragesBottled Water, Canned Sodas
DessertsChurros with Cinnamon Sugar and Warm Chocolate Sauce

La Cocinita Chicago service areas

You’ll spot this food truck regularly in downtown Chicago, especially in the Loop where office workers line up for their tasty lunch options. The truck shows up at local events too, including the Chicago Food Truck Festival.

The truck parks outside Temperance Beer Co. in Evanston quite often. They serve food from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day of the week. Beyond their mobile kitchen, La Cocinita runs permanent restaurants in Chicago and New Orleans where you can enjoy their Venezuelan street food any time.

Serna’s Grill Food Truck

Serna’s Grill Food Truck brings the best of Chicago street food to life by blending classic Chi-Town favorites with authentic Mexican cuisine. The truck’s diverse menu makes it a local favorite, serving everything from American comfort foods to traditional Mexican dishes.

Serna’s Grill Food Truck signature dishes

The legendary Monster Gyro stands out as their star offering. This massive sandwich comes loaded with hand-sliced meat, fresh tomatoes, onions, and homemade tzatziki sauce on a warm pita. Their authentic Mexican tacos feature traditional onions and cilantro with your choice of steak, chicken, or al pastor (pork). You can grab these tacos individually or enjoy them as a 3-taco dinner with rice, beans, and handmade tortillas for an unmatched experience.

The homemade Italian beef sandwich deserves special mention. It arrives on French bread with hot giardiniera peppers. The “Monster Fries” series takes comfort food to new heights. Gyros Fries come topped with meat, tomato, onions, and tzatziki. Buffalo Fries feature grilled chicken and bacon, while Beef Fries showcase Italian beef. Nacho Fries round out the selection with chopped steak, sour cream, and jalapeños.

Serna’s Grill Food Truck pricing

The menu offers great value with these competitive prices:

CategoryItemPrice
Chicago StyleRegular Gyro$8.99
Monster Gyro$15.00
SandwichesItalian Beef$9.00
Cheeseburger$9.00
Chicken Pita$9.00
Dinners3 Taco Dinner$13.99
Gyro Dinner$14.99
SidesMonster Fries Varieties$12.00
Sweet TreatsJumbo Mexican Churros$3.00
Homemade Italian Ice$3.69-$4.19

Food trucks in NYC.

Kissed by Fire BBQ & Pizza

Kissed by Fire BBQ & Pizza, food trucks in Chicago

Image Source: Best Food Trucks

Kissed by Fire BBQ & Pizza has delighted Chicago’s food truck scene for over 20 years. Dave Glomp founded this unique mobile eatery that perfectly blends slow-smoked BBQ with wood-fired pizza. The truck’s award-winning BBQ sauce and premium ingredients set it apart from competitors.

Kissed by Fire BBQ & Pizza specialties

The menu masterfully combines two distinct culinary worlds. Their “Chicago Gangsta Pizza” brings together smoked pork shoulder bacon, sausage, roasted garlic, red onion, and giardiniera. Newcomers love the “Buffalo Chicken Pizza” which features fire-roasted chicken and creamy ranch. BBQ enthusiasts can enjoy the “Heaven on a Bun” with its slow-smoked pulled pork. The “Ultimate Porker” takes it up a notch by adding smoked pork shoulder bacon. Their famous “Rib Tips” continue to draw crowds regularly.

Kissed by Fire BBQ & Pizza pricing

ItemPrice
Chicago Gangsta Pizza$15.50
Buffalo Chicken Pizza$13.50
The Porker/Saucy Clucker Pizza$13.50
Heaven On Bun$11.00
Ultimate Porker Sandwich$13.50
Rib Tips$12.50
BBQ Mac & Cheese$11.00

Kissed by Fire BBQ & Pizza catering options

The business has grown into a reliable catering operation that serves both Chicagoland and Milwaukee areas. They handle everything from small gatherings to large corporate events with over 1000 guests. The team specializes in employee appreciation events, corporate meetings, and university functions. Their commitment to quality catering has earned them loyal customers in both Chicago and Milwaukee since 2000.

5411 Empanadas

5411 Empanadas, food trucks in Chicago

Image Source: Best Food Trucks

Three Argentinian friends started 5411 Empanadas as a food truck before opening their first store in Lakeview in 2012. The name comes from Buenos Aires’ international dialing code. This Chicago favorite now has locations across multiple neighborhoods including Wicker Park, Lakeview, and Evanston.

5411 Empanadas menu highlights

The menu showcases 16 different Argentinian-style empanadas, which come baked instead of fried. Their signature Malbec Beef features shredded Angus beef slow-roasted in red wine reduction. Customers love the BBQ Chicken topped with red onions and cilantro, and the creative Bacon, Dates & Goat Cheese empanada made with crispy Applewood smoked bacon. Vegetarians can choose from options like Spinach & Cheese, Sweet Corn, and Ratatouille. Each empanada comes with chimichurri or roasted jalapeño hot sauce.

5411 Empanadas pricing

These handcrafted empanadas remain affordable, making them a popular choice among Chicago’s food trucks:

ItemPrice
[Individual Empanadas$2.75
Mini Empanadas (12 pack)Varies by flavor
Catering Package (30 empanadas)$179.50

5411 Empanadas popularity

Eater Chicago says 5411 “deserves a lifetime achievement for being around in Chicago for a decade”. Their success comes from offering unique products that customers can’t find elsewhere. People are happy to line up before the truck even arrives at its parking spot. The demand has led 5411 to offer nationwide shipping of frozen empanadas. They also provide catering services and food truck bookings for corporate events, weddings, and private parties.

Chicago puns.

Yum Dum Truck

Yum Dum Truck, Chicago food trucks

Image Source: www.yumdumtruck.com

This 9-year old Yum Dum Truck has become a staple of Chicago’s food truck scene. Chef Jeff Wang’s mobile kitchen creates an amazing blend of traditional Asian recipes and modern street food that gives it a distinctive culinary character.

Yum Dum Truck Asian fusion dishes

The menu showcases two standout items: handcrafted steamed dumplings and signature “Baowiches” (steamed buns). Customers can choose from three dumpling varieties – Pork & Chinese Chives that follows Mama Wang’s classic recipe, Thai Chicken Basil with coconut milk and green curry, and Classic Veggie packed with sautéed shiitake mushrooms. The Baowiches menu features four delicious options: slow-braised Pork Belly with Taiwanese spices, Crispy Shrimp with ponzu slaw, Korean Chili Chicken with house spicy slaw, and Crispy Fish with homemade sriracha tartar. The kitchen will substitute any protein with marinated tofu for vegetarian diners.

Their Kimcheesy Rice Balls are a must-try fusion creation that combines cheddar jack cheese with house kimchi and jalapeños.

Yum Dum Truck pricing

The prices match the quality of their handmade Asian cuisine:

Item CategoryPrice Range
Steamed Dumplings$8-10
Baowiches$8-12
Kimcheesy Rice Balls$7-8
Sesame Cucumber Noodles$5-6

The Fat Shallot

Sam Barron and Sarah Weitz, a husband-and-wife duo, run The Fat Shallot, a popular gourmet sandwich truck. The Chicago Reader named it the best food truck in Chicago in 2017. Their unique mobile eatery takes classic sandwiches and turns them into memorable food experiences that keep customers coming back.

The Fat Shallot sandwich options

The menu features comfort food classics turned into amazing sandwiches. Their signature Truffle BLT comes with crispy bacon, avocado, arugula, tomato, and truffle aioli on thick-cut challah bread. The Buffalo Chicken sandwich became an early favorite with its crispy chicken tenders in buffalo sauce, blue cheese dressing, and shaved celery on a brioche bun. The Grilled Cheese has become a crowd favorite that combines muenster cheese with sautéed spinach and caramelized onions on sourdough bread.

The Fat Shallot pricing

SandwichPrice
Truffle BLT$16.00
Buffalo Chicken$15.50
Grilled Cheese$11.75
Turkey Sandwich with Chips$12.00
House Fries$5.00

The Fat Shallot food truck locations

The truck serves customers Monday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. You can find this food truck near the Merchandise Mart and Revival Food Hall. Chicago’s downtown workforce can easily grab quality lunch options from these convenient locations.

Beaver’s Donuts

Beaver's Donuts, food trucks in Chicago

Image Source: Beavers Donuts

Beaver’s Donuts hit Chicago’s streets in 2011 and won the city’s sweet tooth with its unique concept: freshly fried mini donuts prepared on-site with gourmet toppings. This 12-year old mobile dessert destination stands out among downtown Chicago’s food trucks that serve mostly savory options.

Beaver’s Donuts breakfast appeal

Each batch of mini donuts comes fresh off the fryer after customers place their order. The menu evolved from simple flavors to an impressive array of signature toppings. Customers can choose from Smores (chocolate sauce, marshmallow sauce, and graham cracker crumbs), Turtle (chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, and pecans), and Nutella Dream (strawberry sauce and Nutella). The sweet treats pair well with their freshly brewed artisanal Cuban coffee, available in both light and dark roasts.

Beaver’s Donuts pricing

Beaver’s offers reasonably priced options for varying appetites:

SizePriceQuantity
Small$8.009 mini donuts
Medium$13.0015 mini donuts
Large$25.0035 mini donuts (sugars only)

The menu includes beverage options such as Cuban Blended Coffee ($4-$5), bottled water ($2), milk options ($3), and juice ($3). Major networks like Food Network and Cooking Channel have featured Beaver’s over the last several years.

Date night ideas in Chicago.

Chicago Lunchbox

Chicago Lunchbox, food trucks

Image Source: Roaming Hunger

Chicago Lunchbox leads the pack among Chicago’s food trucks with its unique Asian fusion street food. This 10-year old venture by Tanya and John Nguyen became the first cook-on-board food truck to bring Asian cuisine to the city’s streets.

Chicago Lunchbox fusion menu

Their menu blends flavors from Vietnam, Korea, Thailand, and the Philippines. The signature Rice Box gives customers choices like grilled beef with sweet Korean sauce, grilled pork with savory Vietnamese sauce, ground chicken with Thai basil and peppers, or sweet Filipino longanisa pork sausage. Fresh house-pickled daikon, carrots, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro complete each dish.

The truck’s menu goes beyond rice dishes. Customers can enjoy these tasty proteins in Banh Mi sandwiches or tacos. Their crowd-pleasing starter, Fire Rangoon, combines crispy fried wontons with spicy jalapeño cream cheese.

Chicago Lunchbox pricing

ItemPrice
Beefy Korean$9.95
The Viet$8.95
Sloppy Thai$8.95
The Long Time$8.95
Fire Rangoon$3.95
Beverages$1.95

Chicago Lunchbox best locations

You’ll spot this food truck at NEMA Chicago apartments and many local festivals. The truck moves around but stays close to downtown Chicago. Office workers in the Loop area love their food, making the truck a regular fixture at lunchtime spots.

Aztec Dave’s Food Truck

Aztec Dave's Food Truck, Chicago

Image Source: Aztec Dave’s

Aztec Dave’s Food Truck stands as Chicago’s original premium Mexican mobile eatery since 2015. The Torres family’s dedication to traditional recipes and unique flavor combinations has created a devoted customer base.

Aztec Dave’s Food Truck Mexican flavors

The menu celebrates authentic Mexican dishes with creative modern touches. Customers can choose from flame-grilled steak, chicken, and al pastor pork. Each meal comes with a choice of house-made salsas – from the mild Avocado Heaven to zesty Mexican Green Tomatillo and the sweet-heat Pineapple Devil. Their Mexican classics include:

  • Tacos (including Taco Gordo loaded with beans, rice, and protein, and Taco Azteca featuring two proteins)
  • Burritos (ranging from vegetarian options to the filling Burrito Azteca with double proteins)
  • Tortas (Mexican sandwiches packed with beans, cheese, and fresh vegetables)
  • Quesadillas (featuring Mexican melting cheese in crispy flour tortillas)

The truck serves Aztec Salads and Rice Bowls as lighter alternatives, with refreshing drinks to complete the meal.

Aztec Dave’s Food Truck pricing

ItemPrice
Single Tacos$3.00-$3.75
Burritos$9.00-$10.50
Tortas$9.00-$10.00
Quesadillas$3.00-$4.25
Lunch Specials$12.00-$13.50

Breakfast buffet puns.

JAM ROCK BBQ

JAM ROCK BBQ, food trucks in Chicago

Image Source: Jamrock BBQ Jerk

JAM ROCK BBQ brings authentic Caribbean flavors to Chicagoland as a vibrant showcase of Jamaican cuisine in the western suburbs. The food truck makes Naperville its home base and serves up traditional island dishes with bold seasonings and authentic recipes.

JAM ROCK BBQ Caribbean BBQ

The menu showcases classic Jamaican favorites that will transport you straight to the islands. You’ll find jerk chicken with its unique spice blend, perfectly cooked oxtails, fresh red snapper, and curry goat made with time-tested seasonings. The crowd’s favorite remains their signature jerk chicken sandwich that comes loaded on a warm bun. BBQ rib tips get an extra kick from jerk spice and BBQ sauce, while classic sides include rice and beans, cabbage, and mac and cheese.

JAM ROCK BBQ pricing

ItemPrice
Jerk Chicken Dinner$14.00
Jerk Chicken Lunch$9.00
Oxtails Lunch$13.00
Rib Tips$11.00
Side Dishes$3.50

JAM ROCK BBQ event types

JAM ROCK BBQ serves events of all types across Chicago, from corporate functions to university gatherings and marketing promotions. Their track record includes a May 2024 corporate event in Bedford Park where they served 400+ guests and a June 2025 Lemont gathering for over 100 people. The team’s excitement shows in their website’s message about the 2025 season: “Our 2025 season is well on the way, we’ll see you in the streets! Jam with us!”.

The Slide Ride

The Slide Ride, Chicago food truck

Image Source: Time Out

The bright-pink Slide Ride food truck stands out in Chicago’s street food scene with its retro waitress-on-wheels logo that brings back memories of 1950s diners. Nida Rodriguez’s mobile eatery specializes in gourmet mini sandwiches. These tiny handheld delights pack international flavors that keep customers coming back.

The Slide Ride mini burgers

The food truck’s menu changes often to showcase creative sliders inspired by flavors from around the world. Their Bacon Baby Burger has won awards and remains a crowd favorite among food truck fans. Customers love the zesty Sriracha Buffalo Chicken slider with its tender pulled chicken in house-made Buffalo sauce, topped with carrots, celery and ranch. The savory Pulled Pork Sliders round out their most popular offerings.

The truck’s creative menu features globally-inspired treats like Korean BBQ sliders made with braised short ribs and kimchi. Black bean sliders bring Southwestern flair, while mini pork banh mi and chicken pesto sliders loaded with prosciutto and provolone add international variety. Each mini sandwich delivers big flavors in every bite.

The Slide Ride pricing

Each slider costs $3.50, making them perfect for downtown Chicago workers looking for a quick lunch. The menu goes beyond sliders with treats like Jiminy sweet potato chips, red velvet truffle balls, and mini bottled sodas.

The Slide Ride has ended up getting attention from many media outlets and was featured on Chicago’s Best for their Bacon Baby Burger. The truck shows up at events all over the city, from BeerFest to private parties.

A Sweets Girl

A Sweets Girl, food trucks in Chicago

Image Source: www.asweetsgirl.com

Since October 2015, a bright pink cupcake truck has delighted Chicago’s streets. A Sweets Girl creates handcrafted desserts that locals absolutely love. This independent mobile bakery makes small-batch treats fresh daily.

A Sweets Girl dessert offerings

Their impressive cupcake menu stars the crowd favorite – Red Velvet topped with their signature vanilla cream cheese buttercream. The S’mores cupcake has earned TV fame on Chicago’s Best, featuring a graham cracker crust, chocolate cake, ganache and a perfectly torched homemade marshmallow. Customers also rave about the Matcha Tea cupcake that blends green tea cake with white chocolate green tea buttercream.

The sweet treats go beyond cupcakes. Customers can grab cake pops in chocolate, red velvet, or vanilla flavors. The bakery also crafts specialty cookies, including their unique Matcha Ruby Chip creation.

A Sweets Girl pricing

ItemPrice
Cupcakes$4.00 each
Cake Pops$2.70 each
Cookies$2.00-$3.00
Macarons2 for $3.00

A Sweets Girl event popularity

The truck has grown into a hot favorite for private events across Chicagoland. Event bookings start at $100/hour plus cupcake costs, with a 50-cupcake minimum. They regularly sweeten corporate functions, weddings, birthdays, and bar mitzvahs. The numbers speak for themselves – 33 event planners have booked this food truck through various platforms. Their events range from cozy gatherings of 40 guests to large corporate celebrations with over 400 attendees.

Greektown Chicago restaurants.

All Belgium Waffles – Chicago

All Belgium Waffles brings real European flavors to Chicago’s streets with its amazing Liège waffles. This sweet-smelling food truck creates thick, sugary Belgian treats. They use ingredients straight from Belgium to deliver an unmatched taste of authenticity.

All Belgium Waffles specialties

The magic happens in their traditional Liège waffles. Pearl sugar mixed into the dough caramelizes as it cooks. This creates a soft center with an irresistibly sweet, chewy texture. Sweet-toothed customers love their creative combinations. The S’more Waffle comes loaded with mini marshmallows, Biscoff crumbles, and chocolate sauce. Berry Blast bursts with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and blueberries. Chunky Monkey satisfies with peanut butter, bananas, vanilla ice cream, and chocolate sauce. Their Ice Cream Sandwich puts two scoops of vanilla between warm waffles – a perfect handheld treat.

These waffles stand out because everything’s genuinely Belgian. The dough recipe, waffle irons, and even the cooking tools come straight from Belgium. That special caramelized pearl sugar creates such rich flavors that first-time customers discover a whole new “waffle bar”.

All Belgium Waffles pricing

The menu items are available at reasonable prices:

ItemDescription
Classic Liège WaffleAuthentic waffle with pearl sugar infusion
Specialty CombinationsS’more, Berry Blast, Chunky Monkey options
Gluten-Free OptionsAvailable with advance notice
Waffle CookiesBlueberry, Fruity Pebble, and Chocolate Chip varieties

Taqueria Jarabe

Taqueria Jarabe, food trucks in Miami

Image Source: Roaming Hunger

Taqueria Jarabe brings the authentic flavors of Mexican street food to Chicago with its popular food truck. The vibrant mobile kitchen has earned its place as a local favorite by blending traditional Mexican recipes with contemporary presentation styles.

Taqueria Jarabe taco varieties

Their menu features delicious handcrafted tacos served on corn tortillas with fresh onions and cilantro. The Arrachera stands out with its perfectly seasoned grilled marinated skirt steak. Customers can’t get enough of the Quesabirria – cheesy beef birria tacos that come with rich broth for dipping. Seafood lovers will enjoy the Shrimp Mojo that combines guajillo and garlic shrimp topped with crisp onions, fresh cilantro, and creamy avocado. The Calabacitas offers a tasty vegetarian option filled with summer squash, zucchini, sweet corn, and roasted poblanos.

Taqueria Jarabe pricing

Taco VarietyPrice
Arrachera$4.50
Carne Asada$4.00
Al Pastor$3.85
Adobo Chicken$3.85
Quesabirria$4.25
Fish Taco Ensenada$5.50

Taqueria Jarabe downtown Chicago presence

The truck serves hungry customers Monday through Saturday, 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM in downtown Chicago’s business district. Eager office workers often queue up before the truck arrives at its regular spots. The truck also caters events with packages ranging from “El Basico” at $13.50 per person (includes two tacos and two sides) to “El Grande” at $20.00 (includes four tacos and two sides).

La Patrona Food Bus

La Patrona Food Bus, food trucks in Chicago

Image Source: Roaming Hunger

La Patrona Food Bus brings the authentic flavors of Mexico’s streets right to Chicago. This colorful food truck has become a favorite among local food enthusiasts thanks to its fresh tortillas and time-honored family recipes.

La Patrona Food Bus menu

The heart of La Patrona’s menu features handcrafted tacos with delicious proteins like carne asada, al pastor, and pollo. Their offerings go beyond simple tacos to include crispy tortas de milanesa, traditional corn tortilla quesadillas, and hearty burritos. The menu highlights several customer favorites:

  • Gorditas: Handmade pockets stuffed with your choice of meats or vegetarian fillings
  • Sopes: A thick corn base loaded with beans, meat, lettuce, and cheese
  • Chilaquiles: Three amazing varieties—Habanero, Salsa de Arbol, and Verde

Customers love their tamales and quesadillas. A Mexican patron even said they “taste like home” and capture authentic flavors perfectly.

La Patrona Food Bus pricing

The truck’s authentic Mexican dishes come at reasonable prices:

ItemPrice
Tacos$6.99-$12.00
Burritos$9.25
Tortas$7.50-$8.50
Quesadillas (Plain)$7.00
Quesadillas (With Meat)$9.50
Chilaquiles$7.99
Sides (Rice, Beans)$2.00

You can enjoy La Patrona’s delicious food Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The truck takes a break on Mondays.

Royal Ice Cream

Royal Ice Cream, Chicago food truck

Image Source: Roaming Hunger

Royal Ice Cream has delighted Chicagoans with premium frozen desserts from its eye-catching mobile truck for over 27 years. You’ll spot this beloved ice cream vendor at events and street corners all over the city, serving up everyone’s favorite packaged treats from leading national brands.

Royal Ice Cream flavors

The menu features crowd-pleasing classics like Chocolate, Vanilla, Oreo, Birthday Cake, and Mint Chocolate Chip. Sweet-toothed customers can try unique flavors such as Cotton Candy, Caramel Butter Pecan, Strawberry, Cookie Dough, and Bubble Gum. The truck also caters to dietary preferences with options like Vegan Vanilla. These treats taste even better with toppings like Chocolate Fudge, Caramel Sauce, Rainbow Sprinkles, and Oreo Crumble.

Royal Ice Cream pricing

ItemPrice
Child Scoop$4.00-$7.20
Single Scoop$5.00-$8.50
Double Scoop$6.50-$10.45
Extra Scoop$1.50
Handmade Waffle Cones$1.00-$1.50 additional
Pints$7.50-$12.00

Royal Ice Cream food truck locations

The truck serves Chicago and nearby neighborhoods, and you’ll find it at Food Truck Thursdays in Jens Jensen Park until September. Royal Ice Cream shows up at community events across Chicagoland with popular food trucks like Aztec Daves, The Fat Shallot, and Chicago Lunchbox. The truck’s long history includes bringing premium ice cream brands like Good Humor, Blue Bunny, Haagen-Dazs, and Ben & Jerry’s right to Chicago’s streets.

Comparison Table

Food Truck NameCuisine TypePrice Range (Main Items)Notable Menu ItemsOperating HoursPrimary Location(s)
TACOMOTORAMexican$4.50-$11.99Al Pastor, Steak, Fish Tacos, ChurrosTue-Sat 2PM-10PM7710 W Belmont Ave
CheSa’s GourmetGluten-Free Gourmet$8.50-$35.21Lobster Belle Sandwich, Nashville Hot Chicken, All Hale Kale
La Cocinita ChicagoVenezuelanArepas, Caribbean Bowls, Venezuelan Tacos11AM-9PM DailyLoop, Evanston
Serna’s GrillMexican/American$8.99-$15.00Monster Gyro, Italian Beef, Monster Fries
Kissed by Fire BBQBBQ & Pizza$11.00-$15.50Chicago Gangsta Pizza, Buffalo Chicken Pizza, Rib TipsChicago/Milwaukee
5411 EmpanadasArgentinian$2.75 per empanadaMalbec Beef, BBQ Chicken, Bacon Date & Goat CheeseMultiple Locations
Yum Dum TruckAsian Fusion$7-12Steamed Dumplings, Baowiches, Kimcheesy Rice Balls
The Fat ShallotGourmet Sandwiches$11.75-$16.00Truffle BLT, Buffalo Chicken, Grilled Cheese11AM-2PM DailyMerchandise Mart
Beaver’s DonutsDesserts$8.00-$25.00Mini Donuts, S’mores, Turtle, Nutella Dream
Chicago LunchboxAsian Fusion$8.95-$9.95Rice Box, Banh Mi, Asian TacosDowntown Chicago
Aztec Dave’sMexican$3.00-$13.50Tacos, Burritos, Tortas, Quesadillas
JAM ROCK BBQCaribbean/Jamaican$9.00-$14.00Jerk Chicken, Oxtails, Rib TipsNaperville
The Slide RideGourmet Sliders$3.50 per sliderBacon Baby Burger, Sriracha Buffalo Chicken
A Sweets GirlDesserts$2.00-$4.00Red Velvet Cupcakes, S’mores Cupcake, Cake Pops
All Belgium WafflesBelgian DessertsLiège Waffles, S’more Waffle, Berry Blast
Taqueria JarabeMexican$3.85-$5.50Arrachera, Quesabirria, Fish Taco Ensenada8:30AM-9PM Mon-SatDowntown Chicago
La Patrona Food BusMexican$6.99-$12.00Gorditas, Sopes, Chilaquiles11AM-8PM Tue-Sun
Royal Ice CreamIce Cream$4.00-$12.00Various Ice Cream Flavors, Waffle ConesVarious Events

Enjoy Food Trucks in Chicago

Chicago’s food truck scene is proof of the city’s rich culinary diversity. These 25 outstanding mobile eateries make up just a small portion of the 294 food trucks that operate in the Windy City, showing the amazing range of flavors you can find on Chicago’s streets.

The cultural variety shows in every corner. TACOMOTORA and Taqueria Jarabe serve authentic Mexican tacos, while La Cocinita brings Venezuelan arepas to the streets. CheSa’s Gourmet shows how food trucks can cater to specific dietary needs with their gluten-free menu. Sweet tooths will love stopping by Beaver’s Donuts, A Sweets Girl, and All Belgium Waffles.

These mobile kitchens have something for every budget. You can grab The Slide Ride’s $3.50 sliders or splurge on CheSa’s $35.21 Lobster Belle Sandwich, making street food available to more people whatever their budget.

Downtown workers love this thriving scene because many trucks park near business districts during lunch hours. Food lovers who head over to Chicago’s neighborhoods and suburbs will find hidden gems too.

The creativity of these mobile kitchens shines in their unique offerings. TACOMOTORA serves fish tacos with fresh coleslaw, Yum Dum creates innovative Kimcheesy Rice Balls, and The Fat Shallot makes an incredible Truffle BLT. Each truck adds something special to Chicago’s array of flavors.

Deep-dish pizza and classic hot dogs might be Chicago’s claim to fame, but these 25 food trucks show the city’s street food is way beyond traditional fare. Locals and visitors should step outside traditional restaurants to experience Chicago’s amazing culinary creativity that rolls through its streets.

FAQs

Q1. What types of cuisine are most popular among Chicago food trucks? The most popular cuisines for Chicago food trucks include sandwiches, tacos, BBQ, desserts, and burgers. Many trucks offer fusion or gourmet versions of these foods to stand out.

Q2. What’s a must-try iconic food from Chicago’s food truck scene? While Chicago is known for deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, food trucks offer unique options like TACOMOTORA’s fish tacos or The Fat Shallot’s Truffle BLT sandwich that have become local favorites.

Q3. How much can I expect to spend at a Chicago food truck? Prices vary widely, but most main items range from $8 to $15. Some specialty items like CheSa’s Lobster Belle Sandwich can cost up to $35, while simple options like sliders from The Slide Ride are just $3.50 each.

Q4. Where can I find food trucks in Chicago? Many food trucks concentrate in downtown areas, especially during weekday lunch hours. Popular spots include the Loop, near Merchandise Mart, and at local events and festivals. Some trucks also have regular locations in specific neighborhoods.

Q5. Are there food trucks in Chicago that cater to dietary restrictions? Yes, several Chicago food trucks cater to specific dietary needs. For example, CheSa’s Gourmet Food Truck offers a completely gluten-free menu, while others like 5411 Empanadas and Taqueria Jarabe have vegetarian options available.