The Waikiki Food Truck Park, with 18 vendors, is an unexpectedly vibrant culinary destination. It offers a diverse array of flavors from around the globe. With the Pau Hana Place closed, we decided to try this option, which looks to be a permanent feature in Waikiki.
Conveniently located at 1944 Kalākaua Ave, at the entrance to the bustling Waikiki area, this food truck haven provides a unique dining experience with something for everyone, whether you’re a Hawaii visitor or a resident.
A taste for every palate at Waikiki Food Truck Park.
The food truck park serves everything from fresh poke bowls and garlic shrimp to vegan dishes and global street food classics. Diners can indulge in hearty brunch, lunch, and dinner plates, Vietnamese pho, flavorful Mediterranean fare, and even decadent desserts and coffee. Each truck operates independently, ensuring an eclectic mix of cuisines that cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.
Quality without compromise.
During our recent visit, we were impressed by the high food quality. We decided to sample dishes from several trucks. Among the highlights were a vegetarian breakfast burrito with pulled jackfruit from Munch ‘n Brunch (open 7 am to 2 pm), shrimp tempura from the Blue Truck Teppanaki, and vegan fish tacos from Aloha Eats, which specializes in plant-based foods.
Prices ranged from $7 to $20, which we found reasonable given the portion sizes and creative flavors. We were both full and content.
Best times to visit.
While the hours listed on the website are noon to 9:00 pm, some trucks are open for breakfast, like Munch N Brunch. That makes the food truck park a fantastic destination at any time, but probably more so for lunch and dinner. We also noted that some trucks closed at 2 pm, and not all food trucks are mentioned on the website.
Parking challenges.
One of the biggest hurdles we faced was finding parking. After several attempts to dine there recently, we became more determined and found free street parking five minutes away on Ala Wai Blvd, across from the convention center and near Eaton Square. The blocks on both sides of the food trucks have very few spaces, and many people walk there from Waikiki. We recommend walking or considering alternative transportation like rideshares or public transit for those planning a visit.
Insider tips for your visit.
To make the most of your visit to the Waikiki Food Truck Park, consider this a unique opportunity to explore the diversity of flavors of Hawaii on offer. A fun way to plan your meal is to stroll through the park first and check out the menus before committing to single or multiple trucks. This ensures you won’t miss out on standout dishes like fresh poke, savory garlic shrimp, or creative vegan options.
Don’t hesitate to chat with the friendly vendors. Many food truck operators were passionate about their craft and happy to share recommendations or the stories behind their dishes. We told them we were newbies and had never been there before. This personal touch added a special layer to the experience you won’t often find at most Hawaii restaurants.
Several trucks clearly label gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options for those with dietary restrictions, making it easy to navigate.
Lastly, get ready to soak in the open-air local vibe of the park. From the local energy of the trucks to the communal seating areas, the experience is about more than just the food. Enjoy the fun and different setting, the aromas wafting through the air, and the mix of residents and visitors savoring this slice of Waikiki’s culinary scene.
A different and memorable Waikiki dining experience.
The Waikiki food truck park is more than just a place to eat—it’s an experience. With picnic-style umbrella-covered seating and an open-air vibe, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your meal while soaking in the local atmosphere.
For more details on specific food trucks and their offerings, visit the official website of the Food Truck Park.
Have you been to the Waikiki food truck park?
Get Breaking Hawaii Travel News
