Lincoln’s Food Truck Scene

by Sriyani Tidball 

Food trucks have been making waves across the nation, and Lincoln is no exception. Our city boasts a vibrant array of local food trucks serving up inventive and unexpected dishes. While food trucks might seem like a contemporary phenomenon, their origins trace back over a century. The first mobile kitchens in the USA, known as ‘chuck wagons,’ were introduced in the 1860s by Texan rancher Charles Goodnight, who used them to provide hearty meals for cowboys on cattle drives.

Today, food trucks remain a symbol of entrepreneurial spirit and economic growth. Millennials, in particular, have embraced this trend. According to a Statista article, the National Restaurant Association reports that consumers aged 18-34 are the most likely to purchase a meal from a food truck. For many, food trucks offer more than just a meal; they provide a unique culinary experience. Millennials, who prioritize sustainability and value quick, convenient dining options due to busy lifestyles, find food trucks to be the perfect solution for satisfying their needs.

These rolling kitchens serve up everything from hearty, meat-infused delights to gourmet twists on Midwestern classics and Mexican cuisine, offering a rich array of flavors as they navigate the streets of Lincoln. Whether you’re in the mood for Nebraskan favorites or globally inspired bites, Lincoln’s food trucks deliver an eclectic menu that redefines street dining with heartland charm. Each truck offers a unique opportunity, with tempting aromas guiding you to an immersive tasting experience in the heart of Lincoln’s thriving food truck culture. Join this flavorful procession and witness how these mobile marvels are reshaping the city’s culinary landscape.

How many food trucks are there in Lincoln?

According to Roaming Hunger, there are currently 26 food trucks, trailers, carts, and pop-ups in the Lincoln area, and have a map online that shows where these food trucks are located.

Some popular food trucks in Lincoln include:

D’Leon’s Taco Truck serves the authentic tacos that are also served at one of their Lincoln restaurant locations. With gourmet preparation, the meal will taste fresh and look delicious — you will come back for more! For information, call (402) 802-4846  or email them at deleonsmexicanrestaurant@yahoo.com. 

Kouzina Food Truck, by the Parthenon, offers street food at its finest, emphasizing fresh ingredients, cherished family recipes, and a deep appreciation for loyal customers. This mobile kitchen is all about shaking up the status quo, blending familiar dishes with bold, new flavors. With a rotating schedule and ever-changing locations, be sure to follow Kouzina on Facebook to track down their next stop.

Muchachos rolls out their big blue truck to serve up New Mexican BBQ fusion with a purpose. Rooted in tradition, they expertly combine slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and chicken with New Mexican hatch chile salsas and queso, creating mouthwatering tacos, tostadas, and nachos. Their mission is to serve others with the same dedication and care that their grandfather did. For more information, reach out to nick.maestas@yomuchacho.com.

Mary Ellen’s Food for the Soul food truck brings the same exceptional flavors and culinary expertise as its renowned restaurant right to your location. Whether you’re hosting a community event, a corporate gathering, a wedding, or just looking to enjoy its delicious dishes at a local festival, its mobile kitchen is ready to satisfy your cravings for excellence. For more details, visit maryellens.com.

New Day is a popular place to get a great cup of coffee or one of their delicious cold drinks. They offer a mobile service, and you can walk up to their truck for smoothies and hot and cold espresso drinks at your chosen location.

Papi Churros Food Truck, based in Lincoln, is your go-to spot for unique churros and authentic, mouthwatering tacos. Catch them at the Haymarket Farmers Market from May through October! Follow their journey as they transform an empty box truck into Lincoln’s newest culinary sensation.

The Waffleman Food Trailer serves up classic 9″ Belgian waffles and sausage, two specialty waffle flavors, and their unique Waffle Dawgs — a waffle on a stick! Flavors include Strawberry, Chocolate, Banana Nut, Cinnamon Roll, Red Velvet, Maple Cinnamon, Pumpkin Spice, and Apple, with some available seasonally. Follow the Waffleman Food Trailer on social media to track their weekly locations, and for more information, reach out at wafflemanbill@gmail.com.

For more information on other food trucks, check

www.lincoln.org/restaurants/food-trucks

roaminghunger.com/food-trucks/lincoln-ne/1