Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta, Canada, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that offers a wide range of culinary experiences. One of the most exciting aspects of Edmonton's food scene is its thriving food truck culture. With over 100 food trucks operating in the city, there's something for every taste and preference. In this article, we'll explore 10 secrets that locals love about Edmonton's food trucks, from unique flavors to hidden gems and insider tips.
Introduction to Edmonton’s Food Truck Scene
Edmonton’s food truck scene has exploded in recent years, with new vendors popping up all over the city. From classic comfort food to international cuisine, the options are endless. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a wide range of dishes, from traditional Canadian fare like poutine and burgers to more exotic options like Korean BBQ and Mexican tacos. With so many choices, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 10 secrets that locals love about Edmonton’s food trucks.
Secret 1: The Best Time to Visit
One of the best secrets about Edmonton’s food trucks is that the best time to visit is during the week, specifically on Thursdays and Fridays. Many food trucks offer special deals and discounts on these days, making it a great time to try new vendors and flavors. Additionally, the lines are often shorter than on weekends, making it a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
| Day of the Week | Special Deals |
|---|---|
| Thursday | 10% off all orders at Drift Food Truck |
| Friday | Buy one get one free at Taco Loco |
Secret 2: Hidden Gems
While many food trucks are concentrated in popular areas like downtown and Whyte Avenue, there are some hidden gems located in lesser-known neighborhoods. For example, the 124th Street area is home to a number of unique and delicious food trucks, including The Local Omnivore and Meuwly’s. These trucks offer a range of options, from artisanal sandwiches to handmade sausages.
Secret 3: Unique Flavors
Edmonton’s food trucks are known for their creative and unique flavors. One of the most popular trucks, Smoke & Ash, offers a range of BBQ options, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Another truck, The Vietnomz, serves up delicious Vietnamese-inspired dishes like banh mi and pho. For those looking for something truly unique, The Perogy Truck offers a range of traditional Ukrainian dishes like perogies and borscht.
Secret 4: Seasonal Specials
Many of Edmonton’s food trucks offer seasonal specials and limited-time menu items. For example, during the summer months, The Ice Cream Truck offers unique and delicious flavors like strawberry balsamic and lavender honey. In the winter, The Hot Chocolate Truck serves up rich and creamy hot chocolate, perfect for warming up on a cold day.
Secret 5: Food Truck Festivals
Edmonton hosts a number of food truck festivals throughout the year, featuring a wide range of vendors and flavors. One of the most popular festivals is the Edmonton Food Truck Festival, which takes place in the summer and features over 20 food trucks. Another popular festival is the Ice on Whyte Festival, which takes place in the winter and features a number of food trucks offering warm and comforting dishes.
Secret 6: Insider Tips
Locals know that the key to getting the most out of Edmonton’s food trucks is to be prepared. Here are a few insider tips to keep in mind: always bring cash, as not all trucks accept credit or debit; be prepared for lines, especially on weekends and during festivals; and don’t be afraid to try new things and ask for recommendations from the vendors.
Secret 7: Food Truck Crawl
For those looking for a unique and exciting experience, consider embarking on a food truck crawl. This involves visiting a number of different food trucks in one day, trying a variety of dishes and flavors. One popular food truck crawl route takes participants through the downtown area, visiting trucks like Drift Food Truck and Taco Loco.
Secret 8: Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Edmonton’s food trucks offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, making it easy for those with dietary restrictions to find something delicious. One popular truck, The Green Truck, offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, including burgers, salads, and sandwiches. Another truck, The Vegan Yacht, serves up unique and delicious vegan dishes like vegan “cheese” steak and vegan mac and cheese.
Secret 9: Gluten-Free Options
In addition to vegetarian and vegan options, many of Edmonton’s food trucks also offer gluten-free options. One popular truck, The Gluten-Free Truck, offers a range of gluten-free options, including sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. Another truck, The Perogy Truck, offers gluten-free perogies and other Ukrainian dishes.
Secret 10: Community Involvement
Edmonton’s food trucks are deeply involved in the local community, with many vendors participating in charity events and fundraisers. For example, The Local Omnivore regularly partners with local organizations to host fundraising events and donate to worthy causes. Another truck, Meuwly’s, offers a “Meuwly’s Gives Back” program, which donates a portion of sales to local charities.
What are the best food trucks in Edmonton?
+Some of the most popular food trucks in Edmonton include Drift Food Truck, Taco Loco, and The Local Omnivore. However, there are many other great options to choose from, depending on your tastes and preferences.
Where can I find food trucks in Edmonton?
+Food trucks can be found throughout Edmonton, but some popular locations include downtown, Whyte Avenue, and 124th Street. You can also find food trucks at festivals and events throughout the city.
Do food trucks in Edmonton accept credit or debit?
+Not all food trucks in Edmonton accept credit or debit, so it’s always a good idea to bring cash. However, many trucks do accept credit and debit, so it’s worth asking when you visit.
