Best Maui Food Trucks: Eat Like a Local

Maui is full of surprises. You expect the stunning beaches, jaw-dropping sunsets, and lush green mountains, but what you might not be prepared for is the thriving food truck scene. These mobile kitchens offer some of the best eats on the island, and trust me, they’ll leave you craving more. Forget fancy restaurants—when you're in Maui, the food truck experience is where it’s at. You get to taste the island’s flavors without all the fuss, and if you’re like me, you’ll love the relaxed, beachside vibes.

Whether you’re grabbing garlic shrimp after a surf session or digging into poke on a picnic table with your toes in the sand, Maui’s food trucks are the perfect way to eat like a local. And honestly, some of the best meals I've had on the island have been from the back of a truck.

Let’s dig into the best food trucks on Maui and why they’re an absolute must on your next trip.

1. Geste Shrimp Truck: The Garlic Shrimp King

If there's one food truck you can’t skip, it’s Geste Shrimp Truck. People rave about this place, and for good reason. You know how sometimes you hype something up in your mind, and when you finally try it, it doesn’t quite live up? Well, that’s not the case here. The garlic shrimp at Geste are everything you want them to be: buttery, garlicky, and perfectly cooked.

I remember pulling up to this unassuming truck parked near Kahului Harbor after a long day of snorkeling. I ordered the spicy pineapple shrimp plate (a twist on the classic garlic), and within minutes, I had a box full of shrimp so good, I didn’t even care that my hands were covered in sauce. The plate comes with a side of rice and mac salad, and the portions are big enough to satisfy even the hungriest beach bum.

Pro Tip: Get there early. Geste Shrimp Truck can sell out, especially around lunchtime. Also, bring some napkins. You’ll need ‘em.

2. Like Poke? Truck: Ahi Lovers, This One's For You

Now, I’ve had my fair share of poke on the islands, but Like Poke? Truck serves up some of the freshest, most flavorful ahi poke I’ve ever had. This truck keeps things simple, and that's exactly what you want when the ingredients are this fresh. Their poke bowls are bursting with flavor, and they don’t skimp on the fish.

I opted for the spicy ahi bowl, which had just the right amount of heat, balanced out by the cool, creamy texture of the fish. Sitting under a palm tree, enjoying my poke with a view of the waves—there's really nothing better. And if you’re new to poke or feeling adventurous, try a sample before committing to a bowl.

Must-Try: The spicy ahi and shoyu poke are crowd favorites, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.

3. Thai Mee Up: The Unexpected Winner

When you think of food trucks on Maui, Thai food probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind, but trust me, Thai Mee Up deserves a spot on this list. Located near the Maui Tropical Plantation, this truck serves up some of the tastiest Thai food I’ve had outside of Thailand itself.

I wandered over to Thai Mee Up after spending the morning exploring the plantation, and I was starving. The first bite of their pad thai was a revelation: perfectly balanced sweet, sour, and salty flavors with just the right amount of spice. The portions are generous, too. One dish could easily feed two people, but it was so good I didn’t want to share.

Why You’ll Love It: The prices are affordable, the portions are huge, and it’s a perfect spot for grabbing lunch after a day of exploring the island.

4. Jawz Tacos: Beachside Tacos Done Right

You’ve probably heard the phrase "Taco Tuesday," but on Maui, Jawz Tacos makes every day a taco day. Located near Big Beach, this truck is perfect for a quick bite after a morning in the water. Their fish tacos are fresh, flavorful, and served with just the right amount of slaw and sauce to keep things interesting.

I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for a good fish taco, and Jawz did not disappoint. The fish was perfectly cooked, and the tangy sauce gave it an extra kick. Plus, it’s hard to beat the beachside location. After stuffing my face, I walked down to the water and took a dip—because nothing pairs better with fish tacos than the Pacific Ocean.

Don’t Miss: The fish tacos are the main draw, but their shrimp tacos are equally delicious. If you're feeling hungry, grab both.

5. Broke Da Mouth: Local Flavors, Big Portions

One of my all-time favorite food trucks on Maui has to be Broke Da Mouth. The name says it all—you’ll be left speechless after a bite of their ono (delicious) food. They specialize in Hawaiian-style comfort food, and if you’re in the mood for something hearty, this is your spot.

I tried their garlic furikake chicken, and let me tell you, it was incredible. The chicken was crispy, flavorful, and topped with just the right amount of furikake seasoning. It came with sides of rice and mac salad, which made it a full-on meal. After a day of hiking, it was exactly what I needed.

Local Favorite: Their garlic chicken is a must, but don’t sleep on their kalbi ribs either. Both are packed with flavor and sure to satisfy.

6. Kinaole Grill Food Truck: Gourmet on Wheels

Looking for something a bit more upscale? Kinaole Grill Food Truck is where gourmet meets casual dining. This food truck may be on wheels, but the quality of the food makes you feel like you're dining at a high-end restaurant. They specialize in seafood, and their seared ahi is simply divine.

I first stumbled upon Kinaole Grill while driving along the coast, and I’m so glad I stopped. The truck itself is brightly painted and inviting, and the food? Let’s just say I went back more than once during my trip. The seared ahi was cooked perfectly—crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside.

For Seafood Lovers: You can't go wrong with their coconut shrimp either. Crispy, coconut-y goodness served with a tangy sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.

7. Dino's Gourmet On-the-Go: Mediterranean Magic

If you’re craving something different, Dino’s Gourmet On-the-Go is where Mediterranean flavors meet island vibes. This food truck is a hidden gem, serving up Mediterranean dishes with a Hawaiian twist. Think falafel, hummus, and gyro plates made with local ingredients.

I was in the mood for something lighter after days of feasting on Hawaiian food, so I opted for their falafel plate. It was fresh, flavorful, and exactly what I needed. The tzatziki sauce was creamy, the falafel crispy, and the pita bread was soft and warm. It’s the kind of food that makes you feel good after eating it—not too heavy, but still incredibly satisfying.

Must-Try: The falafel plate is fantastic, but if you’re into meat, go for the lamb gyro. You won’t regret it.

8. The Maui Fresh Streatery: Fusion at Its Finest

If there’s one food truck on Maui that knows how to keep things fresh and exciting, it’s The Maui Fresh Streatery. Their menu is constantly changing, and every dish is packed with bold, vibrant flavors that showcase Maui’s local ingredients.

When I visited, they were serving up a Hawaiian-fusion take on a traditional Korean bibimbap, complete with fresh veggies, rice, and tender slices of beef. The flavors were out of this world, and I loved that they incorporate seasonal ingredients into their dishes. This truck is perfect for foodies who want to try something new every time.

Why It’s Special: The rotating menu keeps things interesting, and the focus on fresh, local ingredients makes every dish taste like Maui on a plate.

9. Mo ‘Ono: Açaí Bowls Done Right

After indulging in all the savory eats, sometimes you just need something light and refreshing, and that’s where Mo ‘Ono comes in. This food truck serves up the best açaí bowls on the island, hands down. The bowls are packed with fresh fruit, granola, and drizzled with honey for a touch of sweetness.

I grabbed a bowl after an early morning surf session, and it was the perfect way to refuel. The açaí was cold and creamy, the fruit was ripe and sweet, and the granola added just the right amount of crunch. It’s light, refreshing, and super Instagrammable if that’s your thing.

Pro Tip: Get there early. Mo ‘Ono is popular, and they can sell out of açaí bowls by midday.

10. South Maui Fish Company: Fresh Catch Every Day

If you’re after some of the freshest fish on the island, South Maui Fish Company is your go-to food truck. They serve up poke bowls, fish tacos, and grilled seafood, all made from fish caught that same day.

I remember walking up to this truck in Kihei, not knowing what to expect, and leaving with one of the best poke bowls I’ve ever had. The fish was melt-in-your-mouth fresh, and the flavors were simple yet bold, letting the freshness of the seafood shine through. They source everything locally, so you know you’re getting the best the island has to offer.

Must-Try: The poke bowl is a no-brainer, but if you’re in the mood for something grilled, the fish tacos are equally as impressive.

Maui's Food Truck Paradise

Maui’s food truck scene is seriously impressive. These trucks are more than just places to grab a quick bite—they’re part of the island’s culture and community. Each food truck has its own personality and offers a little slice of Maui’s culinary magic. The casual, laid-back atmosphere lets you enjoy the best flavors of the island in a way that feels authentic and true to Hawaii’s spirit. So next time you find yourself on Maui, skip the restaurants and hit up these trucks—you won’t regret it.