Food truck culture is a big deal throughout the island of Kauai, where the best cuisine can be conveniently purchased and enjoyed on the go.
Nearly every culinary niche is represented at this point, but there’s something to be said for the classic taco truck. When you want authentic Mexican food at a great price, look no further than Chalupa’s Kauai.
Conveniently located near Old Koloa Town, this beloved food truck has a strong following among locals but deserves recognition from tourists as well. This is one of several food trucks situated in the area, but it’s impossible to miss; the red exterior makes it easy to identify.
At Chalupa’s — unlike some food trucks — the prices are low and the portions are sizable, so you can expect to fill up quickly. All the taco truck essentials are offered, as are a few select beverages (such as Jarritos). Most options have fish or meat, but a few vegetarian selections are provided.
Order at the window and then enjoy at one of the onsite picnic tables. You’ll love the consistently festive atmosphere as much as the amazing flavors of your taco or burrito. Watch for the island roosters, who like to hang around Chalupa’s and the other local food trucks.
A few of our favorite menu items include the following:
Fish Tacos
A clear favorite among regulars, these tacos feature the fresh local catch of the day. Several other tasty fish-oriented options are also available, such as fish burritos, fish chalupas, and fish chimichangas. Like all tacos offered at Chalupa’s, these are always served alongside chips.
Barbacoa Plate
Another incredibly popular option, this sizable plate is best shared or saved for when you have a huge appetite. The beef is braised in a signature ranchera sauce for several hours and then served with beans, rice, and corn tortillas. You’re also welcome to order barbacoa beef in the form of a tasty taco.
Torta
Skip the tacos and try a wonderful sandwich featuring your choice of chicken, pork, or beef. This is housed in a bread roll smothered in beans and filled with not only meat, but also, salsa, jalapenos, avocado, and lettuce. For a small additional charge, you can opt for a wet torta.
Chipotle Chicken Burrito
The chicken breasts in these burritos are marinated in a delicious adobo sauce and then grilled to perfection. In addition to tasty chicken, your large flour tortilla will be stuffed with rice, beans, lettuce, and salsa.
Chalupas
These semi-fried corn tortillas are filled with your meat of choice, along with salsa, cabbage salad, crema, cheese, and guacamole. As mentioned previously, the chalupas are available with fish — but you’ll need to pay extra.
Keep it casual with the ultimate food truck visit to Chalupa’s Kauai. This festive stop will provide all the authentic flavors you crave, plus a funky atmosphere that you will appreciate.
Insider Tips:
-If you want to feed a lot of people on the cheap, consider calling ahead to order one of Chalupa’s family meals. Available for four, eight, or even twenty people, these authentic meals include your choice of meat, along with all the essentials: beans, rice, tortillas, salsa, sour cream, and cheese. Depending on your location, you may be able to get all this delivered for a small fee.
-If there’s a downside to ordering at Chalupa’s, it’s that this taco truck has occasionally been known to run out of select ingredients. Guacamole, in particular, may be scarce by the time you arrive. When in doubt, plan to visit early to ensure that you can order your favorites.
-Keep an eye on the official Chalupa’s Facebook page, where you’ll find updates on specials for Cinco de Mayo and Taco Tuesday.