Home to more than 50 food trucks, Kauai is a delightful destination for food truck lovers—not to mention anyone looking to sample all that the island has to offer. We can’t think of a more delicious way to dive into the local food truck culture than at the amazing Happy Snacks in Kapaa on Hawaii’s southeast shore.
Located on the north end of Kapaa directly across the street from the Kauai Product Fair and next door to Otsuka’s furniture store, Happy Snacks is truly a hidden treasure on Kauai. Do not be deterred by its chaotic appearance. Remember: the best things often come in unexpected packages!
When we say Happy Snacks is “the best,” we’re not exaggerating. This remarkable food truck serves up super-fresh and oh-so-tasty authentic Thai food and much, MUCH more. We’re talking shave ice, fresh fruit, smoothies, fruit bowls, fresh coconut milk…the list goes on and on.
Love heat? You will revel in the generous spice levels at Happy Snacks. In fact, we think this food truck may lay claim to the spiciest cuisine on Kauai!
One word of warning? While there are snacks, snacks, and more snacks on the menu at Happy Snacks, you’ll also find plenty of meal offerings that are anything but snack-size. Bring your appetite, plan on sharing, or prepare to take home leftovers because these are some seriously hearty portions.
Even better? You don’t just get a lot of delicious food at Happy Trucks; it’s also extremely affordable.
While Happy Snacks serves up some fantastic food, it is not necessarily fast food—nor is it intended to be so. Above all else, the owner really wants people to enjoy her food. To that end, she makes everything to order (including the fresh smoothies) and may be too preoccupied with cooking for small talk with customers.
The menu at Happy Snacks is massive, comprising everything under the sun—all of which was delicious. Here’s a look at a few of our favorite things:
Coconut Shrimp
Incredible on its own, the sauce brings it to next-level deliciousness.
Spicy fried chicken
Not for the faint of heart, you’ll be craving this crispy, succulent chicken long for weeks, months, and maybe years after discovering it.
Pineapple curry
It may look like a random array of vegetables tossed on the plate, but it’s really a flavor-packed work of art.
Summer rolls
They may be the most gigantic summer rolls you’ve ever seen, but they’re so delicious you just might end up devouring them all anyway—especially when you try the heavenly dipping sauce accompanying them.
Coconut black sticky rice
The perfect sweet treat to end your meal.
One last thing to keep in mind? Because Happy Snacks is a small operation, all menu items aren’t always available. Believe us when we say to trust the process and just go with it. You will not be disappointed if you commit to kicking back, relaxing, and enjoying a truly inimitable dining experience at Happy Snacks.
Insider Tips:
-We recommend going early in your trip to Kauai because you’re almost definitely going to want to make a repeat visit (or two)!
-Don’t feed the chickens in the food truck court unless you don’t mind being harassed for the remainder of your meal.