The so-called food truck renaissance may have passed us by, but there are still a plethora of great meals on wheels around the greater Los Angeles area. Why does this fun dining format continue to endure, especially in Southern California? What’s the allure that brings foodies from around the city in droves to sample some of the best truck cuisine in the country – perhaps the world? Street food and food trucks have their place on film sets, college campuses, office parks, and, yes, on the side of major intersections – meeting Angelinos of all economic statuses where they’re hungriest and often in need of a hot meal.
As recently as 2022, what could be considered most of Los Angeles’ trendiest meals might have moved from food trucks to roving pop-ups, yet the pinnacle of L.A. native chef Roy Choi’s Kogi truck has imparted at least a few lasting imprints on the city’s culinary scene. Today, the concept of a memorable takeout-style roadside meal is considered an everyday experience among most of the city’s diners, and some of L.A.’s best “restaurants” offering the freshest seafood and finest tacos are, in fact, humble catering trucks.
For those of you who still crave the thrill of the chase, so to speak, we’ve rounded up Woodland Hills’ best food trucks so you can hunt down new-to-you spots to your heart’s content.
Zamorales Grill, at 5800 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, made Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the United States list; as far as we’re concerned, it is deserved. Operating Monday through Friday from 12 pm to 8 pm, Zamorales can be booked for parties as well, which the business typically caters on weekends around the Valley; based on feedback we’ve received from residents and our own staff members, some of the very best fish and shrimp tacos originate from Zamorales Grill’s master kitchens, to say nothing of some of the best Mexican food offerings, period. Family owned and operated by the famous Patricia and Luis, Zamorales serves up delicious Mexican specialties near Warner Park in Woodland Hills – including tacos, quesadillas, burritos, tortas and some incredible Asada Fries drizzled in avocado salsa – with plenty of street parking available around the large park area.
Makanai is Ready, headquartered at 6423 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, is the brainchild of a chef and owner with 20 years of experience in high-end hibachi cuisine, and who created his own amazing recipes to yield a one-of-a-kind food truck boasting unmatchable prices and quality. Food is made fresh upon ordering and with a myriad of love, resulting in delectable dishes such as Lobster and Fillet Mignon with Veggies and Fried Rice alongside flavorful drinks like Thai Tea. Often referred to as the “must-try Japanese food truck in the Valley,” Makanai is perfect amid a Topanga social foray or at the mall and feeling hungry for something different. The truck is parked in the Mobil gas station next to the computer store at Topanga Canyon and Victory.
Falafel and Anat Food Truck, at 19858 Ventura Boulevard, serves what is often called the best falafel in all of Los Angeles, described as perfectly cooked and seasoned with premium sides – from chopped cucumbers and tomatoes to sauerkraut, pickled turnips, tahini sauce and harif. Unusual for most food truck businesses, Falafel and Anat offer some tables and chairs for “dining in” as well as vegan/healthy options for both lunch and dinner. Located in the BMO bank parking lot and open Monday through Thursday from 11 am to 5 pm, Friday from 11 am to 3 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm; closed Saturday.
Hamachi Hunters is often called the best food truck in Playa Vista, serving culinary delights from the heart of Seoul. Whatever kind of event you’re planning, Hamachi Hunters can help you bring the right flavor to the proceedings, given that this food truck business’ owners understand that great service is the best compliment to great cuisine. The friendly, professional and well-trained staff works hard to make sure that you have the most enjoyable visit from the moment you lay eyes on the vibrantly designed truck – from top-notch chefs who delight in providing foodies with incredible meals to representative staff who strive to stay updated with regard to new trends in the food industry, Hamachi Hunters is always finding ways to incorporate any new developments into the cooking process…all while maintaining standards and traditions. Operates daily from 11 am to 8 pm.
Birria and Pozole to Go, at 6551 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, is a food truck business that makes everything fresh to order, serving tacos, Birria Pizza, California Burritos, Queso Tacos and more. We here at Woodland Hills Magazine are pretty picky when it comes to finding good Birria, and our staff has gone to a bunch of spots trying to find our favorites – we can honestly say that Birria and Pozole to Go is pretty close. The tacos are well-portioned with meat and broth, and the cheese pulls on the tacos are absolutely delectable – but don’t forget the Aqua Fresca, perfectly sweetened, to complete the experience. Operates daily from 9 am to 8 pm.
Mikachi Hibachi, at 21101 Ventura Boulevard, was established in 2022 as a quick-serve hibachi food truck that offers flame-fresh rice and noodle bowls across the San Fernando Valley and surrounding areas, allowing you to load up your dish with premium proteins from filet mignon to lobster. Combine your surf-and-turf to your liking with a healthy helping of vegetables to give you a balanced, flavorful meal you won’t soon forget. Operates Monday through Saturday from 3 pm to 11 pm; closed Sunday.
Tacos Mi Lindo Guanajuato, at 21834 Sherman Way in Los Angeles, was established in 2015 and offers variations of authentic Mexican fast food, specifically tacos, which have become a go-to favorite for Angelinos all across the city. Looking for late-night tacos? This is your spot – from Cabeza Tacos with tender meat to Asada Tacos with red and green salsa, there’s always something here to satisfy your cravings. Operates from Monday through Thursday from 5 pm to 12 am the next day and Friday through Sunday from 5 pm to 1 am the next day.
Food trucks, especially taco variants, have long been a part of the Los Angeles food scene, culminating around 2008 when a proliferation of modern examples began to showcase the diversity of L.A. culture – from Korean-inspired tacos to plant-based noodles. Food trucks offer a more affordable way for younger and newer chefs to get started in the business, and the aforementioned businesses offer some of the best eats in Woodland Hills. Bon appetit!
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