Food trucks have changed the way America eats. Whether they claim a permanent spot on a roadside, make a location rotation each week around town, set up at festivals and outdoor markets, or show up as part of a dedicated food truck rodeo, these deliverers of deliciousness are becoming a driving force on the South Carolina culinary scene. The state is teeming with food trucks offering a wide variety of exciting options for serious noshing and casual nibbling.
Below are 12 food trucks where foodie dreams become reality; check websites for locations and times of operation.
COAST
Bac'n Me Crazy, Charleston
Where’s the bacon? Why it’s all right here on this Charleston-based food truck! Or at least it seems that way. Bacon lovers line up to indulge their passion with offerings like the KB — toasted ciabatta delivering a satisfying dose of thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon, tomato, pimento cheese and hot sauce. For super serious carnivores, try the triple-bacon burger.
Must try: Ultimate Grilled Cheese with thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon, sharp cheddar and Swiss, and tangy green apple on grilled artisan bread
Mac Daddy, Charleston
This famous food truck delivers macaroni and cheese with all the goods: bacon, pulled pork, Buffalo chicken, roasted red pepper, tomato and more. The nationally lauded mac and cheese is made with 10-year cave-aged sharp cheddar and cavatappi pasta.
Must try: Buffalo chicken with jalapeños
MIDLANDS
Arepa Chef, Columbia
Serving Venezuelan treats, including irresistible arepas—tender corn dough buns stuffed with meat and your choice of tempting toppings, including avocado, cheese, egg and spicy sauces.
Must try arepa: The Pabellón with shredded beef, black beans, plantains and cheese
Belgian Waffle Truck, Columbia
These carefully crafted waffles are a hit with the Capital City crowd. Savory and sweet Belgian-style waffles come fresh from the iron dressed with everything from fresh fruit and Nutella to ham, cheese and mustard. The signature waffle comes warm with fresh, sweet strawberries and whipped cream.
Must try: Waffle pudding with raisins and caramel
That’s Boloney, Columbia
For a tried-and-true Southern treat, stop by this food truck and enjoy the ultimate fried "boloney" sandwich. You’ll soon learn what all the fuss is about and why we love them so. The menu is small (fried hot dog and grilled cheese sandwiches round it out) but that’s because these boloney experts do it right — no need for an elaborate repertoire.
Must try: Fried boloney sandwich with egg
D’z Pit Cooked BBQ, Florence
A little bit off the beaten path but well worth your trouble, this roadside truck has permanent digs on Old Marion Highway near the Mars Bluff community. Let your nose be your guide — pull over when you smell the wood smoke. If your windows are up, just look for the smoke billowing from the small stack out front. Pulled pork and brisket are the stars here: double-fisted sandwiches, each juicy, lightly smoked and seasoned just right with a bit of tangy sauce.
Must try: barbecue pork or brisket sandwich
Freckles & Giggles, Mullins
If you loved the neighborhood ice cream truck as a child, you’ll go ga-ga over Freckles & Giggles, a gourmet ice cream operation on wheels churning up fabulous flavors in the Pee Dee. Banana puddin’, cake batter, Key lime and more are handmade from all-natural ingredients.
Must try: Strawberry Cheez Cake
UPSTATE
We Got the Beets, Greenville
The catchy name of this Upstate mobile enterprise gives definitive hints that you’re about to dig into something fresh. Indeed, We Got the Beets is a hub of good nutrition, featuring healthy eats that go beyond the humble beet. Vegan? Check. Dairy free? Check. If you’ve got a food restriction, you’re likely to find delicious solace here. Homemade veggie burgers thrill the taste buds with an array of vegetables, sauces and cheeses (vegan, of course). Other veggie options include Philly cheesesteak and BLTs. Even if you’re a fan of meat, you’ll love these meatless options.
Must try: Nacho Burger, a veggie patty with cashew cheese, guacamole and jalapeño on a fresh bun
Automatic Taco, Greenville
Tacos are a popular item for food truck vendors and that’s good news for you! South Carolina has amazing taco offerings, including these from Automatic Taco where tortillas are filled with mind-blowing mash-ups like mahi-mahi, lemongrass slaw and avocado and hot chicken, house pickles and crema.
Must try taco: pork belly, kimchi slaw, cashews and green onion
