How to Find Food Trucks in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its eclectic culture, scenic waterfront, and thriving culinary scene. Among its most dynamic food experiences are the mobile food trucks that dot neighborhoods, parks, and event spaces across the city. These rolling kitchens serve everything from authentic Mexican tacos and Korean BBQ bowls to vegan burgers and artisanal ice cream—often with more flavor, creativity, and affordability than traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants. But for newcomers, tourists, or even longtime residents, finding the best food trucks in Long Beach can feel overwhelming. With dozens of vendors rotating locations daily, seasonal pop-ups, and unpredictable schedules, knowing where and when to look is essential.

This guide is your comprehensive, step-by-step resource to locating food trucks in Long Beach with precision and confidence. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing, organizing a corporate lunch, or simply craving something delicious on the go, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to discover the city’s top mobile eateries—every time. We’ll cover practical methods, insider tips, digital resources, real-world examples, and frequently asked questions to ensure you never miss a great meal.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Food Truck Landscape in Long Beach

Before you start searching, it’s important to grasp how food trucks operate in Long Beach. Unlike cities with centralized food truck parks, Long Beach has a decentralized model. Vendors frequently move between public events, private gatherings, beachside lots, and designated parking zones. Some trucks are permanent fixtures at specific locations—like the ones near the Long Beach Convention Center or along 2nd Street—while others rotate weekly or even daily.

Many food trucks operate under the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services regulations, which require permits for parking and vending. These permits often dictate where and when a truck can operate. For example, some trucks are only allowed to park during business hours on commercial streets, while others have special permission for weekend events in parks like Shoreline Village or the Pike Outlets.

Knowing this structure helps you anticipate where trucks are likely to appear. Start by identifying the most popular zones: downtown Long Beach, the waterfront, Belmont Shore, and the 2nd Street corridor. These areas attract the highest foot traffic and are prime real estate for vendors.

2. Use Dedicated Food Truck Apps and Websites

The most reliable way to find food trucks in real time is through specialized mobile applications and websites designed for this purpose. These platforms aggregate data from vendors, event organizers, and city permits to provide live updates on locations and menus.

Truckeroo is one of the most popular apps for Southern California food trucks. It features an interactive map showing active vendors, their current location, estimated arrival and departure times, and customer reviews. You can filter by cuisine type, dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, halal), and even price range.

Food Truck Tracker (a community-driven site) offers a curated list of Long Beach vendors with weekly schedules. Many vendors update their own pages, so you’ll often find exact times they’ll be at a specific intersection or parking lot.

Instagram and Facebook are also powerful tools. Many Long Beach food trucks maintain active social media profiles where they post daily location updates. Search hashtags like

LongBeachFoodTruck, #LBTruckie, or #FoodTruckLB. Follow accounts such as @longbeachfoodtrucks or @lbfoodtrucklife for real-time alerts.

3. Check City-Approved Vending Locations

The City of Long Beach maintains a list of approved vending zones where food trucks can legally operate. These are not always publicly advertised, but they are accessible through the city’s official website. Visit the Long Beach Government Portal and search for “Mobile Food Facility Permits.” You’ll find downloadable maps and schedules showing permitted parking areas, including:

• 2nd Street between Pine and Ocean (Downtown)
• Shoreline Village Parking Lot (Weekends)
• Park Avenue near the Long Beach Museum of Art
• Belmont Shore Pier Avenue (Evenings and weekends)
• Long Beach Airport Corporate Center (Weekdays, lunch hours)

These zones are updated quarterly, so always verify the latest information. Some locations are reserved for specific days—like Thursday nights at Shoreline Village or Saturday mornings at the Long Beach Farmers Market. Knowing these patterns allows you to plan ahead.

4. Visit Weekly Markets and Events

Long Beach hosts several recurring events where multiple food trucks gather in one place. These are the easiest ways to sample a wide variety of cuisine in a single visit.

Long Beach Farmers Market (Saturdays, 8 AM–2 PM at 2nd Street & Ocean Avenue) is a hub for local produce and food trucks. Over 20 vendors rotate weekly, with popular names like Tacos El Gordo, The Vegan Griddle, and Churro Cart often appearing.

Shoreline Village Food Truck Fridays (Fridays, 5 PM–9 PM) features a curated selection of trucks with live music and ocean views. This is a family-friendly event with ample seating and parking.

Beach City Food Truck Fest (Monthly, dates vary) is a larger-scale event held at the Long Beach Convention Center parking lot. It draws regional vendors and often includes themed nights like “Taco Tuesday” or “Asian Fusion Night.”

Check the official event calendars on VisitLongBeach.com or the Long Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau’s social media for upcoming dates. Many events are free to attend, and parking is often validated at nearby lots.

5. Leverage Local Blogs and Influencers

Long Beach has a thriving community of food bloggers and social media influencers who specialize in mobile cuisine. These creators regularly visit trucks, taste-test new menu items, and post detailed reviews with photos and exact locations.

Follow blogs like Long Beach Eats (longbeacheats.com), which publishes weekly “Truck of the Week” features. Each post includes the truck’s name, owner, signature dish, current location, and contact info. Many posts also include GPS coordinates or screenshots of the app map.

On YouTube, channels like SoCal Food Adventures and LB Food Diaries upload weekly vlogs showing real-time food truck hunts. Watching these videos gives you visual context for where trucks park, how crowded they get, and what dishes are worth ordering.

Engage with these creators by commenting on their posts or sending direct messages. Many are happy to share upcoming appearances or exclusive tips not found in public listings.

6. Ask Locals and Join Community Groups

No resource is more reliable than word-of-mouth from residents who live and eat in Long Beach daily. Join local Facebook groups like “Long Beach Foodies,” “Eat Drink Long Beach,” or “LB Food Truck Lovers.” These communities are active daily, with members posting photos, asking for recommendations, and sharing last-minute location changes.

When you ask a question, be specific. Instead of “Where are food trucks today?” try “Does anyone know where Tacos El Rey is parked this afternoon? Looking for their carnitas burrito.” This increases your chances of getting a fast, accurate reply.

Also, strike up conversations with baristas, gas station attendants, or store clerks near popular truck zones. They often know which trucks come by regularly and when. A simple “Hey, do you know where the Korean BBQ truck parks on Tuesdays?” can lead to a golden tip.

7. Set Up Location Alerts and Calendar Reminders

Once you identify your favorite trucks, make it easy to find them consistently. Create a personal food truck calendar using Google Calendar or Apple Calendar. Add recurring events for trucks you love:

• “Tacos El Gordo – Every Thursday, 11 AM–3 PM, 2nd & Ocean”
• “The Vegan Griddle – Saturday, 9 AM–2 PM, Long Beach Farmers Market”
• “Churro Cart – Friday, 5 PM–9 PM, Shoreline Village”

Set location-based reminders. When you’re within a 0.5-mile radius of a known truck zone, your phone can alert you: “You’re near Shoreline Village. Check for food trucks!”

Many trucks also offer text alerts. Follow their Instagram or Facebook page and turn on notifications. Some even have WhatsApp groups—ask the vendor if they send out daily location updates via message.

8. Observe Parking Patterns and Timing

Food trucks in Long Beach often follow predictable routines based on traffic, foot traffic, and permit rules. Most arrive between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM for lunch service and stay until 2 PM. Evening trucks typically arrive between 4:30 PM and 5:30 PM and stay until 8 PM or 9 PM.

Look for signs of activity: a line forming, people taking photos, or a small crowd gathered near a parked vehicle. Trucks often park near high-visibility spots—crosswalks, bus stops, or near popular retail entrances. Avoid parking in loading zones or fire lanes; those are usually temporary and not permitted.

Weekends are the most active. Fridays through Sundays see the highest concentration of trucks. If you’re looking for variety, aim for Saturday afternoons. If you want fewer crowds and quicker service, try midweek lunch hours.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible

While apps and schedules are helpful, food trucks are inherently mobile. A truck might show up early, leave late, or cancel due to weather or supply issues. Always have a backup plan. Identify 2–3 other nearby trucks or restaurants you’d be happy to visit if your first choice isn’t there.

Bring Cash and Small Bills

Although most trucks now accept credit cards and mobile payments, many still prefer cash—especially for small transactions. Carry $20–$40 in singles and fives. This speeds up service and avoids transaction delays during peak hours.

Follow the Queue

If a truck has a line, it’s usually for a reason. Popular items sell out fast. Don’t assume the longest line means the worst food—often, it’s the opposite. Observe what people are ordering and ask the vendor what’s trending that day.

Respect the Space and Staff

Food trucks operate in tight spaces with limited staff. Be patient. Don’t crowd the window. Have your order ready before you approach. Avoid asking for modifications unless they’re clearly listed on the menu. Most vendors appreciate polite, efficient customers.

Check for Dietary Accommodations

Long Beach food trucks are increasingly inclusive. Many offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and nut-free options. Look for icons on menus or ask, “Do you have anything gluten-free?” or “Is this dish made in a shared kitchen?” Most vendors are happy to accommodate if they can.

Leave a Review

After your experience, leave a quick review on Google, Yelp, or Instagram. This helps other food lovers find great trucks—and encourages vendors to keep showing up. A simple “Best carnitas taco in LB—came back twice this week!” makes a big difference.

Support Local Ownership

Many Long Beach food trucks are family-run businesses started by immigrants or local entrepreneurs. Choosing them over chain restaurants supports economic diversity and community growth. Learn the vendor’s story—many post it on their social media or menu boards.

Tools and Resources

Mobile Apps

• Truckeroo – Real-time map of active food trucks across LA County, including Long Beach. Updates every 15 minutes.
• Food Truck Tracker – Community-driven directory with vendor profiles, menus, and weekly schedules.
• Yelp – Search “food trucks” and filter by “Open Now.” Read recent reviews for current status.
• Google Maps – Search “food trucks near me.” Look for pins labeled “Food Truck” with user photos and ratings.

Online Directories

• VisitLongBeach.com – Official tourism site with curated food truck events and calendars.
• LongBeachEats.com – Local food blog with weekly truck spotlights and maps.
• LA Foodie Blog – Covers Southern California mobile cuisine with a dedicated Long Beach section.

Social Media Handles

• Instagram: @longbeachfoodtrucks, @lbfoodtrucklife, @tacoselgordo_lb, @thevegangriddle
• Facebook: Long Beach Food Truck Lovers, Eat Drink Long Beach
• Twitter/X: @LBFoodTruckAlert (automated updates from local users)

Physical Resources

• Long Beach Public Library – Offers free printed maps of food truck zones at the Central Library and several branches.
• Visitor Centers – Located at the Long Beach Airport and Shoreline Village, these centers provide free food truck guides and event calendars.
• Local Newsletters – Subscribe to “The Long Beach Beat” (email newsletter) for weekly food truck roundups.

Technology Tips

Enable location services on your phone for apps to work accurately. Use a portable charger—food truck hunting can take hours. Download offline maps of downtown Long Beach in case cellular service is spotty near the waterfront.

Consider using a QR code scanner app. Many trucks now display QR codes on their windows linking to their full menu, Instagram, or pre-order system. Scanning saves time and helps you decide before you wait in line.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Vegan Griddle – A Consistent Favorite

Founded in 2019 by a Long Beach native, The Vegan Griddle started as a single truck parked near the Long Beach Convention Center. Today, it’s a city staple with a loyal following. Every Saturday, it sets up at the Long Beach Farmers Market by 9 AM. Their signature dish—“The Big Green Burrito”—features jackfruit carnitas, quinoa, avocado, and house-made cashew crema. Customers often wait 20–30 minutes, but the wait is worth it. The vendor posts daily updates on Instagram, and their Google reviews average 4.9 stars. Many locals now plan their weekends around its appearance.

Example 2: Tacos El Gordo – The Weekend Phenomenon

Tacos El Gordo is a family-owned truck specializing in authentic Baja-style tacos. They operate on Thursdays and Fridays near 2nd Street and Pine Avenue, and on weekends at Shoreline Village. Their al pastor tacos, marinated in pineapple and grilled on a vertical spit, are legendary. In 2023, they were featured in a national food magazine, leading to long lines and sold-out inventory by noon. To manage demand, they now accept pre-orders via Instagram DM. This example shows how social media and word-of-mouth can turn a local truck into a regional destination.

Example 3: Churro Cart – The Sweet Surprise

Most people don’t think of food trucks for dessert, but Churro Cart has changed that. Operating only on Friday and Saturday evenings at Shoreline Village, this truck serves freshly fried churros dusted with cinnamon sugar and dipped in dark chocolate or dulce de leche. Their secret? A proprietary churro dough recipe passed down for three generations. They don’t have a website or app presence—only Instagram. But their nightly posts with photos of glowing churros and happy customers draw crowds from across the city. This illustrates how low-tech marketing can still drive high demand.

Example 4: The Korean BBQ Truck – A Pop-Up Success

A newcomer in 2024, this truck started as a weekend pop-up at the Long Beach Airport corporate park. The owner, a former chef from Seoul, serves bulgogi bowls and spicy pork tacos with house-made gochujang. He posts his weekly schedule on Facebook and updates it every Monday. In just six months, he’s built a following of over 10,000 followers. He now partners with local breweries for “Brew & BBQ” nights. This example shows how a single vendor can grow rapidly by combining authenticity, consistency, and community engagement.

FAQs

Can I find food trucks in Long Beach during the week?

Yes. While weekends are the busiest, many trucks operate Monday through Friday, especially during lunch hours (11 AM–2 PM). Popular weekday locations include 2nd Street, the Long Beach Airport corporate center, and near City Hall. Check apps like Truckeroo or follow vendor social media for daily updates.

Are food trucks open year-round in Long Beach?

Most are, but some reduce hours or close temporarily during extreme weather or holidays. Summer and fall are peak seasons. Winter months see fewer trucks, but core vendors remain active. Always verify before heading out.

Do food trucks accept credit cards?

Most do now, but cash is still preferred. Some trucks have minimum purchase amounts for card payments. Always carry a little cash as backup.

Can I book a food truck for a private event?

Yes. Many Long Beach food trucks offer catering services for parties, weddings, and corporate events. Contact them directly via Instagram or email. Most have a “Book Us” page on their website or social profile.

Are there any food truck festivals in Long Beach?

Yes. The Beach City Food Truck Fest happens monthly at the Long Beach Convention Center. There are also seasonal events like “Taco Week” in May and “Holiday Truck Light-Up” in December. Check VisitLongBeach.com for dates.

How do I know if a food truck is safe and licensed?

All legal food trucks in Long Beach must display their health permit visibly on the vehicle. Look for a green sticker with a permit number. You can also verify permits on the city’s official website under “Mobile Food Facility Permits.”

What’s the best time to avoid long lines?

Arrive 15–20 minutes after the truck opens. The first hour is usually the busiest. Mid-afternoon (3–4 PM) is often the quietest, but many trucks close by then. If you want both short lines and fresh food, aim for 11:30 AM or 5:15 PM.

Can I bring my dog to food truck areas?

Many food truck zones are pet-friendly, especially Shoreline Village and parks. Always keep your dog leashed and clean up after them. Some trucks even offer “pup cups” or dog treats—ask!

Do food trucks offer delivery?

Most do not. They operate on-site only. However, some partner with delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats for select items. Check their social media or website for delivery options.

What should I do if a truck I want to visit isn’t there?

Check their Instagram or Facebook for a cancellation post. If none exists, ask nearby vendors or locals. Sometimes trucks relocate due to events or parking issues. Use the apps to find the nearest alternative.

Conclusion

Finding food trucks in Long Beach isn’t just about locating a place to eat—it’s about discovering the heartbeat of the city’s culinary soul. These mobile kitchens represent innovation, cultural diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit. They’re run by people who pour their passion into every taco, burrito, churro, and bowl they serve.

By following the steps in this guide—using digital tools, attending events, engaging with the community, and respecting the vendors—you’ll transform from a casual eater into a true Long Beach food truck connoisseur. You’ll know where to go, when to arrive, and what to order. You’ll uncover hidden gems, support local families, and create unforgettable dining experiences.

Food trucks in Long Beach are more than a trend—they’re a way of life. Whether you’re a tourist planning your first visit or a lifelong resident looking to rediscover your city, this guide gives you the keys to unlock the best mobile eats the city has to offer. So grab your phone, charge your camera, and hit the streets. The next great meal is just around the corner.