Yelp’s recent omission of New York City from its list of the top 100 food trucks in the U.S. for 2025 has stirred significant discontent among the city’s food truck community. With over 58,000 user reviews influencing Yelp’s rankings, many New Yorkers, including Ben Goldberg of the New York Food Truck Association, feel slighted. They argue that New York, often regarded as a culinary capital, deserves representation due to its vibrant and diverse offerings. This frustration is compounded by the numerous challenges that food truck owners face, particularly the arduous and lengthy process of acquiring vending permits from the New York City Health Department.
The permit process is notoriously complex, with a staggering waiting list of about 10,000 applicants and only 400 permits available each year. Matt Shapiro, a legal advisor for the Street Vendor Project, highlights the uphill battle aspiring food truck operators face. Despite these obstacles, several prominent food trucks in the city continue to thrive and showcase the rich street food culture. The Post has compiled a list of five must-try food trucks that exemplify New York’s bustling street dining scene, ensuring they have gained recognition beyond just local aficionados.
King Souvlaki, a staple since 1979, is celebrated for its authentic Greek cuisine and generous offerings of grilled meats, including chicken and lamb sausages. Located in various parts of the city, it has earned a loyal following, with many of its customers being Greek themselves. Owner Lampros Tsampas emphasizes the authenticity of their dishes, and customers are advised to indulge in their kebabs wrapped in pita for the true experience. The truck’s cash-only policy is manageable, as it conveniently features an ATM on-site, addressing one of the common challenges of street dining.
NY Dosas, while technically a cart, has made a significant impact on the New York food scene with its scrumptious vegan Indian crepes. Kandaswamy Thirukumar has been delighting patrons in Washington Square Park for over two decades, attracting long lines for his flavorful dosas. The cart has become so well-regarded that it has received international attention and accolades, including a Vendy Award. Thirukumar’s commitment to veganism has not diminished the taste or appeal of his dishes, making NY Dosas a go-to spot for those in search of innovative and satisfying street food.
Another highlight is Jeremy Batista’s Bodega Truck, which specializes in the iconic New York “chopped cheese” sandwich—a nostalgic tribute to the bodega scene that surrounded his upbringing. His food truck has transcended from a singular concept to brick-and-mortar locations, symbolizing the popularity it has garnered. Batista’s venture reflects a commitment to modernizing and preserving beloved culinary traditions. However, the rigors of running a food truck have temporarily sidelined operations, although plans to resume service are on the horizon, showcasing the resilience of the food truck scene amid challenges.
Birria-Landia has carved its niche by focusing exclusively on birria tacos, significantly influencing the city’s Mexican food landscape. The owners prioritize high-quality beef, and their commitment to excellence is evident in the preparation and service of their dishes. With multiple mobile locations, they have successfully brought this savory dish into the culinary spotlight of New York City. Lastly, Lechonera La Piraña stands out for its roasted suckling pig, drawing crowds eager to savor each morsel. The unique experience of ordering fresh, handcrafted portions of this Nuyorican delicacy further enriches New York’s eclectic food truck offering, highlighting the city’s role as an essential hub for diverse culinary experiences.
