11 Food Truck Popular Items You Can't Miss

3. BBQ and Smoked Meats

BBQ trucks bring slow-cooked flavor to the quick-serve world. Many rely on offset smokers or compact electric smokers to produce brisket, pulled pork, sausages, and smoked chicken—items that benefit from long, low heat and wood smoke. Expect regional sauce styles: Texas-style meats often focus on a dry-rub and smoke-forward profile, while Carolina preparations may pair pulled pork with tangy vinegar-based sauce. Presentation matters: a sliced brisket sandwich highlights bark and rendered fat, while a pulled pork platter is usually dressed with slaw and pickles for balance. Because smoking takes time, trucks usually limit quantities; a sold-out sign is common for prized brisket. If you want a true taste of the smoker’s skill, order meats sliced or chopped rather than sauced-over, since unadorned slices reveal smoke, seasoning, and texture. Some trucks push boundaries with less-common proteins—elk, bison, or regional game—so don’t be afraid to try something unusual. For dietary needs, look for leaner smoked chicken or vegetarian sides like smoked corn or beans instead of fatty cuts.