Popular Food Truck Locations

Nantucket's food trucks cluster around a few key areas. Here's where to find the best mobile eats on the island.

Cisco Brewers Area

The undisputed food truck capital of Nantucket. The Cisco Brewers complex - home to the brewery, Triple Eight Distillery, and Nantucket Vineyard - attracts a rotating cast of food trucks that set up in the parking area to feed the crowds. On any given summer day, you might find:

  • Rotating vendors: The lineup changes regularly, with different trucks appearing on different days
  • Cuisines: Expect everything from tacos and BBQ to seafood, pizza, and Asian fusion
  • Best time: Afternoon through early evening, especially when live music is playing
  • Vibe: Festival atmosphere with picnic tables, lawn games, and a lively crowd
  • Pairing: Order food from the trucks, beer/wine/spirits from Cisco - it's the perfect combination

The Cisco Brewers food truck scene is a Nantucket summer institution. Grab a beer, order from a truck, and settle in for an afternoon of island relaxation.

Beach Area Trucks

Several beaches have nearby food trucks or mobile vendors, making it easy to refuel without leaving the sand for long.

  • Surfside Beach area: Look for trucks near the beach parking lot during peak summer season
  • Cisco Beach: Close to Cisco Brewers, making it easy to combine beach time with food truck eats
  • Jetties Beach: The snack bar serves food, and occasional food trucks appear in the area
  • Seasonal variations: Beach-area food trucks are highly seasonal - most operate June through Labor Day

Beach food trucks typically offer quick, portable items perfect for eating on the go - think tacos, sandwiches, and snacks that don't require utensils.

Downtown Locations

Downtown Nantucket sees occasional food truck pop-ups, though the historic district's regulations mean they're less common than at Cisco.

  • Special events: Food trucks often appear during festivals, holiday strolls, and summer events
  • Farmers market: The Saturday farmers market sometimes features food vendors
  • Waterfront area: Occasional trucks near the wharves during peak season
  • Check locally: Downtown food truck locations vary - ask locals or check social media for current spots

What to Expect

Food trucking on Nantucket operates a bit differently than on the mainland. Here's what you need to know before you go.

Cash is Often Required

Many Nantucket food trucks are cash-only operations. While some have added card readers in recent years, it's safest to assume you'll need cash. ATMs are available downtown, at Stop & Shop, and at various locations around the island. Plan ahead and withdraw cash before heading to Cisco Brewers or the beaches.

Seasonal Hours

Most food trucks operate on a seasonal schedule, with the majority running from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Even during summer:

  • Peak hours: Most trucks are busiest from noon through early evening
  • Weather dependent: Rain or cold can keep trucks closed for the day
  • Day-to-day variation: Not all trucks operate every day - schedules can be unpredictable
  • Off-season: Very few food trucks operate after October; most close entirely

Rotating Menus

Food truck menus often change based on what's fresh, what's available, and the chef's inspiration. This keeps things interesting but means your favorite dish might not always be available. Most trucks keep their core offerings consistent while rotating specials and seasonal items.

Best For

Food trucks shine in certain situations. Here's when to seek them out.

Quick Beach Meals

When you want to maximize beach time and minimize meal logistics, food trucks deliver. Grab tacos, a burger, or a lobster roll and be back on the sand in minutes. No reservations, no waiting for a table, no dress code - just good food fast. Perfect for:

  • Mid-day beach breaks when you don't want to leave for long
  • Feeding hungry kids who can't wait for a sit-down restaurant
  • Budget-conscious eating compared to waterfront restaurants
  • Groups who can't agree on one cuisine - everyone picks their own truck

Cisco Brewers Visits

A trip to Cisco Brewers practically requires a food truck meal. The brewery and distillery experience is enhanced by having great food options right there. Spend an afternoon tasting beers, sipping cocktails, and grazing through different food trucks - it's one of the quintessential Nantucket summer experiences. The outdoor setting, live music (on many afternoons), and communal atmosphere make it feel like a never-ending block party.

Food Truck Tips

  • Check social media for locations: Most Nantucket food trucks announce their daily locations on Instagram and Facebook. Follow your favorites to know where they'll be and what they're serving.
  • Bring cash: Many trucks are cash-only. Withdraw money before heading out - the closest ATM to Cisco Brewers is back in town.
  • Arrive hungry but patient: Lines can get long, especially at Cisco Brewers on sunny afternoons. The wait is usually worth it.
  • Go early for best selection: Popular items can sell out, especially at beach locations. Early afternoon often has the best variety.
  • Plan for weather: Most food trucks close in rain. Have a backup dining plan for unpredictable weather days.
  • Bring your own seating: While Cisco Brewers has picnic tables, beach-area trucks may not. A blanket or beach chairs come in handy.
  • Ask locals for recommendations: Bartenders at Cisco, beach lifeguards, and hotel concierges often know which trucks are best on any given day.