Food truck catering has seen tremendous growth over the years. This is due to busy lifestyles, the love for street food, and urbanization. What began as a favorite for urban dwellers and office workers has grown into a go-to option for weddings, private parties, and corporate events.
This shift is largely because food trucks serve fresh meals quickly, offer diverse menu options, and are quite affordable, which makes them a practical and economical option for all types of occasions.
In light of this trend, we’ve created the ultimate guide with food truck catering tips for weddings and events. This resource covers everything you need to know, from finding the perfect food truck to making your event a success.
Table of Contents
How Does Food Truck Catering Work at Weddings?

Food trucks can be a part of so many moments during your wedding. They can serve lunch, dinner, desserts, or even late-night snacks to keep everyone going.
Some couples stick with one truck to keep things simple, while others bring in a few to offer guests more options. Whatever the case may be, this is how food truck catering works at weddings.
Finding the Right Food Truck
Do some good research to find the right food truck. Many vendors don’t serve the same type of food, so it helps to first figure out what you want to serve on your wedding day and then find vendors who can accommodate your preferences. Also, make sure to read reviews to know more about their food, service, and if indeed they are reliable.
Once you’ve shortlisted your top food truck vendors, contact each of them and talk about availability, pricing and any other specific details. Bear in mind that you might need to get more than one food truck depending on your menu.
If you plan on serving alcoholic beverages, it might be best to find a traditional caterer, as some local laws do not permit food trucks to serve booze.
Also, it’s worth pointing out that it’s a good idea to book early, as food trucks are often in high demand, particularly during peak wedding season.
Planning the Menu
After you’ve decided on your food truck vendor, it’s time to focus on creating the menu. This is where things get more detailed and personalized. Start by thinking about the number of guests you’re expecting and how you want the food served.
Food trucks are usually very flexible, so you can customize the menu to reflect your favorite dishes or even incorporate a specific theme.
Organizing the Setup
Food trucks require parking space and may need access to power or water. Discuss these requirements with your venue to avoid complications on the wedding day. Most food trucks are self-sufficient, but confirming their setup needs in advance prevents delays.
Permits and licenses are often overlooked. Some localities require special permits for food trucks to operate at events, so it’s worth checking with your vendor or local government.
Costs of Food Truck Catering
Food truck catering costs for a wedding or another event vary but are often more affordable than traditional catering. Depending on the menu and guest count, expect to spend between $10 and $25 per person.
Keep in mind that trucks may have minimum spending requirements or charge extra for travel and extended service hours. Also, if the wedding has a large guest list, you might need additional trucks, which could push up costs.
Additional Considerations
Factor in the weather when planning. If your wedding is outdoors, a tent or nearby indoor space can serve as a backup in case of rain.
You’ll also need to find a vendor for the tables and chairs for your guests, as food trucks usually don’t provide these. Also, make sure your venue has adequate space and the necessary power outlets for the food trucks.
Why Should You Use a Food Truck?

It’s without a doubt that food trucks have become a go-to option for weddings. Not only do they serve fresh food and bring a casual, fun atmosphere to the celebration, but they also offer a unique twist that guests love. However, they have their pluses and minuses.
Pros
- Variety: Food trucks offer a wide range of cuisines, from street food classics like tacos and burgers to gourmet or international dishes.
- Cost-Effective: They’re often more affordable than traditional catering, charging per person with fewer hidden fees.
- Interactive Experience: Guests enjoy walking up to the truck, ordering their food, and watching it being prepared. It adds a unique touch to the celebration.
- Self-Contained Setup: Most food trucks come fully equipped, so they don’t need a full kitchen or complicated setups. This makes them ideal for outdoor venues or unconventional spaces.
- Memorable: Food trucks create a relaxed atmosphere that guests will likely remember and talk about long after the wedding.
Cons
- Limited Services: Food trucks usually focus on the food, so you’ll need to organize seating, drinks(especially alcoholic drinks), and disposable tableware separately.
- Long Wait Times: With a large guest list, lines can get long, and service may take time. For bigger weddings, hiring multiple trucks can help reduce waiting.
- Space and Permits: Trucks need enough room to park and operate, and some venues or local rules may have restrictions.
- Weather Concerns: If your wedding is outdoors, bad weather could complicate things. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan, like a tent or indoor option.
How to Pick the Right Food Truck for Your Event

To pick the right food truck for your wedding or event, keep these tips in mind.
Find All the Vendors You Need
Start by making a list of food trucks in your area that match the type of cuisine you want for your wedding. Check their menus and read reviews to learn about their food, service, and reliability.
If you’re planning a larger event, consider having more than one truck to offer variety. You can also ask your venue, friends, or even local food festival organizers for recommendations.
Know the Limits of a Food Truck
Food trucks are great for serving fresh meals, but they don’t usually handle everything. For example, they might not provide drinks, desserts, or table service.
If you want a full-service experience, you’ll need to hire additional staff to fill those gaps. Also, food trucks work best with smaller crowds, so if you’re hosting a large wedding, consider having extra trucks or combining them with other catering options.
Don’t Forget Other Essential Details
It’s easy to focus on the food, but there are practical things to plan for too. Food trucks need a space to park, and some might require access to power or water.
Make sure to talk to your venue about these needs early. You’ll also want to confirm if the truck provides tableware like plates, utensils, and napkins, or if you’ll need to arrange those separately.
Understand the Risks
While food trucks bring a lot of charm to a wedding, there can be challenges. Bad weather can be a problem for outdoor setups, so having a backup plan like a tent or an indoor option is always a good idea.
Also, some trucks don’t sign formal contracts, which could leave you vulnerable to last-minute cancellations. To avoid this, work with established vendors who have experience with weddings and a solid reputation.
How to Coordinate With Your Food Truck Vendor After Booking

Once you’ve booked your food truck, there are a few details to sort out to make sure everything runs smoothly on your wedding day. So go over all the important points with your vendor(s) ahead of time.
Discuss Where the Food Truck Will Be Parked
The location of the food truck can make a big difference in how smoothly everything flows. Talk to your venue to figure out where the truck will park. Some venues have designated spots, while others might require the truck to be stationed on a nearby street.
If the truck needs access to power or water, consider placing it somewhere convenient for hookups. It’s also helpful to think about the guest experience; make sure the truck is easy to find without being in the way of other wedding activities.
Avoid Long Lines at Your Wedding
No one enjoys waiting in a long line for food, so it’s worth talking to your vendor about how to keep things moving quickly. For larger weddings, having more than one truck or a simplified menu can help reduce wait times.
You might also coordinate with the vendor to pre-prepare some popular items for quicker service. Another idea is to stagger food service times so that not all your guests line up at once.
Have a Plan for the Weather
Weather can be unpredictable, especially for outdoor weddings. If it rains or gets too windy, it could affect the truck’s setup and your guests’ comfort. To prepare for this, arrange for a tent to cover the food truck and create a sheltered area for guests to order and eat.
If your venue has an indoor option, discuss with your vendor how to adjust their service if needed. A little planning can make sure that bad weather doesn’t spoil the experience, especially if you’re organizing a fall or winter wedding.
How to Make Your Event with Food Truck Catering Successful

Food truck catering can make your wedding stand out, but a little extra planning goes a long way to keep everything on track. By thinking through the details and communicating with your vendors, you can create an amazing experience for your guests.
Plan the Flow of the Event
Think about how food truck service will fit into your wedding timeline. Decide when the food truck will start serving, whether it’s during the cocktail hour, as the main meal, or for late-night snacks.
Coordinate with your vendor to make sure they arrive early enough to set up and start on time. If you’re working with multiple food trucks, assign them specific times or areas to avoid any confusion.
Create a Comfortable Space for Guests
Food trucks provide great food, but they don’t always come with everything you need for your guests’ comfort. Therefore, set up tables, chairs, or lounge areas nearby so your guests have a place to sit and enjoy their meals.
If your wedding is outdoors, consider a shade for hot days or a tent in case of rain. Depending on the season, small touches like heaters or fans can also help guests stay comfortable.
Keep Guests Informed
Let your guests know what to expect when it comes to the food. A simple sign or note on the table can guide them on where to order, what’s available, and any specific instructions.
If you’re offering multiple trucks, consider providing a small menu or map so guests know their options and don’t feel overwhelmed.
Communicate Clearly with Vendors
Make sure your food truck vendors understand your expectations. Discuss their arrival and setup times, service hours, and cleanup responsibilities. If you’re using a wedding planner or coordinator, have them touch base with the vendor to handle any last-minute details.
Clear communication can help avoid catering mistakes or misunderstandings and keep everything on track and running smoothly.
Add a Personal Touch
Food trucks already bring a fun element to weddings, but you can make the experience even more memorable by adding small personal touches.
Consider branding the truck with your names or wedding date, offering signature dishes, or including a dessert truck to cap off the meal.
Wrapping Up

Food truck catering can be a fun and memorable addition to your wedding or event. With fresh food, unique menus, and a casual charm, they offer something different from traditional catering.
While there are details to manage, like parking, timing, and weather plans, these challenges can be solved with careful planning and good communication with your vendors.
In the end, food trucks bring something special to the table, creating an experience that your guests won’t forget. And if you need disposable tableware for your wedding or event (like mini dessert cups or serving trays), order it in bulk at CMJJ Gourmet!
Frequently Asked Questions About Food Truck Catering
How does food truck catering work?
Food truck catering is a flexible option where meals are prepared and served directly from the truck at your event. Guests can order from the truck or pick up pre-prepared dishes, depending on your arrangement. Trucks typically arrive early to set up and stay for the agreed serving hours.
How much does food truck catering cost?
Food truck catering costs vary based on the menu and guest count. On average, prices range between $10 and $35 per person. Additional costs like travel fees, minimum spend requirements, or hiring multiple trucks for larger weddings may also apply.
Do you tip food truck catering?
Tipping is usually appreciated but not always expected. If the service exceeds your expectations, a tip of 15-20% of the total cost or $26-$50 per server is a good guideline.
Is catering or food trucks cheaper?
Food truck catering is often more affordable than traditional catering. Traditional catering services usually include extras like table setup, staff, and cleanup, which can raise costs. Food trucks focus on the food, which keeps the price lower, but you may need to arrange extras separately.
Can food trucks accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, most food trucks are happy to adjust their menus to include options for dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free guests. It’s best to discuss these needs in advance with your vendor to make sure everyone is covered.
References
- Toast. (n.d.). Everything You Need to Know About Food Truck Wedding Catering Retrieved from https://pos.toasttab.com/blog/on-the-line/food-truck-wedding-catering/
- Savory Eats. (2024, June 8). The rise of the food truck: Why they’re so popular and here to stay. Retrieved from https://www.savouryeats.com/post/the-rise-of-the-food-truck-why-they-re-so-popular-and-here-to-stay/
- Restaurant Engine. (2021, April 14). Want to Buy a Food Truck? How to Pick the Right One. Retrieved from https://restaurantengine.com/want-to-buy-a-food-truck-how-to-pick-the-right-one/
- Roaming Hunger. (2021, February 12). 10 Tips to Make Sure Your Food Truck Catering Event’s a Big Success. Retrieved from https://roaminghunger.com/blog/15233/food-truck-catering-event-success
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