The Valley's Mobile Culinary Gems
Sure, Napa Valley is world-famous for its Michelin-starred restaurants, artfully plated dishes, and sommeliers who can pair a wine with your mood. But let's be real—the real culinary gems? The taco trucks.
Tacos Garcia
Tacos Garcias has to be the cheapest meal in Yountville—unless you're out here living off Ranch Market's half-sandwich special. It's a no-frills, cash-only taco truck parked outside the legendary dive bar Pancha's (RIP Rose), which is currently under a remodel. The burritos are huge, the taco plates are solid. My go-to? The shrimp diablo burrito when I want to feel a sweat, or anything with carnitas.
Location: Outside Pancha's, Yountville
Taco Addiction
Taco Addiction is one of the most unique taco trucks in the valley, best known for their signature puffy tacos—light, airy shells that somehow stay perfectly crispy. Two tacos here aren't just a snack; they're a full meal. They also serve up some bomb birria tacos, rich, flavorful, and perfect for dipping. They also have ramen available with their consommé. If you time it right, you might even catch their Crunch Supreme special, a special that takes fast food nostalgia to another level.
Location: Varies - Check their Instagram for daily locations
Platanito Latin Cuisine
Platanito Latin Cuisine is the clear winner best pupusas. They're absolutely worth your time: perfectly cooked and even better when paired with the bright, tangy slaw and savory sauce. Their tacos are no slouch either. The blue corn tortillas add a welcome twist, and the al pastor is among the best you'll find. Give both a try, and you'll see why this place deserves a permanent spot on your go-to list.
Location: Soscol Avenue, Napa
Joella's Deli
Joella's Deli was dubbed the best chicken sandwich in the Bay by the SF Chronicle—and let's be real, it's practically impossible to argue. Picture super crispy chicken layered with tangy ranch slaw, dill pickles, and a drizzle of hot honey that delivers a perfect sweet-heat combo. They also do a cheesesteak that's nearly as legendary, but honestly, once you try that chicken sandwich, there's no turning back. Honorable Mention: If you're chicken sando fiend, like myself, you can also check the Imagination on Fire food truck.
Location: Various locations in NapaBurger Truck
Napa is never short on great burgers, but The Burger Truck easily rises to the top with brisket-chuck patties that balance flavor and juiciness in every bite. Their rotating lineup of creative offerings—like a surprisingly satisfying Frito Pie Burger—keeps things interesting, but the real standout is the "Our Way Burger." Anchored by a savory bacon-onion jam, it's the one you'll find yourself returning to time and again.
Location: Downtown Napa (weekdays) and various events
La Esperanza
La Esperanza is the trusty food truck you can count on at Soscol, rain or shine. Their big "quesabirria" sign might be what reels you in—and those cheesy, savory birria tacos absolutely deliver. But the real showstopper is the shrimp burrito, bursting with flavor and the reason I keep coming back. Add in some of the valley's best tacos, and it's safe to say you can't go wrong with anything on the menu.
Location: Soscol Avenue, Napa
Tacos Chavez
I might've thrown around the "best tacos in the valley" claim before, but with Taco Chavez, I'm actually serious this time. They've been around since 1972—long before food trucks got trendy—so 50 years of experience means these tacos are on another level. They only offer one taco: cabeza (yes, it literally means "head," but we're really talking tender beef cheek). Throw in a variety of salsas and a wallet-friendly $3 price tag, and you're set. Pro tip: grab a cup of their champurrado in winter; it's the perfect cozy partner for those undeniably great tacos.
Location: Central Napa– Napa Guy, March 2025
