The 7 Up North Food Trucks to Add to Your Itinerary Before the Summer Ends

They pop up along northern Wisconsin and UP highways like the wildflowers of early summer. Many depart as the foliage begins its dazzling show in September, leaving in their wake only the memories of delicious food enjoyed on sunny, carefree days. But some stick around and continue to provide convenience, culture, and culinary delights at fall festivals and other special events in the colder months.

Yes, there’s a certain mystique about food trucks. We are attracted to their newness and their movement—in addition to their delicious offerings. Beyond the food truck obsession that has swept the nation in the past several years, food trucks and the Northwoods seem to be a perfect match. They pair well with the season-specific nature of our region. They also allow us to be outside, exploring, as much as possible during the summer months—even to order and eat our meals—before the cool winds of autumn move in and call us inside.

Despite this seemingly perfect pairing, many long-time residents and visitors aren’t aware that these ephemeral dining wonders even exist in the region. Before the end of the summer, be sure to visit one—or all!—of these great food trucks in northern Wisconsin and the UP.

Lola’s Lunchbox – Phillips, Wisconsin

The creative menu Lola’s Lunchbox takes traditional dishes and turns them up a notch with inspired variations—from soups and salads to unique hot dogs and burgers to fusion dishes such as Thai tacos and Lola’s GC (gourmet quesadilla).

BB Kitchen Authentic Thai Food – Tomahawk, Wisconsin

If you are jonesing for authentic Thai food, look no further than Tomahawk. Keep BB Kitchen Authentic Thai Food in mind if you have a hankering for chicken pad thai on your way into town for the Fall Ride in September. This comforting meal is highly recommended.

Pit Crew BBQ – Mercer, Wisconsin

Unlike some of the more stationary food trucks in the region, Pit Crew BBQ can be spotted at various events in several Northwoods communities. Pit Crew BBQ will be at the St. Germain Flea Market (behind the St. Germain Fire Station) on Mondays through Labor Day and at Bubba’s for the Fall Ride in September. With mouth-watering pulled pork and Southern-style barbecue, this food truck is worth tracking down or hiring for your upcoming event.

Ed & Sharon’s – Merrill, Wisconsin

Looking for traditional Northwoods Wisconsin food on the go? Stop by Ed & Sharon’s, and they’ll set you up with hearty fare—like cheese curds, a prime rib sandwich, or barbecue pork—to fuel all of your end-of-summer Northwoods pursuits.

Curbside Kitchen Restaurant on Wheels – Silver City, Michigan

If you are looking for some down-home food on your travels in the UP, stop at Curbside Kitchen Restaurant on Wheels. You can’t go wrong with their broasted chicken, subs, or breaded mushrooms.

Rockhouse (Jody’s) Food Truck – La Pointe, Wisconsin

Rockhouse Food Truck brings eclectic flair to Madeline Island. Whether you choose the southwest steak burrito, the smash burger, or the gyro, you won’t be disappointed. Vegetarian options, such as the veggie burger and the Greek salad, are available, too!

Matt’s Ice Cream Stand – Shell Lake, Wisconsin

It’s time for our favorite part: dessert. You’ll be happy at Matt’s Ice Cream Stand, whether shave ice or ice cream is your particular favorite. Opt for the familiar, like a bowl of chocolate ice cream or a root beer float, or try something different, like a green apple or tiger’s blood shave ice.

Now it’s your turn! Which food trucks top your list of go-to, to-go food Up North?