Avenue introduced the category of Best Food Truck in 2013, as more and more spots on four wheels dishing up gourmet treats began popping up around the city. And, every single year since the category was founded, Drift has managed to snag first place. It is the undefeated champion, and its continued success proves that, if you create dishes that are packed with flavour and executed flawlessly, people will come – and return again and again. A crowd favourite is the pork belly sandwich – an intoxicating combination of fatty pork belly, tart pickled carrots, crisp daikon and spicy chili mayo. Pair it with potato crisps and the incredible aji sauce and you’ve got the best lunch option on four wheels. –Adrianna Szenthe
780-966-7328, driftfoodtruck.ca
Located in a Mill Woods strip mall right next to a gas station, Irie Foods has long been hailed as serving up the best jerk chicken, curried goat and oxtail in the city. And, really, the jerk chicken is fantastic, served on a bed of dirty rice in a rich, spicy gravy that sticks with you after you’re done. The problem was, for many, a trip to Irie Foods represented a long haul to the south side. But, the Ricketts family invested in a food truck, and now the Caribbean goodness can be enjoyed at various locations around the city. Of course, if you want to get in good, start a conversation about Tosaint Ricketts (featured in Avenue‘s October 2012 issue) and his soccer career. He’s still a regular with the national team and plays for Major League Soccer’s Toronto FC. And, he still pushes the family business on his social media feeds. –Steven Sandor
780-414-1341, iriefoodsedmonton.com
Edmonton’s only vegan food truck has consistently made the list for Best Food Truck since 2014. This year, it keeps its place – proving that vegetarian street food, done right, can get nearly anyone’s mouth watering. While its coconut bacon has become the stuff of legend (the packaged bacon can be bought at the truck and at local grocery stores and is even served at other vegetarian restaurant’s), the truck itself keeps the ever-changing menu fresh each week. You may encounter Sailin’ On at the 124th Street Grand Market or any number of events across Edmonton this summer. And, when the winter hits, customers can sample Sailin’ On’s fare at various pop-ups at local restaurants. –Cory Haller
