Hidden Gem Food Trucks Operating Around the Meadowlands

When you have 80,000 fans descending on a suburban sports complex, the local food trucks come out in full force. While New York City is famous for its halal carts and hot dog stands, the food trucks operating in the industrial parks and tailgate lots of the Meadowlands offer an entirely different, incredibly gritty, and delicious dining experience.

1. The Rut's Hut Truck (Mobile)

While the brick-and-mortar Rut's Hut in Clifton is world-famous for its "Rippers" (hot dogs deep-fried until the casing rips apart), they often operate mobile catering around major stadium events. Grabbing a Ripper smothered in their proprietary, aggressively tangy mustard relish while standing in a tailgate lot is a rite of passage.

2. The Halal Guys (Secaucus / Rutherford)

You don't need to be in midtown Manhattan to get the famous chicken and rice platter. Several franchise carts and copycat halal trucks operate heavily along Route 3 and near the Secaucus Junction train station on matchdays. The white sauce is legendary, and the spicy red sauce will absolutely clear your sinuses.

3. Industrial Park Taco Trucks (Carlstadt)

MetLife Stadium is surrounded by light industry and warehousing. On weekdays, these areas are serviced by incredibly authentic, independent taco trucks serving local warehouse workers. On World Cup matchdays, these trucks often migrate closer to the stadium perimeter, offering amazing, dirt-cheap tacos al pastor and tortas.

Food Truck Strategy

• Bring Cash:

  While most trucks accept cards or Apple Pay, cellular service around the stadium completely collapses on matchday. Cash ensures you get your food.

• Follow Social Media:

  The best food trucks announce their exact tailgate lot locations on Instagram/Twitter the morning of the match.

• Eat Outside:

  You cannot bring outside food from these trucks past the security gates into MetLife Stadium. Finish your meal before getting in line.