The answer to the plaguing question, “What’s for dinner?” just got a whole lot easier! How would you like to dine at a place that’s casual, stress-free, and won’t break the bank? Food Truck Thursdays is a weekly event that takes place in the Innovation Academy parking lot (located in Scripps Ranch) that’s just what your family needs for a fun and unique dinner out.
What to Expect
Food Truck Thursdays is a gathering of San Diego’s top gourmet food trucks. Each week, up to six different gourmet food trucks offer up tasty bites. There’s always something for everyone, even the pickiest little eaters. Some of the food trucks you’ll see each Thursday include Mr. Dash Shrimp Truck, Sweet Treats Truck, Caribbean Escape, Famoso Mexican food, American Flavors, Mangia Mangia Mobile, Devilicious, Super Q Food Truck, TwoForTheRoadSD, and New Orleans Food Truck. Check out the Food Truck Thursdays Facebook page to find out which trucks will be in attendance each week.
Most trucks won’t have a specific “kids menu” posted, but if you ask about kid-friendly versions of their items, they are happy to accommodate! For example, the famous Lobster Grilled Cheese from Devilicious can easily become a simple but yummy grilled cheese sandwich. Or a mouth-watering specialty burger from Woody’s Burgers can be simplified to a plain cheeseburger that your kids will love sinking their teeth into.
Where to Sit and What to Pay
At the south end of the school, there are grassy areas with picnic tables available. Most people set up “camp” in the parking lot near the food trucks. Bring your own folding table, lawn chairs, or even a big blanket, and have a family picnic. Or if you have an SUV or mini-van, pop your trunk and have a tailgate party.
Prices vary at each truck, but you may expect to pay $6-$12 for your dinner, and $5-$7 for the kiddo’s meal. To save money, pack a cooler with bottled water or your family’s favorite cold drinks. Also consider bringing a veggie tray or fruit bowl so you have a healthy side dish to go with your favorite food truck entrée. And while cash is certainly preferred, most trucks will also accept credit cards. Speaking of cash, you’re also eating for a great cause as a portion of the proceeds are donated to Innovations Academy.
Photo credit: Innovations Academy
Food Truck Thursday Insider Tips
- Like their page on Facebook for up-to-date info regarding a cancellation due to inclement weather. Luckily for us, it rarely rains in San Diego so this is usually not an issue.
- There are no public restrooms on site, so plan accordingly.
- Bring some bubbles, sidewalk chalk, a football- or any other favorite outdoor activity that your kids love. It will help pass the time while waiting for your food to be ready.
- Pets are welcome to so feel free to bring your leashed dog who will surely enjoy the festivities and maybe a bite of your burger!
Innovations Academy
10380 Spring Canyon Rd.
San Diego, CA 92131
Online: curbsidebites.com
Thursdays, 5 – 8 p.m.
Have you checked out Food Truck Thursdays yet? Tell us what you thought about it in the Comments below!
— Kelly Powell (photos too)
