Metro North Food Truck: Where to Find It and What to Order
Metro North Food Truck serves Lowcountry seafood and comfort food from a mobile kitchen that parks at different locations around the Charleston area.
Metro North operates as a roaming food truck rather than a fixed storefront, so the truck's location changes throughout the week. The menu centers on fresh seafood—shrimp, fish, and crab prepared in Lowcountry style—alongside Southern comfort sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and hushpuppies. Prices run moderate for the area, typically between $12 and $18 for a full plate.
Because the truck moves, your best bet for finding it is to check their social media accounts or call ahead. Many food truck operators in Charleston post their daily or weekly schedule on Facebook or Instagram, and some use location-sharing apps so customers can track them in real time.
Key Takeaways
- Metro North specializes in Lowcountry seafood and Southern sides, with most entrees in the $12 to $18 range.
- The truck's location varies by day and week, so checking social media or calling before you go saves a wasted trip.
- Payment methods vary by truck operator—some take card only, others accept cash, and many use both.
- Peak hours at food trucks are typically lunch (11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and dinner (5 p.m. to 7 p.m.), when lines can be longer.
How to Find the Truck's Current Location
Start by searching for Metro North Food Truck on Facebook or Instagram. Most Charleston-area food trucks post their schedule and location for the day or week on their social media pages, often with a photo of what's cooking that day. If you don't find them on social media, try a Google search for the truck's name plus "Charleston" or "location."
Another option is to call the truck directly if a phone number is listed online. A quick call tells you exactly where they'll be and how long the wait is, which is especially useful during peak meal times. Some food trucks also use apps like Roaming Hunger or Food Truck Fiesta, which let you see multiple trucks' locations on a map.
What to Expect When You Order
Food truck ordering is usually faster than a sit-down restaurant but slower than fast food. You'll typically stand in line, order at a window, pay, and then wait while your food is prepared. Most trucks can have your order ready in 10 to 15 minutes, though busy lunch or dinner hours can stretch that to 20 or 30 minutes.
Bring cash or a card—most food trucks now take both, but it's worth confirming when you arrive. Seating is not may provide; some trucks park near picnic tables or public spaces, while others are purely takeout. If you're planning to eat on-site, scout the area first or ask the truck operator where nearby seating is available.
Lowcountry Seafood and What Makes It Different
Lowcountry cooking reflects the coastal culture of South Carolina and Georgia, built on fresh seafood, rice, and African and European traditions. Shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried oysters are classics you'll find on many Lowcountry menus. The preparation is usually straightforward—the focus is on the quality of the ingredient rather than heavy sauces.
When you order from a seafood truck, freshness matters. Trucks that source from local docks or markets often rotate their specials based on what came in that day. If Metro North lists a daily special, that's usually the freshest catch and the best value.
Food Trucks vs. Sit-Down Restaurants in Charleston
Food trucks offer speed, lower prices, and a casual atmosphere—you're eating standing up or in your car, which appeals to people on a lunch break or looking for a quick dinner. The trade-off is no table service, limited seating, and weather dependence. If it rains, the truck may close or move.
Sit-down Lowcountry restaurants offer a full dining experience with servers, full bars, and climate control, but you'll pay more and wait longer. Food trucks fill the gap for people who want authentic local food without the formality or the bill. Many Charleston residents rotate between both depending on their schedule and mood.
Parking and Accessibility
Food trucks park in different neighborhoods and commercial areas around Charleston—sometimes near office parks, sometimes in parking lots, sometimes on street corners. When you find the truck's location, check whether there's parking nearby for your car. Some trucks post their spot with parking details on social media.
If you have mobility concerns, ask the truck operator when you call or arrive whether the ordering window is accessible and whether there's nearby seating. Not all food trucks have wheelchair-accessible setups, so it's worth confirming in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if Metro North is open today?
Check their Facebook or Instagram page for the day's location and hours. If you don't see a post, call the number listed online. Food truck schedules can change based on weather, events, or catering jobs, so a quick call or message confirms they're operating.
Can I order ahead or do I have to wait in line?
Most food trucks operate on a first-come, first-served basis and don't take advance orders. Some operators may take phone orders if you call ahead, but this varies. Your best bet is to call and ask whether they take pre-orders before you head over.
What if I have a food allergy?
Tell the truck operator about your allergy when you order. They can tell you what's in each dish and whether cross-contamination is a risk. Because food trucks have smaller kitchens than restaurants, their ability to prevent cross-contact varies, so be specific about your needs.
Do food trucks take card payments?
Most do, but not all. Many accept both cash and card via Square or similar mobile payment systems. Bring cash as a backup, or ask when you call ahead what payment methods they accept.
Is the food truck open on weekends?
Many Charleston food trucks operate on weekends, but schedules vary. Some work weekdays only, others weekends only, and some operate both. Check their social media or call to confirm their weekend schedule.