I was admittedly hesitant to order raw fish from a food truck, but the warm spring temps had Austin feeling a bit like Hawaii last week, so I gave Hawaii Nei Cafe a go. It was actually their Hawaiian barbecue that originally sparked my interest in the truck, and I was feeling adventurous, so I went ahead and ordered both the barbecue bulgogi plate, and their tuna poke.

The Beef Bulgogi is both sweet and savory, and served with white rice and a choice of side. I recommend the Li Hing Pineapples for the side order—they’re basically chopped pineapple dusted in chili powder, and they compliment the bulgogi well. The tuna poke took a back seat to the hot bulgogi, but since it is served cold, I just threw it in the fridge and had it for dinner that evening. Two meals in one stop. I’ll be back for the Loco Moco and to try the rest of the dishes I usually only see on vacation.

Website: www.hawaiineicafe.com

Location:
7814 S 1st St.
Austin, TX 78745

Hours:
Mon-Thu, Noon-8pm
Fri & Sat. Noon-10pm