It looks like this summer in Ontario probably won’t offer a lot of options for travellers.

And, though we miss going away on vacation, we are excited about the opportunity to spend time exploring and vacationing close to home.

Why not take some time this summer to try something you’ve never done here before? Like visiting one of our many amazing local food trucks.

We’ve noticed that the number of food trucks in the area has been growing quickly over the last year or so, and we can hardly keep up with all of the new options. Do you feel the same? Perhaps this list will inspire you to go on a little food adventure this summer.

In no particular order, here are 5 local food trucks that we think you should check out this summer:

1. SmokeBox Catering

Location: Near Townline Rd. E and McNeely Ave. in Carleton Place

Cuisine: BBQ 

This lovely little BBQ joint opened up last July, and they make the most amazing meals. The regular menu includes a lot of classics like burgers, pulled pork, and potato salad. But they also offer weekly specials that are constantly changing. They also make their one lemon twist, which is the perfect drink option for a hot day.

2. The Cuban Mix

Location: Corner of Ottawa St. and Ramsay Concession 11A in Almonte

Cuisine: Cuban, Mexican, and Canadian

Cuban, Mexican, and Canadian? Oh my! That sounds like a crazy combination, but The Cuban Mix has a little something for everyone. Choose from classic Cuban fare, traditional Mexican dishes, or poutine (with a twist). They also offer classic food truck options like fries and burgers.

3. Foodie Lu's

Location: Corner of Cavanagh Rd. and Hooper Rd. in Carleton Place

Cuisine: Italian

Having served his Italian street food at various locations in Ottawa, including KIN Vineyards and Ottawa REDBLACKS home games, the owner and creator of Foodie Lu’s announced this year that his food truck would be coming to Carleton Place. This food truck serves fresh, handmade Italian dishes every weekend. As their catchphrase goes, “You can’t pasta this up!”

4. The Greene Mill

Location: Ottawa St. near George St. in Almonte

Cuisine: Fresh & locally inspired

The Greene Mill is an iconic part of the Almonte food truck scene. You can easily spot the beautiful green truck as you pass through town. They offer a variety of sandwiches and bowls, gourmet hot dogs, fries, and smaller “bites.” The menu is full of classic summer meals and delicious veggie options.

5. Fabulous Fries

Location: Corner of Christian St. and Almonte St. in Almonte & John St. (Canoe Club) in Carleton Place

Cuisine: Fries, Burgers and Hot Dogs

This is the ultimate classic food truck. And with two locations in the area, you know they’re doing something right! They have lots of burger and fry options, plus plenty of sides. And did we mention, they have corn dogs? This is typical street food done right! They also offer specialty poutines on a temporary menu, so you can keep going back and getting different things.