Open for: Dinner/late-night grub, 6 PM – late. Mouth-watering mention: If you’re craving some Latin flavor, such as tequeños, arepas and patacon… Julio’s Corner is the place for you! Try the Patacon, a neatly prepared plantain concoction with a burst of flavor that is sure to make you come back again (and quite possibly, again). Where: In Kudawecha just off the main road, nearby the Noord area. Open for: Lunch, 12 – 3 PM, closed on Sunday Mouth-watering mention: A must-try for lunch if you want to eat like a true local! They offer daily specials, including hefty portions of local specialties and fresh-caught seafood! PS – Make sure to try their Mahi Mahi if you see it on the menu, it is exceptional! Open for: Lunch, 11:30 AM – 2 PM, closed on Sunday.

Their servings are plentiful, so come hungry! Tip: Arrive on the early side, they may just run out of food before their closing time (2 PM). Located in the parking lot of Eagle Beach, Mama’s truck has been around for years and is family-owned and run. Mouth-watering mention: This is a long-time favorite lunch spot among both locals and visitors. They are usually parked in the parking lot near Santa Anna Botica. Open for: Dinner/late-night grub, 8 PM – 3 AM (Tuesday – Thursday), 8 PM – 5 AM (Friday – Saturday).

Their sauces are the real deal and let me tell you, they do not skimp out on them! Tip: Ask them for their “special of the day” and don’t miss out on their Taco Tuesday (you may just get yourself a freebie). Mouth-watering mention: Traditional and super flavorful Mexican made-to-order tacos and burritos. More details Photo by Candela El Mexicano Smith blvd., across from Royal Plaza and in Ponton off of the main road near Wema.

Where: Two locations: Downtown Oranjestad, directly off of L.G. Open for: Dinner/late-night grub, 7PM – 3 AM (Sunday – Thursday), 7 PM – 5 AM (Friday – Saturday). PS – Don’t forget to ask for extra garlic sauce, it’s potent but well worth it! Their flavor, quality and consistency is unmatched. Mouth-watering mention: I’ve tried many steak and cheese platters on this island and keep coming back to Candela! More of a seafood lover? Ask for their conch sandwich, you’ll thank me later. Note: Food truck opening hours and locations are apt to change at any time, please contact them directly for more information. Not one for fine dining or simply more of an adventurous, on-the-go type of vacationer? Consider visiting one (if not all.) of these local food trucks for a taste of some of the best local eats in Aruba!

Candela grill