5 stars is not enough. This place is so good! Everything we tried was amazing, and their flavor balancing was so spot on. If you are in the area, you need to stop for a meal from the Rice Wagon. The service was friendly and quick (food ready in about 10 min). We enjoyed some beers from Mountain Layers, but there is a small area of outdoor seating for customers of both venues. read more

Visiting Bryson City for the first time, and my friend recommended this permanent food truck outside of the brewery. Collectively we ordered kalbi beef, ahi tuna, loco moco, and hurricane chicken. My kalbi beef was the best I have had outside of Hawai'i. It was on the salty side, but the meat was a good cut, not fatty at all. Mac salad was perfect. The chicken and tuna my friends had was good as well. The loco moco was a little disappointing. The gravy was lacking in flavor and the patty was overdone. We've all been fortunate to live on or visit O'ahu and Hawai'i island many times, so our expectations are high! That being said... would I go back? Absolutely. The people were kind and happy to make suggestions. The food truck was clean and well-kept. I just wish the seasoning for the kalbi beef and the loco moco would have been a little better! read more

The Rice Wagon - Kalbi beef - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

We are out of owners and a friend recommended the Ahi Tuna from here and she was not mistaken!! So delicious, great presentation and friendly service. Must try! read more

The Rice Wagon - Ahi tuna plate - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

Great food truck that is permanently parked behind the Mountain Layers brewery. They serve Hawaiian food, because the owner of both the brewery and the food truck is from Hawaii. The service was very friendly and quick. The interior of the brewery is very nice with a rooftop indoor an outdoor bar area and a bar area downstairs with the tanks and kettles. The Loco moco was the best I've ever had and that includes trips to Hawaii. The macaroni salad was on point and the delicious gravy made it perfect. The gravy tasted like it had rosemary. Everything is delicious. read more

The Rice Wagon - Loco Moco, best I've had - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

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I was not expecting to find authentic Hawaiian flavors in the middle of the mountains, but The Rice Wagon absolutely exceeded my expectations. This permanent food truck, located right outside Mountain Layers Brewery, was busy for a reason. They serve up generous plates packed with flavor, from Loco Moco to Garlic Chicken, and everything I tried was cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is fun, the food is fantastic, and the portions will definitely leave you satisfied. Whether you are looking for a great meal or just want to try something different, The Rice Wagon is a spot you do not want to miss. read more

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My friend and I had done a short little hike and came to Bryson city to actually eat at a different spot, however they were closed the day we wanted to go. So we stopped into a cafe for a quick coffee and browse Yelp to see what's nearby. We took a walk to see the Christmas lights and along the walk we spotted The Rice Wagon down a side street. We decided we were going to grab a bite there. So glad the other spot was closed because this is now my new obsession. I'm from RVA and this food truck spot is now craved by me. I will have to make a trip down again just for their Bankai Chicken Katsu. After hearing from the girl at the cafe that the Chicken Katsu was her go to we had to check it out. After looking over the menu and seeing the Bankai Chicken Katsu my friend and I were sold. We sat outside at one other tables, even when it was very cold out and enjoyed our meals. Holy hell, the crispiness of that chicken, the dragon and the Katsu sauce were making my brain tingle. I really enjoyed them. And then to see you furikake on the rice, That was a first for me. They did mention about having another location. And I wish I lived closer because I would be going at least twice a week to try each item on their menu. Very friendly service the food was spectacular and I can't wait to visit again. read more

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Dear hungry western-north-Carolinians, The Rice Wagon is one of the most delicious, worth your coins and good energy restaurants you'll ever visit. The restaurant is super casual and has a lot of Hawaiian street food staples that are fresh and packed with flavor. I'd say their highlights are the chicken dishes. If you're into seafood - the ahi tuna plate is spectacular. It's flavorful, hearty but also light on your tummy since it's mostly cleaner ingredients. Absolutely worth the visit. This is a great food, period. It's a great option for locals and also travelers in the area. read more

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We ate here every night in our stay in the mountains. People are super friendly and the tuna is to die for fantastic food!

Absolutely delicious food, this is what a food truck should be about! It was so good, we went 2 nights in a row. I'm not a picky eater, but I don't settle for mediocrity in the food industry, as these are supposed to be professionals. The Rice Wagon was exceptional, I highly recommend! read more

The Rice Wagon - Pork and garlic chicken, perfectly prepared! - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

WHey there! So I decided to follow some social media buzz and check out this spot, and I couldn't be happier with my choice! It's right next to a brewery, which is such a cool setup because you get to enjoy the best of both worlds with this popular food truck. You grab your delicious meal from the truck and then head over to the brewery for your drinks and seating. It's like they were made for each other! Now, let me tell you--the food was absolutely fantastic! The flavors were spot on, and the portions were just right. I went for the combo with pork, chicken, rice, and macaroni salad, while my wife tried the garlic chicken. We were both blown away by how good everything was! If you ever find yourself in Bryson City, NC, I really recommend you check this place out. You won't regret it! read more

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Found right behind the brewery. Enjoy the river while you wait. Then sit on the ledge and have a nice meal. Very pleased with the Yellow Fin Tuna plate. read more

The Rice Wagon - Yellow fin tuna plate - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

We got yellowfin ahi tuna and hurricane chicken. Chicken was extremely juicy and food was truly authentic, the Mac salad was great, but the rice was flavorless and way overcooked. Overall the dishes were extremely delicious! Worth the try! read more

We ate from the permanent food truck that's behind Mountain Layers Brewing. Recommend by the beer tender. Best ever! We ordered Ahi tuna first, then went back to order the katsu chicken and hurricane chicken. Along with the slaw. Quick service and fresh cooked. Good prices for the flavor and amount of food. read more

The Rice Wagon - Chicken katsu and hurricane - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

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I have been to Maui twice and this is the most authentic Hawaiian food I have had since then. Absolutely amazing! The only thing that would make this place perfect is if they severed some Hawaiian banana bread! Haha amazing stuff rice wagon! Never change! read more

The Rice Wagon - Yellow Fin Tuna - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

If you don't stop here when you visit Bryson City, that's on you. I had the Ahi Tuna and it was absolutely the best I've ever had. My wife had the Hapo Chicken Sando and it was equally as good. This will definitely be our first stop on our next visit to BC. And don't forget that Mountain Layers brewery is next door. Take your food upstairs and enjoy a great tap? Now that's what I call heaven! read more

The Rice Wagon - Ahi Tuna! - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

The food was really good .. I had ahi tuna over rice and side of Mac salad! They took our order, gave us a beeper so we'd know when it was ready and it didn't take long! Hubby went into brewery attached to it and got us beverages. Cute outdoor tables in shade behind brewery was very cozy! read more

The Rice Wagon - Mac salad had great flavor - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

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Food! Surprisingly full menu Service! Friendly local guys! Appreciate tourists! Price! Single or combo (shareable) options available! Highly recommend! Then hop over to Brewery eat your food drink your beverage! read more

OMG!!!! I was visiting my bestie at her RV in the Smokey mountains and she said this place was good.... It was awesome! We love our plate lunches, after living on Oahu for over 20 years it was great to have some ono grindz in North Carolina read more

The food was really good. The garlic chicken had great strong flavor that went well with the rice and vegetables. I will say that you will have a garlic taste on your mouth for many hours following. The fact that you can order and take it up to the bar area next door that has a patio is super nice. We were leaving just as some musicians were setting up for live music. read more

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We could smell the food from down the road! The smell did not disappoint. I got the garlic chicken and my husband got the Eddie burger, both were delicious! read more

Husband got the Eddie Burger and it was extremely over cooked and dry I got the short rib and it was so tough it was inedible Huge disappointment read more

We stopped by while passing through on vacation, I was pleasantly surprised how authentic it tasted. It is definitely worth a try if you're in the area. read more

The food was delicious. We all had something different. Ahi tuna and hurricane chicken were outstanding. They were really busy but go to us in a timely fashion. We were able to grab a picnic table and drinks from the brewery next door. Cute food truck. read more

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The food was ready in no time, the dude at the window was one of friendliest people I have ever met, and the food was excellent. This Hawaiian food was not piping hot but no big deal--I like my food insanely hot. But it was still excellent, and this food truck is highly recommended! I'm not sure how this place gets business due to its location behind a bar, but I'm assuming bar people eat it, Appalachian hikers that pass through Bryson City crave it, and locals are well aware of it due to its quality. Also throw in some Great Smoky National Park tourists, NOC adventurers, bikers of the Great Smoky Mountain Highway, and people who are lost. Whoever you are, if seeking quality food in Bryson City, go here... read more

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Some of the best food we had on our trip to Bryson City! The Garlic Chicken was impeccable and the Mac salad was great! The rice wasn't over cooked and the convenient location right behind the brewery gave it a special "hidden gem" feel. This is a MUST! read more

The best ahi tuna I've ever had! Friendly and prompt service with a smile. High quality food. Will definitely go to the Rice Wagon every visit to Bryson City. Great work, guys. You're killin' it! read more

The Rice Wagon - Yellowfin Ahi Tuna - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

Everything was amazing. I would eat here daily if I could. Perfectly seasoned, perfectly prepared food that tasted fresh. read more

The Rice Wagon - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

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The food was amazing some of the best Hawaiian food I've had. The chicken fell of the bone and the ribs were seasoned well. The man working was very nice and the food came out quick. It also has a nice little outside area to sit and if your over 18 there's a pub you can bring your food to right next door. Overall would definitely recommend read more

When in Bryson City, eat at least one meal here, either takeaway or at the picnic tables. We were looking for dinner on a Monday in the off-season, and this place fit the bill. Then it hit all the marks! The wagon is plugged into the back of one of the breweries. My food order was ready within 8 minutes. I had the ahi tuna, and my husband had the hurricane chicken. Both were so, so good! Both came with rice. The ahi came with a red cabbage slaw, and the chicken came with macaroni salad. They also have burgers. Vegetarians can get a veggie stir fry. The guy who took my order was helpful and nice. read more

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The food is amazing!!! The guys in the truck were super nice and helpful in recommending the best options. Really great place, highly recommend! read more

Great food truck, simple.to order and took about 15 min for them to make the food and have it out. 1-ordered the crispy chicken for kids and they loved it 2- the fish was the winner! Full of flavor 3- pork cooked well, a little bit lacking in flavor 4- s chicken was flavorful but a little dry We would go back read more

The best food! Fast and Friendly. The Hurricane Chicken is a must! Anytime I'm in the area I will always stop in for it!

Amazing food!! We visited Bryson City and had to find out for ourselves. The only thing negative was the customer service. Young man was just to the point and very dry. Not typical of the kindness and hospitality we encountered in several other businesses that day. He wasn't rude just not very informative. Going to the brewery to get drinks was confusing and he really didn't offer much guidance other than "you get drinks in there" as he points to a back door of a building. Loved the food. No complaints about food at all. read more

Absolutely LOVE The Rice Wagon! Everything on the menu is good (if you love Hawaii and its food)! 100/10 recommend! Also, Mountain Layers Brewing is phenomenal So, win-win! read more

One approaches a food truck--any food truck--with a set of prejudices as fixed and grounded as a bishop's mitre. Chief among them: that one will be served something vaguely warm, vaguely greasy, and entirely forgettable, before being sent off to digest both the food and the disappointment in some unspeakably foul portable lavatory. And yet, in the otherwise sleepy precincts of Bryson City, Tennessee--where culinary ambition might be assumed as rare as a decent martini--The Rice Wagon manages to commit the most subversive act imaginable: it exceeds expectation. Let us begin with the Hawaiian chicken, which, if we are to be precise, is not the usual sticky-sweet cliché so often lobbed at the taste buds by lazy chefs and sugar-addled franchises. No, this is a preparation of cunning restraint and controlled fire--perfectly spiced, mind you, not overwhelmed. It strikes that rare balance between the exotic and the intelligible, like a well-reasoned foreign policy. And then comes the sticky rice--glorious in its excess, loyal in its texture, a veritable homage to cohesion. This rice sticks, yes, but not in the way politicians stick to failed policies or bureaucrats to their pensions. It sticks with purpose, with gravitas. It is, if you will forgive me, a rice with character. Now--and this is where the whole endeavor verges on the implausible--the restrooms. One enters, expecting the grim aftermath of some festival of neglect, only to be confronted with cleanliness so startling, so deliberate, that one is tempted to applaud. Not merely clean, but reverently so. As if the proprietors understand that even the most unglamorous corner of public life need not be an affront to decency. It is, in short, a small miracle: a modest truck producing food of integrity, flavor, and even--dare I say--joy. In a nation drowning in mediocrity, where everything from governance to gastronomy is subject to the creeping rot of focus-grouped consensus, The Rice Wagon is a minor act of rebellion. And like all good rebellions, it is best enjoyed with a fork in hand and expectations, gloriously, upended. read more

We had the combo platter with garlic chicken and vegetable stair-fry. It was excellent! We really didn't expect those flavors here. Very good crispy flavorful chicken and the macaroni salad was great too! read more

We stopped here for lunch after kayaking at the recommendation of a local couple. It was tucked away behind a brewery so I may not have found it if they hadn't recommended it! It did not disappoint! Food was delicious! I had the seared tuna and my husband had the short ribs. Small outside eating area that is pet friendly or you can head through the doors to the brewery to eat inside or upstairs and grab your drinks there. read more

The Rice Wagon - Seared tuna from the truck and a hard seltzer from the brewery. Sat upstairs. - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

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This little spot was awesome. After seeing the positive reviews we decided to stop by and it did not disappoint! We tried the chicken katsu and the hurricane chicken both were delicious. Mac was on point we probably should have gotten some extra if that it was so good! We will be visiting the rice wagon again. read more

Great lunch stop in Bryson City! We took our food into the brewery and enjoyed some great beer. read more

The Rice Wagon - Food Trucks Near Me - Bryson City, North Carolina

The wife and I ate here on 10/27/25 after our trip on the GSMR. Connie, our car attendant on the train, recommended The Rice Wagon. She stated that many local folks eat there. She recommended the Garlic Chicken. We ordered a combo with the garlic chicken and kalua pork. It was served with rice and macaroni salad. It was fantastic, especially the chicken. I highly recommend The Rice Wagon. It is take-out-only, but well worth any inconvenience concerning sitting down. read more