Two Cardiff food van ranks in a list of the UK’s Most Instagrammable

·        Searches for ‘food vans near me’ have increased by 30% in the last three months

·        New research from Vansdirect reveals the most Instagrammable food vans across the UK

From Indian street food to traditional fish and chips, we are a nation of food lovers that embrace every cuisine.

And with everyone looking to make the most of summer, more Brits are looking to eat al fresco while out and about in the sun. In fact, searches for ‘food vans near me’ have increased by 30% in the last three months alone, while #foodvan has over 37.3 million views on TikTok.

To help point hungry customers to the best artisan street food vendors, new research from Vansdirect has revealed the UK’s most popular food vans that every food lover needs to visit.

The research, which analysed social media followings of all British Street Food Award winners and runners up over the last five years, found that Cardiff’s Fire and Flank is one the most Instagrammable food van in the country.

With an Instagram following of 10,100 people, this food van has quickly become a firm fixture of the Welsh street food community.

But it isn’t alone on this list. Bao Selecta also features on this list with its 8,300 Instagram followers. This staple of the Cardiff market has carved out a beloved niche with its inventive Taiwanese street food

10 of the most Instagrammable food vans in the UK

1.  Wanderers Kneaded – @wandererskneaded

Taking the streets of Edinburgh by storm, Wanderers Kneaded is not just a mobile pizzeria; it’s Italy on wheels. And their huge Instagram following and the numerous awards they’ve won only strengthen their status as the UK’s most instagrammable food truck.

2.  Flying Cows – @flyingcowsburgers

Flying Cows has been delighting burger aficionados since 2011 with their hand-balled, native breed beef burgers. Known for their dedication to quality, this iconic food van is home to the famous ‘High Flyer’ burger, the two-time winner of the UK’s best burger award.

3.  Unagi – @foodunagi

Born from a food truck in Altrincham during the 2020 lockdown, Unagi has risen to prominence with its Neo-Tokyo-inspired cuisine. Since then, it has expanded rapidly, now boasting multiple locations across Manchester. In just two years, Unagi has gone on to win People’s Choice at the 2022 British Street Food Awards, Northern Heats.

4.  Pizza Leonati – @leonati_catering

Another food truck that started during the pandemic, Leo Ferenc’s Pizza Leonati converted London taxis into mobile pizza ovens, delivering freshly baked pizzas in just 90 second. This bold concept has not only gained popularity locally, but it’s also earned Pizza Leonati a nomination for the prestigious British Street Food Awards.

5.  Bao Bros 23 – @baobros23

In the heart of West Yorkshire, Bao Bros 23 has redefined street food with their daring combinations. From crispy belly pork to Asian-style lobster and the revolutionary ‘bao dogs’, Dan Woodhead’s brainchild continues to captivate The North.

6.  LJ Hugs – @ljhugsx

LJ Hugs is a beloved fast-food spot in Bath and Bristol, winning the People’s Choice Champions title at the British Street Food Awards in 2021 and 2022.  Known for their tasty Cajun chicken bowls, LJ Hugs brings their passion for great street food wherever they go.

7.  Fire and Flank – @fireandflank

Based in Cardiff, Fire and Flank has earned recognition for its specialty in sous-vide steak, expertly seared and complemented with chimichurri for a Latin American twist. It has quickly become a firm fixture of the Welsh street food community.

8.  Homeboys – @homeboysuk

Born in Nottingham and crowned European Street Food Champions in 2019, Homeboys has become a street food sensation. Pete Hewitt’s creations, like crispy pig’s head nuggets and prawns with preserved lemon and green chilli kosho, have redefined street food excellence.

9.  Bao Selecta – @baoselecta

Cardiff’s own Bao Selecta has carved out a beloved niche with its inventive Taiwanese street food. Now, with a permanent spot in Cardiff Market, Bao Selecta continues to bring its passion for authentic flavours and creative flair to delighted customers.

10.   Oi Dumplings @oidumplings

Oi Dumplings, nestled in Marsden, West Yorkshire, brings the vibrant flavours of Vietnam to the picturesque village streets. Founded by Mollie Power and Maisie Davies, who drew inspiration from their teaching years in Vietnam, this cosy spot has gained renown as Champions of the North at this year’s British Street Food Awards. It has swiftly become a beloved destination for food aficionados, offering a taste of Asia’s culinary richness in the heart of northern England.

Sam Ward, Managing Director at Vansdirect, reflects on the street food scene, noting:

“There’s no denying that the UK has an amazing food scene and restaurant culture. However, our research shows that food vans are not to be sniffed at when it comes to trying delicious, quality dishes – and not to mention photogenic food too!

“From specialist vegan vans to authentic Middle Eastern food, our research shows the sheer variety of cuisines on offer at the nation’s most popular food vans. Whether you’re planning a staycation to another UK city or exploring your own hometown, it’s well worth searching on social media for the best food vans and street food spots to find casual, convenient, and Instagrammable places to eat.”

Inspired by Instagram to start your own food van business? Head over to the Vansdirect website to find the perfect van to fit your dream cuisine and to read more about this study of the nation’s best food vans.