Hawaii Currents | A Guide for Modern-Day Honolulu

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THYDA’S TACOS

Award-winning food truck making delicious street tacos

[1034 Queen St, Honolulu]

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Ever found yourself craving an authentic, mouth-watering taco? Not the homemade crunchy-shelled kind or the fast-food version, but a soft corn tortilla creation garnished with pickled carrots, radishes, and jalapeños. For that true taste of Mexico in Honolulu, visit the small-but-mighty food truck: Thyda's Tacos (pronounced tee-dahs tah-koes).

Customers can sit on a wooden bench shaded by an oversized red umbrella and lush plants as they wait for their orders

This unassuming slice of heaven is located across the street from Whole Foods, between Flaco’s barber shop and a hula dance studio. The brightly decorated truck, adorned with a wide variety of stickers, sits against a mural tribute to basketball legend Kobe Bryant. Customers can grab a drink from coolers filled with Jarritos sodas and water bottles. The menu tempts with tacos, burritos, rice bowls, quesadillas (made with a flour tortilla), mulitas (made with corn tortillas), and chips+salsa.

From lunchtime until closing, eager patrons form a brisk-moving line. Thyda's Tacos caters to meat lovers and vegans, spicy fans and mild mavens, cilantro enthusiasts, and those who'd rather skip it. On Taco Tuesday, the line grows even longer, but the efficient and dedicated team at Thyda's ensures no one waits too long.

Everything I’ve tried at Thyda's is delightful, from the carnitas tacos and jackfruit burritos to the tender, melt-in-your-mouth barbacoa. And what makes this establishment even more of a pleasure to visit is the customer service and the passion and heart which this family-owned business exudes. Thyda's is not just about great food; it's a story of family, love, and delectable cuisine.

Seeking flavor? Thyda's Tacos can come garnished with pickled veggies, diced onion, and lime.

Thyda, the Cambodian-born culinary talent behind Thyda's Tacos, grew up in California, immersed in exceptional Mexican food. She developed a passion for the cuisine and dreamt of running her own venture. In 2013, Thyda, her American-born, Saudi Arabian husband, Majed “Magic” Alabdali, and his brother Abdullah, traded corporate careers and relocated from Los Angeles to launch their food truck in O'ahu. Their motto? "When people eat good food, they're happy."

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Thyda's Tacos uses high-quality ingredients and prepares dishes fresh to order. The constant flow of customers keeps the team busy from the moment they open. Situated in a popular neighborhood, the truck draws a diverse crowd: construction workers, office employees, medical professionals, students, and beachgoers, all united by their love for scrumptious food.

Take a chance and try something new from their menu each visit. You might discover a favorite dish you never knew existed. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Thyda's Tacos offers a flavorful experience you won't forget. The warmth and dedication of its owners make it more than just a food truck; it's a place where connections are made, stories are shared, and happiness is served one taco at a time.