You must try Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Oahu.

What may seem at first like a run-down, graffitied truck that has seen better days is actually an institution that you must try when you visit Oahu.

Famous for its garlic shrimp and its white trucks, Giovanni’s Shrimp is truly worthy of their fame.

Locations

Giovanni’s is open from 10:30 am to 5 pm daily and has three locations on Oahu—two on the North Shore and the new one in Honolulu.

I visited the location on Haleiwa, right off Kamehameha Highway. This location is in a food truck park, with multiple vendors (trucks), but guess which one had the lines. If you guessed Giovanni’s, then you’re right there with me.

I was amazed at how long the line was when we arrived.

But like any faithful foodie who desires to try new foods, I patiently waited. I’m glad I did.

Not only is Giovanni’s a tourist food stop, but it is also very famous among the locals.

Can you really write your name?

Yes, you can!!!

The cool thing is that they allow you to write your name on the shrimp truck(s), which is pretty awesome. Not many businesses let you “vandalize” their property, but here at Giovanni’s, it’s encouraged.

As a matter of fact, when I visited, I forgot to bring a marker; the workers kindly let me borrow one. There was only one thing in mind I could write. And so I did. My name and my wife’s and the year we visited.

Only Shrimp on this truck?

Part of their success is consistency, which is made well by having a limited menu. Very limited, by the way.

Personally, I went after a shrimp plate, but they also sell a jumbo garlic hot dog, which is a great alternative for those with shellfish allergies.

So, whether you’re a local, a tourist, or a returning visitor, you will get your money’s worth. For sure, when in Oahu, you must try Giovanni’s.

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