A distinctive vegan Latin food truck with exceptionally well-liked pasteles, burgers, rice, plantains, and juices, but confirm its current hours and location before traveling because several reviews report operational and navigation problems.
Planteles Plant-Based earns its standing through exceptional food quality and warm, attentive owner-led service that consistently impresses diners with fresh pasteles, burgers, and housemade sauces. The food truck format and modest setting prevent a higher grade, though the destination appeal and loyal following underscore genuine culinary merit that transcends its casual venue.
Planteles Plant-Based is a tucked-away vegan food truck where the setting is humble but the welcome is unusually personal. Reviews describe a parking-lot stop beside a building, occasional folding chairs, and an owner who explains the menu, offers samples, and sometimes goes well beyond normal delivery service. The recurring feeling is that of discovering a small operation with real heart: one diner summed it up as food that “feels like home,” while others say it is worth the drive. The cooking blends Dominican and Caribbean comfort-food cues with modern vegan substitutions. Pasteles, chimi-style burgers, dirty rice, plantains, yuca fries, falafel, and fresh juices give the menu a broader range than a standard vegan burger truck. Current prices are moderate, with mains generally around $12.90-$16.95, although one detailed review found the portions light for the price. The strongest case for visiting is flavor and cultural identity, especially if you want vegan food that feels soulful rather than purely health-oriented. Families can find approachable choices: the current menu includes a Traditional Burger, fries, yuca fries, sweet plantains, falafel, and the $12.95 El Lonche, alongside more distinctive pasteles and locrio. Reviews from non-vegan adults and families are highly encouraging, but the informal parking-lot seating, possible wait, and all-vegan format may be less convenient for very young or highly selective eaters. Check availability before going, particularly if children need a predictable meal.
Area vibe: Suburban industrial and commercial hub with easy highway and transit access.
Safety: Generally safe during the day; sparse sidewalks and lower foot traffic at night so exercise usual caution.
What's nearby: Near the Secaucus Junction rail station, Meadowlands sports/entertainment complex, Jersey City/NYC commuter corridors, and large retail/industrial sites.
The standout order is a Caribbean-style pastel or Dirty Rice, but the $12.95 lunch special may be the smartest way to sample both.
Plan for an informal parking-lot stop, a possible 20-minute-plus wait, and a little homework before you drive there.
The flavors and cultural character justify the spend for many diners, though portions can feel modest unless you choose the lunch special.