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If you're searching for a vibrant culinary experience in Philadelphia, Cucina Zapata is a Mexican gem located at 3101 Ludlow St. This beloved food truck has captured the hearts—and appetites—of both locals and visitors alike. Reviews highlight consistently delicious offerings, from the crispy Chicken Katsu platter paired with perfectly cooked sticky rice to the enticing Cap'n Crunch Shrimp that keeps patrons coming back for more.
A standout feature of Cucina Zapata is its generous portion sizes combined with reasonable prices, ensuring excellent value for your meal. Many fans rave about the fresh, flavorful dishes, frequently recommending the temptation of getting your dish "bossed out" with their various, tasty sauces. The shrimp and unique curries receive special mentions, adding to the diverse menu that has evolved over time to include more seafood options.
The friendly and attentive service adds to the overall charm, making each visit memorable. Whether you're a former student returning for a nostalgic meal or a newcomer excited to explore, Cucina Zapata promises a delightful experience that is worth the wait—especially during lunch hours. Plan ahead, and dive into the delicious world of Cucina Zapata!
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Amenities & More
Service options
- Takeout
- Delivery
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Tourists
Reviews for Cucina Zapata
Review highlights
Based on 262 reviewsCucina Zapata is widely praised for its flavorful and generously portioned Mexican-inspired dishes, consistently delivering a satisfying dining experience. Reviewers frequently highlight the standout quality of the chicken katsu and seafood options, such as shrimp and tilapia, noting their crispiness and well-balanced seasoning. The menu's variety, including unique offerings like curries and flavorful sauces, adds to its appeal. Customers appreciate the friendly and attentive service, as well as the overall value, often considering it a top choice among local food trucks. The casual and approachable atmosphere makes it a popular destination for both students and returning patrons, with many expressing eagerness to revisit and explore more of the menu. Overall, Cucina Zapata maintains a strong reputation for quality, taste, and a welcoming environment.
Excellent food and attentive, friendly service! I had the Chicken Katsu platter (served with salad and sticky rice and I had the fried egg added). The chicken was so crisp, juicy and tasty! Sticky rice is my favorite kind of rice and it was cooked to perfection. My husband enjoyed the Cap'n Crunch Shrimp and we shared a side of delicious tortilla chips. All portions are very generous and there is ample (outdoor) seating close by if you're visiting the area and need a place to eat. I look forward to trying some of the other menu items soon!
The food was absolutely delicious, and I can't wait to go back and try a platter and a burrito! My friend got the chicken burrito and it looked excellent too. Thai coffee was really good, not extremely sweet, but tasty. The sriracha mayo they have is an excellent sauce. Highly recommend this food truck and can't wait to return
When I was a Drexel student I ate here at least once a week, and I have to visit every time I'm back in town! The Cap'n Crunch tilapia was a favorite of mine way back when, but in recent years they've also added things to their menu like salmon and shrimp which are both fantastic as well. The shrimp might just be my new go-to - so crunchy, succulent and delicious. I also love getting their curries whenever they have it. You can't go wrong with anything though - everything is fresh, flavorful and cooked perfectly. Whatever you order, I recommend getting it "bossed out" aka with all their tasty sauces. Portions are big, prices are reasonable and service is friendly. There is a wait during lunch hours so get there early or pre-order over Facebook or Instagram. Shout out to Rob and his amazing crew for the consistently incredible food!
the chicken katsu was one of the best burritos I've ever had. worth checking out
I’ve been going here since I was an undergrad, best value food truck experience and goes head to head with the halal trucks for a lunch pick
Used to go to Cucina Zapata 10 years ago and when I went by last week I was happy to see the menu is still the same and the prices remain reasonable. By far the best bang for your buck food truck in Philadelphia. Cannot get flavors like this anywhere else.
Absolute bang for the buck. I got the Katsu Platter as suggested by the many rave reviews. Perfect aromatic and sticky rice, handful of veggies/salad, topped with crispy light friend chicken katsu, and drizzled with Spicy Mayo and Sriracha. I got the fried egg as well. Sooooo goooodd and FRESH for 11. I’d recommend to eat it right away before the katsu loses its crisp. The box is sturdy enough to walk around and eat. Update: Went back for seconds. This time, I got the shrimp and salmon tacos. Giant fried prices of shrimp and salmon, veges, avocado, and their spicy mayo sriracha. Got the Thai Tea, which was really good (not too sweet, just the perfect sweetness). Everything here is amaze, but there is a line during lunch hours. Definitely worth it.
the best food truck in philly HANDS DOWNNNNN i have come here and put my friends on to this place as well and have never heard a disappointing review from anyone. get the chicken satay tacos they are so so full and so delicious u will not regret omfg. everything iv gotten has been good but that particularly is just 3 ANDDD ITS HALAL. lovely amazing W
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Quick info
Opening hours
- Monday (Today) Closed
- Tuesday 12:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Wednesday 12:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Thursday 12:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Friday 12:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Saturday Closed
- Sunday Closed
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