Cucina Zapata

4.9 ( 262 reviews )
Checking... 12:00 AM - 5:00 PM See Hours
$10–20
3101 Ludlow St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States

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!

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Service options
    • Offers takeaway
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Serves healthy options
    • Quick bite
    • Serves small plates
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
  • Amenities
    • No toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Popular with tourists
    • Popular with university students
  • Planning
    • Usually has a wait
    • Doesn't accept reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
  • Parking
    • Paid street parking

Reviews For Cucina Zapata

Alyse Robayo
Jun 27,2025
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!
Torin McFarland
Jun 17,2025
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
Joycelin Wong
Jun 7,2025
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!
Chris Baker
May 17,2025
the chicken katsu was one of the best burritos I've ever had. worth checking out
Shawn Rashid
May 6,2025
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
Dylan Dignan
Mar 25,2025
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.
Pavan Kumar
Mar 21,2025
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.
laiba khan
Mar 16,2025
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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