Planning an event in London and considering a food truck? Whether it’s a corporate gathering in Canary Wharf, a wedding in Richmond, or a staff summer party in Shoreditch, food trucks bring convenience, character, and delicious food straight to your venue. Instead of worrying about kitchens, staff, or complex logistics, you can let the truck roll up and serve guests fresh meals everyone will remember.
At Born & Raised Collective, we connect you with trusted food trucks across the UK & Ireland. If you’re hosting an event in London, here are helpful tips to make your catering a success — plus answers to common questions about booking food trucks in the city.
Why Choose Food Trucks for London Events?
London offers endless venues, but many come with limited catering choices or expensive packages. A food truck solves these problems by providing mobile catering that suits your style, guest numbers, and budget. For example, food trucks are popular for:
- Corporate events – Impress clients or reward staff with something different.
- Weddings – Add personality with street food, desserts, or late-night snacks.
- Private parties – Celebrate birthdays or anniversaries with casual, flexible catering.
- Film shoots – Keep cast and crew fuelled with fresh food on set.
With such variety available, there’s always a food truck in London to fit your occasion.
10 Tips for Booking a Food Truck in London
1. Confirm Your Guest Numbers
Your guest count sets the foundation for your booking. It affects how many trucks you’ll need, how quickly guests can be served, and your costs. For large corporate events with 200+ people, you may need two trucks. However, for a smaller wedding, one carefully chosen truck is usually enough.
2. Set a Realistic Budget
Food truck catering in London comes in a range of prices. Decide if you want one truck or extras such as a dessert or coffee option. Setting your budget early means you can match the right supplier to your event without surprises later on.
3. Think About Location
Venues in London vary from narrow streets in Soho to open areas along the Thames. Because of this, you’ll need to confirm access and parking for your chosen truck. Most require a flat, safe space and room for serving windows. If your venue has restrictions, check for nearby alternatives.
4. Match Cuisine to Your Crowd
London’s food truck scene is diverse, offering everything from gourmet burgers to vegan menus. Consider your guests and event theme. For example, a formal wedding may call for stylish street food, while a staff fun day might suit comfort classics. Matching the food to the audience always enhances the event.
5. Keep Menus Simple
Guests don’t need endless options. A menu of two or three dishes keeps queues short and ensures quality. In fact, the best trucks already know which dishes work best for large groups. By focusing on favourites, you make the experience smoother for everyone.
6. Plan Guest Seating
Even casual catering benefits from a little planning. Make sure there are seats, tables, or standing areas so guests can enjoy their meals comfortably. Adding napkin and cutlery stations is also a simple but useful touch.
7. Create Excitement Before the Event
Don’t keep the truck a secret. Mention it in invitations or staff emails. Guests love knowing a food truck will be there, and this anticipation builds buzz before the event even starts. It also helps guests prepare for a more relaxed, social vibe.
8. Time It Right
Food trucks need time to set up. Make sure they arrive well before service begins so they are ready when your guests are hungry. Similarly, plan for pack-down time after service. Good timing keeps the day flowing without delays.
9. Add Extra Help if Needed
Food truck staff focus on cooking and serving. For bigger events, consider hiring extra helpers for clearing tables, managing waste, or guest support. As a result, your venue stays tidy, and guests enjoy themselves without distractions.
10. Don’t Forget Dessert or Coffee
A dessert or coffee truck is often the highlight of the night. At London weddings, late-night snacks are popular, while corporate guests often welcome coffee breaks. Adding this small extra can leave a lasting impression.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a food truck in London?
Prices depend on the type of food, event size, and length of service. A small gathering may cost a few hundred pounds, while a large wedding or corporate event with multiple trucks could be over a thousand. The advantage is clear pricing — many food trucks charge per guest, so you know costs in advance. To compare suppliers easily, check Born & Raised Collective.
Can food trucks handle dietary needs?
Yes. Most London food trucks can adapt menus for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. Some even specialise in healthy or allergy-friendly food. Discuss your needs early so the truck can prepare. On Born & Raised Collective, you can filter trucks by dietary options.
Do I need permission to hire a food truck in London?
It depends on your venue. Private venues usually allow food trucks if access is safe. Public spaces may require council permits. Always confirm with your venue first, and work with experienced suppliers who know the local rules. Listings on Born & Raised Collective can guide you through this process.
How many food trucks will I need?
One truck may be enough for a small event. For weddings with 150+ guests, two trucks help reduce queues and give variety. For corporate events with hundreds of staff, more trucks may be required. Ask each supplier how many guests they can serve per hour, then plan accordingly.
What makes food truck catering different from traditional catering?
Food truck catering combines flexibility with entertainment. Unlike traditional catering, food is cooked fresh in front of guests. This creates a lively, social atmosphere while still delivering high-quality meals. For London events, where variety and energy matter, food trucks add an extra layer of fun and convenience.
Food Trucks Make London Events Easy
From corporate functions in Canary Wharf to weddings in Richmond, food trucks are more than just catering — they’re part of the experience. They simplify planning, bring unique food, and create memories guests talk about long after the event ends.
If you’re searching for the right food truck in London, explore Born & Raised Collective. You’ll find trusted suppliers ready to make your event unforgettable.
