The Rice Wagon - Hawaiian restaurant in Bryson City, Tennessee
TSM PickHawaiian restaurant

The Rice Wagon

Bryson City90 Everett St Bryson City NC 28713
9.6
Exceptional

Best For

Tourists seeking authentic local dining experiences • Groups looking for shareable, generous portions • Visitors craving Hawaiian cuisine in the mountains

Pro Tip

Order combo options for sharing to experience multiple dishes and maximize value

About The Rice Wagon

The Rice Wagon brings authentic Hawaiian-Korean fusion to downtown Bryson City, parked behind Mountain Layers Brewing Company. This food truck has built such a devoted following that people regularly drive from Asheville and beyond for their perfectly executed island favorites. The chicken katsu stands out as their signature dish - consistently crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and served with their house-made katsu sauce that locals rave about. Their ahi tuna poke bowls offer a fresh, light option while the tender kalua pork delivers traditional Hawaiian comfort food at its best.

The menu reflects both Hawaiian classics and Korean influences, with everything made to order. Each plate comes with their signature coconut rice and macaroni salad - proper Hawaiian style. The portions are generous, making the value exceptional for a casual lunch or dinner. You'll find locals and tourists alike gathering at the brewery's outdoor tables, enjoying their Rice Wagon meals with craft beers from Mountain Layers.

As a food truck, wait times can vary during peak hours, but the quality makes it worth planning ahead. The staff brings genuine aloha spirit to every interaction, happy to explain menu items to first-timers or accommodate special requests when possible. This isn't just another food truck - it's a testament to how authentic Hawaiian cuisine can thrive in the most unexpected places, bringing a taste of the Pacific to the Smoky Mountains.

For the best experience, follow their social media for daily specials and any schedule changes typical of mobile eateries.

Last updated: February 22, 2026 • Based on 750 reviews

Amenities & Features

Chicken katsu praised as crispy, moist, and authentically Japanese-styleAhi tuna bowls and kalua pork described as must-have and addictiveMacaroni salad so good it converts people who normally don't like mac saladHurricane chicken and mahi curry dishes consistently rated as exceptional

Opening Hours

Monday12 to 8 PM
Tuesday12 to 8 PM
Wednesday12 to 8 PM
Thursday12 to 8 PM
Friday12 to 8 PM
Saturday12 to 8 PM
Sunday12 to 8 PM

Best Times to Visit The Rice Wagon

For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.

🔥Buzzing
Fridays & Saturdays 6PM - 9PM
☀️Relaxed
Weekday lunches 11AM - 2PM

Tags

Top RatedHighly Reviewed

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for The Rice Wagon?

Check our opening hours section for current times. Hours may vary seasonally.

Is The Rice Wagon family-friendly?

Yes, The Rice Wagon welcomes visitors of all ages. It's a popular destination for families visiting Bryson City.

How do I get to The Rice Wagon?

The Rice Wagon is located at 90 Everett St Bryson City NC 28713. Use the directions button for navigation.