It’s the end of an era in Asheville’s food scene. After 14 delicious, love-filled, and unforgettable years, El Kimchi — the legendary Korean-Mexican fusion food truck — has officially hung up its aprons.
For many of us, El Kimchi wasn’t just another food truck. It was family. They’ve been here through everything — from the early days of Asheville’s growing food truck movement, through storms like Helene, through COVID, through it all. Whenever the community needed comfort, connection, or just a great meal with a smile, El Kimchi showed up — warm, welcoming, and always cooking from the heart.
I stopped by New Belgium on their final night, October 31, 2025, hoping to grab one last plate of their incredible Korean tacos and bibimbap. But by the time I arrived, they had already sold out — a fitting sendoff for such a loved and iconic Asheville staple. What they did have left was a small snack they had packed for their own ride home, and when they offered it to me, I tried to refuse — but they insisted. That’s just who they are.
Don, Joanne, Jimmy, and Iris — you are a part of Asheville’s soul. Your food wasn’t just good; it was honest. It was community, warmth, and love served on a plate.
In their heartfelt farewell message, they said it best:
“After a delicious, fun, and memorable 14 years of serving you, our loyal fans, the time has come for Don and Joanne to hang up our aprons and retire. We can’t think of a better way to say goodbye than where we often loved to be: our final serving will be at New Belgium on October 31st. We sincerely hope you’ll come on down one last time and celebrate with us. We’d love to say hello and thank you in person.”
And celebrate, Asheville did.
El Kimchi was one of the originals — bringing Korean flavors, fusion creativity, and genuine kindness to our streets long before food trucks became a trend. Their story is one of passion, perseverance, and heart.
So from all of us in Asheville and Western North Carolina — thank you for the food, the friendship, and the love. You’ve left a flavor and a feeling that will never fade.
Enjoy your well-deserved retirement, El Kimchi family. You’ve fed our bodies and our spirits for over a decade — and for that, we’ll always be grateful.
From our family to yours — we love you forever. ❤️
