They offer a fantastic selection of Puerto Rican cuisine. We tried their shrimp empanadas, which were stuffed with well-seasoned shrimp. They are great options if you want something other than burgers and pizza. Special touch: service with a friendly smile. Thanks again, from Lolelolay Less

Tropical Food Shack is a true hidden gem in the greater Brandon/Valrico area—an absolute must-visit for any foodie with a passion for authentic flavors. My husband and I, both self-professed foodies, were instantly captivated by the truck’s vibrant, inviting appearance and the unmistakable aroma of freshly prepared, mouthwatering Puerto Rican cuisine reminiscent of beachside Kiosk in Puerto Rico.Every dish is made to order, bursting with freshness and authenticity. While you won’t find the typical rice and beans, the menu offers a dazzling array of treats. Enjoy Puertorican fritters (Frituras) that are crispy and perfectly seasoned, hearty sandwiches available at any time of the day, and a range of grab-and-go delights. The empanadas are generously stuffed with high-quality meats, proving to be a filling and flavorful treat. Their standout amazing Sliders— Known in Puerto Rico as “Jibaritos” instead of traditional bread it’s two crunchy, flattened fried plantains, loaded with your choice of shrimp, chicken, or beef, all seasoned to perfection.It’s important to note that this cuisine is distinctly casual and captures the spirit of Puerto Rican beach food. There’s no traditional sit-down dining here; instead, you have the option to grab your meal and stand at the hi-top tables or order to take home. This fast, friendly approach perfectly mirrors the vibrant, laid-back culture of Puerto Rico’s coastal kiosk eateries.Beyond the food, the owners and staff make you feel like part of the community with their warm, welcoming demeanor. The truck itself is beautifully designed, inviting you in with its colorful exterior and energetic vibe. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite on the go or taking home a delicious meal to enjoy later, Tropical Food Shack offers an unparalleled taste of authentic Puerto Rican beachside casual cuisine at very reasonable prices.For anyone looking to treat themselves to a genuine, fresh, and authentic experience, this is a must-try destination. Enjoy the fusion of tradition and creativity that makes every bite an adventure! Less

Tropical Food Shack is a very flavorful food truck featuring great twists on Puerto Rican and Latin staples. The owners are super friendly, proud, and eager to please. I went later at night while my kid was at martial arts class next door. The food was cooked to order, fresh and tasty. The shrimp skewers/pinchos were big and tasty. The "Shacktrami" sandwich was instantly devoured by my kids after class. The Hawaiian Tostones were crunchy and the house sauce was unique and I also enjoyed the traditional mayoketchup. I couldn't leave without taking an empanadilla home to the wife. I highly recommend this spot, because even though it was later in the day, the food was true to taste and fresh.Esta muy bueno! I shall return! Less

I'd love to give 5 stars because the empanadas were sooo delicious. Whoever makes them has serious talent! But the food truck is new and has some room for improvement. The food truck is well designed...bright and fun. Menu is easy to read. Prices are fair. No customers were there when we arrived. We ordered 2 empanadas and fries. I thought they'd drop them in the fryer and they'd be done in a few minutes but we waited 30 minutes. No chairs so we just stood up to wait 30 minutes. We got pinacolada for $9 and it came in a cute souvenir cup. It was yummy but had big ice chunks in it. If the drink was served first instead of with the food that would have made the 30 minute wait better. The fries were good. I'd love to get their empanadas again but I think we should order ahead. I heard another customer say the breakfast sandwiches are huge and delicious. I'd like to try this place again someday. I'd probably give 5 stars if their wait time was shorter and their frozen drinks more blended. Less

Fast but most importantly friendly service. Everything is made with fresh ingredients and is made when you order. Absolutely delicious, I'll definitely be back! Also great bang for your buck! Less

Tropical Food Shack in Valrico is one of those places that instantly catches your attention. They’re all about bringing authentic Puerto Rican flavors to the table, with favorites like pinchos, empanadillas, and even piña coladas served in these cool custom bottles. But what really makes this place special is Jorge and Mindy. You can tell they’ve put so much heart into it—everything from the food to the vibe just feels intentional and welcoming. They’re the kind of owners who care about making sure every customer has an awesome experience. If you’re into good food with a little island flair, Tropical Food Shack seems like a spot worth checking out. Less