LUBBOCK, Texas — A new food truck opened up in Lubbock over the weekend and is bringing something new to the community’s taste buds. Kai’z Grindz, a Hawaiian food truck, had a great response from the community said owner, Bud Willis.
Willis, a Hawaii native, said the food truck opened up on Sunday and had a line before it officially opened for the day.
Cooking has been a passion for Willis who said he’s always had a knack for it. In college, he would sell food out of his dorm room, and around 2021, Willis said he would sell plates of Hawaiian food out of his home. He would prepare dozens of plates a day, all made fresh, Willis added.
At that time, Willis was encouraged to open a food truck but he knew it wasn’t the right time. In 2024, Willis knew it was time to finally open up Kai’z Grindz and give Lubbock a taste of his home.
“There’s nothing better than seeing the look on people’s faces when they try my food,” Willis said.
Last weekend, Willis said didn’t have set prices for his food and instead accepted donations. The feedback he received was better than he ever expected. Willis said he even had family from Hawaii donating.
“I feel blessed to be able to give the community something that’s 2,000 miles away,” said Willis.
Willis said he enjoys his food truck because it allows him to have a flexible schedule and spend time with his family.
Kai’z Grindz can be found in the At Home parking lot on Wednesday evening and on Saturday at Two Docs’ Saint Patrick’s Day celebration. To see more Kai’z Grindz updates, you can catch them on social media here.
