Is Kamekona’s Shrimp Truck From Hawaii Five-0 Real?

As a devoted fan of the long-running TV series Hawaii Five-0, I’m often asked if Kamekona’s iconic shrimp truck featured on the show actually exists in real life. After all, those enticing scenes of McGarrett, Danno, and the rest of the Five-0 team chowing down on succulent garlic shrimp plates at Kamekona’s truck sure do look mouthwatering.

So is this famous Hawaiian food truck real or just Hollywood magic? Let’s unravel the mysteries behind Kamekona’s shrimp truck and whether you can sample the same scrumptious plates seen on the show when visiting Oahu.

The History of Kamekona on Hawaii Five-0

On Hawaii Five-0, the role of Kamekona Tupuola is played by Taylor Wily, a native Hawaiian actor. He first appeared in Season 1 as a confidential informant helping McGarrett on various cases.

The character of Kamekona is an ex-convict trying to live a lawful life after doing time. He runs the King Kamehameha Club, a gathering place for native Hawaiians that serves food, drinks and entertainment.

Later in Season 3, McGarrett helps Kamekona fulfill his dream of buying a food truck. His shrimp truck, called “Kamekona’s Shrimp Truck,” becomes a regular Oahu spot frequented by the Hawaii Five-0 team. They visit for casual bites or to get Kamekona’s insights on ongoing cases.

So while Kamekona provides helpful intel as an informant, he also evolves into a trusted friend His shrimp truck serves as a reliable, comfortable gathering place for the team to kick back, grab a meal, and seek Kamekona’s assistance when needed

Kamekona’s Famous Truck is Fictional

Unfortunately Kamekona’s mouthwatering shrimp truck and the plump sizzling shrimp plates prepared on the show are products of excellent TV magic rather than reality.

The truck itself seen on Hawaii Five-0 does not actually exist as an eatery on Oahu. The scenes are shot on a studio backlot, with prop trucks standing in for the real thing. Those jumbo shrimp grilling away are food stylist creations, not dishes from a genuine Oahu chef.

So while you can visit many of the iconic Oahu beaches and landmarks seen on Hawaii Five-0, Kamekona’s truck is not a real-world spot you can experience.

Check Out Other Popular Oahu Shrimp Trucks

Although Kamekona’s food truck isn’t real, Oahu does have a fantastic food truck scene with delicious options for shrimp plates and Hawaiian favorites like garlic shrimp, coconut shrimp, and more:

• Big T’s Shrimp Truck – Known for 6 shrimp plates styles and sides like mac salad and rice.

• Red Shrimp Food Truck – Famous for tasty garlic shrimp and Hawaiian-Mexican fusion dishes.

• Macky’s Shrimp Truck – A North Shore staple for shrimp, poke bowls, and shave ice.

• Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – Two locations serving up garlic butter shrimp cooked fresh to order.

• Fia Fia Shrimp – Located in the Salt complex, with an extensive menu of shrimp plates.

While not exact copies of Kamekona’s fictional spot, these popular trucks can still provide mouthwatering, satisfying shrimp meals. Just don’t expect to spot McGarrett or Danno in line!

Other Oahu Spots for Hawaii Five-0 Fans

If visiting Oahu and wanting to experience familiar Hawaii Five-0 touchstones, there are some actual shooting locations you can check out:

• Kuhio Beach Huts – McGarrett’s beachside home on the show.

• National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific – Featured in several episodes.

• La Mariana Sailing Club – A classic tiki bar shown as co-owned by Kamekona on Hawaii Five-0.

Though not a real place, Kamekona’s shrimp truck anchored many memorable scenes during Hawaii Five-0’s ten seasons. Visiting Oahu offers a chance to soak up the island ambience captured on the show. And be sure to try shrimp from one of Oahu’s famed food trucks – just don’t expect to spy Kamekona manning the grill!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the shrimp truck on Hawaii Five-0 real?

Unfortunately no, Kamekona’s famous shrimp truck is fictional and was created through production design and props for the show.

Which Giovanni’s shrimp truck is the original?

Giovanni’s Original White Shrimp Truck which started in 1993 in Kahuku is considered the original. Its success led to other trucks opening to sell shrimp along the North Shore.

Who plays the shrimp truck guy on Hawaii Five-0?

Actor Taylor Wily, a native Hawaiian, portrays the role of Kamekona Tupuola on Hawaii Five-0.

Is Big T’s shrimp truck still open in Honolulu?

No, Big T’s Shrimp Truck is reported as closed as of early 2024.

So while you can’t experience Kamekona’s actual shrimp truck from Hawaii Five-0, visiting Oahu still offers the chance to enjoy the island spirit of the show. Be sure to sample shrimp from one of the island’s many tasty local food trucks during your stay.