Our Story

From Honolulu to the Smokies

The story of Rice Wagon begins in Honolulu, Hawaii, where our owner, Jeremiah Chatham, was born and raised. Surrounded by the flavors of the islands, food was always more than a meal—it was family, community, and a way of sharing Aloha.

After making a home in Western North Carolina, our family wanted to share the food we grew up loving with the community we now call home. In 2019, that dream became Rice Wagon—a one-person food truck operation built through hard work, family recipes, and a genuine love for feeding people.

Since then, Rice Wagon has grown into two permanent locations in Bryson City and Cherokee. Although we have grown, the heart of our business remains the same.

We are proud to be known for generous portions, authentic island flavor, and food that keeps people coming back. More importantly, we are proud to welcome every customer like family.

From Honolulu to the mountains of Western North Carolina, we are honored to serve Aloha in the Smokies—one plate at a time.