Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

San Jose, CA

North America

United States

# LillieMae’s House of Soul Food – Authentic Soul Food Experience in San Jose, CA
LillieMae’s House of Soul Food is a beloved food truck located in San Jose, CA, specializing in soul food that brings a taste of the South to the Bay Area. Known for its fried catfish and Southern fried chicken, this food truck has garnered attention for its flavorful offerings and community presence. With a history rooted in a passion for soul food, LillieMae’s has become a staple at local events like the Parade of Champions, where it showcases its menu to eager patrons. Customers rave about the freshness and quality of the food, although experiences can vary, reflecting the dynamic nature of food truck operations.

## History
### The story of LillieMae’s House of Soul Food
LillieMae’s House of Soul Food was founded with a vision to bring authentic Southern cuisine to the diverse culinary landscape of San Jose. The food truck aims to provide comfort food that resonates with the rich cultural heritage of soul food, characterized by its hearty flavors and traditional recipes. The founder's commitment to quality and community engagement has been pivotal in establishing the truck's reputation.

### Milestones and growth
- Transitioned from a brick-and-mortar restaurant to a food truck model.
- Gained popularity at local events, notably the Parade of Champions.
- Expanded menu offerings based on customer feedback and preferences.
- Developed a loyal customer base that appreciates the authenticity of the cuisine.

### Cultural and local influence
LillieMae’s has played a significant role in introducing soul food to the San Jose community, where such cuisine is relatively rare. The food truck serves as a cultural bridge, allowing residents to experience traditional Southern dishes that might otherwise be inaccessible. Its presence at local events fosters a sense of community and celebration of diverse culinary traditions.

### Continuing the tradition
The commitment to preserving the essence of soul food is evident in LillieMae’s approach to cooking. The truck continues to honor traditional recipes while adapting to modern tastes and dietary preferences. This dedication ensures that each dish served is not only delicious but also a reflection of the cultural significance behind soul food.

## Community
### Community involvement
LillieMae’s House of Soul Food actively engages with the local community by participating in events and festivals that celebrate cultural diversity. The food truck often collaborates with local organizations to support community initiatives, making it a beloved fixture in San Jose. This involvement helps to strengthen community ties and promotes a shared appreciation for soul food.

### Community notion about the place
The community views LillieMae’s as a valuable addition to the local food scene. Many patrons express their excitement about having access to soul food, which is often hard to find in the area. The food truck is seen as a gathering place where people can enjoy good food and connect with others who share a love for Southern cuisine.

### Events and gatherings
LillieMae’s frequently participates in local events, such as food festivals and parades, where it showcases its menu and engages with customers. These gatherings provide an opportunity for the truck to introduce new dishes and receive direct feedback from patrons. The lively atmosphere at these events enhances the overall dining experience, making it memorable for attendees.

## Offerings
### What LillieMae’s offers
LillieMae’s House of Soul Food specializes in a variety of traditional Southern dishes that highlight the flavors and ingredients characteristic of soul food. The menu includes items like fried catfish, Southern fried chicken, and a selection of sides that complement the main dishes. The food truck aims to provide a satisfying and authentic dining experience for all customers.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at LillieMae’s is designed to be casual and welcoming. Customers can expect freshly prepared meals made to order, ensuring that each dish is served at its peak flavor. The food truck's commitment to quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods is evident in the taste and presentation of the food, making it a popular choice among locals.

### Events and packages
LillieMae’s offers catering services for events, allowing customers to enjoy soul food at gatherings such as parties, weddings, and corporate events. The food truck can customize menus based on the specific needs of the event, ensuring that guests experience the full range of flavors that soul food has to offer. This flexibility makes LillieMae’s a go-to option for those looking to celebrate with delicious cuisine.

### Facilities and features
- Food truck model for mobility and accessibility.
- Participation in local events and festivals.
- Customizable catering options for various occasions.
- Focus on fresh, made-to-order meals.

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Customer reviews of LillieMae’s House of Soul Food reveal a mixed bag of experiences. Many patrons praise the food for its flavor and authenticity, while others express disappointment with certain aspects of service and food quality. This variability highlights the challenges food trucks face in maintaining consistency.

### Compliments and strengths
Positive reviews often highlight the freshness of the ingredients and the deliciousness of signature dishes like fried catfish and fried chicken. Customers appreciate the quick service and the friendly demeanor of the staff, which contributes to a pleasant dining experience. The food truck's participation in community events also garners praise, as it fosters a sense of connection among patrons.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Conversely, some customers have reported negative experiences, particularly regarding food quality and service inconsistencies. Issues such as cold food, burnt sides, and limited menu options have been noted. These contrasts serve as important feedback for the food truck to improve its offerings and customer service.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, LillieMae’s House of Soul Food presents a unique opportunity for locals to enjoy authentic soul food in San Jose. While the food truck has its strengths, including flavorful dishes and community involvement, it also faces challenges in maintaining consistent quality and service. Addressing these issues could enhance the overall customer experience.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
LillieMae’s House of Soul Food is located at 2369 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95051, in the vibrant city of San Jose. This area is known for its diverse culinary scene and proximity to various attractions. Visitors can explore nearby parks, shopping centers, and cultural sites, making it an ideal stop for those looking to enjoy a meal while experiencing the local community. The food truck's location allows easy access for both locals and visitors, contributing to its popularity.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does LillieMae’s serve** LillieMae’s specializes in soul food, offering dishes like fried catfish and Southern fried chicken.  
**Where is LillieMae’s located** The food truck is located at 2369 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95051.  
**Does LillieMae’s offer catering services** Yes, LillieMae’s provides customizable catering options for events and gatherings.  
**What are the hours of operation for LillieMae’s** Hours may vary; check their social media for the latest updates.  
**Is there parking available near LillieMae’s** Parking availability may vary depending on the location of the food truck at events.

## Visit LillieMae’s House of Soul Food Today
Experience the rich flavors of soul food at LillieMae’s House of Soul Food in San Jose, CA. With a commitment to quality and community, this food truck offers a delightful array of Southern dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re attending a local event or looking for a quick meal, LillieMae’s provides a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food that reflects the heart of soul food tradition. Don't miss out on the opportunity to taste the authentic offerings that have made this food truck a favorite among locals.

ad31e12c-6378-4b6b-8eea-aec0d08ca558

Soul Food is a rarity here in Santa Clara so was pretty excited to find this food truck at Santa Clara's Parade of Champions. On the menu today was fried catfish, perfect! Nothing says soul food more than catfish and I've been craving it for some time. The catfish is amazing. The fish itself is fresh and I love the breading and subtle flavors. The fries and cornbread that round out the meal are both very solid sides. It's a little wait for the food but in that time I spoke with fans that follow the truck because of their great food. They were a little sad some of their favorites were not available but they ended up going with the fried okra for today. They offered me a bite and amazing! I'd never had tried the okra otherwise and will have to come back for it when the truck pops up again. I like how the truck stands out and presents itself as an elevated food truck experience is very fitting to the ambiance of what you'll be getting.

1489e937-de66-46a3-b4ca-060b70532adb

Not sure if this the same ppl who run the snack bar at foothill square bingo. If so I ordered a hot link with grilled onions. When my buzzer went off went straight to get my food. Hot link was COLD pink inside and grilled onions were BURNT! Coke was FLAT $11 what a disappointment. I was offended my money back I left the link and told her to keep the money. NEVER AGAIN plus it always smell like the grease is burning. I miss Tammy she had really good prices. Food was delicious! A lot of different things to choose from.

4b2559ec-2378-40f9-96d2-43ac78ce5c26

Delicious, healthy and the perfect start to the day. The coffee was strong, the food was fresh and flavorful. Watch out for the spices if you're not serious about hot peppers. I loved everything about this place. Great recipes, made quick to order, and adjustable to food sensitivities.

7e6cd7fe-edc6-433f-81ea-79f42cdb812b

The Food was delicious, The service was very professional and on time.,, easy to manage from phone call to set up. They thought of everything seamless to work with.

8df991cf-1edd-4523-a126-cc38dfb9bddd

Rhonda was the sweetest, food was amazing!! Good location, parking was easy, fast service.

a859f332-c538-41a2-95c2-bdf483a1cc06

They block the parking lot and refuse others from parking there. Very disrespectful and were all too happy to lie. I wouldn't go here after speaking to them.

7bb36570-48a0-4194-b3c6-3bb6d9f33989

Was excited when this came up in my search. Unfortunately it is NOT located at 2670 W. El Camino. The owners of the Elite Event Center were surprised when we arrived at their facility at this address, and had never heard of LillieMaes. Where have you gone Lillie Mae? I miss your food. Please remove the false web listing, or update it with your current address.

77316994-473a-4e5b-85fa-d0b597f1b1d8

i'm sorry but NO. huge waste of money! lillie mae's food truck showed up at my job today and i was so excited to order the fried catfish bc that's my ishh! i remember eating lillie mae's a long time ago when they had their restaurant and i remember i wasn't a fan. now its confirmed i am still not. i'm sorry but i expected more from this place, being that it's one of the very few soul food spots in the south bay. anyways, let me start by saying when i asked for tartar sauce for my fish, they said they had NONE! now, if i would have knew this i never would have ordered! i cannot eat my fish without the tartar sauce its just not it. my plate also came with fries and a piece of cornbread.. the fries were HARD almost raw! and the cornbread was so flavorless, almost felt like i was eating a piece of dry, white bread. cornbread is supposed to be YELLOW AND SWEET! and then, the lady said there was ketchup and hot sauce in my box already.. girl it was one little packet of each! what i'm supposed to do with that? only ate 2 pieces of my dry a** fish and like 2 fries.. im PISSED and i will never recommend Lillie Mae's to anyone! i'll just keep my business at Jackie's Place in san jose, now that's SOUL FOOOOOD!

5d1f5b32-4367-4d4e-b514-c1a5e75a1585

I was in the mood for Southern fried chicken and was surprised to find LillieMae's in the neighborhood. Their old location used to be by the San Jose airport. I ordered the 3 piece fried chicken with 2 sides. The fried chicken was crispy, juicy, and cooked perfectly. For sides, I had the potato salad and mac'n cheese which were tasty. The order came with a large slice of moist and delicious corn bread. The food was YUM!

Discover LillieMae’s House of Soul Food in Santa Clara, CA. Savor authentic southern flavors in a cozy setting. Visit now for a delicious culinary experience.

LillieMae’s House of Soul Food in Santa Clara, CA - Authentic Southern Cuisine

Santa Clara County

LillieMae’s House of Soul Food

California

Explore the full menu at LillieMae’s House of Soul Food in San Jose. Discover signature dishes, drinks & must-try items. Visit us at 2369 El Camino Real.

LillieMae’s House of Soul Food Menu – Food & Drinks in San Jose

Learn about LillieMae’s House of Soul Food in San Jose. Experience authentic Southern cuisine, friendly atmosphere & prime location at 2369 El Camino Real.

About LillieMae’s House of Soul Food, San Jose

Opening hours for LillieMae’s House of Soul Food, San Jose. Find opening hours for LillieMae’s House of Soul Food at 2369 El Camino Real.

LillieMae’s House of Soul Food Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at LillieMae’s House of Soul Food

Iraklis

Flying Idlis

Draes Lemonade