Food trucks hold a special place in my heart. There’s an inherent charm to these mobile eateries, a promise of quick, delicious food served with a side of street-side ambiance. However, my enthusiasm comes with a crucial condition: the food must be exceptional. This brings me to Lili’s Mexican Food Truck, a culinary venture in Little Rock helmed by the dynamic husband-and-wife team, Patrick and Laura Ochoa. Since its opening in May 2021, Lili’s has steadily built a buzz, and as is my custom with new food spots, I waited a few months to observe the local chatter and public sentiment.
Lili's Mexican Food Truck in Little Rock
The anticipation was well-founded. My first visit to Lili’s Mexican Food Truck was followed by many more. To say I was impressed by the food would be an understatement. The menu, while concise, is packed with flavor, featuring protein-rich tacos, comforting quesadillas, soul-warming birria ramen, and the star of the show for me – the California burrito. While I appreciate extensive menus, there’s a particular appeal to a focused selection, and in Lili’s case, it’s a strategy born from practical considerations.
“We have so many dishes we adore and would love to offer regularly. However, our trailer’s workspace is quite limited, just 10 feet by 8 feet,” explains Laura Ochoa. “We knew we wanted to feature birria and cochinita, along with vegetarian options, so we began with tacos and three core proteins, complemented by rice and beans. Gradually, we expanded to four more protein choices, introduced the California burrito, birria ramen, and more recently, asada fries. This streamlined menu allows us to concentrate on quality and provide efficient service.”
And efficient and high-quality it is. Mission absolutely accomplished.
Patrick’s culinary background has been instrumental in the food truck’s success.
Patrick Ochoa cooking at Lili's Mexican Food Truck
“I dedicated nine years to the Marine Corps, with three of those as a field/galley cook. It involved long hours of preparation, meticulous cleaning, and serving large numbers of people. The Marines emphasize attention to detail, making it a demanding job, but I’m incredibly grateful for the skills I developed.”
While Laura’s experience isn’t in restaurant kitchens, her passion for food is deeply rooted.
“I’ve always loved cooking for others and grew up surrounded by food. In Mexico City, my grandmother ran a food stand from our front porch every weekend. I remember her homemade masa quesadillas being incredibly popular when I was little,” Laura recalls.
Close-up of delicious tacos from Lili's Mexican Food Truck
Speaking of the food at this exceptional mexican food truck, while everything I’ve tried at Lili’s has been enjoyable – from the mushroom tacos to the quesabirria tacos and asada quesadillas – their California burrito is truly exceptional. This popular item features your choice of protein (I highly recommend the pork), along with pico de gallo, avocado, crema, and, crucially, french fries. Yes, french fries, the defining ingredient of an authentic California burrito.
“We first experienced the California burrito when I was stationed in San Diego, and it became an instant, cherished memory. We wanted to bring that nostalgic flavor to Arkansas, staying true to the details that make it a real California burrito. It’s all about achieving the perfect balance of ingredients,” Patrick explains.
The burrito itself isn’t an overstuffed monstrosity, but a generously portioned, expertly crafted handheld delight. It’s filled just right and perfectly grilled to lock in all the incredible flavors.
A perfectly grilled California burrito from a Mexican food truck
I could endlessly praise the food, but Lili’s Mexican Food Truck offers something more: a strong sense of community. This is evident when you approach the truck, adorned with stickers from numerous local businesses. This visible support and community spirit are reflected in the Ochoa’s words and actions.
“Little Rock is our home now. We are committed to supporting our community as much as they’ve supported us. Coming from California, we truly appreciate the positive growth happening here, and we’re happy to be a part of it in any way we can. Contributing to this community, especially seeing the direct positive impact, is incredibly rewarding,” says Laura.
With outstanding food and genuinely wonderful owners, there’s absolutely nothing not to love about Lili’s Mexican Food Truck. Follow them on social media for their schedule and locations, and be sure to try that California burrito. You absolutely won’t be disappointed.
