Foodie Favorites: Lee’s Cafe

From the moment you walk into Lee’s Cafe, you’re immediately hit with the sensational smell of crispy fried chicken, slow-simmered green beans and a hint of down-home cooking nostalgia.

From the onset of opening the first location in downtown Lubbock more than six years ago, owners Robert and Dorothy Lee have claimed the unofficial title of favorite soul food restaurant among locals and visitors alike. Coupled with southern cooking and a retro flair in the decor, the cafe offers an inviting and laid-back atmosphere. And, with their new, more centralized location on 34th Street, more Lubbockites have the opportunity to indulge themselves in a filling lunch or dinner no matter where they’re commuting from.

Before hitting the counter to place your order, you’ll more than likely be greeted by Dorothy herself as she makes the rounds greeting customers, checking on orders in the kitchen and refilling the iced teas of dine-in customers. You’ll also be pleased with the more-than-reasonable prices of menu items, including everything from the ever-popular BBQ Chicken Special (get there early as this daily special sells out quick!) to the side of sweet yams, to the decadent dessert of banana pudding.

For lunch, I decided to go with the Bob Lee Burger and Fries house specialty and, of course, the famous Chicken and Waffles (hey, I was hungry). 

After biting into the juicy, double-meat burger, I knew I’d made the right choice. Served with a side of fries and cooked to perfection, the burger included not only BACON, but an over-easy egg that took it to the next level. I am pleased to announce I polished off that plate in an embarrassingly short amount of time.

Next, I dove into the Chicken and Waffles. The perfectly seasoned chicken paired with one of the lightest, fluffiest waffles I have ever had the pleasure of tasting, I was immediately satisfied with my selection. The combination was, as Guy Fieri puts it, an enjoyable ride to “Flavortown”. Ticket happily purchased.

If the unbeatable food isn’t enough, locals will be pleased to know that Lee’s offers specific dine-in discounts to all military, senior citizens, students and law enforcement. Whether you choose to dine in (the restaurant is currently seating at 50% capacity), pick up or have your comfort food meal delivered to your doorstep, Lee’s Cafe caters to all! Be sure to add this hidden gem to your list of local, must-try restaurants.

Fast Facts:

Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday 11am – 9pm | Saturday 11am – 5pm