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    Sam's Chowdermobile

    3.6 (170 reviews)
    ModerateFood Trucks

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    Lobster roll, fries, shrimp po'boy, clam chowder
    Donna D.

    This place was parked in front of City Hall. Pretty good if you are craving lobster rolls! I personally wished there was some seasoning on the lobster roll as it was a little plain but the quality was great. I loved the Cajun type fries and their clam chowder was also good. I would definitely come back

    a man standing in front of a food truck
    Cathy C.

    Oh to the Em to the Gee... always saw the long line to this place in HMB and the mobile food trucks ... saw reviews and had to come and check it out. This place is PHENOMENAL!! Totally worththe hefty price and wait ... the food was fresh, filling and hit the spot no matter the item you got. Items purchased: 1. Lobster Roll... this sandwich comes in half or full size, we got full size and the addition of slaw topped it off for me ... this sandwich was beyond what I expected .. the bread was soft and buttery. 2. Crab cake .. this can be bought as a meal with fries or just the cake 3. Spicy Shrimp... another delish hit , served with cocktail sauce 4. Clam chowder... cup or quart .. its yummy ,hardy and fills the tummy with yummy goodness...mmm Great portion sizes , cannot complain about the price honestly... its worth it!

    Benny H.

    I don't eat at food trucks as often as I would like, but it's always a worthwhile endeavor when I do. Came to moveable feast, and my eyes locked in to Sam's Chowdermobile. Prices vary. You're going to pay more for the lobster, but the fried shrimp sandwich is a very reasonable price. Both were very tasty and worth trying out. Service was fast for a food truck which is just the way I like it. Not anywhere to sit really besides the red buckets, or you could take your food home. Overall, I was very impressed and would come here again in an instant.

    Robert C.

    So friggin good. I swear it is better than the restaurant. Their lobster roll is so packed with lobster, plus the buttered bun, makes for an excellent sandwich. The fish taco have incredible flavor. Big pieces of fish perfectly cooked l, add some pineapple salsa and some corn, WINNER! You see this truck, you eat at this truck. Trust me.

    Phil I.

    Our company had a luncheon for its employees and Sam's Chowder Mobile was chosen from a list of several catering services providing food and refreshments. There were two mobile trucks to accomodate the long lines that they were anticipating, but it was conducted in a orderly manner. There was no shortage of food, so everything was pre planned with one line taking the orders and giving out the number and the other one calling out for pickup it was very well coordinated. I had the fish and chips that came with coleslaw and tartar sauce that was pure delicious. The company pick up the tab so I won't complaint about how good it was only it was crispy and tender.

    Storefront
    John D.

    Happy National Clam Chowder Day! 2/25/16 'Twas National Clam Chowder Day and when I searched my Yelp app nothing really good came up nearby in North SJ. Then I remembered that Sam's Chowder Mobile (SCM) usually makes the rounds up North through all the Tech Companies, and ―just by happenstance― there they were at Nimble Storage! For those who've been living under a rock, SCM is the Mobile version of the popular/touristy Sam's Chowder House (https://goo.gl/X31VZM) in HMB. SCM is continually lauded with Best Food Truck awards (http://goo.gl/7dkgEr) and their Lobster Roll was named one of the Top 5 Sandwiches in America (http://goo.gl/YYMgGu) by NBC's Today Show. I've visited SCM in the past and always thought it was good stuff, albeit a bit pricey. Far be it from me to deny my kismet, and away I went! Clam Chowder- Can't be called a Chowder House without having some solid Chowdah! Well, unfortunately this stuff wasn't much better than canned soup. The broth was watery and had way too much Celery for my liking, but there was a fair amount of Clams. A poor showing for National Chowder Day... 2.5* Lobster Roll- It's been a few years since I've had Sam's much vaunted Lobstah Roll, and now I remember why.... They load up the front of the roll with tons of Lobster, but by the time you get to the back you're chewing on mostly bread. The Lobster was cooked fine, but came out cold and drenched in Butter. They give you a small side of Coleslaw if you want to add a little sweetness and crunch--not to mention it also helped moisten the bread, which tasted a bit funky and old. Lobster 3* Slaw 4* Bread 2* Service & Ambiance- This is actually a nice location to catch a food truck as Nimble provides lounge chairs and picnic tables with umbrellas. The employees were fast, efficient and friendly. No complaints here. 4* Value- Definitely SCM's weak point as a Roll and any other side will quickly bring your total up to $25--a hefty price for lunch. Anyone who knows me knows I'm not cheap when it comes to food, but there has to be some quantity and quality to go along with it. 1* Might be a while before I hit-up SCM again, and if I do I think I'm sticking with their Po' Boy which tops out at around $10 and is much tastier from what I remember. Maybe SCM had an off-day or maybe they're victims of their own success? Who knows? Either way they get a thumbs down from your truly. Chowdaaaaaaahhh!!!!

    New england clam chowder: little neck clams, yukon gold potatoes, smoked bacon, cream
    Elena N.

    I went to a wedding last week that was catered by Sam's Chowder Mobile. There were two menu options, so the roommate and I got one of each. *Lobster clambake: one whole fresh maine lobster per person, with clams, mussels, corn on the cob, red potatoes and savory sausage, served with side of watermelon and coleslaw The lobster clambake was laid out like a buffet. The roommate chose this one, so he basically got a little bit of everything. The food was good, but since he waited for me to get my food, his plate got cold. The butter for the lobster hardened before we even got the chance to eat anything! Sam's chowder mobile: *Sam's lobster roll: maine lobster, warmed butter, toasted bun *Baja style taco: with cabbage, chipotle creme fraiche and pineapple salsa in a warm corn tortilla, fried fish *New england clam chowder: little neck clams, yukon gold potatoes, smoked bacon, cream *Fish 'n chips: deep fried, crispy pollack, old bay fries, 2 piece *Spicy popcorn shrimp: served with housemade cocktail sauce *Lobster taco (2) *Spicy shrimp taco I chose the chowder mobile. They basically offered everything they normally have on their menu minus a couple of items. And it was unlimited. Unfortunately, since there was only one truck, there was a super long line. It took me about 45 mins to get food. Since I stood in line so long, I just got one of everything except the vegetarian tacos. My favorite item was the fish and chips. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. And hot which was a nice break from all the lukewarm and cold food we had. I've been to their restaurant and enjoyed their food. As a food truck, I'm sure their food is good as well. But for catering weddings, I don't think one truck is enough. You shouldn't have to wait almost an hour for your dinner. If you're considering them for your wedding, maybe ask for two food trucks along with the lobster bake.

    Lobster roll
    Alexander Y.

    The food options at work range from bearable to downright awful, so when there's a food truck that rolls around the vicinity with a lobster roll...you know I am there! From my general experience of lobster rolls, they are all fairly expensive and they are not equal despite the price. Case in point...this lobster roll at full size is almost $18, but wow you definitely get your money's worth! If you don't believe me, check my picture. Absolutely stuffed with lobster, but it isn't soaked in butter or grease so I'm not feeling like I'm about to have a heart attack while eating it. The roll is buttered though (as you would expect), but it provides great contrast to the lobster. Definitely worth the splurge for sure! Just wish this was around work more than once a month, but that might actually be a good thing for my health.

    Above average Chowder
    Juan V.

    Great PoBoy Sandwich. I guess, I am spoiled being born and raised in San Francisco that the chowder was a little above average. Overall great food for a food truck.

    Crab cake
    Leung T.

    With "Chowder"'in its name, you'd think the chowder was magnificent. A last, it was only good. Creamy with bits of little neck clams. It's good... not magnificent. I guess I was disappointed because of the sky high expectations.

    Sam's Lobster Roll (Regular Size)
    Michael S.

    Setting: 2016 California Clasico Soccer Match between SJ Earthquakes and LA Galaxy. Date is 6/25/16. Location: Outside main entrance to Stanford Stadium, Gate 2, next to 4-5 other food trucks and kid inflatable jumpies Scene starts with hero lamenting poor quality food options available inside the stadium. Hero not interested in a mediocre lukewarm hot dog. Sees Sam's Chowder Mobile. Recalls wonderful experience at Half Moon Bay brick and mortar location. Hero tries to convince wife and 6 year old son to divert to Sam's Chowder Mobile. After unsuccessful attempts, hero takes 8 year old daughter instead. They split regular Sam's Lobster Roll and order of New England Clam Chowder. Hero thrilled with meal, except Cole slaw. Comments to daughter overall delight, with lobster roll with big chunks on warm, soft, buttery roll, and especially with amazing chowder, with ample clams, potato and smoked bacon. Dialog starts. Cue hero. Hero: "This lobster roll is super good." Daughter: "Yes, Daddy. So Nom Nom." End scene

    Cup of clam chowder

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    Page 2 of 5

    Ask the Community - Sam's Chowdermobile

    Hi when i look at your online schedule i only see you guys stationed in sf and oakland. Where is the schedule for san jose?

    View All 2 Questions

    Review Highlights - Sam's Chowdermobile

    I had the lobster roll, and the bread was super soft, and there was soooo much large juicy chunks of lobster.

    Mentioned in 106 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    Scratch Cookery is one of the many local places hidden in the allies of Downtown San Jose. They are…read morenot far from the heart of Downtown, and definitely not far from the university. I stumbled upon this place one day while doing my random walk, so you KNOW I had to give this place a try. I had went in upon opening time, so my wait was a little bit, but I was not complaining because you know what they say: "Greatness comes when you build them up one by one." I got their hamburger with the extra cheese, and curly fries. The patty was extra juicy, and the brioche buns were toasted really well. I especially like how they added on the cheese after the patty was marinated on the grill for quite a while, but not too long to the point all of the juice was sucked up. The only down side to the food: the prices. Be prepared to spend quite a bit on lunch if you decide to go to this place, because they do end up charging quite a bit more than what the regular places around Downtown would. But the IPA beers make up for it, so it's also worth a bang for your buck. Hospitality was pretty top-notch -- my order was taken in an orderly fashion, and they even apologized for the wait as well. I hope Scratch Cookery stays around for a long while so that people can try out such majestic wonders this establishment has to offer! Ambiance was great, and I'd definitely be back again!

    Down the Scratch…read more Food truck turned Fountain Alley brick-and-mortar that achieved max popularity during the Pandemic. I kept hearing about their hot chicken sandwiches for years, and we finally made the trek to check them out. The Good: * Friendly service * Prices aren't too bad considering the portion size and flavor. * Outdoor dog-friendly seating * Craft brews in cans * Seven levels of heat for everyone from the spice-averse to the hardcore fire lover. * Chicken sandwiches are massive and delicious. And despite it being a breast, they kept it very juicy. * Really loved their fries; I'm not sure if they make them in-house or if they're frozen, but regardless, they're fantastic. The Meh: * Not much in the way of drinks except for the aforementioned beers and cans of soda. The Ugly: * It's located in DTSJ, so you'll most likely have to pay for parking. If you don't mind walking a few blocks, the 4th St Garage is free for the first 90 min. Conclusion: Great spot to get your spice on.

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    Scratch Cookery - Nashville Chicken Sandwich combo with regular fries ($21)

    Nashville Chicken Sandwich combo with regular fries ($21)

    Scratch Cookery - Menu and some empty seats hee

    Menu and some empty seats hee

    Scratch Cookery - Regular fries

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    Regular fries

    Moveable Feast - Felice Forno's Wood Fired Pizza! Fresh!

    Moveable Feast

    4.3(147 reviews)
    4.7 kmWillow Glen
    $$

    "Cream on the inside, clean on the outside. Ice, ice cream, ice cream paint job."…read more Plenty of food trucks to go around: Treatbot - Single Scoop $3.00 (Many flavors) The Chairman (Bao) - Steamed Tender Pork Belly with Turmeric Pickled Daikon & Green Shiso $3.75 Sam's Chowdermobile - PO Boy and Fries (Fried bay andouille with remoulade, toasted bun, and old bay fries) $8.75 - Sam's Lobster Roll (Maine lobster, warmed butter, toasted bun) Regular $16.12; Shortie $10.59 Tina's Tips and Tantrums - Parking limited, but free - Long lines are to be expected - Someone stands in line and someone save seats - Tummy was only hungry for three - Sam's Chowdermobile is always good especially their lobster roll. Super generous about their lobster! - First time, I've never had the Po Boy (andouille - slightly spiced) but it was good and oily though. Fries were bomb! - Chairman's pork belly bun was delicious, a wee bit on the greasy side - Ice cream flavors we had were Ube - Purple Yam, Old School Vanilla, and The 408 - Caramel Ice Cream with Oreos and Fudge. I loved my "The 408" so yummylicious! - Always a great way to spend time with your friends and family.

    Moveable Feast is awesome for those who have never really experienced a food truck night. What I…read morelove about it is that you don't have to chase down local food trucks by checking out their Twitter or Facebook updates to know where they'll be parked. And on top of that you get to experience a whole bunch of awesome Bay Area food trucks all in one spot. Moveable Feast on Friday nights in Willow Glen is a great foodie date night for sure. The bf and I have been here twice now (first time was still during my jaw surgery recovery phase where I was unable to chew, so it wasn't as exciting for me then). This last time we went we noticed that the most popular trucks were Sam's Chowdermobile, Grilled Cheese Bandits and Hill Country BBQ. The lines for those 3 were endless. But we did get to try come mashed tater balls and a delicious italian style grilled cheese sammich from Grilled Cheese Bandits about an hour before Moveable Feast was closing. And the bf got the very last link dog over at Hill Country BBQ, which he said was better than the Miso Dog he had over at Oh Miso Hungry truck. Let me list out what we had at the few trucks we chose to order from. Oh Miso Hungry Kimchi grilled cheese was actually not as good as it sounds. The kimchi was definitely delicious but it didn't taste right being super warm in between those pieces of Texas toast. And the Miso Dog the bf had, he liked but didn't love. MoGo BBQ Kalbi and bulgogi tacos. I liked the meat, tasted good. Not a fan of the corn tortillas they used. Barefoot Coffee The bf ordered a small coffee on drip to swing over to Treatbot Ice Cream since the guy over there told us the ice cream tastes bomb with that coffee. I had a sip of that coffee, holy shizz it was strong! Treatbot We had a scoop of horchata and a scoop of chocolate ice cream to go into the coffee. This is the second time I've had their horchata ice cream and I'm a HUGE fan for sure. Hill Country BBQ They ran out of most of their food about an hour before closing time. I liked the sauces they had out and pretty curious about the Porkolicious sauce. Looked interested! Next time, I'll be sure to try some of that pulled pork that was oh-so-popular. Grilled Cheese Bandit We ordered the small order of mashed tater balls which were okay but a bit too salty for us. Their Giuliano sandwich sure was bomb though! It came with mozzarella, parmesan and tomatoes with pesto on this amazingly soft Italian batard bread. Hands down, best thing I ate that night. I'm still very curious about what Sam's Chowdermobile has to offer but that damn line never let up! It was also extremely chilly that night, what the F happened to summer weather San Jose? But yeah, next time we'll definitely have to just stick it out and stand in line for some chowder. I would rate Moveable Feast 5 stars if they included better dessert trucks than just Fairycakes (cupcakes, which I'm not a fan of) and ice cream and candy. I want some PIES or something a bit more dense for dessert peeps!

    Photos
    Moveable Feast - Fairy cakes:

    Fairy cakes:

    Moveable Feast - Sun sets at the Moveable Feast

    Sun sets at the Moveable Feast

    Moveable Feast

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    Sam's Chowdermobile - foodtrucks - Updated May 2026

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