If you’ve ever walked down Whitney Road, you may have seen a chrome-plated food truck nestled between the Arjona Building, the Monteith Building and the Dodd Center for Human Rights. Lizzie’s Curbside, the truck that’s more than just a chuck wagon, is celebrating its 33rd year of operation on the University of Connecticut campus by offering cake and enjoying the spirit of community on Feb. 1, 2024.
Curbside’s story began in 1991 when Lizzie Searing decided to establish a hot dog cart for UConn students as an outgrowth of her catering business in Coventry, Connecticut. Quickly filling the void of food options, she offered simple, delicious fare like coffee, bagels and sandwiches – over the years, the menu has expanded to include burgers, soups and more. But it’s not just the food that keeps people coming back; it’s the atmosphere.
“I come here two or three times a week. My favorite is the Husky Burger with an egg and hash browns,” said Nelson, a second-year mathematics student.
Searing says that a commitment to staying local and natural is at the heart of the business, carefully selecting fresh ingredients and establishing relationships. A fixture herself, she is always greeting customers with a smile and a story. Searing and her husband Joey know generations of huskies by name and remember their favorite orders.
“It’s not just about the food,” Searing continued. “UConn has really been my home for a long time, and we’ve had others that met here and got married. I later catered their weddings… Some others grew up and had children who are students today, and we feed them. It’s about the people.”
It’s not just about the food. UConn has really been my home for a long time, and we’ve had others that met here and got married. I later catered their weddings… Some others grew up and had children who are students today, and we feed them. It’s about the people.
Lizzie Searing
Students may also be familiar with Lizzie’s food from a variety of collaborations with UConn events, such as the SUBOG Block Party, celebrations sponsored by sports teams, Family Weekend and more. Every week, student favorites and innovative creations show up on the menu. “Maybe I could have ten cookbooks, but I’d prefer to share my creations with everyone here,” Searing commented as she was constructing novel grilled cheeses and sandwiches.
“I’ve always seen it walking to class, but never stopped by until this week,” said Ashley, a senior English student. “Now that I have, I know it’s good food – and I can bring along friends.”
“I like to support a local business rather than a national chain,” added Kelly Dennis, associate professor of digital arts and visual studies while standing in line.
Lizzie said that the friendliness of the UConn community is the reason she keeps the food truck running and wants to give that feeling back. “People come by because we try to make good, fresh food… I love being here. UConn is like a family.”
As days go by, the story of Lizzie’s is certain: Its legacy will continue to be fueled by the same ingredients that made it a success from the start – delicious food, warm hospitality and a deep connection to the UConn community. Lizzie’s Curbside is open regularly on Whitney Road from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays.
“Doing what you love is a lot more work than you’d think,” said Searing, “but it’s worth it.”