Today on the podcast Eric is joined by Jabril Riddick of Southern Jerks. Jabril speaks with Eric about his decision to go on his own to open his own concept, why he decided on fried chicken as the cuisine for his concept, why Houston is the perfect place to showcase fried chicken with a twist, the flavor profile, making the sides standout, how the Jerk Burger ended up on the menu, wanting to open on the northside, opening in conjunction with a gas station, the confidence they have, how influencers have helped their reach, expansion plans, when we could see another location (sooner than you may think), working with his family, following the plan, becoming much more efficient, and much more!

Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com:

Houston Earns 6 Finalist Nominations in the 2026 James Beard Awards
These are Houston's 11 Best Dessert Programs of 2026
6 Things to Know in Houston Food: Openings, a Closing, and More
Houston Olympian Simone Biles Opens New Restaurant at Bush Intercontinental
16 Best New Houston Restaurants Compete for Coveted Tastemakers Title

Episode 546 - Jabril Riddick of Southern Jerks