Today we’d like to introduce you to Victoria Okunnu.
Hi Victoria, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I came to the United States in 1995 from Nigeria. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy (University of Ibadan) and an Associate degree in Business Management (Yaba College of Technology) both from institutions of higher learning in Nigeria. Upon arrival in The United States, I worked at Nordstrom as a customer service associate for a little over two months. I was later hired by Nordstrom Restaurant Division as a dishwasher/prep cook where I began my Restaurant / Foodservice career.
I was enrolled in the management training program. Upon completion, I was promoted to Assistant Manager at the Redondo Beach location and later transferred to South Coast Plaza location. From there, I relocated to Chicago where I got promoted to General Manager at the Old Orchard location and later managed the Michigan Avenue location. I was also privileged to open a new restaurant concept for Nordstrom known as the Cafe Bistro in Houston, TX in 2003. This was my ticket to Houston, TX.
I worked at Nordstrom for 14 years in various capacities: General Manager, Trainer, New Store Openings in different cities of the United States.
I left Nordstrom in 2009 to join Panda Restaurant Group where I worked for 13 years in various capacities as General Manager, Trainer and Multi-Unit Manager.
In May of 2022, I took the leap of faith to open my restaurant: DUPSY’S A Modern African Kitchen. Our doors opened on July 5th, 2022
DUPSY’S is a virtual restaurant that operates from a cloud kitchen at 2616 Blodgett St, Houston, TX.
We specialize in Nigerian cuisine. Our mission is to prepare fresh, healthy, tasty and affordable variety daily.
My journey so far has been a blessing. I am grateful for all those I had to opportunity to work for and also work with over the years.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been quite an interesting journey.
One of the challenges I encountered was discrimination which I really do not like to discuss.
At Nordstrom, I had to deal with some folks who found it difficult to accept the fact that a Black African woman is a General Manager at high-profile locations.
I had to work twice as much and received lots of insults, but by the grace of God, I was always able to overcome.
I also had challenges as a minority trying to get a business loan. At the end of the day, I had to take a loan out of my 401K to set up my business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
DUPSY’S A Modern African Kitchen is located at 2616 Blodgett St. Houston TX
We specialize in Nigerian cuisine.
Our dishes include Jollof Rice, Vegetable stews both Efo riro and Egusi with poundo (Known by most as fufu) MeatPie, Peppered Wings, Peppered Beef, etc.
Please visit our website for our full menu
www.dupsyskitchenhtx.com
What sets us apart from others is our passion and enthusiasm to prepare fresh, healthy, tasty and affordable variety daily.
What I am most proud of is my team of two for their hard work and dedication and our customers who appreciate our attention to detail and also enjoy the flavors and texture of our food.
DUPSY’S as a brand is focused on food quality (Fresh, Healthy and Tasty)
We also cater to events through our Party Tray options.
My other brand SpecialOCakes. I have been baking for over ten years as a side gig.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I’m happy when I am able to put a smile on someone’s face.
Because I have been able to share my gift with someone else.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dupsyskitchenhtx.com
