Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric Dalton.
Hi Eric, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have always loved cooking, however, I have been living in various apartments over the last few years and was limited on what kind of equipment I could have. After completing pharmacy school in Nashville, I was matched for post-graduate residency training here in Houston at Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center. I obtained my first smoker, it just escalated from there. I went through some hardships with mental health halfway through residency requiring me to take some time. During that time, I only found enjoyment in cooking. I was asked by a friend to cater a bachelor party and it was truly an amazing experience. At that point, I realized it was something I truly loved and hoped to make my career one day. I still work as a pharmacist in Humble, however, have plans to one day start my own BBQ trailer.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Overall, it has been entirely enjoyable along the way. Given my day job as a pharmacist, I am able to grow my BBQ business as quickly or slowly as I need, perfecting my craft along the way. There have obviously been some growing pangs along the way, but more associated with difficulties with the equipment or scheduling issues. I have continued to adapt and grow along the way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I smoke and cook traditional BBQ here in Texas, most notably known for my pork belly burnt ends and cornbread. I have been told by people they would rather have cornbread than cake for their birthdays. I would have to say I’m most proud of my ability to overcome the mental health difficulties I faced with something I truly love. I love being able to connect with people through food and help others overcome the same things I faced. I have met some truly amazing people along the way that I would call my family now. As far as my BBQ, I think the thing that sets mine apart from others is that, not only do I utilize traditional Texas BBQ flavors but I also pull from other cities and cultures I am inspired by. I have lived in a few different states and cities, along with having an interest in many other cultures that can be seen in my food.
What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
To this day, I would say the most important lesson is that you should love what you do. Doing something you love just makes you feel better about yourself and what you are doing. I also wholeheartedly believe you will never be your best, you must also strive to improve and better yourself. That’s why I am always trying new flavors, techniques and processes to improve. Talking with others along the way
Contact Info:
- Email: dalton.eats.1990@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dalton_eats/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eric.dalton.79
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_DD2uDn0jKKwUUi8ciWM9w
Image Credits
BarrelBossQ
BBQRubdown
Kelci Dalton (Wife)
Michael Schimborski (BBQ partner/teammate)
