Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelby Johnson. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Big Dawg’s Family Kitchen is a family owned and operated restaurant in the heart of East Houston. Our dream was to open a place within our community in which people can enjoy traditional Southern Soul Food at reasonable prices. Being from East Houston we didn’t have any of these sorts of restaurants growing up., especially Black-Owned. We would end up having to drive to a completely different side of town just to get some oxtails or pork chops.
There are three owners Shelby Johnson, Morgan Johnson and Deborah Harris. Each with their various experiences that contribute to making Big Dawg’s a success. From floor to ceiling wall to wall we have created an environment that feels like home. And our customers continue to support us because when you are here we treat you like family.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
We actually had our grand opening in the heart of the pandemic. We signed our lease in March of 2020 and open our doors July 19, 2020. It was a rough start to say the least. We were only allowed to do to-go orders and curbside as the lockdown restrictions on restaurants were still in place. As things progressed we were blessed to have the support of the Eastside and people spread the word about us and shared their experiences at Big Dawg’s. We’ve had our ups and downs, but knowing that our community is behind us and so appreciative that we are here. keeps us motivated.
Almost every day someone tells us how glad they are that they don’t have to drive 30 minutes to get some good home cooked food and they are so happy we are here.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
A family owned and operated restaurant in East Houston, Big Dawg’s Family Kitchen specializes in Southern Soul Food/Comfort Food. We have a variety of different options to choose from with a little something for everyone. Our most popular dishes are our Smothered Oxtails, Cajun Pasta, and Our Signature Day “Off The Wall Wednesdays” where we feature a different chef-inspired creation that isn’t a menu item. I think what sets us apart from a lot of other places, and the thing I’m most proud of is our why.
We are a community based business, we are from the Eastside and have opened Big Dawg’s to further expand our service to the community we call home. As a company, we have hosted back-to-school drives, sponsored several teacher classrooms in Galena Park ISD, donated meals for thanksgiving through Meals on Wheels, given donations to Salvation Army during Christmas, sponsored local youth sports teams, and a host of other opportunities. We hope to continue to be able to be a blessing to our community for years to come. To be a staple and shining example of what is possible as a kid growing up on the Eastside.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Big Dawg’s Family Kitchen started out as a Food Truck called Saucey Sliderz. The goal was always to have a brick and mortar restaurant and by God’s blessings and support from family, friends, and supporters we were able to bring our dream to life. Several sandwiches including the Deep Fried Burger, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, and Luau Chicken Sandwich made it to Big Dawg’s Menu from Saucey Sliderz.
Pricing:
- Oxtails w/ 2 sides $19.99 daily $14.99 on Thursday’s
- $5 Burger Tuesdays
- $9.99 Fish Frydays
Contact Info:
- Email: Bigdawgsplace@gmail.com
- Website: www.BigDawgsFamilyKitchen.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Bigdawgsplace
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Bigdawgsplace
