We recently had the chance to connect with andriko gipson and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning andriko, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: When was the last time you felt true joy?
The last time I truly felt joy was earlier this year at our grand opening. Our new location was double the size of the last one, and it felt like a new chapter for all of us. I was finally in a position to fly my grandparents, my mom, and my family down to Houston — a city that isn’t even my hometown — and spend time being chauffeured around together in a Sprinter. It wasn’t about luxury, it was about gratitude. Seeing the smiles on my family’s faces, and on my team’s faces too, it felt like everything I’d prayed and worked for was finally coming together.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Andriko “Gip” Gipson, founder of Midwest Coney Connection, a restaurant brand built from the ground up with heart, hustle, and a whole lot of faith. What started as a small food truck inspired by my Michigan roots has grown into a movement bringing that true Detroit-style flavor and hospitality to Houston. We’ve built a name on consistency, community, and connection, serving good food that makes people feel at home. What makes us special isn’t just what’s on the plate it’s the story behind it. From setbacks to second chances, we’ve turned every challenge into motivation. Right now, we’re focused on expanding our reach, growing the brand, and building opportunities for others to rise with us.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
One of the moments that really shaped how I see the world was growing up in a single-parent home and watching my mother do the best she could with what she had. It made me want to break the cycle to bring wealth, stability, and opportunity to my family and change the direction for future generations. My grandparents were all hard workers who taught me that “God blesses the child that has his own,” and that stuck with me. From cutting grass with a push mower to helping around the house, I learned early that faith, hard work, and consistency can change everything.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was definitely a time I almost gave up. I had the Gallery Food Truck Park running — which I created — and things were going well. We had just opened our first brick-and-mortar restaurant, I had my own office, a warehouse, and for the first time it felt like everything was falling into place. But right at the height of it all, everything started crumbling beneath me. I had some dishonest people around me, and I wasn’t paying attention the way I should’ve been. Things were moving faster than I could manage, and before I knew it, I was facing eviction from my first brick-and-mortar. The landlord locked the doors, and it felt like everything I’d worked for was slipping away. In that moment, I questioned whether it was all worth it. But that breakdown became a breakthrough — it reminded me why I started, forced me to rebuild smarter, and to never again let pressure make me forget my purpose.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
A belief I’m committed to, no matter how long it takes, is building something that outlives me — creating opportunities for others and breaking the cycle for families like mine. I believe in using my story and my brand to show that faith, hard work, and consistency can change lives. Whether it’s growing Midwest Coney Connection, mentoring young entrepreneurs, or giving back to the community, I’m in it for the long run. It’s not just about money or success — it’s about legacy and impact. That’s also why I’m launching my new podcast, Hood Gospel, in the first quarter of 2026 — a platform where I’ll be mentoring young men and women and giving out free game through my life experiences and the stories of others who’ve overcome.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I’m gone, I hope people say that I never gave up — that I turned pain into purpose and built something that helped others believe in themselves. I want them to remember that I stood on faith, hard work, and integrity, and that I gave more than I ever took. I hope people say that I opened doors, created opportunities, and inspired others to keep going even when it got hard. More than anything, I want my kids and my community to know that I didn’t just talk about change — I lived it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://midwestconeyconnection.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midwestconeyconnection/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andriko-gipson-3996a1251?trk=people-guest_people_search-card
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Midwestconey/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/midwest-coney-connection-houston
