Today we’d like to introduce you to Derrick Hudson
Hi Derrick, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I had a fairly humble up bringing being fortunate to have a strong family foundation, don’t get me wrong I wasn’t a silver spoon kid per-say but I sure got to lick one! With my Grandfather as the matriarch of my family holding accomplishments as a farmer veteran cook/baker and entrepreneur visionary. I embark my career path on something my entire family could be proud of so shortly after my school sports phase subsided I started my tenure for the culinary industry. From high school on throughout my prerequisites in a community college I studied what I like to call the Greats. My grandfather of course having his own pedestal being a phenomenal baker as I mentioned whipping up cookies cakes and pies (i.e Licking the spoon) to southern authentic dishes that hold staple to my culture such as Collard greens, whole roasted marinated chicken and fire pit BBQ with Mop sauce. I knew I found my calling at an early age so growing on I took to the books and television shows. Alton Brown Antony Bourdain, Rick Bayless and Wolfgang Puck were my hallmarks. Fast forwarding on to jobs I started like any other inspired chef the dish pit working my way up to leadership roles. Lead line, Chef de Parti, Sous chef and private catering for elite clientele such as celebrities, NFL teams, multimillionaires and leading city and public officials. With all that under my belt I still never forgot my upbringing through vendor table stands, Food trucks, a slew of restaurants and hole in the wall mom and pop diners.which later lead me to Villa kitchen on the most strangest of happenings. My two businesses partners Mr. Mccoy and Mr. Gales where introduced organically with Mr. gales working along side of me at club converted into food hall in the heart of Houston. During that time I witnessed mr. gales passion transend through not only his food but his customer service having a knack for hospitality. As for Mr. Mccoy we met a light convo as my lift driver. I discussed the intel of me being a local chef and my journey as he told me of his wild Adventures as a entrepreneur /tech influencer in Tulum, Mexico looking to start ventures here in the the states and we hit it off. Finally taking the time from all three of our ever coursing lives tons of emails conference calls meet and a greets and brainstorming the concept of Villa Kitchen was born.!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Entrepreneurism has and will never be a smooth road from the testimonies I’ve heard and recently experienced so I come with an open mindset. Starting has been a obstacle that is one to endure. The biggest struggle along this road I would have to say is having the same outlook on projects and task with work with multiple partners expressed expectational views may differ so communication has to be bonded which takes time with growth.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in a melting pot of cuisines just like Houston from Southern, Caribbean, Classic French and Native traditional. I’m most very proud of the journey Im current doing enjoying the present and new challenges as a entrepreneur. But what most sets me apart from others is my undying will to succeed.I have developed an unshakable tenacity to see my goals met not only for my family now but for the communities worldwide and future generations to come.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I would like this project to transcend a time stamp on the projected growth because various communities need time to develop and adapt to this concept, but besides as soon as possible would be nice but with bullet to bullet timelines being met. My Goal is to be globally impactful by creating systems that work for the community collective as well as the environment in hopes of greater peace in humanity through food that continues us to thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Villakitchenhtx.com
- Instagram: Villa kitchen htx
- Facebook: Villa kitchen htx
Image Credits
Villa kitchen HTX
