The convenience of a Texas soul food restaurant

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GREENVILLE, Texas – The economically separated towns and cities of Texas still shed light on the hardships minorities have faced in American history today. Government actions ranging from Jim Crow laws to gerrymandering have made it difficult for economic advancement in many communities of color.

In Greenville, Texas, the railroad tracks that run through the city give way to a dividing line between developed and less developed areas. In the eastern part of Greenville, more than twenty hot meal establishments have opened since 2000. However, in the predominantly black and brown neighborhoods, just west of the tracks, fewer than six establishments are accessible. for a hot meal.

Greenville native and entrepreneur, Rod Davis saw the economic opportunity that might exist growing up in ZIP code 75401. As a school-aged child, Davis remembers going to the only hot meal establishment in their side of town called Dairy Dart.

“This place was so historic in what it did and the food it brought, the customer service it brought,” Davis said. “He brought people together.”

(Spectrum News 1)

After Dairy Dart closed in the early 2000s, accessibility for a quick hot meal became more difficult.

“We always had to go out of our community to get what we needed for meals, supper and lunch,” Davis said. “It was Grandma’s way of getting into town.”

Davis knew that the feeling of traveling for miles for a quick bite was slim for many who run out of cars in a city without public transit. So, after years of economic growth in the east end of the city, the entrepreneur turned leader knew it was time to start serving his community.

“We love this time of the city and wanted to bring our city together,” Davis said. “We wanted to bring Wesley Street back to this side.”

On June 15, Davis and his business partner will be opening a quick-service establishment in the heart of ZIP code 75401. Through the love of soul food and service, the Grubb’s team hopes to bring back a social atmosphere that once gave over. life in their community.

Davis hopes his business will attract not only locals, but also those willing to give his restaurant a chance in a still segregated city.

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