Brittany "Luscious Barbie" Criswell and restaurateur Rickey Booker Sr. of Breakfast Brothers co-founded the event last year and have expanded it from honorary recognition of local restaurants to a food truck park and a restaurant and resource expo for Black-owned businesses.
”We want to be able to bring resources to the restaurateurs who truly want it every single year,” Booker said. “This industry is for the strong, for the hungry, and for those who want to grow. If you’re ready to elevate, then we’re here to help make that happen.”
This three-day event is mostly free for anyone to attend, but depending on the experience you're looking for, it could cost more.
Food Trucks at Redbird
The event kicks off at noon on Wednesday, July 16, with more than 20 food trucks at the Shops at Redbird near Duncanville. The picnic-style event is general admission and free for everyone, but you can purchase a VIP ticket for $25 for reserved seating, tasting vouchers and other perks. Get tickets on Eventbrite.Some confirmed food trucks include Hip Hop Hibachi, Groovy Chicken and Waffles, Snappy's Catfish, Kingaling Smoked Turkey Legs & More and Breakfast Brothers.
Expo and Workshops
The restaurant expo is indoors at the Shops at Redbird on Thursday, July 17. This is the day for restaurateurs, culinary and hospitality students, job seekers and anyone interested in entering the culinary world to connect with suppliers, attend workshops and panels, watch chef and vendor showcases and get access to health and community resources.It takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free to attend with an RSVP on Eventbrite.
Award Ceremony
The award ceremony will be held from 7 to 11 p.m. on Friday, July 18, at the Kessler Theater. The following categories will be recognized: Dallas' Favorite Soulfood, Breakfast, Seafood, Food Truck, Chicken, Upscale, Creative Restaurant, Burger, Pizza, Vegan, Bakery and Food Influencer.The evening includes a VIP reception, red carpet experience, live performances and an award ceremony for the community-nominated restaurants.
General admission to the awards show is $30; there are also three levels of VIP tickets ranging from $75 to $200. See all ticketing and RSVP options on Eventbrite. You must RSVP even if you are attending one of the free events.
If you can't attend the event, you can still vote for your favorites on the Southern Taste of Dallas Awards website.
Last year, Kia Mitchell of Mr. Cajun's Daiquiri won the Southern Taste Award for his showcase of the essence of the Black food community in Dallas. More winners included William's Chicken for Favorite Chicken and Kitchen and Kocktails for Favorite Upscale Restaurant.
