The Kessler Theater in Dallas came alive Friday, July 18, for the second annual Southern Taste of Dallas Awards, which brought together the region’s culinary elite, civic leaders, and community members for a celebration of food, culture, and legacy.
Created by Breakfast Brothers, the star-studded gala capped off a three-day weekend of festivities from July 16–18 that included a food truck park and a business expo at Dallas College.
The awards ceremony honored the legacy and excellence of Black-owned culinary enterprises and community icons who continue to shape the cultural and economic landscape of southern Dallas.
“This event is great to showcase southern Dallas,” said DeSoto Mayor Rachel L. Proctor, who was a presenter at the event. “This is an area that we know and love, and to be able to recognize all of these incredible entrepreneurs, these restaurateurs—those who have been doing their thing—it is incredible to see the greatness within our city.”
The evening’s highest honor, the Legacy Award, was presented to Roland Parrish, philanthropist and founder of the Roland Parrish Foundation. He was recognized for his longstanding commitment to uplifting Black-owned businesses and fostering local entrepreneurship through education, mentorship, and charitable giving.
The awards also highlighted fan favorites from the southern Dallas food scene. Smokey John’s Bar-B-Que took home two honors, including the coveted Best Barbecue award.
“It was cool to win Best Barbecue—and it’s great because it’s fan-voted,” said co-owner Juan Reaves. “But I think the second award really honors the legacy of our dad. When we talk about what we’ve done in the community, it’s really about what he did. We’re just trying to keep his legacy alive.”
His brother and co-owner, Brent Reaves, echoed that sentiment.
“It’s really all about carrying the torch,” he said. “One of the cool things is having a second-generation business and being able to keep honoring his legacy. He was all about giving—giving to people, giving opportunities, giving chances. That’s what Juan and I are about, too. That recipe worked for him, and it’s already in our hearts. We just continue to pour that out.”
Another notable standout and fan favorite was Williams Chicken, which won Best Tasting Chicken. The Dallas-based staple was also an in-kind sponsor of the weekend’s business expo, reinforcing its longstanding ties to education, entrepreneurship, and community advancement.
Notable Winners – Second Annual Southern Taste of Dallas Awards
| Category | Winner |
| Legacy Award | Roland Parrish |
| Best Barbecue | Smokey John’s Bar-B-Que |
| Best Tasting Chicken | Williams Chicken |
| Best Soul Food | Sweet Georgia Brown |
| Best Vegan Food | Itso Vegan |
| Best Seafood | Aunt Irene’s |
| Best Brunch | Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles |
| Best Breakfast | Breakfast Brothers |
| Best Wings | Wings World |
| Best Bakery | Cooking Society |
| Best Pizza | Black Jack Pizza |
As the event continues to grow in recognition and reach, the Taste of Southern Dallas Awards serves as a powerful reminder of the region’s culinary excellence and the legacy of giving back that defines its most cherished establishments.
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