We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Leslie & Ronni Dukes a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Leslie & Ronni, thanks for joining us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
In the vibrant heart of Texas, two souls are shaking up the local food scene with a product that’s as bold as it is mouthwatering. Leslie and Ronni Aldridge-Dukes began their pastrami journey not just with a shared love for food but with a love story of its own. Ronni’s passion for pastrami sparked the flame, while Leslie, whose love for high-quality smoked meats (despite never having tasted pastrami), found himself drawn into her vision. Together, they dreamed of something new, something bold, something that would blend the flavors of their past with the possibilities of the future.
Leslie & Ronni, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Leslie and Ronni’s love for each other and for food drove them to countless late nights, perfecting a recipe that would forever change the Texas culinary scene. Each step of their journey was a labor of love—carefully choosing only the finest ingredients, mastering traditional methods, and pouring their hearts into every bite. The result? A California-style pastrami so tender, so flavorful, that it is capturing the hearts and palates of all who taste it.
At The Pastrami Stop, every dish tells a love story—one that blends the vibrant, laid-back vibes of California with the bold, generous spirit of Texas. The California-style pastrami takes center stage—juicy, tender, and seasoned with a perfect blend of spices that make it truly unforgettable. It’s a dish that brings people together, sparking connections and creating memories, just like Leslie and Ronni did when they first joined forces.
Their love story isn’t just about food; it’s about passion, creativity, and the magic that happens when two hearts—and two visions—become one. Their pastrami isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience, a taste of the West Coast that’s been brought to life right in the heart of Texas, fueled by love, dedication, and a shared dream.
Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?
Over about a years time we saved and researched our business and product. Our initial capital came 100% out of our pockets and personal finances.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
Never count your chickens before they hatch. What might look like a great investment at times can turn in to unexpected outcomes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thepastramistop.com
- Instagram: @thepastramistop
- Facebook: @thepastramistop
