Today we’d like to introduce you to Elke Gilbert.
Hi Elke, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I actually started my career in the medical field, but deep down I always knew I wanted to build something of my own something rooted in love, community, and food. Cooking has always been my way of showing love, and I knew one day I wanted to share that with the world.
Becoming a single mom changed everything for me. I had removed myself from an abusive relationship, and that season of my life forced me to look at what truly mattered. My daughter became my “why,” and I wanted a life where I could spend more time with her, create generational stability, and show her what resilience looks like.
So I took a leap of faith. I started Southern Crumb inside a box truck I converted myself. It wasn’t perfect far from it but I worked with what I had. I learned how to juggle long nights, limited resources, and a generator that could barely power what I needed. But God made a way, doors opened, and every challenge pushed me closer to my purpose.
Today, I’m blessed to be operating from a fully equipped food truck that I can take anywhere. It’s a reminder that humble beginnings don’t define you they prepare you. I’m still growing, still building, and still pouring love into every biscuit, but I’m finally living the dream I prayed for.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I was juggling a newborn baby while trying to build a business from the ground up, and there were days where I questioned if I could really do it. My first food truck was a converted box truck, and the generator could barely power half of what I needed. Some days it would shut off in the middle of service, and I’d just stand there praying it would come back on.
There were also stretches with no orders at all days where I’d sit in the truck with my daughter and wonder if anyone would ever discover us. The truck leaked when it rained, I didn’t know how to drive a food truck at first, and every mistake was a lesson learned the hard way. But every challenge forced me to grow, get smarter, and become more resilient.
Those struggles shaped me. They made me grateful for every single customer, every opportunity, and every step forward. They also made the journey from that imperfect box truck to my fully equipped truck today even more meaningful.
We’ve been impressed with Southern Crumb , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Southern Crumb is my heart in biscuit form. We specialize in made-to-order Southern-style biscuits that are truly built different. Nothing we serve is premade every biscuit is mixed fresh, pressed fresh, and served hot. We’re also known for our creativity, especially our monthly “Biscuit of the Month,” which brings fun, seasonal flavors and gives our customers something new to look forward to.
But beyond the food, Southern Crumb is about connection and purpose. I believe food is a universal love language, and no matter who you are or where you come from, you’re family when you step up to my window. I share stories, talk to everyone, and create a space where people feel seen. Our truck has become a little community on wheels, and that’s truly what sets us apart.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that Southern Crumb has soul. You can feel it in the way we treat people, the way we season our food, and the way we honor Southern culture with a modern, creative twist. And a huge part of my mission is showing young girls and boys (especially my daughter) that your dreams can become reality. That you can start from nothing, push through challenges, and build something beautiful with faith and dedication.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something surprising that most people don’t know about me or my brand is that I’m Congolese even though I was raised in Texas. So the way I season, cook, and create flavors is a natural blend of both worlds. My spices, my combinations, and even the way I build a dish are influenced by multiple cultures coming together on one plate.
Every item on my menu is intentionally crafted sometimes you’ll taste a little Southern comfort, sometimes a hint of African warmth, sometimes a twist inspired by another culture entirely. I let the food decide which flavors belong together, and the result is an experience you truly can’t get anywhere else.
It’s Southern comfort with global soul, and I think that’s what makes Southern Crumb stand out in a way people don’t expect.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.southerncrumbtx.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southerncrumbtx?igsh=NmYzeWl6OW9qZ3ho&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1B8vJUQvFJ/?mibextid=wwXIfr
