JONESBORO, Ark. (KAIT) – In 2023, approximately 25,000 Black-owned businesses were operating in Arkansas. In northeast Arkansas, several of those establishments serve communities across the region, including J&B’s Twizted BBQ — a Black-owned food truck known for its barbecue flavors.
From passion to business
The menu at J&B’s Twizted BBQ includes smoked wings, loaded nachos and more. Owner Jerald Larry said his daughter’s interest in cooking, combined with his own passion for BBQ, pushed him to act.
“What motivated me — obviously my passion for BBQ — around the time my daughter was 7 years old she really was into culinary and I always had a passion for BBQ and the more I watched her grow in her love for food I said I have to do something with this gift,” Larry said.
Building community through BBQ
Jerald said the food truck moves between locations, and he views each stop as an opportunity to connect with the people around him. He said his first year anchoring in Jonesboro has been met with community support.
“This is my first year actually anchoring down Jonesboro and the community has been great supporting us even with our vast schedule and as many times as I’ve wanted to give up I haven’t given up,” Larry said.
A call for community support
Larry said the challenges of entrepreneurship have not discouraged him, and he expects J&B’s Twizted BBQ and other Black-owned businesses to continue to grow…