We had the good fortune of connecting with Mia Bailey and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Mia, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
Honey Drizzle was manifested by my son. He created our signature dish (the Chicken Mac Waffle), in his kitchen after a night of partying. I was in a corporate position when he came across a young man that was interested in selling his restaurant. The purchase occurred on October 8, 2022, we officially opened under new management October 15, 2022. We revamped the menu to incorporate honey and improve some of the recipes. Here we are today two (2) years later with 2 locations. The original is located in Richmond, VA, the second here in Houston TX
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My decision to abandon the corporate world to become a restauranteur seemed to be the perfect answer to what I was searching for; accountability from management; integrity; creating something that met my needs as well as others. There have been days that made me question my sanity but without hesitation I would make the same decision again.
Being new to the Houston scene presented it’s own challenges. We came in strong and has had to prove ourselves. We were met with opposition, nay-sayers, and huge hurdles to cross. I believe that in the face of all of that, we are building momentum. Knowing that you can’t please everyone has helped me, as I tend to focus on those who are receptive and pride myself on providing good food, and a great customer experience.
Honey Drizzle is a family run business, I strive to make our establishment fun and inviting to the customers (internally and externally). I am most proud of my staff members, who are more than employees. We have disagreements; we brainstorm together; if one falls short we all fall: we take time to celebrate one another; at the end of the day, we’re family. I couldn’t do what I do without them.
The greatest lessons learned are: it doesn’t matter how many times you fall as long as you get back up and when the storm is over you won’t remember how you made it through, just embrace the stronger version of you that walked out of it
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Sadly, I came to Houston to open my restaurant. I haven’t ventured out much. Now that I have my dynamic work family in place, I feel more comfortable exploring.
Of course we would eat at Honey Drizzle Houston. I’ve heard mixed reviews on a few other locations but intend to go see for myself, as I understand how critical the food scene in Houston can be.
I would definitely take her to the Aquarium, Nasa (loved the holiday lighting there), the 13th Floor, Discover Green, the Toyota Center to see the Rockets play, by Minute Maid Park to take photos by the championship rings, and to the Post.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have so many contributors to recognize for helping me become the dynamic woman that I am. I believe in surrounding myself with positive, influential, creative minded people who understand the value of establishing lasting relationships. My immediate circle is small but mighty. We encourage, uplift, support, protect, genuinely love and teach each other.
Personally, I have to shoutout my son QuinShawn Bailey, without whom I would not have become a restaurateur. My sisters Sheronda Hill and Tanya Epps, they have supported my every endeavor, often giving me that push when I’ve felt like throwing in the towel, matching my every step
Professionally the one person that comes to mind is my mentor Buddy Scherer, he taught me how to be a respectable, result driven leader that exudes integrity and trustworthiness.
Website: https://thehoneydrizzlehouston.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554117013831i