Today we’d like to introduce you to Derik Cortez.
Hi Derik, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Tell me about your business name:
The word Sojourn, means a temporary stay, staycation, a quick getaway, an escape. We created a space that; once you step in through the doors. You’re transformed into a “get away”.
Through the pandemic, I think we all needed a sense of “escape” from what we have all been facing.
Is there a unique story behind your business or why you started it?
It has been a dream of mine to one day own a bar/ restaurant in San Antonio. I had originally partnered with a previous business person for this location. I soon realized, this may not have been the right person to partner up with. Then the Pandemic happened.
It was a blessing, in disguise, that we did not follow through with the project together. We were allowed to get out of the lease.
Around the same time, Andrew and I would go to bars together and kinda share ideas or concepts with each other.
When the landlord of the building reached out to me a third time. It was actually Andrew who showed an interest. Along with his sister and brother in law. We started to meet and cultivate the idea.
I had also learned, several years before any of this had happened. Andrew was interested in the very same building years prior to this project.
Pretty serendipitous.
What value do you bring to your industry & your city?
I think the cocktail culture of San Antonio has somewhat drindled due to the pandemic. Many hospitality employees moved to other career paths. Owners were forced to hire new inexperienced people without any proper training.
I would like to bring back the basics of hospitality. Offering an atmosphere of comfort, great service, and the idea that your dollar is valued and “you get your money’s worth”.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a challenge; with ongoing construction, the decline of employees working in office, located in a new stretch of downtown have definitely created obstacles for any restaurant/ bar.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Sojourn Trading Co?
My name is Derik Cortez and my role is Managing Partner.
Sojourn Trading Co. was created on the idea of, Here, ‘Sojourn’ isn’t just a word, it’s an invitation to break free from the everyday rut and immerse yourself in a temporary escape. Leave your worries at the door and join us on this extraordinary adventure of taste and exploration.
We are currently working on our most ambitious cocktail menu yet. We are pretty excited to feature it very soon!
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I won’t quote it exactly but there is a passage, I believe in the Forward portion of, “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. It basically says that if you desire something in life, work toward it, sacrifice for it & the universe will conspire in your favor.
I believe its a mixture of hard work, blessing and favor that directs you to the right mentor. We just have to be willing to see it.
Pricing:
- Cocktails range from $8 to $10 on our HH menu
- Cocktails start at $10 and range upwards
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Sojournsatx.com
- Instagram: @sojournsatx
- Facebook: @Sojourn Trading Co
