In Stockton, several Black-owned businesses have been operating for decades, but there is one restaurant local leaders say helps perfectly capture the entrepreneurial spirit: Delroy’s Deli.
Nestled in the historic port of Stockton, behind rustic blue and white walls is a community staple.
Delroy’s Deli serves up classic and familiar American favorites and barbecue with a spicy kick.
“Most people, they come for the Jamaican jerk chicken because that’s something they don’t get ordinarily,” says owner Delroy Sibblis, adding that the jerk chick is a point of pride for him.
After spending decades in the restaurant industry working for others, Sibblis came to Stockton in 2002, looking to add his own Jamaican flair to the area’s culinary scene.
“It’s my own marinade, you know, it’s good,” Sibblis says with pride.
But the journey to the business in Stockton and his loyal customers took a leap of faith.
“My experience in the restaurant business has a lot to do with numerous restaurants and hotels. When I moved to Stockton after working as a chef, I decided to get my own, try my own business,” says Sibblis.
“Delroy has taken several of our classes which has boosted his sales”, says Paulette Amos-Gross, Executive Director of the African American Chamber of Commerce of San Joaquin County.
The pursuit of success in a new city is what put Sibblis on the chamber’s radar, where he is now one of the longest-standing members among the more than 250 who comprise the chamber.
Amos-Gross says the goal of the chamber is to connect and elevate Black-owned businesses that may otherwise be overlooked.
“Well, I know it was wonderful when I heard about the chamber back when I started that there was someone else advocating for us,” added Amos-Gross. “And when you have a group of people like anything, one standing is small, but when you get a group and two or three together it promotes.”
With these educational and networking opportunities, Sibblis has been able to cook up delicious dishes for decades and thrive while doing so.
“When I do these community events like festivals, people line up just to get the food, that’s what they go for,” Sibblis said.
With the support of the community, Sibblis hopes hungry customers will keep walking through the door for that tasty jerk chicken, fresh sandwiches and BBQ plates for years to come.
“It feels really, really great,” he said.
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