We had the good fortune of connecting with Maya Takano and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maya, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
I started @texaseatsfirst at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. So many restaurants were either closing their doors or trying to stay afloat with limited patio seating and to-go options, but every place had a different game plan. I realized people were craving clarity on where to eat and how to support local, so I began sharing that information in a digital format (Instagram and Tiktok). What started as a small hobby and my passion for eating out turned turned into something much bigger. Restaurants started inviting me in to try their food and drinks, and eventually, hotels reached out for stay features. It’s been so rewarding to turn this into a full-time business that not only supports local hospitality but connects people with new experiences across Texas 🙂

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I like to think of my work as storytelling through my experiences. I focus on giving people itinerary-style content that’s helpful and fun. I want my audience to feel like they’re getting recommendations from a trusted friend, not just a blogger.

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?
It totally depends on what city you’re visiting, Dallas, Houston, or Austin… they all have their own vibe! Send me a DM and I’ll help curate an itinerary just for you !!! Tell me your vibes and I got you 💛🍽️✨

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There’s no way I’d be where I am without the support of the people around me. First and foremost, my husband has been my biggest supporter from day one. Whether it’s helping me film content, brainstorming ideas with me, or just encouraging me when I feel stuck, he’s always been there!

I also have to shout out the local food and hospitality community in Texas. From the small business owners who trusted me to share their stories, to the restaurants and hotels that welcomed me in when I was just starting out, they truly helped me grow.

And of course, my followers and online community! They’ve been so supportive, and their excitement to discover new spots has kept me inspired every single day. 🙂

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/texaseatsfirst

Image Credits
@texaseatsfirst

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