The vibrant world of urban gastronomy and viticulture has found a new home as the hit series Street Somm arrives on Netflix. This groundbreaking production, a collaboration between modern media company Tastemade and Constellation Brands, follows the charismatic Wine Expert Jermaine Stone (the “Wolf of Wine”) as he bridges the gap between high-end wine culture and the soulful, authentic street food of America’s most iconic culinary hubs.
In Street Somm, wine connoisseur, food lover, and ambassador for the culture, Jermaine Stone, travels to six culinary hubs around the country – New York City, Savannah, San Francisco, Chicago, Houston, and Miami – discovering the most interesting food combinations that pair with his favorite wines. Each episode features a food expert from that city who takes Jermaine to explore its unique culture that influences its food and wine. Together, they challenge preconceived notions around elevating any dining experience with wine, as Stone shares his personal background as a first-generation American and Black wine expert. Along the way, Stone is introduced to chefs who break the mold and create unforgettable dining experiences that are distinctive to each city.
“The same way that I’ve blended cultures on my podcast, Wine and Hip Hop, I get to blend wine and cuisines across the country in Street Somm,” says Jermaine. “Filming season one of the show has been a life changing experience that I can’t wait to share with the world – helping me achieve my mission of redefining American wine culture, and changing the way people that look like me are viewed all over the globe.”
The Houston episode serves as a cornerstone of the series, highlighting the city’s unique intersection of high-concept gastronomy and soulful street culture. At the heart of this exploration is Chef Tiffani Janelle, whose role as an avant-garde event conceptualist and luxury experience expert earned her a 2024 Daytime Emmy nomination. Janelle navigates the narrative through diverse epicurean expressions, from the legendary Yoyo’s Hotdog and the smoked mastery of Truth BBQ to the creative atmosphere of Wire Road Studios. The journey also emphasizes ancestral culinary education with a visit to the Houston Community College culinary arts program, showcasing Janelle’s commitment to bridging culture and gastronomy.
Houston Culinary & Cultural Guide
For those looking to experience the soul of Houston as seen in Street Somm, these locations are essential stops:
- Yoyo’s Hotdog: A staple for unique street food combinations.
- Truth BBQ: World-class Texas barbecue that pairs unexpectedly well with fine wine.
- Wire Road Studios: Where Houston’s creative arts and lifestyle intersect.
- Houston Community College (HCC): A hub for the next generation of culinary talent.
- Project Row Houses (2521 Holman St): A must-visit cultural landmark and community platform that enriches lives through art and cultural identity.
How to Host Your Own Street Somm Watch Party
Inspired by the public gathering trends of the World Cup, you can transform any space into a third space for communal viewing:
- Choose an Intimate Venue: Host your party in a community-focused setting like a backyard patio or a cozy living room to foster connection.
- Curated Pairings: Pair local street food favorites with the specific wines highlighted in the series, such as Kim Crawford or The Prisoner.
- Foster Community: Encourage a “pull up and stay-a-while” atmosphere where guests can linger and engage in cultural storytelling.
Street Somm is now available to stream globally on Netflix, bringing these authentic stories and the vibrant world of wine culture to a global audience.
