Star City Six – Charles Brewer
Stur 22 Lounge is Lincoln’s authentic Caribbean and West African restaurant and night life destination. Trokon (Charles) Brewer is the owner of Stur 22 Lounge (stur22lounge.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
Stur 22 is a vibrant, modern, and sophisticated lounge that offers the perfect space for upbeat adults to mingle, network, and socialize over delicious Caribbean and West African cuisine. At Stur 22, guests can always count on exceptional service, tasty ethnic fare, and uniquely refreshing drinks.
How did you get started in the business?
Originally, my idea was to have Stur 22 Lounge be a cocktail lounge. There are a lot of bars that cater to college-aged kids, but I wanted to create a place that would help fill the void there seems to be in Lincoln when it comes to adult night life. It wasn’t until later that I decided develop Stur 22 into a restaurant by day and a nightclub by night concept. It’s been a special opportunity for me to share the culture and flavors I grew up with in Liberia with people here in the community.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
In the restaurant industry, there is no consistency. Each day is different. If I were to give advice to others starting out in this industry, it would be for them to throw away their expectations and to be open minded to what each day brings.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? –
Until about 6–7 years ago, I would have never considered myself a chef or cook because I don’t have any formal education in the culinary arts. I’ve taught myself almost everything I know in the kitchen, and I am proud of myself for that.
Tell us a little about your family.
I have a very large family. Originally from West Africa, my parents moved to Texas for better opportunities when I was young, leaving me in West Africa with my grandmas. Once they were able to find work in Texas, we moved there to be with them. My parents are both business owners, so it kind of runs in our blood. Here in Nebraska, I have a wife and four children—two older girls and two younger boys. We are a close family and love spending time together.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Moving to Nebraska from Texas in 1999. I was committed to going to college for football at another school, but when that didn’t work out, I came to Concordia University on a football scholarship. I didn’t know anything about Nebraska before coming here.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
My formal birth name is Trokon, an African name meaning down to earth. Charles is my middle name, which is what most people call me.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
“Instant Karma” by John Lenon. There was an old Nike commercial which featured that song and for whatever reason, those lyrics stood out to me and still do to this day.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
I’m involved with our local chapter of Boys & Girls Club of America.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
He may not have been famous, but I would choose my granddad. He was a cop in Africa and died young. I’m told I am just like him. I would love to be able to meet him.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 805-4579; Email: info@stur22lounge.com; Website: stur22lounge.com. Stur 22 is located at 2110 Winthrop Rd.