Get to Know...Jack Surya

Roll & Rock Sushi Station is a fun, new sushi restaurant located in Northwest Oklahoma City. We asked owner, Jack Surya, to tell us a little bit about himself and what it's like to own and operate his business here in Oklahoma:

Name: Kang Jaka (Jack) Surya
Business: Roll & Rock Sushi Station
Title: Owner/Operator

How would you describe your business to someone who hasn't had the chance to visit yet?
We are a family-owned, casual dining restaurant serving affordable, quality Japanese cuisine.

Tell us your origin story. 
I was born in Indonesia and have been creating sushi for over 13 years. I've owned or worked at a few sushi restaurants in the Oklahoma area. If you’re familiar with Ichiban Sushi in Penn Square, Ninja Sushi in Del City, and Jiro Sushi on 23rd - I was the sushi chef there!

What do you love about operating a small business in Oklahoma?
The friendly, appreciative and supportive people!

What challenges or risks have you faced operating a local business?
Recent pandemic, weather, and competition from bigger restaurants.

What advice would you give to someone who dreams of starting their own business someday?
Be passionate about what you're doing and be ready for anything.

What are the most popular items that you sell?
Popular items are the Tiger roll, Jack roll, Dragon roll, Meridian Roll, Roll n Rock roll.

What’s your favorite thing about your job? 
Meeting new people and being able to fulfill my passion for cooking every day!

What’s the hardest thing about your job?
Getting through tough times (i.e. Covid,etc.) and when we experience technical issues in the restaurant.

Who do you admire in your line of work? Do you have any professional heroes?
My parents have always been my inspiration. They went through tough times of losing their businesses when I was little, but they were still able to raise me and my siblings, which paved the way for me to come to Oklahoma and open my business.

Do you have any favorite moments or milestones since opening your business?
When local celebrities and business owners visit the restaurant and show their support.

What motivates you to keep doing what you're doing?
My family.

In your opinion, why is it important for people to support locally-owned businesses?
Locally-owned businesses are owned and operated by your neighbors. They care about and are invested in the well-being of your community and its future. Local businesses are also more accountable to their local communities.

What do you like to do in your free time?
Explore new places, try out new local restaurants and businesses, play guitar, hang out with family.

Roll & Rock Sushi Station is located on the corner of NW 63rd Street and N Meridian Avenue in Oklahoma City. They serve fresh sushi every Monday through Saturday from 11am-8pm. Use your Keep It Local Card when you visit to receive free Gyoza with any order of $15 or more.