Ernie’s Smokehouse

08/26/2026

08/15/2026

‼️’ITZ BANKS’ IS CHANGING THE WAY LAREDO BUSINESSES ADVERTISE‼️

Laredo, TX - For years, local business advertising in Laredo has largely followed the same familiar formula, but social media influencer Pablo Daniel Esquivel, better known around the city as “Itzbanks,” is bringing a different approach to the local advertising scene.

Instead of traditional promotional videos, Banks has leaned heavily into comedy skits, creative concepts, clean editing and his own personality to promote Laredo businesses in a way designed specifically for today’s social media audience. It is a style of advertising that has already become common among creators and businesses in larger markets, but Banks is helping push that type of content further into Laredo’s local business scene.

His recent growth has been quick. After returning to an older TikTok account with only a few thousand followers, Banks began putting serious work into rebuilding his social media presence. In less than a month, the account reached 10,000 followers, while his presence on Facebook and other platforms has continued to grow. That momentum has also caught the attention of local businesses, with more reaching out for promotions, commercials and creative skits.

For Banks, however, the growing audience is about more than advertising.

“My goal has always been bigger than social media,” Banks told Hammrod News. “I want to spread positivity throughout the city and inspire the next generation to choose a better path than the one I took.”

Banks said he now regularly gets recognized around Laredo, with residents stopping him for pictures or simply showing their support. He hopes his growing platform can show younger people that kindness, consistency and chasing their goals can be something worth looking up to.

“If they laugh at your dreams, let them. Just work harder. Stay consistent. Prove them wrong with your actions,” Banks said. “And if you fall, don’t stay down. Dust yourself off, get back up, and keep going.”

His recent success also follows a setback. Banks previously lost an account that had accumulated 16,000 followers, something he now says ultimately motivated him to return with even more determination.

“At the time, it felt like a huge setback, but it lit a fire inside me that I can’t even explain,” Banks said. “It gave me a hunger to come back stronger.”

Now, with 10,000 followers reached on his new push and businesses increasingly approaching him, Banks believes Laredo is beginning to understand his vision.

For local businesses looking to break away from the traditional advertising routine and become part of the conversation on social media, Banks is positioning himself as one of the local creators offering a new way to get their name in front of Laredo audiences.

“Laredo, I love you,” Banks said. “We’re just getting started.”

📸 : Itz Banks

08/13/2026

Congratulations to Ernie’s Texas Hot Chicken on opening at Golondrina Food Park in Laredo.

My Outreach Coordinator Melissa Peña presented a Congressional Recognition on my behalf to welcome this new food truck and recognize its contribution to our local small business community.

Food trucks and locally owned businesses help create jobs, bring people together, and add to Laredo’s growing food scene. I wish Ernie’s Texas Hot Chicken continued success as they serve our community.

07/30/2026

Bigger, bolder: Ernie's Barbecue brings Texas Hot Chicken to Laredo
Click the link in the comments 👇️

05/02/2026

🔥TODAY ONLY at Ernie’s Smokehouse TX BBQ🔥
From 5PM – 8PM ⏰

🥔 BOGO SUPER POTATO SPECIAL 🥔
Buy ONE… get ONE FREE

Come hungry, bring a friend, and double up on that loaded BBQ goodness 🤤🔥

⚠️ While supplies last – don’t miss it!

04/23/2026

🔥 It’s going down TODAY! 🔥

🌭 Buy One, Get One FREE Smokehouse Dogs

👊 Tag a friend. Bring a friend.
💵 Only $15
🥤 Chips + drink included

🍟 Upgrade to fries for +$3
⏰ Today only — don’t miss out!

04/23/2026

🔥 ERNIE’S SMOKEHOUSE TEXAS BBQ 🔥

We’re OPEN and ready to serve you!

🕛 Hours: 12PM – 8PM
📍 10211 Golondrina Dr. 78045
📞 956-324-0303

Come get your BBQ fix — smoked low, served hot, and packed with flavor 🤠🔥