Brian Batch, owner of Bird Bird Biscuit in Austin, shares his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to running a $3.6 million restaurant business. He discusses the unexpected pivot to a take-out model during COVID, which fueled their business growth. Brian emphasizes the importance of adapting to challenges and building personal connections with customers. He also highlights innovative solutions for managing food costs and maintaining quality, all while nurturing a passionate team culture in the fast-paced culinary world.
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Bird Bird Biscuit's Success
Brian Batch co-owns Bird Bird Biscuit, a successful biscuit sandwich restaurant with two Austin locations.
Bird Bird Biscuit was nominated the fifth-best place to eat in the country in 2022.
insights INSIGHT
Revenue and Margins
Bird Bird Biscuit generates nearly $4 million in revenue across two locations.
Their cost of goods sold is 25-27%, and labor costs around 30%.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Pandemic Pivot
The COVID-19 pandemic forced Bird Bird Biscuit to switch from dine-in to a takeout model.
This shift led to a massive change in their operations and systems.
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This book is a detailed account of Paramahansa Yogananda's life, from his childhood in India to his spiritual quest and eventual establishment of the Self-Realization Fellowship in the United States. It includes his encounters with various spiritual figures, his experiences with Kriya Yoga, and his mission to spread the teachings of yoga and meditation to the Western world. The book also delves into the prophesied writing of his autobiography and its significance in spreading the message of yoga globally[1][2][5].
Dare to lead
Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.
Brené Brown
In 'Dare to Lead', Brené Brown provides a roadmap for leaders to build trust and foster a culture of courage and vulnerability. The book emphasizes that leadership is not about titles or power, but about recognizing and developing the potential in people and ideas. Brown introduces the 'BRAVING' framework (Boundaries, Reliability, Accountability, Vault, Integrity, Non-judgment, Generosity) to build and maintain trust. She also highlights the importance of embracing vulnerability, having tough conversations, and aligning actions with shared values. The book is based on her research with global leaders and offers practical advice on developing empathy, resilience, and courageous leadership skills.
Brian Batch never set out to become a restaurant owner, but life had other plans. After growing up in a tough family situation that forced him to be independent from a young age, Brian learned to adapt, create, and survive. Years later, while working at a small café in Texas, he met Ryan McElroy, who would later become his business partner and friend.
When Ryan's wife was diagnosed with cancer, he had to step away from running the café, and Brian stepped up. What started as an employee covering for his boss turned into a life-changing partnership. Together, they launched Bird Bird Biscuit, a take-out restaurant that now generates $250K—$300K per month without spending a dime on marketing.
In this episode, Brian shares how they built one of the most beloved restaurant businesses in Austin, why betting on a take-out model during COVID was their best decision, and how creative problem-solving shaped both his life and success as a restaurant owner. If you’re a restaurant owner (or hope to be one), Brian’s story is packed with lessons on adapting when it matters most and building something people love— one biscuit at a time.
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