What makes a restaurant truly exceptional? In this episode of Chef’s PSA, André Natera sits down with Tracy Malechek and Arjav Ezekiel, co-owners of Birdie’s Restaurant in Austin, Texas—recently named Restaurant of the Year 2023 by Food & Wine Magazine.
Chef Tracy was a James Beard Best Chef Texas finalist in 2024, while Arjav was a semi-finalist for the James Beard Award for Beverage Service in 2025. Together, they have redefined hospitality with their fine dining counter-service model and a philosophy that puts people first.
This episode covers:
The true meaning of hospitality in restaurants
Why Birdie’s unconventional approach to service works
The challenges of running an award-winning restaurant
Balancing tradition and innovation in modern dining
How to hire and train for hospitality at the highest level
If you want to understand what it takes to create a restaurant experience that feels both personal and world-class, this is the episode to watch.
Watch the full episode and subscribe for more chef insights.
Tracy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tracymalechek/
Arjav Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arjavezekiel/
Birdie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdiesaustin/
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2 Comments
I loved how Arjav explained the importance of culinary history this episode was absolutely amazing. Chef André, your description of Chef Tracy’s food made me want to try it immediately. It was incredibly well said. I hope to visit Birdie’s restaurant in the near future! Great show! 💪🏼🙏🏼
Thank you for this great episode respect!