Inspiring Conversations with Sue Davis of Counter Culture Restaurant

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sue Davis.

Hi Sue, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Counter Culture is owned and operated by Sue Davis. Opened in July 2009, Counter Culture started as a food trailer located in the hip North Loop shopping district of Central Austin, then transitioned to a brick and mortar full-service restaurant in Central East Austin in 2012. Sue prepares only meatless, dairy-free, and raw foods, made from scratch and offered at remarkably affordable prices. Sue believes in the health benefits of a plant-based diet. Inspired by her dedication to sustainable development, she emphasizes organic ingredients. Whenever possible, she procures local foods to support area farmers and to minimize her environmental impact. Sue creates healthy, delicious food that satisfies her diverse clientele—all without using any animal products.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I opened with the help of friends and family. No bank would give me a loan, even with great credit. Same when I opened my brick and mortar. Again with the help of friends, family and this time, customers, I raised enough money to move into my brick & mortar. In the restaurant industry, something is always breaking, being short-staffed in a common situation and being a small business owner. I rarely get any time off. The restaurant is my life & passion. We never know what the day will bring us. Since the pandemic hit, I feel grateful we are still open, but it’s been an uphill climb. Every day has been a struggle. Pivoting our entire business model, revamping our menu and juggling online platforms while constantly reaching out to customers to let them know we are safe and that it’s safe to get take out. We are at 60% of our normal staff and 60% of our past sales. We are not getting a break from rent and most of our costs have gone up. There are constant supply shortages and changes with our distributors.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Counter Culture Restaurant?
Counter Culture has a large repertoire of plant-based foods that delight omnivores, as well as vegetarians. Customers can order meat-free versions of their favorite dishes from mac and cheese to pizza, or try Chef Sue’s daily seasonal specials, as well as a variety of salads, soups & handmade desserts. In addition, Sue offers gluten-free and soy-free options. Although vegan doesn’t always mean healthy, Sue emphasizes nutritious, unprocessed foods. In addition to her personal ethos about good food, she recognizes the rising demand for whole foods that are free of artificial ingredients, allergens, and pesticides. We make almost everything from scratch, including out seitan, cheezes, ketchup and even mayo! We also recycle, reuse or compost over 96% of our waste. We use compostable packaging on our to-go meals. We try to support other small and local businesses by offering local beer, kombucha, tempeh, produce and ice cream.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Hard work and passion for making the place a better place by causing the least amount of harm as possible- to animals and the earth. Healthy eating- no deep frying or complete junk food.

Pricing:

• Our meals are $8 to $14

Contact Info:

• Email: countercultureaustin787@gmail.com
• Website: countercultureaustin.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/countercultureaustin/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counterculturerestaurant
• Twitter: ccvegan
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/counter-culture-austin
• Other: https://www.happycow.net/reviews/counter-culture-austin-18120