Today we’d like to introduce you to Beth Steele
Hi Beth, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Food has always been a part of my life and from an early age, I loved the idea that food isn’t just something we eat—it’s a way to bring people together, create memories, and make people feel good. I wanted to create a space where people could come, relax, and enjoy a meal that felt both comforting and special. But I also wanted something unique—a vision that was my own.
The idea for Beth’s Burger Bar came to me one night after a particularly great meal with friends. I was thinking about the classic American burger—how simple it is, but how much room there is for creativity. So, I thought, What if I could create a place that serves the best burger in town?
In 2010, I took a leap of faith and opened Beth’s Burger Bar in Downtown Orlando. My goal was simple: make a burger that people could really enjoy—juicy, flavorful, and customizable. I wanted to keep it casual, with a vibe that made everyone feel at home. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or sitting down with friends over a big meal, I wanted this to be the kind of place you’d want to come back to.
As time went on, the restaurant started to get some real attention. Word of mouth spread, and before I knew it, Beth’s Burger Bar became a local favorite. People loved the concept of being able to build their own burgers, choosing from an array of fresh toppings, cheeses, and sauces. I also introduced milkshakes, because, let’s face it—what’s better than a milkshake to go with a burger?
By 2015, it was clear that we were doing something right. Our customers weren’t just locals; they were people visiting Orlando who had heard about us and made a point to stop by. That was when I knew we had something special on our hands. One of the things I’m most proud of is our commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. I’ve always believed that quality matters, and I wanted to make sure that the people who came to Beth’s Burger Bar were getting the best. That’s meant forming strong relationships with local farms and food producers, which not only gives our burgers a unique taste but also helps support the Orlando community.
Today, Beth’s Burger Bar is so much more than just a restaurant. It’s become part of the fabric of Orlando’s food scene, and I couldn’t be prouder. The support from the community has been incredible, and it’s humbling to see people coming in with their friends and families, sharing a meal and making memories. We’ve always stayed true to our roots—offering fresh, delicious food in a relaxed, friendly environment. And I think that’s what keeps people coming back: they know they’ll get a meal that’s made with care, a smile from the staff, and an experience that’s just a little bit more special than your average meal.
As I look ahead, I’m excited about what the future holds. There’s still so much more I want to do, and I’m always thinking about new ways to improve and grow. But one thing I know for sure is that Beth’s Burger Bar will always be about people—about creating a space where everyone can come together over a great meal and feel like part of the family.
Thank you to everyone who’s supported us along the way. I can’t wait to see what the future brings, and I hope to continue serving up the best burgers in Orlando for many years to come!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’ll admit, it has been scary at times. The restaurant business is tough, especially in a city as dynamic as Orlando. But I believed in what I was doing, and I was determined to make it work. Of course, like any entrepreneur, I ran into my fair share of challenges. During 2020, there were times when it felt like every day was a struggle. The restaurant industry can be unpredictable, then adding a global pandemic to the mix made for a challenging year. However, I always stayed focused on the basics—great food, great service, and a place that felt like home.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Beth’s Burger Bar?
Making a meaningful impact on people’s lives keeps me motivated. There’s nothing more
rewarding than helping someone with employment, whether it’s their first job at 16, or they’re looking to move into management with a background in the restaurant industry. Knowing that Beth’s Burger Bar can have such a positive impact on individuals and their families is incredibly fulfilling – I really find joy in seeing people happy. I’m also driven by the desire to continue growing the Beth’s Burger Bar brand. My staff and I have accomplished so much over the past 15 years, but there’s always more to achieve. The potential for continued growth and innovation keeps me excited about the future, and it’s great to bring my long-term employees along for the adventure!
What were you like growing up?
Growing up in upstate New York, I spent a lot of time with my friends. We’d meet up after school, wander through our neighborhoods, and grab snacks from the local corner delis. Those moments were always full of laughter and good vibes. I got my first job at Dairy Queen when I was 15 and I think that’s where my love for the customer service industry began. I’ve always taken great pride in whatever job I’ve had. It’s those memories with my friends, the early interactions with guests, and the sense of community that stuck with me. That’s why, when I decided to open Beth’s Burger Bar, it felt like the right way to bring that same energy and sense of togetherness to others—one delicious burger at a time.
Pricing:
- $2 PBR all day at every Beth’s Burger Bar location.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bethsburgerbar.com
- Instagram: bethsburgerbar
- Facebook: bethsburgerbar
- Twitter: bethsburgerbar
- Yelp: bethsburgerbar
