Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel and Arjav Ezekiel are the husband-and-wife team behind Birdie’s, the nationally acclaimed East Austin restaurant known for its fine-dining-caliber food, counter-service format, and values-driven approach. Tracy is a James Beard finalist with a résumé that includes Blue Hill and Gramercy Tavern, known for her deeply seasonal, ingredient-driven cooking. Arjav, named Esquire’s “Wine Guru of the Year” and recently awarded the Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service at the 2025 James Beard Awards, brings a thoughtful, values-based approach to wine and hospitality. Together, they’ve built one of the country’s most celebrated and intentional restaurants.
In this episode, Tracy and Arjav join Steve in a conversation about how their relationship has evolved since becoming business partners, what they do differently as restaurant owners, and how they overcome self-doubt.
Thank you to The Study at University City for allowing us to use the space to film this episode.
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